Matthew 24:42
Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
Original Language Analysis
γρηγορεῖτε
Watch
G1127
γρηγορεῖτε
Watch
Strong's:
G1127
Word #:
1 of 11
to keep awake, i.e., watch (literally or figuratively)
οὖν
therefore
G3767
οὖν
therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 11
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
ὅτι
for
G3754
ὅτι
for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
3 of 11
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
οἴδατε
ye know
G1492
οἴδατε
ye know
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
5 of 11
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
ποίᾳ
what
G4169
ποίᾳ
what
Strong's:
G4169
Word #:
6 of 11
individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Luke 21:36Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.1 Thessalonians 5:6Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.Matthew 25:13Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.Revelation 16:15Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.1 Corinthians 16:13Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.Matthew 24:36But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.Matthew 24:44Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.Romans 13:11And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.1 Peter 5:8Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:1 Peter 4:7But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
Historical Context
Jesus repeatedly emphasizes the unknown timing of His return (vv. 36, 42, 44, 50). This prevents speculation and manipulation while encouraging constant readiness. 'Watch' isn't passive waiting but active faithfulness. The command assumes believers should live expecting Christ's imminent return, though timing remains uncertain.
Questions for Reflection
- How does not knowing Christ's return timing affect your daily life and decisions?
- What does 'watching' look like practically in your walk with Christ?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' command 'Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come' emphasizes vigilance due to uncertainty. 'Watch' means spiritual alertness, moral preparedness, and faithful service. The uncertainty 'ye know not what hour' prevents complacency—we must live ready for Christ's return at any moment. This isn't anxious fear but joyful anticipation motivating holy living. Date-setting is forbidden; readiness is commanded.