Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
MATTHEW 24:44KJVWhat does Matthew 24:44 mean?
Matthew 24:44 tells readers to always be prepared, because the "Son of man" (a title Jesus uses for himself) will come at a time when people do not expect him. The verse stresses the need for readiness, since the timing of this coming is unknown.
In this passage, Jesus is speaking privately to his disciples about future events, including his return. The verse comes near the end of a longer teaching where Jesus describes signs and warnings about the end times. Here, Jesus sums up his point: since no one can predict the exact moment of his coming, his followers should live in a state of watchfulness and preparedness.
The Greek behind Matthew 24:44
- ἕτοιμοι (hetoimoi, "ready"): This word means prepared or equipped. Jesus is not just talking about a general alertness, but a specific kind of readiness for his unexpected arrival.
- ὥρα (hōra, "hour"): The Greek word refers to a specific moment or time, emphasizing that the timing will be sudden and unpredictable.
- δοκέω (dokeō, "think"): This word means to suppose or expect. The verse highlights that the "Son of man" will come at a time when people do not expect it, underlining the surprise element.
Why Matthew 24:44 matters
- Matthew 24:44 clears up the idea that anyone can predict the exact time of Jesus' return; the emphasis is on being ready at all times, not on guessing the date.
- The verse ties together Jesus' warnings in the chapter, showing that the main takeaway is not fear or speculation, but steady preparedness.
- This teaching connects to the wider theme in Matthew 24, where Jesus urges his followers to stay alert and faithful, since the future is uncertain and his coming will be sudden.