The Message Of Matthew 24:36-44

Introduction

Matthew 24:36-44 is one of the most intriguing and challenging passages in the New Testament. It is a part of a larger discourse by Jesus on the end times, which is commonly referred to as the Olivet Discourse. This passage is significant because it deals with the uncertainty of the timing of the return of Jesus Christ. In this article, we will explore the meaning of this passage and its relevance for us today.

The Context of Matthew 24:36-44

In order to understand the meaning of this passage, we need to look at its context. The Olivet Discourse begins in Matthew 24:1, when Jesus and His disciples were leaving the temple in Jerusalem. The disciples were admiring the temple, but Jesus warned them that it would be destroyed. This led to a discussion about the end times, and Jesus began to teach them about the signs of His coming and the end of the age.

The Uncertainty of the Timing

In Matthew 24:36-44, Jesus emphasizes the uncertainty of the timing of His return. He says that no one knows the day or the hour, not even the angels in heaven or the Son Himself, but only the Father. This means that we cannot predict when Jesus will return, and we need to be ready at all times.

The Importance of Being Ready

Jesus uses the example of a thief in the night to illustrate the importance of being ready. Just as a thief does not announce his arrival, neither will the Son of Man. Therefore, we need to be prepared at all times, because we do not know when He will come. Jesus also uses the example of Noah’s flood to emphasize the importance of being ready. Just as people were taken by surprise by the flood, so will people be taken by surprise by the return of Jesus.

The Application of Matthew 24:36-44

The message of Matthew 24:36-44 is clear – we need to be ready at all times for the return of Jesus Christ. This means that we need to be living a life that is pleasing to Him, and we need to be actively serving Him. We cannot afford to be complacent or indifferent, thinking that we have plenty of time to get ready. We need to be ready now, because we do not know when He will come.

Living a Life that is Pleasing to Him

In order to be ready for the return of Jesus, we need to be living a life that is pleasing to Him. This means that we need to be living a life of obedience to His Word, and we need to be growing in our relationship with Him. We need to be seeking His will for our lives, and we need to be actively involved in serving Him.

Actively Serving Him

We also need to be actively serving Him. This means that we need to be using our gifts and talents to serve others and to advance His kingdom. We need to be sharing the gospel with others, and we need to be living a life that is a witness to those around us. We cannot afford to be passive or apathetic, thinking that someone else will do the work. We need to be actively involved in serving Him.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matthew 24:36-44 is a challenging passage that reminds us of the uncertainty of the timing of the return of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the importance of being ready at all times, living a life that is pleasing to Him, and actively serving Him. As we wait for His return, let us be faithful and diligent in our service to Him, knowing that He will come at an unexpected hour.

May we all be like the wise servant in Matthew 24:45-46, who is found faithful when his master returns. “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.”