Matthew 24:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 24:39
39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Chapter Context
Matthew 24 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, truth. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 24:39
39 And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Analysis
And knew not until the flood came—The Greek ouk egnōsan (οὐκ ἔγνωσαν = they did not know/perceive) indicates willful ignorance, not lack of information. They had 120 years of warning, visual evidence of the ark, and Noah's preaching (2 Peter 2:5), yet chose not to know. And took them all away (kai ēren hapantas, καὶ ἦρεν ἅπαντας)—the flood 'took' them in judgment, lifting them off the earth in death.
So shall also the coming of the Son of man be—the terrifying parallel is complete. Christ's parousia will find a world absorbed in earthly pursuits, ignoring clear signs, mocking warnings. The 'taking away' in judgment contrasts with believers being 'caught up' to meet the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:17). The flood didn't take the righteous; it took the wicked in destruction.
Historical Context
Genesis 7:17-24 describes the flood lifting the ark while destroying everything else. Only eight souls survived. Jewish tradition emphasized the sudden onset—after seven days of delay, the floodgates opened without further warning. Jesus uses this as a warning to first-century Israel (facing AD 70 judgment) and to all generations before His return. The parallel is exact: warning given, warning ignored, judgment executed.
Reflection
- What biblical warnings are you in danger of 'knowing' intellectually but not responding to practically?
- How does the reality of Noah's flood as historical judgment inform your confidence in future eschatological judgment?
- In what ways might you be treating Christ's return warnings the way Noah's generation treated his ark-building?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 24:37, Proverbs 24:12, 29:7, John 3:20, Acts 13:41, 2 Peter 3:5