King James Version

What Does Mark 13:33 Mean?

Mark 13:33 in the King James Version says “Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” — study this verse from Mark chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.”

Mark 13:33 · KJV

Prayer

Context

31

Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

32

But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

33

Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

34

For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.

35

Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:

Read Mark 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study 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).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does not knowing the time of Christ's return serve God's purposes in keeping believers alert and faithful?
  2. What does the threefold command—take heed, watch, pray—teach about maintaining spiritual readiness?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
βλέπετε1 of 11

“Take ye heed”

G991

to look at (literally or figuratively)

ἀγρυπνεῖτε2 of 11

“watch”

G69

to be sleepless, i.e., keep awake

καὶ3 of 11

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

προσεύχεσθε·4 of 11

“pray”

G4336

to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship

οὐκ5 of 11

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

οἴδατε6 of 11

“ye know”

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

γὰρ7 of 11

“for”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

πότε8 of 11

“when”

G4219

interrogative adverb, at what time

ὁ9 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

καιρός10 of 11

“the time”

G2540

an occasion, i.e., set or proper time

ἐστιν11 of 11

“is”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 13:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Mark 13:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 6:18Luke 12:40Romans 13:11-12Revelation 16:151 Peter 4:7Luke 21:34-36

Test Your Knowledge

Mark 13 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterMark Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Mark 13 with CommentaryAll Mark ChaptersComplete Mark QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes