King James Version

What Does Matthew 24:43 Mean?

Matthew 24:43 in the King James Version says “But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 24 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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.

Matthew 24:43 · KJV


Context

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.

45

Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?


Commentary

KJV Study 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's character?
  2. What practical application does this truth have in your daily walk?
  3. How should this verse shape your priorities and decisions?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 23 words
ἐκεῖνο1 of 23

this

G1565

that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed

δὲ2 of 23

But

G1161

but, and, etc

γινώσκετε3 of 23

know

G1097

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ὅτι4 of 23

that

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

εἰ5 of 23

if

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

ᾔδει6 of 23

had known

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

7 of 23
G3588

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

οἰκοδεσπότης8 of 23

the goodman of the house

G3617

the head of a family

ποίᾳ9 of 23

in what

G4169

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

φυλακῇ10 of 23

watch

G5438

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

11 of 23
G3588

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

κλέπτης12 of 23

the thief

G2812

a stealer (literally or figuratively)

ἔρχεται13 of 23

would come

G2064

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

ἐγρηγόρησεν14 of 23

have watched

G1127

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

ἂν15 of 23

he would

G302

whatsoever

καὶ16 of 23

and

G2532

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

οὐκ17 of 23

not

G3756

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

ἂν18 of 23

he would

G302

whatsoever

εἴασεν19 of 23

have suffered

G1439

to let be, i.e., permit or leave alone

διορυγῆναι20 of 23

to be broken up

G1358

to penetrate burglariously

τὴν21 of 23
G3588

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

οἰκίαν22 of 23

house

G3614

properly, residence (abstractly), but usually (concretely) an abode (literally or figuratively); by implication, a family (especially domestics)

αὐτοῦ23 of 23
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


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 24:43 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 24:43 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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