Matthew 25:13 (KJV)

What does Matthew 25:13 mean?

Matthew 25:13 tells the listener to stay alert and watchful, because no one knows the exact day or hour when the "Son of man"—a title Jesus often used for himself—will come. The verse stresses the importance of being ready at all times, since the timing of this coming is unknown.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples as part of a longer teaching about the end times and being prepared for his return. The setting is just after the parable of the ten virgins, where some were ready and others were not. The main idea is not to predict the timing, but to live in a state of readiness, since the return of the "Son of man" will be unexpected.

The Greek behind Matthew 25:13

• "Watch" (γρηγορέω, grēgoreō): This word means to stay awake or be alert. Here, it carries the sense of being spiritually and mentally prepared, not just physically awake.
• "Son of man" (υἱὸς ἀνθρώπου, huios anthrōpou): This phrase is a title Jesus uses for himself, highlighting both his humanity and his special role in God's plan. It connects this warning directly to Jesus’ promised return.
• "Cometh" (ἔρχεται, erchetai): This word is in the present tense in Greek, which can give a sense of certainty or imminence to the coming of the Son of man, even though the exact time is unknown.

Why Matthew 25:13 matters

• Matthew 25:13 clears up the idea that anyone can predict the exact time of Jesus’ return; the verse directly says that the day and hour are unknown.
• The verse emphasizes the need for constant readiness, tying back to the parable of the ten virgins and the broader teaching about being prepared for God’s timing.
• This warning fits into a larger section where Jesus is preparing his followers for life after his departure, urging them to stay faithful and alert rather than complacent.