Matthew 24:43
But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
Original Language Analysis
ἐκεῖνο
this
G1565
ἐκεῖνο
this
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
1 of 23
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
γινώσκετε
know
G1097
γινώσκετε
know
Strong's:
G1097
Word #:
3 of 23
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
4 of 23
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ᾔδει
had known
G1492
ᾔδει
had known
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
6 of 23
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ποίᾳ
in what
G4169
ποίᾳ
in what
Strong's:
G4169
Word #:
9 of 23
individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one
φυλακῇ
watch
G5438
φυλακῇ
watch
Strong's:
G5438
Word #:
10 of 23
a guarding or (concretely, guard), the act, the person; figuratively, the place, the condition, or (specially), the time (as a division of day or nigh
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔρχεται
would come
G2064
ἔρχεται
would come
Strong's:
G2064
Word #:
13 of 23
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
ἐγρηγόρησεν
have watched
G1127
ἐγρηγόρησεν
have watched
Strong's:
G1127
Word #:
14 of 23
to keep awake, i.e., watch (literally or figuratively)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
16 of 23
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
21 of 23
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's character?
- What practical application does this truth have in your daily walk?
- How should this verse shape your priorities and decisions?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Reformed theology emphasizes the divine initiative evident in this text. The verse connects to broader biblical themes of covenant, redemption, and God's unchanging character. Understanding this passage requires recognizing both its historical context and its application to Christian life.