Matthew 24:36
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 24:36
36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Chapter Context
Matthew 24 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, judgment, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-51: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 24:36
36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Analysis
But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only—After teaching the recognizability of His coming, Jesus forbids chronological calculation. The emphatic oudeis (οὐδείς = no one) excludes everyone—no human, no angel, not even the Son (Mark 13:32). This self-limitation during His incarnation demonstrates the reality of His humanity and submission to the Father.
The phrase hē hēmera ekeinē kai hōra (ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνη καὶ ὥρα = that day and hour) became technical language for the Day of the Lord. God's sovereignty over timing rebukes all date-setters, calendar decoders, and prophecy speculators. The Father alone holds the appointment calendar for history's culmination (Acts 1:7). Our calling is watchfulness, not calculation.
Historical Context
Jewish apocalyptic literature often speculated about end-times timing, with groups like the Essenes calculating prophetic calendars. Jesus categorically rejects this practice. The early church initially expected Christ's imminent return (1 Thessalonians 4:15), but as decades passed, they learned patient expectation (2 Peter 3:8-9). This verse has frustrated date-setters for 2,000 years—every prediction has failed.
Reflection
- Why do you think Christians continually violate this verse by predicting dates, despite 2,000 years of failed predictions?
- How does Jesus's own ignorance of the timing (in His incarnate state) inform your understanding of His full humanity?
- What is the spiritual danger of knowing the exact date versus living in expectant readiness?
Word Studies
- Angel: ἄγγελος (Angelos) G32 - Angel, messenger
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 24:42, 24:44, 25:13, Zechariah 14:7, Mark 13:32, Acts 1:7