Jesus commanded: 'Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is' (Βλέπετε, ἀγρυπνεῖτε καὶ προσεύχεσθε· οὐκ οἴδατε γὰρ πότε ὁ καιρός ἐστιν). Three imperatives: 'take heed' (blepete, Βλέπετε, be alert), 'watch' (agrypneite, ἀγρυπνεῖτε, stay awake), 'pray' (proseuchesthe, προσεύχεσθε, maintain communion with God). These spiritual disciplines prepare for Christ's return. The reason: 'ye know not when the time is'—uncertainty demands constant readiness. This isn't anxious fear but alert expectancy. Christians live between Christ's comings—inaugurated kingdom awaiting consummation. This 'already-not-yet' tension requires vigilance, prayer, and faithful service. Knowing Christ could return any day transforms priorities and motivates holiness (1 John 3:2-3).
Historical Context
Early church lived in imminent expectation of Christ's return. Paul expected it in his lifetime (1 Thessalonians 4:15, 'we which are alive and remain'), though later recognized he might die first (2 Timothy 4:6-8). As centuries passed, some mocked delayed return (2 Peter 3:3-4), prompting Peter's explanation that God's timing differs from human perception (2 Peter 3:8-9). Jesus' exhortation to 'watch and pray' became standard Christian practice. Church fathers warned against both presumption (knowing the time) and neglect (losing expectancy). Reformed theology emphasizes that not knowing the time serves God's purposes—keeping believers alert and motivated. Augustine taught that each Christian's death is personal 'day of the Lord,' making readiness urgent regardless of timing.
Questions for Reflection
How does not knowing the time of Christ's return serve God's purposes in keeping believers alert and faithful?
What does the threefold command—take heed, watch, pray—teach about maintaining spiritual readiness?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus commanded: 'Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is' (Βλέπετε, ἀγρυπνεῖτε καὶ προσεύχεσθε· οὐκ οἴδατε γὰρ πότε ὁ καιρός ἐστιν). Three imperatives: 'take heed' (blepete, Βλέπετε, be alert), 'watch' (agrypneite, ἀγρυπνεῖτε, stay awake), 'pray' (proseuchesthe, προσεύχεσθε, maintain communion with God). These spiritual disciplines prepare for Christ's return. The reason: 'ye know not when the time is'—uncertainty demands constant readiness. This isn't anxious fear but alert expectancy. Christians live between Christ's comings—inaugurated kingdom awaiting consummation. This 'already-not-yet' tension requires vigilance, prayer, and faithful service. Knowing Christ could return any day transforms priorities and motivates holiness (1 John 3:2-3).