King James Version

What Does Matthew 24:42 Mean?

Matthew 24:42 in the King James Version says “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

Matthew 24:42 · KJV


Context

40

Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

41

Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

42

Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

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.

44

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.


Commentary

KJV Study 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does not knowing Christ's return timing affect your daily life and decisions?
  2. What does 'watching' look like practically in your walk with Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
γρηγορεῖτε1 of 11

Watch

G1127

to keep awake, i.e., watch (literally or figuratively)

οὖν2 of 11

therefore

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ὅτι3 of 11

for

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

οὐκ4 of 11

not

G3756

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

οἴδατε5 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

ποίᾳ6 of 11

what

G4169

individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one

ὥρᾳ7 of 11

hour

G5610

an "hour" (literally or figuratively)

8 of 11
G3588

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

κύριος9 of 11

Lord

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

ὑμῶν10 of 11

your

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

ἔρχεται11 of 11

doth come

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)


Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Matthew 24:42 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 Matthew 24:42 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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