Matthew presents Jesus as the prophetic Messiah, the authoritative Son of Man, the Lord whose words outlast heaven and earth, the coming King, the gatherer of the elect, and the master who will return to judge faithfulness.
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Matthew 24
The Olivet Discourse: Temple Desolation, Coming Judgment, the Son of Man, and Watchful Readiness
Because Jesus’ words are certain, His coming is sure, and His timing is unknown, disciples must reject deception, endure persecution, continue gospel mission, discern judgment rightly, and live as watchful, faithful servants until the Son of Man comes.
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Chapter Summary
Because Jesus’ words are certain, His coming is sure, and His timing is unknown, disciples must reject deception, endure persecution, continue gospel mission, discern judgment rightly, and live as watchful, faithful servants until the Son of Man comes.
Overview
Matthew 24 argues that the destruction of the temple and the coming of the Son of Man must be interpreted through Jesus’ authoritative word. The temple that seemed immovable will fall, but Jesus’ words will never pass away. The disciples must not confuse every upheaval with the end, nor be deceived by false messiahs. They must expect persecution, endure betrayal, resist lawlessness, and preach the gospel of the kingdom to all nations.
Jerusalem’s desolation will require urgent discernment and flight, but even distress is limited for the sake of the elect. The coming of the Son of Man will be visible, glorious, and unavoidable. Since the precise day and hour are unknown, readiness is not speculation but faithful service.
Context
A Jewish or Jewish-Christian audience familiar with the Jerusalem temple, Mount of Olives, Daniel’s abomination of desolation, prophetic birth-pain imagery, persecution expectations, cosmic judgment language, the Son of Man from Daniel 7, Noah’s flood, watchfulness imagery, household stewardship, and servant-master accountability.
Jesus leaves the temple after announcing that Jerusalem’s house is left desolate in Matthew 23. The disciples call attention to the temple buildings. Jesus predicts total destruction and then sits on the Mount of Olives, opposite Jerusalem, where the disciples privately ask about timing, signs, His coming, and the end of the age.
Because Jesus’ words are certain, His coming is sure, and His timing is unknown, disciples must reject deception, endure persecution, continue gospel mission, discern judgment rightly, and live as watchful, faithful servants until the Son of Man comes.
Matthew presents Jesus as the prophetic Messiah, the authoritative Son of Man, the Lord whose words outlast heaven and earth, the coming King, the gatherer of the elect, and the master who will return to judge faithfulness.
A Jewish or Jewish-Christian audience familiar with the Jerusalem temple, Mount of Olives, Daniel’s abomination of desolation, prophetic birth-pain imagery, persecution expectations, cosmic judgment language, the Son of Man from Daniel 7, Noah’s flood, watchfulness imagery, household stewardship, and servant-master accountability.
Jesus leaves the temple after announcing that Jerusalem’s house is left desolate in Matthew 23. The disciples call attention to the temple buildings. Jesus predicts total destruction and then sits on the Mount of Olives, opposite Jerusalem, where the disciples privately ask about timing, signs, His coming, and the end of the age.
Social Pressure
- The disciples face confusion over the temple’s future, the threat of deception, coming persecution, social betrayal, false prophets, lawlessness, fear, and the temptation either to panic or to grow careless. The discourse trains them for suffering, endurance, mission, discernment, and readiness.
The Jerusalem temple was the central symbol of Jewish worship, identity, and sacred presence. Its destruction would be world-shaking for Jewish hearers. The Mount of Olives gave visual proximity to the temple and carried prophetic associations. Apocalyptic language concerning sun, moon, stars, clouds, trumpet, and angels draws on Old Testament prophetic imagery of divine judgment and kingdom vindication.
Matthew 24 stands between Jesus’ public indictment of Jerusalem’s leaders and His passion. It explains the coming judgment on the temple and widens the horizon to the mission to all nations and the final coming of the Son of Man. The chapter forms disciples to endure the interval between Jesus’ first coming and His glorious return.
Chapter Movement
Matthew 24 moves from Jesus leaving the temple to predicting its destruction, from the disciples’ question to warnings against deception, from global upheaval to persecution and gospel mission, from the abomination of desolation to urgent flight and great distress, from false messianic claims to the visible coming of the Son of Man, from fig tree signs to the certainty of Jesus’ words, from unknown timing to Noah-like suddenness, and finally from watchfulness to faithful household stewardship.
Discourse Insight
Theological exposition and fulfillment
Matthew 24 clarifies the gospel by showing that the kingdom message will go to all nations before the end and that Jesus, the Son of Man, will return in visible glory to gather His elect and judge unfaithfulness. The gospel does not promise exemption from suffering, deception, or upheaval, but calls disciples to endure, witness, watch, and serve. The same Jesus who predicts temple judgment also promises global testimony, elect gathering, and words that will never pass away.
Structural Flow
Jesus predicts temple destruction and receives the disciples’ question about timing, signs, coming, and the end.
Jesus warns that false messiahs and world upheavals are not to be mistaken for the immediate end.
Persecution, betrayal, deception, and lawlessness will test disciples, but gospel mission will reach all nations.
The abomination of desolation signals urgent flight and severe distress, shortened for the elect.
The coming of Christ will be unmistakable, not hidden or localized.
The Son of Man comes with power and great glory, and His elect are gathered.
Certain signs and Jesus’ unfailing words must be held with humility about the unknown day and hour.
Disciples must keep watch and remain faithful servants until the master returns.
Chapter Outline
- 24:1-2: Jesus announces the complete destruction of the temple buildings.
- 24:3: The disciples privately ask Jesus about when these things will happen and what sign will mark His coming and the end of the age.
- 24:4-8: False messiahs, wars, famines, and earthquakes are birth pains, not the final end itself.
- 24:9-14: Disciples will face hatred, betrayal, false prophets, and cold love, but the gospel will be preached to all nations.
- 24:15-22: The abomination of desolation signals urgent flight and severe distress, especially in Judea.
- 24:23-28: The coming of the Son of Man will be unmistakable like lightning, not hidden in wilderness or inner rooms.
- 24:29-31: Cosmic signs, mourning, angelic trumpet, and gathering of the elect accompany the Son of Man’s coming.
- 24:32-35: Visible signs indicate nearness, and Jesus’ words are more enduring than heaven and earth.
- 24:36-41: The coming will be sudden like Noah’s flood, interrupting ordinary life.
- 24:42-44: Disciples must stay awake and prepared because the Son of Man comes unexpectedly.
- 24:45-51: Faithful servants care for the household · wicked servants assume delay and are judged.
Theological Argument
Matthew 24 argues that the destruction of the temple and the coming of the Son of Man must be interpreted through Jesus’ authoritative word. The temple that seemed immovable will fall, but Jesus’ words will never pass away. The disciples must not confuse every upheaval with the end, nor be deceived by false messiahs. They must expect persecution, endure betrayal, resist lawlessness, and preach the gospel of the kingdom to all nations.
Jerusalem’s desolation will require urgent discernment and flight, but even distress is limited for the sake of the elect. The coming of the Son of Man will be visible, glorious, and unavoidable. Since the precise day and hour are unknown, readiness is not speculation but faithful service.
From temple stones to temple ruin, from signs to non-signs, from birth pains to gospel mission, from desolation to flight, from false secret comings to visible glory, from fig tree nearness to unknown day, from watchfulness to household faithfulness.
- 1.The temple’s visible greatness does not secure it against judgment.
- 2.Disciples need discernment more than curiosity.
- 3.False messianic claims will multiply.
- 4.World upheavals are real but not necessarily the immediate end.
- 5.The path to the end includes suffering witness.
- 6.Internal breakdown will accompany external pressure.
- 7.Lawlessness chills love.
- 8.Salvation is connected with persevering faith.
- 9.The gospel mission to all nations is central to the end-times horizon.
- 10.Jerusalem’s judgment will require urgent obedience.
- 11.God limits distress for the sake of the elect.
- 12.False signs cannot overthrow the security of the elect.
- 13.The coming of the Son of Man will be public and unmistakable.
- 14.The Son of Man comes with divine glory and cosmic significance.
- 15.The elect will be gathered by divine command.
- 16.Jesus’ words are more enduring than creation itself.
- 17.The exact day and hour remain unknown to creatures and hidden in the Father’s authority.
- 18.Ordinary life can dull people to coming judgment.
- 19.Readiness means watchfulness.
- 20.Faithful servants are found doing their assigned work.
- 21.Assuming delay can produce abuse and self-indulgence.
- 22.The returning master judges unexpected unfaithfulness.
Theological Focus
- Temple destruction
- Olivet Discourse
- Deception
- False messiahs
- Wars and rumors of wars
- Birth pains
- Persecution
- Endurance
- False prophets
- Lawlessness
- Love growing cold
- Gospel of the kingdom
- All nations
- Abomination of desolation
- Great distress
- Elect
- False signs and wonders
- Coming of the Son of Man
- Clouds of heaven
- Power and glory
- Angelic gathering
- Trumpet call
- Fig tree lesson
- This generation
- Jesus’ unfailing words
- Unknown day and hour
- Days of Noah
- Watchfulness
- Faithful servant
- Wicked servant
- Hypocrites
- Weeping and gnashing of teeth
- Judgment on the Temple
- Discernment against Deception
- Birth Pains
- Perseverance under Persecution
- Mission to All Nations
- Desolation and Flight
- Divine Protection of the Elect
- Visible Coming of Christ
- Son of Man Glory
- Gathering of the Elect
- Certainty of Jesus’ Words
- Unknown Timing
- Faithful Stewardship
- Judgment on Wicked Servanthood
- Eschatology
- Christology
- Judgment
- Perseverance
- Mission
- Election
- Scripture Fulfillment
- Divine Sovereignty
- Human Responsibility
- False Teaching
- Sanctification
- Accountability
Theological Themes
The temple buildings will be completely thrown down, fulfilling Jesus’ desolation warning.
Jesus repeatedly warns that false messiahs and false prophets will deceive many.
Wars, famines, earthquakes, and upheaval are beginnings of pain, not grounds for panic.
Disciples must stand firm amid hatred, betrayal, death, and lawlessness.
The gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as testimony to all nations.
The abomination of desolation requires urgent action and flight from Judea.
Distress is shortened for the sake of the elect, and deception cannot ultimately overcome them.
The coming of the Son of Man will be public, glorious, and unmistakable.
Jesus comes on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
The angels gather Christ’s elect from the four winds.
Heaven and earth will pass away, but Jesus’ words will never pass away.
No one knows the day or hour except the Father.
Because the timing is unknown, disciples must keep watch and stay ready.
The faithful servant is found caring for the household when the master returns.
The wicked servant assumes delay, abuses others, indulges Himself, and is judged with hypocrites.
Covenant Significance
Matthew 24 flows out of Jesus’ covenant indictment in Matthew 23. Jerusalem’s house is left desolate, and the temple will be thrown down. Daniel’s abomination of desolation, prophetic cosmic signs, and Son of Man imagery show that Jesus interprets Jerusalem’s coming judgment and the end of the age through Israel’s Scriptures. The covenant people’s rejection of the Messiah results in temple judgment, but the gospel of the kingdom moves to all nations, and the Son of Man gathers His elect from the ends of the earth.
Old Testament Connections
- Matthew 23:38 · 24:1-2 - Jesus’ statement that the house is desolate leads directly to the prediction of temple destruction.
- Matthew 24:4-14 - Jesus prepares His disciples for false claims, persecution, endurance, and global witness.
- Matthew 24:15 - The abomination of desolation links Jerusalem’s crisis to Daniel’s prophetic framework.
- Matthew 24:22, 24:24, 24:31 - God preserves and gathers His elect through distress and deception.
- Matthew 24:14 - The gospel of the kingdom goes to all nations before the end.
- Matthew 24:30 - Jesus uses Daniel 7 language to describe the Son of Man’s glorious appearing.
- Matthew 24:31 - The elect are gathered from the whole earth, fulfilling restoration and ingathering hopes.
- Matthew 24:35 - Jesus’ words possess divine durability beyond heaven and earth.
- Matthew 24:45-51 - Servants entrusted with the master’s household will be judged when the master returns.
- Daniel 9:27 - Daniel speaks of abomination and desolation, forming background for Jesus’ warning.
- Daniel 11:31 - The abomination that causes desolation language connects to profaning worship and covenant crisis.
- Daniel 12:11 - Daniel again speaks of the abomination that causes desolation in end-time distress language.
- Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man comes with the clouds and receives authority, glory, and sovereign power.
- Isaiah 13:10 - Sun, moon, and stars imagery appears in prophetic judgment language.
- Isaiah 34:4 - Heavenly host imagery contributes to cosmic judgment language.
- Zechariah 12:10-14 - Mourning over the pierced one and tribes mourning provide background for mourning imagery.
- Deuteronomy 30:4 - God gathering His people from the ends of heaven provides background for elect-gathering language.
- Isaiah 27:13 - A great trumpet summons scattered people to worship the Lord.
- Genesis 6:5-7:24 - Noah’s flood provides Jesus’ comparison for sudden judgment amid ordinary life.
Canonical Connections
Jesus’ prediction of temple destruction follows prophetic patterns of judgment on corrupted worship.
Jesus explicitly draws on Daniel’s desolation language to frame Judea’s crisis.
Jesus identifies His coming with Danielic Son of Man authority and glory.
Sun, moon, stars, and heavenly powers language echoes prophetic judgment imagery.
Jesus’ angels gathering the elect draws from restoration and trumpet-gathering themes.
The flood narrative becomes the model for sudden judgment amid ordinary life.
Jesus’ watchfulness command is developed across New Testament teaching about the Lord’s return.
The faithful servant motif connects eschatology to entrusted service.
Cross References
Gospel Clarity
Matthew 24 clarifies the gospel by showing that the kingdom message will go to all nations before the end and that Jesus, the Son of Man, will return in visible glory to gather His elect and judge unfaithfulness. The gospel does not promise exemption from suffering, deception, or upheaval, but calls disciples to endure, witness, watch, and serve. The same Jesus who predicts temple judgment also promises global testimony, elect gathering, and words that will never pass away.
Gospel Guardrails
- Jesus’ Authoritative Word - Jesus’ words outlast heaven and earth.
- Judgment on False Security - The temple’s destruction warns against trusting religious structures apart from Christ.
- Enduring Faith - The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.
- Kingdom Proclamation - The gospel of the kingdom will be preached to the whole world as testimony to all nations.
- Protection of the Elect - Distress is shortened for the elect, and Christ gathers His elect.
- Visible Return of Christ - The Son of Man comes with power and great glory.
- Final Gathering - Angels gather the elect from the four winds.
- Watchful Readiness - Because the hour is unknown, disciples must keep watch.
- Faithful Service - True readiness is shown in faithful household stewardship.
- Judgment on Hypocrisy - The wicked servant is assigned a place with the hypocrites.
- Do not turn Matthew 24 into a codebook that eclipses Christ’s commands.
- Do not preach prophecy without discipleship.
- Do not preach the end without the gospel of the kingdom to all nations.
- Do not make suffering a sign of abandonment · Jesus prepares disciples for it.
- Do not make signs and wonders the final test of truth.
- Do not claim secret knowledge of the day or hour.
- Do not treat readiness as fear-driven speculation · Jesus defines it as watchful faithfulness.
- Do not separate the coming Son of Man from the suffering Son of Man already moving toward the cross.
- Do not comfort the wicked servant with delay · the master will return unexpectedly.
- Do not forget that the elect are gathered by the command of Christ.
Primary Emphasis
Matthew 24 presents Jesus as the Lord of the temple, the prophet of Jerusalem’s judgment, the Son of Man who will come on the clouds with power and great glory, the gatherer of the elect, the Lord whose words outlast heaven and earth, and the returning master who judges servants. His authority is divine in scope: He predicts the fall of Israel’s central sanctuary, commands the disciples’ end-time posture, defines the gospel mission to all nations, and speaks words more permanent than creation.
Chapter Contribution
Matthew 24 argues that the destruction of the temple and the coming of the Son of Man must be interpreted through Jesus’ authoritative word. The temple that seemed immovable will fall, but Jesus’ words will never pass away. The disciples must not confuse every upheaval with the end, nor be deceived by false messiahs. They must expect persecution, endure betrayal, resist lawlessness, and preach the gospel of the kingdom to all nations.
Jerusalem’s desolation will require urgent discernment and flight, but even distress is limited for the sake of the elect. The coming of the Son of Man will be visible, glorious, and unavoidable. Since the precise day and hour are unknown, readiness is not speculation but faithful service.
Doctrines in This Chapter
Jesus identifies Himself with the Danielic Son of Man who receives heavenly authority, glory, and dominion.
Jesus speaks with divine-authorized certainty about the fate of the temple, showing that He is not merely a teacher within Israel but the King and Prophet whose word governs history.
The Son's statement about not knowing the hour must be held together with Matthew's witness to His divine authority and His incarnate submission to the Father's will.
The sun, moon, stars, heavenly powers, angels, trumpet, and nations all stand within the scope of the Son of Man’s authority.
Sacred privilege intensifies responsibility; the temple's presence does not protect Jerusalem when the Messiah is rejected.
False messiahs, false prophets, betrayal, lawlessness, and cooling love reveal the grave danger of religious deception and lovelessness in the last-days horizon.
Jesus begins to prepare His disciples to interpret coming upheaval by His word rather than by appearances, panic, or misplaced confidence.
The mourning of the peoples of the earth and the shaking of heavenly powers show that Christ’s appearing brings decisive reckoning.
The distress is real and severe, yet God limits the days for the sake of His chosen people, showing sovereign mercy amid judgment.
The events Jesus describes are not random upheavals but realities held within God's sovereign purpose and disclosed by the Son.
The exact day and hour belong to the Father's authority, guarding believers from presumption and anchoring history under God's rule.
The passage teaches believers to distinguish real signs of turmoil from the final end and to reject speculative panic that ignores Jesus' own warnings.
The faithful servant's conduct does not earn the master's lordship but reveals allegiance to Him; the wicked servant's conduct exposes unbelief beneath official position.
The wicked servant faces severe judgment and is placed with hypocrites, showing that outward association with the master's household does not protect an unfaithful heart.
The references to Noah and to one taken while another is left show that the Son of Man's coming will bring irreversible distinction and accountability.
The temple mattered as part of God's revealed worship order, yet Matthew's Gospel shows that Jesus Himself is the fulfillment toward whom God's dwelling, sacrifice, forgiveness, and kingdom presence move.
The passage warns that visible religious grandeur can become an idol when people trust the structure while refusing the Lord to whom worship belongs.
The message proclaimed is the gospel of the kingdom: the good news of God's saving reign revealed in Jesus, calling for repentance, faith, endurance, and allegiance to the King.
Jesus presents Himself as the Master whose servants remain accountable to His authority during the period before His visible return.
The gospel of the kingdom must be proclaimed as witness to all nations before the end, placing global gospel mission within Jesus' own eschatological teaching.
Those entrusted with care for Christ's household must feed, serve, and protect others rather than use religious responsibility for violence, indulgence, or status.
Endurance to the end is the mark of those who truly belong to Christ; it is not a self-generated merit but the lived perseverance of faith under pressure.
Jesus teaches that the Son of Man will come, not merely as a symbol of religious renewal, but as the decisive future event for which His disciples must be ready.
Delegated responsibility among God's people is stewardship under the Lord, not personal ownership or a platform for domination.
The abomination in the holy place shows that profaning what belongs to God is not spiritually neutral but bound up with desolation and judgment.
Jesus' words are presented as more enduring than heaven and earth, revealing the divine authority and reliability of His speech.
Jesus teaches that His coming will be visible, glorious, and unmistakable, not private, secret, or dependent on rumor.
The coming of the Son of Man will not depend on private reports or hidden access; it will be manifest, public, and unmistakable.
The passage forms disciples who live alert to Christ's warnings, confident in His promise, and restrained from date-setting pride.
Readiness is not frantic speculation but faithful alertness, obedient living, and settled trust while the precise hour remains unknown.
Doctrinal Weight
Jesus teaches concerning temple destruction, distress, gospel mission, the coming of the Son of Man, unknown timing, and final readiness.
Jesus is the Son of Man who comes on the clouds with power and great glory, and whose words never pass away.
The temple is judged, false servants are judged, and sudden separation accompanies the coming of the Son of Man.
The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.
The gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations.
The elect are protected through shortened distress and gathered by angels at the Son of Man’s command.
Daniel’s abomination of desolation and Danielic Son of Man imagery shape the discourse.
The Father alone knows the day and hour, and God shortens distress for the elect.
Disciples must watch, flee when warned, endure, and serve faithfully.
False messiahs and false prophets will deceive many with claims and signs.
Believers must guard love from growing cold amid lawlessness.
Servants are accountable to the returning master for how they care for the household.
Reading Lenses
Theological exposition and fulfillment
- Matthew 24 clarifies the gospel by showing that the kingdom message will go to all nations before the end and that Jesus, the Son of Man, will return in visible glory to gather His elect and judge unfaithfulness. The gospel does not promise exemption from suffering, deception, or upheaval, but calls disciples to endure, witness, watch, and serve. The same Jesus who predicts temple judgment also promises global testimony, elect gathering, and words that will never pass away.
Key Greek Terms
Sense temple precincts
Definition The temple courts or sacred precincts.
References Matthew 24:1
Lexicon temple precincts
Why it matters Jesus leaves the temple and predicts its destruction.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Feminine What is this?
Sense buildings, structures
Definition Buildings, structures, constructions.
References Matthew 24:1
Lexicon buildings, structures
Why it matters The disciples admire the temple buildings, but Jesus announces their fall.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense stone
Definition Stone, building stone.
References Matthew 24:2
Lexicon stone
Why it matters Not one temple stone will remain on another.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Future · Passive · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense destroyed, thrown down, dismantled
Definition To destroy, tear down, dismantle, abolish.
References Matthew 24:2
Lexicon destroyed, thrown down, dismantled
Why it matters Jesus predicts the complete destruction of the temple complex.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense Mount of Olives
Definition Mountain ridge east of Jerusalem.
References Matthew 24:3
Lexicon Mount of Olives
Why it matters Jesus gives the discourse from the Mount of Olives after leaving the temple.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense coming, presence, arrival
Definition Presence, arrival, coming, royal visitation.
References Matthew 24:3, 24:27, 24:37, 24:39
Lexicon coming, presence, arrival
Why it matters The disciples ask about the sign of Jesus’ coming.
Individual words συντελείᾳ τῶν αἰώνων synteleia tōn aiōnōn · οἱ υἱοὶ τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου hoi huioi tou aiōnos toutou
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense completion/end of the age
Definition Completion, consummation, end of an age.
References Matthew 24:3
Lexicon completion/end of the age
Why it matters The disciples connect Jesus’ coming with the end of the age.
Form in passage Aorist · Active · Subjunctive · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense deceive, lead astray
Definition To deceive, mislead, cause to wander.
References Matthew 24:4-5, 24:11, 24:24
Lexicon deceive, lead astray
Why it matters Jesus repeatedly warns that many will be deceived.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense Christ, Messiah, Anointed One
Definition The Anointed One, Messiah.
References Matthew 24:5, 24:23-24
Lexicon Christ, Messiah, Anointed One
Why it matters False messiahs will claim Jesus’ identity and deceive many.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense wars
Definition Wars, battles, conflicts.
References Matthew 24:6
Lexicon wars
Why it matters Wars and rumors of wars are upheavals but not the immediate end.
Sense alarmed, troubled, frightened
Definition To be disturbed, alarmed, frightened.
References Matthew 24:6
Lexicon alarmed, troubled, frightened
Why it matters Jesus commands disciples not to be alarmed by upheavals.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense end, goal, completion
Definition End, completion, goal, outcome.
References Matthew 24:6, 24:13-14
Lexicon end, goal, completion
Why it matters Jesus distinguishes events that precede the end from the end itself.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense nation, people, Gentiles
Definition Nation, people group, Gentile nation.
References Matthew 24:7, 24:9, 24:14
Lexicon nation, people, Gentiles
Why it matters Nations rise against nations, and the gospel is preached to all nations.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense famines
Definition Famines, hunger, scarcity of food.
References Matthew 24:7
Lexicon famines
Why it matters Famines are part of birth-pain upheavals.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense earthquakes, shakings
Definition Earthquakes, shakings, upheavals.
References Matthew 24:7
Lexicon earthquakes, shakings
Why it matters Earthquakes are part of the beginning of birth pains.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Feminine What is this?
Sense birth pains, labor pains
Definition Birth pains, labor pains, travail.
References Matthew 24:8
Lexicon birth pains, labor pains
Why it matters Jesus frames early upheavals as painful beginnings, not final completion.
Form in passage Future · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense hand over, deliver up
Definition To hand over, deliver, betray.
References Matthew 24:9
Lexicon hand over, deliver up
Why it matters Disciples will be handed over to persecution.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense tribulation, distress, affliction
Definition Pressure, affliction, distress, tribulation.
References Matthew 24:9, 24:21, 24:29
Lexicon tribulation, distress, affliction
Why it matters Jesus warns of tribulation for disciples and great distress in Judea.
Form in passage Present · Passive · Participle · Plural What is this?
Sense hated
Definition To hate, detest, reject.
References Matthew 24:9-10
Lexicon hated
Why it matters Disciples will be hated by all nations because of Jesus’ name.
Cross-language bridge 3 links · View in lexicon
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense name, identity, authority
Definition Name, identity, reputation, authority.
References Matthew 24:9
Lexicon name, identity, authority
Why it matters The hatred comes because of allegiance to Jesus’ name.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Future · Passive · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense fall away, stumble, be offended
Definition To stumble, fall away, take offense.
References Matthew 24:10
Lexicon fall away, stumble, be offended
Why it matters Persecution and pressure lead many to fall away.
Form in passage Future · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense betray, hand over
Definition To hand over, betray, deliver up.
References Matthew 24:10
Lexicon betray, hand over
Why it matters Many will betray one another under pressure.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense false prophets
Definition False prophets, deceptive religious spokespersons.
References Matthew 24:11, 24:24
Lexicon false prophets
Why it matters False prophets deceive many in the end-time crisis.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense lawlessness, wickedness
Definition Lawlessness, rebellion against God’s law.
References Matthew 24:12
Lexicon lawlessness, wickedness
Why it matters Increasing lawlessness makes the love of many grow cold.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense love
Definition Love, devoted concern, covenantal care.
References Matthew 24:12
Lexicon love
Why it matters Love is endangered by lawlessness and must be guarded.
Sense grow cold, cool off
Definition To cool, grow cold.
References Matthew 24:12
Lexicon grow cold, cool off
Why it matters Lawlessness chills love and weakens community endurance.
Form in passage Aorist · Active · Participle · Singular What is this?
Sense endure, remain, stand firm
Definition To endure, remain under, stand firm.
References Matthew 24:13
Lexicon endure, remain, stand firm
Why it matters The one who endures to the end will be saved.
Sense saved, rescued, delivered
Definition To save, rescue, deliver.
References Matthew 24:13
Lexicon saved, rescued, delivered
Why it matters Enduring faith is linked to final salvation.
Cross-language bridge 3 links · View in lexicon
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense gospel, good news
Definition Good news, proclamation of God’s saving reign.
References Matthew 24:14
Lexicon gospel, good news
Why it matters The gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed in the whole world.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense kingdom, reign
Definition Kingdom, reign, royal rule.
References Matthew 24:14
Lexicon kingdom, reign
Why it matters The gospel concerns the kingdom and is proclaimed to all nations.
Form in passage Dative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense inhabited world
Definition Inhabited world, known world, world of human habitation.
References Matthew 24:14
Lexicon inhabited world
Why it matters The gospel witness extends broadly to the inhabited world.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense testimony, witness
Definition Witness, testimony, evidence.
References Matthew 24:14
Lexicon testimony, witness
Why it matters The gospel is proclaimed as testimony to all nations.
Individual words βδέλυγμα τῆς ἐρημώσεως bdelygma tēs erēmōseōs · βδέλυγμα τῆς ἐρημώσεως bdelygma tēs erēmōseōs
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Neuter What is this?
Sense abomination that causes desolation
Definition Detestable profaning thing associated with desolating judgment.
References Matthew 24:15
Lexicon abomination that causes desolation
Why it matters This Danielic sign signals urgent flight from Judea.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense Daniel
Definition Daniel, prophet associated with visions of kingdoms, desolation, and the Son of Man.
References Matthew 24:15
Lexicon Daniel
Why it matters Jesus explicitly roots His warning in Daniel’s prophecy.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Dative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense holy place
Definition Sacred place, holy location.
References Matthew 24:15
Lexicon holy place
Why it matters The abomination stands in the holy place, signaling covenant crisis.
Sense understand, perceive
Definition To understand, perceive, consider.
References Matthew 24:15
Lexicon understand, perceive
Why it matters Matthew highlights the need for reader discernment concerning Daniel’s sign.
Form in passage Present · Active · Imperative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense flee, escape
Definition To flee, escape, run away.
References Matthew 24:16
Lexicon flee, escape
Why it matters Those in Judea must respond to the desolation sign by immediate flight.
Form in passage Dative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense Judea
Definition Region surrounding Jerusalem in southern Israel.
References Matthew 24:16
Lexicon Judea
Why it matters Jesus gives geographically specific flight instructions.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense great tribulation, great distress
Definition Severe affliction, pressure, tribulation.
References Matthew 24:21
Lexicon great tribulation, great distress
Why it matters The distress will be uniquely severe.
Form in passage Aorist · Passive · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense shortened, cut short
Definition To shorten, cut short, curtail.
References Matthew 24:22
Lexicon shortened, cut short
Why it matters God shortens the days of distress for the elect’s sake.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense elect, chosen ones
Definition Chosen, elect, selected.
References Matthew 24:22, 24:24, 24:31
Lexicon elect, chosen ones
Why it matters The elect are protected through shortened distress and gathered at the Son of Man’s coming.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense false Christs, false messiahs
Definition False messianic claimants.
References Matthew 24:24
Lexicon false Christs, false messiahs
Why it matters False messiahs will arise and deceive many.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense signs
Definition Signs, confirming acts, symbolic indicators.
References Matthew 24:24, 24:30
Lexicon signs
Why it matters False prophets can perform great signs, so signs alone are not the final test of truth.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Neuter What is this?
Sense wonders, marvels
Definition Wonders, extraordinary acts that amaze.
References Matthew 24:24
Lexicon wonders, marvels
Why it matters False signs and wonders can deceive unless judged by Jesus’ word.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense lightning
Definition Lightning, flash of light.
References Matthew 24:27
Lexicon lightning
Why it matters Jesus’ coming will be visible and unmistakable like lightning.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense Son of Man
Definition Jesus’ self-designation rooted in Danielic authority, suffering, and glory.
References Matthew 24:27, 24:30, 24:37, 24:39, 24:44
Lexicon Son of Man
Why it matters The Son of Man comes visibly with power and glory.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense sun
Definition Sun.
References Matthew 24:29
Lexicon sun
Why it matters The sun darkening is part of cosmic judgment imagery.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense moon
Definition Moon.
References Matthew 24:29
Lexicon moon
Why it matters The moon not giving light forms part of cosmic judgment language.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense stars
Definition Stars, heavenly bodies.
References Matthew 24:29
Lexicon stars
Why it matters Falling stars symbolize cosmic shaking and judgment.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Feminine What is this?
Sense powers of heaven
Definition Heavenly powers or cosmic forces.
References Matthew 24:29
Lexicon powers of heaven
Why it matters The powers of heaven are shaken at the Son of Man’s coming.
Form in passage Future · Middle · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense mourn, beat the breast
Definition To mourn, lament, strike oneself in grief.
References Matthew 24:30
Lexicon mourn, beat the breast
Why it matters All tribes mourn when the Son of Man appears.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Feminine What is this?
Sense clouds
Definition Clouds.
References Matthew 24:30
Lexicon clouds
Why it matters Cloud-coming language echoes Daniel 7 and divine royal appearing.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense power, might
Definition Power, strength, divine might.
References Matthew 24:30
Lexicon power, might
Why it matters The Son of Man comes with power.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense glory, splendor
Definition Glory, honor, radiance, splendor.
References Matthew 24:30
Lexicon glory, splendor
Why it matters The Son of Man comes with great glory.
Form in passage Accusative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense angels, messengers
Definition Angels, heavenly messengers.
References Matthew 24:31
Lexicon angels, messengers
Why it matters The Son of Man sends angels to gather the elect.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense trumpet
Definition Trumpet, signaling instrument.
References Matthew 24:31
Lexicon trumpet
Why it matters A loud trumpet call accompanies the gathering of the elect.
Form in passage Future · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Plural What is this?
Sense gather together
Definition To gather, assemble, collect together.
References Matthew 24:31
Lexicon gather together
Why it matters The elect are gathered from the four winds.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense four winds, all directions
Definition Four winds, symbolic of the whole earth/all directions.
References Matthew 24:31
Lexicon four winds, all directions
Why it matters The elect are gathered globally.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense fig tree
Definition Fig tree.
References Matthew 24:32
Lexicon fig tree
Why it matters Jesus uses the fig tree as a lesson in recognizing nearness.
Sense near, close
Definition Near, close at hand.
References Matthew 24:32-33
Lexicon near, close
Why it matters The signs indicate nearness, right at the door.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense generation
Definition Generation, contemporaries, people of an age.
References Matthew 24:34
Lexicon generation
Why it matters Jesus says this generation will not pass away until all these things happen.
Form in passage Aorist · Active · Subjunctive · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense pass away, pass by
Definition To pass away, pass by, come to an end.
References Matthew 24:34-35
Lexicon pass away, pass by
Why it matters Heaven and earth pass away, but Jesus’ words do not.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense words, sayings
Definition Words, sayings, message.
References Matthew 24:35
Lexicon words, sayings
Why it matters Jesus’ words are enduring and unfailing.
Individual words ἄχρι ἧς ἡμέρας εἰσῆλθεν Νῶε εἰς τὴν κιβωτόν achri hēs hēmeras eisēlthen Nōe eis tēn kibōton · ὥρα τρίτη hōra tritē
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense day and hour
Definition Specific time, exact moment.
References Matthew 24:36, 24:50
Lexicon day and hour
Why it matters No one knows the precise timing except the Father.
Sense Father
Definition Father; here God the Father.
References Matthew 24:36
Lexicon Father
Why it matters Only the Father knows the day and hour.
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense Noah
Definition Noah, righteous man preserved through the flood.
References Matthew 24:37-38
Lexicon Noah
Why it matters Noah’s days illustrate sudden judgment amid ordinary life.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Genitive · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense flood, deluge
Definition Flood, deluge, overwhelming water judgment.
References Matthew 24:38-39
Lexicon flood, deluge
Why it matters The flood is Jesus’ analogy for sudden judgment.
Form in passage Aorist · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense took away, swept away
Definition To take up, remove, carry away.
References Matthew 24:39
Lexicon took away, swept away
Why it matters The flood took away the unprepared, illustrating sudden separation.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Present · Passive · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense taken, received, taken along
Definition To take, receive, take along.
References Matthew 24:40-41
Lexicon taken, received, taken along
Why it matters Jesus describes sudden separation: one taken and one left.
Form in passage Present · Passive · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense left, left behind, released
Definition To leave, permit, release, forgive.
References Matthew 24:40-41
Lexicon left, left behind, released
Why it matters The Son of Man’s coming creates sudden separation.
Sense keep watch, stay awake
Definition To stay awake, be alert, keep watch.
References Matthew 24:42-43
Lexicon keep watch, stay awake
Why it matters Watchfulness is Jesus’ central command in light of unknown timing.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense Lord, master
Definition Lord, master, owner, sovereign.
References Matthew 24:42, 24:45-50
Lexicon Lord, master
Why it matters Disciples must watch because they do not know when their Lord comes.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense thief
Definition Thief, robber by stealth.
References Matthew 24:43
Lexicon thief
Why it matters The thief analogy emphasizes unexpectedness and need for watchfulness.
Form in passage Nominative · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense ready, prepared
Definition Ready, prepared, available.
References Matthew 24:44
Lexicon ready, prepared
Why it matters Disciples must be ready because the Son of Man comes unexpectedly.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense faithful, trustworthy
Definition Faithful, reliable, trustworthy.
References Matthew 24:45
Lexicon faithful, trustworthy
Why it matters The faithful servant is blessed when the master returns.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense wise, prudent, sensible
Definition Prudent, wise, thoughtful, discerning.
References Matthew 24:45
Lexicon wise, prudent, sensible
Why it matters Readiness includes wise stewardship.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense servant, slave
Definition Servant, slave, bondservant.
References Matthew 24:45-50
Lexicon servant, slave
Why it matters Jesus contrasts faithful and wicked servants while the master is away.
Sense household, servants, care
Definition Household, domestic servants, care, service.
References Matthew 24:45
Lexicon household, servants, care
Why it matters The servant is entrusted with caring for the master’s household.
Form in passage Accusative · Singular · Feminine What is this?
Sense food, nourishment
Definition Food, nourishment, sustenance.
References Matthew 24:45
Lexicon food, nourishment
Why it matters The faithful servant feeds the household at the proper time.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense blessed, fortunate
Definition Blessed, favored, flourishing before God.
References Matthew 24:46
Lexicon blessed, fortunate
Why it matters Blessed is the servant found faithful when the master returns.
Form in passage Present · Active · Participle · Plural What is this?
Sense possessions, belongings
Definition Possessions, property, things one has.
References Matthew 24:47
Lexicon possessions, belongings
Why it matters The faithful servant is entrusted with greater responsibility.
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense wicked, evil, bad
Definition Evil, wicked, bad, morally corrupt.
References Matthew 24:48
Lexicon wicked, evil, bad
Why it matters The wicked servant assumes delay and abuses others.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Form in passage Present · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense delay, take a long time
Definition To delay, spend time, be long in coming.
References Matthew 24:48
Lexicon delay, take a long time
Why it matters The wicked servant’s sin begins with assuming the master is delayed.
Form in passage Present · Active · Infinitive What is this?
Sense beat, strike
Definition To strike, beat, hit.
References Matthew 24:49
Lexicon beat, strike
Why it matters The wicked servant abuses fellow servants during the master’s absence.
Form in passage Present · Active · Participle · Plural What is this?
Sense drunkards, drunken ones
Definition To be drunk, intoxicated.
References Matthew 24:49
Lexicon drunkards, drunken ones
Why it matters The wicked servant indulges Himself instead of serving faithfully.
Form in passage Future · Active · Indicative · 3rd Person · Singular What is this?
Sense cut in two, cut to pieces
Definition To cut in two, severely punish.
References Matthew 24:51
Lexicon cut in two, cut to pieces
Why it matters The wicked servant faces severe judgment when the master returns.
Form in passage Genitive · Plural · Masculine What is this?
Sense hypocrites, pretenders
Definition Hypocrites, actors, pretenders.
References Matthew 24:51
Lexicon hypocrites, pretenders
Why it matters The wicked servant is assigned a place with the hypocrites, connecting to Matthew 23’s woes.
Individual words κλαυθμὸς καὶ βρυγμὸς τῶν ὀδόντων klauthmos kai brygmos tōn odontōn · κλαυθμὸς καὶ βρυγμὸς τῶν ὀδόντων klauthmos kai brygmos tōn odontōn · κλαυθμὸς καὶ βρυγμὸς τῶν ὀδόντων klauthmos kai brygmos tōn odontōn
Form in passage Nominative · Singular · Masculine What is this?
Sense weeping and gnashing of teeth
Definition Phrase of grief, anguish, rage, and judgment.
References Matthew 24:51
Lexicon weeping and gnashing of teeth
Why it matters Jesus ends the chapter with severe judgment language.
Key Hebrew Terms
Sense house, temple, household
Definition House, household, temple, dwelling.
References Matthew 23:38; 24:1-2
Lexicon house, temple, household
Why it matters Jesus’ prediction of temple destruction follows His statement that Jerusalem’s house is left desolate.
Cross-language bridge 4 links · View in lexicon
Form in passage Qal · Participle active What is this?
Sense desolate, appalled, ruined
Definition To be desolate, devastated, appalled.
References Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15
Lexicon desolate, appalled, ruined
Why it matters Daniel’s desolation language stands behind Jesus’ warning.
Form in passage Masculine · Plural · Absolute What is this?
Sense abomination, detestable thing
Definition Detestable thing, abomination, often idolatrous or profaning.
References Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11; Matthew 24:15
Lexicon abomination, detestable thing
Why it matters Jesus refers to the abomination that causes desolation from Daniel.
Sense holy, sacred
Definition Holiness, sacredness, set-apartness.
References Matthew 24:15
Lexicon holy, sacred
Why it matters The abomination stands in the holy place.
Sense son of man, human-like figure
Definition Human-like figure who comes with the clouds and receives dominion.
References Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 24:30
Lexicon son of man, human-like figure
Why it matters Jesus identifies His coming with Daniel’s Son of Man vision.
Sense clouds
Definition Clouds, often associated with divine presence and appearing.
References Daniel 7:13; Matthew 24:30
Lexicon clouds
Why it matters The Son of Man comes with the clouds of heaven.
Sense glory, weight, honor
Definition Glory, honor, weightiness, splendor.
References Daniel 7:14; Matthew 24:30
Lexicon glory, weight, honor
Why it matters The Son of Man comes with great glory.
Sense kingdom, reign
Definition Kingdom, dominion, royal reign.
References Daniel 7:14; Matthew 24:14
Lexicon kingdom, reign
Why it matters The gospel of the kingdom is proclaimed, and the Son of Man receives kingdom authority.
Sense chosen, elect
Definition Chosen one, elect one.
References Matthew 24:22, 24:31
Lexicon chosen, elect
Why it matters Jesus speaks of the elect whose days are shortened and who are gathered.
Sense gather, assemble
Definition To gather, collect, assemble.
References Deuteronomy 30:4; Matthew 24:31
Lexicon gather, assemble
Why it matters The elect are gathered from the four winds.
Sense trumpet, ram’s horn
Definition Trumpet or ram’s horn used for summons, alarm, and worship.
References Isaiah 27:13; Matthew 24:31
Lexicon trumpet, ram’s horn
Why it matters A loud trumpet call accompanies the gathering of the elect.
Sense heaven and earth
Definition The created order, sky/heavens and earth.
References Matthew 24:35
Lexicon heaven and earth
Why it matters Jesus’ words outlast heaven and earth.
Sense word, matter, thing
Definition Word, matter, speech, event.
References Matthew 24:35
Lexicon word, matter, thing
Why it matters Jesus’ words never pass away.
Sense Noah
Definition Noah, preserved through the flood by God.
References Genesis 6-7; Matthew 24:37-39
Lexicon Noah
Why it matters The days of Noah illustrate sudden judgment amid ordinary life.
Cross-language bridge 1 link · View in lexicon
Sense flood, deluge
Definition Flood, deluge, overwhelming judgment by water.
References Genesis 6-7; Matthew 24:38-39
Lexicon flood, deluge
Why it matters Jesus compares His coming to the sudden judgment of the flood.
Sense keep, watch, guard
Definition To keep, guard, watch, observe.
References Matthew 24:42
Lexicon keep, watch, guard
Why it matters Jesus commands disciples to keep watch.
Sense faithfulness, reliability
Definition Faithfulness, steadiness, reliability.
References Matthew 24:45
Lexicon faithfulness, reliability
Why it matters The faithful servant is blessed when the master returns.
Sense servant, slave
Definition Servant, slave, one under another’s authority.
References Matthew 24:45-51
Lexicon servant, slave
Why it matters Jesus contrasts the faithful and wicked servant before the returning master.
Lexicon data: MorphGNT Strong's Dictionary XML (CC0) · Open Scriptures Hebrew Bible (CC BY 4.0) · Open Scriptures Hebrew Lexicon (CC BY 4.0) · STEPBible Data (CC BY 4.0) · Full details
Discourse Connectives (61)
grounds / explanation 9inference / conclusion 3strong contrast / correction 1purpose clause 1result clause 1conditional clause 8content marker or causal 7continuation or mild contrast 15negative additive 3additive / emphatic 13
| v.1 | ΚαὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.2 | δὲAndcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.3 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.4 | ΚαὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.5 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.6 | δὲthencontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.ἀλλ᾽butstrong contrast / correctionAsk: what is being set aside? What is being asserted instead? |
| v.7 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.8 | δὲthencontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.10 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.11 | καὶandadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.12 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.13 | δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.14 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.15 | οὖνthereforeinference / conclusionAsk: what has Paul argued up to this point? 'Therefore' is the payoff. |
| v.18 | καὶandadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.19 | δὲthencontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.20 | δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.ἵναthatpurpose clauseἵνα clauses often contain the theological payoff: 'so that God might...' |
| v.21 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.οὐδ᾽nonegative additiveοὐδέ in a list builds rhetorical force — each addition strengthens the overall negation. |
| v.22 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together.εἰonlyconditional clauseAsk whether Paul treats the 'if' as assumed true (1st class) or merely hypothetical.δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.23 | ἐάνifconditional (subjunctive / open)ἐάν + subjunctive signals an open condition: 'if (as may be the case)...' |
| v.24 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.ὥστεso asresult clauseὥστε states what happens as a consequence. ἵνα states what is intended.εἰifconditional clauseAsk whether Paul treats the 'if' as assumed true (1st class) or merely hypothetical. |
| v.26 | ἐὰνIfconditional (subjunctive / open)ἐάν + subjunctive signals an open condition: 'if (as may be the case)...'οὖνthereforeinference / conclusionAsk: what has Paul argued up to this point? 'Therefore' is the payoff. |
| v.27 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.28 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point.ἐὰνifconditional (subjunctive / open)ἐάν + subjunctive signals an open condition: 'if (as may be the case)...' |
| v.29 | δὲthencontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.30 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.31 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.32 | δὲnowcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.33 | ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.34 | ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.35 | δὲbutcontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.36 | δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.οὐδὲnot evennegative additiveοὐδέ in a list builds rhetorical force — each addition strengthens the overall negation.οὐδὲnornegative additiveοὐδέ in a list builds rhetorical force — each addition strengthens the overall negation.εἰonlyconditional clauseAsk whether Paul treats the 'if' as assumed true (1st class) or merely hypothetical. |
| v.37 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.38 | γὰρforgrounds / explanationAsk: what claim is this 'for' grounding? That claim is the main point. |
| v.39 | καὶAndadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
| v.42 | οὖν,therefore,inference / conclusionAsk: what has Paul argued up to this point? 'Therefore' is the payoff.ὅτιforcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.43 | δὲthencontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast.ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason.εἰif [would]conditional clauseAsk whether Paul treats the 'if' as assumed true (1st class) or merely hypothetical. |
| v.44 | ὅτιforcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.47 | ὅτιthatcontent marker or causalIf ὅτι follows a verb of speaking/knowing/believing, it introduces content. If it follows a statement, it introduces a reason. |
| v.48 | ἘὰνIfconditional (subjunctive / open)ἐάν + subjunctive signals an open condition: 'if (as may be the case)...'δὲhowevercontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.49 | καὶandadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together.δὲthencontinuation or mild contrastNote where δέ appears in a μέν...δέ pair — that structure is a deliberate contrast. |
| v.51 | καὶandadditive / emphaticClause-initial καί in Paul often links equal-weight clauses that should be read together. |
Discourse data: STEPBible TAGNT (CC BY 4.0)
Verb Aspect (135 main verbs)
completed 13ongoing 21prospective 38resultant 5imperative 12subjunctive 17background 1infinitive 10participle 18
| v.1 | ἐξελθὼνexérchomaileftaorist active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἐπορεύετοporeúomaigoing awayimperfect middle indicativebackgroundImperfect indicative — continuous or repeated past actionπροσῆλθονprosérchomaicame upaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἐπιδεῖξαιepideíknymipoint outaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.2 | ἀποκριθεὶςaskedaorist passive participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionεἶπενépōsaidaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionβλέπετεseepresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthλέγωlégōsaypresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthἀφεθῇleftaorist passive subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentκαταλυθήσεταιkatalýōthrown downfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.3 | Καθημένουkáthēmaisittingpresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionπροσῆλθονprosérchomaicame toaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionλέγοντεςlégōsayingpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionΕἰπὸνépōtellaorist active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationἔσταιésomaihappenfuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.4 | ἀποκριθεὶςansweredaorist passive participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionεἶπενépōsaidaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionΒλέπετεwatch outpresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationπλανήσῃplanáōdeceivesaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.5 | ἐλεύσονταιérchomaicomefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionλέγοντεςlégōsayingpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionπλανήσουσινplanáōdeceivefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.6 | μελλήσετεméllōwillfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἀκούεινhear ofpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbὁρᾶτεhoráōseepresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationθροεῖσθεthroéōalarmedpresent passive imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationδεῖdéōmustpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthγενέσθαιgínomaitake placeaorist middle infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbἐστὶνestíispresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.7 | ἐγερθήσεταιegeírōrisefuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἔσονταιésomaibefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.9 | παραδώσουσινparadídōmihand ~ overfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἀποκτενοῦσινkillfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.10 | σκανδαλισθήσονταιskandalízōfall awayfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionπαραδώσουσινparadídōmibetrayfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionμισήσουσινmiséōhatefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.11 | ἐγερθήσονταιegeírōarisefuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionπλανήσουσινplanáōdeceivefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.12 | πληθυνθῆναιplēthýnōincreaseaorist passive infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbψυγήσεταιpsýchōgrow coldfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.13 | ὑπομείναςhypoménōenduresaorist active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionσωθήσεταιsṓzōsavedfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.14 | κηρυχθήσεταιkērýssōproclaimedfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἥξειhḗkōcomefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.15 | ἴδητεhoráōseeaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentῥηθὲνlégōspoken ofaorist passive participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἑστὸςhístēmistandingperfect active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionἀναγινώσκωνreaderpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionνοείτωnoiéōunderstandpresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortation |
| v.16 | φευγέτωσανpheúgōfleepresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortation |
| v.17 | καταβάτωkatabaínōgo downaorist active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationἆραιtakeaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.18 | ἐπιστρεψάτωepistréphōturnaorist active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationἆραιgetaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.19 | ἐχούσαιςéchō*present active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionθηλαζούσαιςthēlázōnursing motherspresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.20 | προσεύχεσθεproseúchomaipraypresent middle imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationγένηταιgínomaibeaorist middle subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.21 | ἔσταιésomaibefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionγέγονενgínomaibeenperfect active indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultγένηταιgínomaibeaorist middle subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.22 | ἐκολοβώθησανkolobóōcut shortaorist passive indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἐσώθηsṓzōsavedaorist passive indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionκολοβωθήσονταιkolobóōcut shortfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.23 | εἴπῃépōsaysaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentπιστεύσητεpisteúōbelieveaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.24 | ἐγερθήσονταιegeírōarisefuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionδώσουσινdídōmiperformfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionπλανῆσαιplanáōdeceiveaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.25 | προείρηκαprolégōtold ~ beforehandperfect active indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present result |
| v.26 | εἴπωσινépōsayaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentἐξέλθητεexérchomaigo outaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentπιστεύσητεpisteúōbelieveaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.27 | ἐξέρχεταιexérchomaicomespresent middle indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthφαίνεταιphaínōflashespresent middle indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.28 | συναχθήσονταιsynágōgatherfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.29 | σκοτισθήσεταιskotízōdarkenedfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionδώσειdídōmigivefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionπεσοῦνταιpíptōfallfuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionσαλευθήσονταιsaleúōshakenfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.30 | φανήσεταιphaínōappearfuture passive indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionκόψονταιkóptōmournfuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionὄψονταιhoráōseefuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἐρχόμενονérchomaicomingpresent middle participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.31 | ἀποστελεῖsend outfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionἐπισυνάξουσινepisynágōgatherfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.32 | μάθετεmanthánōlearnaorist active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationἐκφύῃekphýōputs forthpresent active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentγινώσκετεginṓskōknowpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.33 | ἴδητεhoráōseeaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentγινώσκετεginṓskōknowpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.34 | λέγωlégōsaypresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthπαρέλθῃparérchomaipass awayaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentγένηταιgínomaitake placeaorist middle subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.35 | παρελεύσεταιparérchomaipass awayfuture middle indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionπαρέλθωσινparérchomaipass awayaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingent |
| v.36 | οἶδενeídōknowsperfect active indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present result |
| v.38 | εἰσῆλθενeisérchomaienteredaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed action |
| v.39 | ἔγνωσανginṓskōknowaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἦλθενérchomaicameaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionἦρενswept ~ awayaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed action |
| v.40 | παραλαμβάνεταιparalambánōtakenpresent passive indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthἀφίεταιleftpresent passive indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.41 | ἀλήθουσαιgrindingpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionπαραλαμβάνεταιparalambánōtakenpresent passive indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthἀφίεταιleftpresent passive indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.42 | γρηγορεῖτεgrēgoreúōon the alertpresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationοἴδατεeídōknowperfect active indicativeresultantPerfect indicative — completed action with present resultἔρχεταιérchomaicomingpresent middle indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.43 | γινώσκετεginṓskōunderstandpresent active imperativeimperativeImperative mood — command or exhortationᾔδειeídōknownpluperfect active indicativeresultantPluperfect — action completed before another past actionἔρχεταιérchomaicomingpresent middle indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthἐγρηγόρησενgrēgoreúōstayed awakeaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionεἴασενeáōletaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionδιορυχθῆναιdiorýssōbroken intoaorist passive infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.44 | δοκεῖτεdokéōexpectpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthἔρχεταιérchomaicomingpresent middle indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.45 | κατέστησενkathístēmiput in chargeaorist active indicativecompletedAorist indicative — punctiliar or completed actionδοῦναιdídōmigiveaorist active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verb |
| v.46 | ἐλθὼνérchomaicomesaorist active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionεὑρήσειheurískōfindfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionποιοῦνταpoiéōdoingpresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.47 | λέγωlégōsaypresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthὑπάρχουσινhypárchontapossessionspresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting actionκαταστήσειkathístēmiput ~ inchargefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
| v.48 | εἴπῃépōsaysaorist active subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentΧρονίζειchronízōdelayedpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.49 | ἄρξηταιbeginsaorist middle subjunctivesubjunctiveSubjunctive mood — conditional, purpose, or contingentτύπτεινtýptōbeatpresent active infinitiveinfinitiveInfinitive — verbal noun or complementary verbμεθυόντωνmethýōdrunkardspresent active participleparticipleParticiple — verbal adjective, supporting action |
| v.50 | ἥξειhḗkōcomefuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionπροσδοκᾷprosdokáōexpectpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truthγινώσκειginṓskōknowpresent active indicativeongoingPresent indicative — ongoing, habitual, or general truth |
| v.51 | διχοτομήσειdichotoméōcut ~ inpiecesfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised actionθήσειtíthēmiassignfuture active indicativeprospectiveFuture indicative — anticipated or promised action |
Verb forms indicate aspect — not interpretive weight. Consult context before drawing conclusions about emphasis.
Clause data: MACULA Greek (Clear Bible, CC BY 4.0) · SBLGNT (Logos/SBL, CC BY 4.0)
Word Pictures (Robertson)
A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) — public domain
Formation Focus
Matthew 24 forms disciples to trust Jesus’ prophetic word, interpret crisis without panic, resist deception, endure suffering, carry the gospel to all nations, obey urgent warnings, hope in the Son of Man’s glorious coming, reject date-setting, and serve faithfully until the master returns.
The chapter addresses fear, curiosity, deception, persecution, betrayal, cold love, false prophecy, sensationalism, date-setting, spiritual sleepiness, and abusive leadership during perceived delay.
Discernment, endurance, courage, mission-focus, love under pressure, obedience, hope, watchfulness, humility about timing, and faithful stewardship.
Practice Response
- Trust Jesus’ words above visible security.
- Test every claim about Christ.
- Hold steady in upheaval.
- Endure hatred for Jesus’ name.
- Guard love from growing cold.
- Prioritize global gospel witness.
- Obey warnings quickly.
- Hope in the Son of Man.
- Live without date-setting.
- Keep watch in ordinary life.
- Feed the household.
- Reject abusive delay-thinking.
Warnings and Misreadings
- Matthew 24 is full of warnings: do not be deceived, do not be alarmed, expect persecution, stand firm, flee when desolation appears, do not believe secret messianic claims, keep watch, be ready, and remain faithful servants. The severest warning falls on the wicked servant who assumes delay, abuses others, indulges Himself, and is assigned a place with the hypocrites.
- Treating Matthew 24 as permission for date-setting. - Jesus explicitly says no one knows the day or hour. The discourse calls for readiness, not calculation.
- Assuming every war or earthquake means the end has immediately arrived. - Jesus says such things must happen but the end is still to come · they are beginning birth pains.
- Ignoring the temple-destruction context. - The discourse begins with Jesus’ prediction that the temple stones will be thrown down.
- Reducing the chapter only to AD 70. - The chapter begins with Jerusalem and temple judgment but also speaks of the Son of Man’s coming, gathering of the elect, and unknown day and hour.
- Reducing the chapter only to the final return while ignoring Judea, Sabbath, and temple language. - Jesus gives concrete instructions tied to Judea and the holy place, which must be taken seriously.
- Believing secret or localized claims of Christ’s coming. - Jesus says His coming will be like lightning from east to west, not hidden in wilderness or inner rooms.
- Treating signs and wonders as automatically validating truth. - False messiahs and prophets can perform signs and wonders that deceive many.
- Interpreting watchfulness as anxious speculation. - Jesus defines watchfulness through readiness and faithful service.
- Assuming ordinary life means spiritual safety. - The days of Noah show that ordinary life can continue right up to sudden judgment.
- Using 'one taken and the other left' without attending to the Noah comparison. - The image emphasizes sudden separation in judgment and salvation · the larger point is readiness.
- Assuming delay removes accountability. - The wicked servant’s mistake is assuming delay permits abuse and self-indulgence.
- Separating end-times theology from ethics. - Jesus connects eschatology directly to endurance, mission, watchfulness, and household faithfulness.
Discipleship Questions
- Am I more impressed by visible structures than by the words of Jesus?
- Do I approach prophecy with obedience and watchfulness, or curiosity and speculation?
- What voices today could deceive me away from the true Christ?
- Do world events make me panic, or do they deepen sober faithfulness?
- Am I prepared to be hated because of Jesus?
- When pressure rises, does my love grow cold or more steadfast?
- Am I helping the gospel of the kingdom go to all nations?
- Do I obey Jesus’ warnings quickly, or do I linger on the roof gathering possessions?
- Would I recognize false claims about Christ because I know what Jesus has already said?
- Is my hope fixed on the visible, glorious coming of the Son of Man?
- Do I trust that Jesus will gather His elect from every direction?
- Do I live as though Jesus’ words are more permanent than heaven and earth?
- Have I secretly tried to know what Jesus says no one knows?
- Does ordinary life dull my readiness before God?
- What would the master find me doing if He returned today?
- Am I feeding the household entrusted to me, or using delay as an excuse for selfishness?
Pastoral Applications
- Preaching - Matthew 24 should be preached with seriousness and restraint. The aim is not sensational prediction but faithful readiness under Jesus’ authoritative word.
- Discernment - Teach people to judge claims about Christ by Christ’s own words. Secret, sensational, or localized messiah claims are false.
- Suffering - Prepare believers for hatred, betrayal, and persecution without panic. Jesus told His disciples beforehand.
- Mission - End-times teaching must fuel gospel witness to all nations, not withdrawal from mission.
- Counseling - When people are shaken by world events, direct them to Jesus’ words: do not be alarmed, stand firm, keep watch.
- Church_health - Increased wickedness can make love grow cold. Churches must actively cultivate faithful love under pressure.
- Leadership - Leaders waiting for the Lord must feed the household, not abuse it. Authority during delay is a test of the heart.
- Eschatology - Keep together temple judgment, mission to the nations, the glorious coming of the Son of Man, and the unknown day/hour.
- Spiritual_formation - Readiness is not frantic anxiety. It is steady obedience, watchfulness, and faithful service.
- Warning - The wicked servant shows that distorted belief about delay can produce cruelty, indulgence, and final judgment.
Pastoral Trajectories
Matthew 23:38 announces desolation; Matthew 24:1-2 announces the temple’s destruction.
The disciples point to magnificent buildings; Jesus points to coming judgment.
The disciples ask when; Jesus first warns against deception.
Jesus reframes wars and disasters as beginnings, not the final end itself.
External hatred and internal betrayal call for standing firm.
Wickedness does not remain external; it threatens the love of many.
The gospel of the kingdom is preached to all nations even amid turmoil.
The abomination of desolation demands immediate obedience.
Deceptive signs are contrasted with the unmistakable lightning-like coming of the Son of Man.
Judgment imagery leads to the gathering of Christ’s people.
Signs indicate nearness, but Jesus’ words provide certainty.
Ignorance of the day and hour is meant to produce readiness.
Ordinary life continues until judgment interrupts.
The faithful servant shows that waiting for Christ means caring for those entrusted to us.
The Biblical World
Chapter At A Glance
Matthew 24 moves from Jesus leaving the temple to predicting its destruction, from the disciples’ question to warnings against deception, from global upheaval to persecution and gospel mission, from the abomination of desolation to urgent flight and great distress, from false messianic claims to the visible coming of the Son of Man, from fig tree signs to the certainty of Jesus’ words, from unknown timing to Noah-like suddenness, and finally from watchfulness to faithful household stewardship.
Matthew 24 flows out of Jesus’ covenant indictment in Matthew 23. Jerusalem’s house is left desolate, and the temple will be thrown down. Daniel’s abomination of desolation, prophetic cosmic signs, and Son of Man imagery show that Jesus interprets Jerusalem’s coming judgment and the end of the age through Israel’s Scriptures. The covenant people’s rejection of the Messiah results in temple judgment, but the gospel of the kingdom moves to all nations, and the Son of Man gathers His elect from the ends of the earth.
Matthew 24 clarifies the gospel by showing that the kingdom message will go to all nations before the end and that Jesus, the Son of Man, will return in visible glory to gather His elect and judge unfaithfulness. The gospel does not promise exemption from suffering, deception, or upheaval, but calls disciples to endure, witness, watch, and serve. The same Jesus who predicts temple judgment also promises global testimony, elect gathering, and words that will never pass away.
Discernment, endurance, courage, mission-focus, love under pressure, obedience, hope, watchfulness, humility about timing, and faithful stewardship.
Focus Points
- Temple destruction
- Olivet Discourse
- Deception
- False messiahs
- Wars and rumors of wars
- Birth pains
- Persecution
- Endurance
- False prophets
- Lawlessness
- Love growing cold
- Gospel of the kingdom
- All nations
- Abomination of desolation
- Great distress
- Elect
- False signs and wonders
- Coming of the Son of Man
- Clouds of heaven
- Power and glory
- Angelic gathering
- Trumpet call
- Fig tree lesson
- This generation
- Jesus’ unfailing words
- Unknown day and hour
- Days of Noah
- Watchfulness
- Faithful servant
- Wicked servant
- Hypocrites
- Weeping and gnashing of teeth
- Judgment on the Temple
- Discernment against Deception
- Perseverance under Persecution
- Mission to All Nations
- Desolation and Flight
- Divine Protection of the Elect
- Visible Coming of Christ
- Son of Man Glory
- Gathering of the Elect
- Certainty of Jesus’ Words
- Unknown Timing
- Faithful Stewardship
- Judgment on Wicked Servanthood
- Eschatology
- Christology
- Judgment
- Perseverance
- Mission
- Election
- Scripture Fulfillment
- Divine Sovereignty
- Human Responsibility
- False Teaching
- Sanctification
- Accountability
Explore Further
Doctrine: Authority of ChristDoctrine: Moral AccountabilityDoctrine: WorshipDoctrine: Authority over LifeDoctrine: Divine JudgmentDoctrine: Divine MercyDoctrine: PerseveranceDoctrine: Divine Sovereignty over NationsDoctrine: Messianic KingshipDoctrine: Divine SovereigntyDoctrine: ObedienceThread: Covenant Lawsuit
Cross References
Behold, Your house is left to You desolate.
ImmediateContext
He will make a firm covenant with many for one week. In the middle of the week He will cause the sacrifice and the offering to cease. On the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate; and even to the full end, and that determined, wrath will be poured out on the desolate.”
OldTestamentFoundation
“Forces will stand on His part, and they will profane the sanctuary, even the fortress, and will take away the continual burnt offering. Then they will set up the abomination that makes desolate.
OldTestamentFoundation
“From the time that the continual burnt offering is taken away, and the abomination that makes desolate set up, there will be one thousand two hundred ninety days.
OldTestamentFoundation
“I saw in the night visions, and behold, there came with the clouds of the sky one like a son of man, and He came even to the ancient of days, and they brought Him near before Him. Dominion was given Him, and glory, and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which will not pass...
OldTestamentFoundation
For the stars of the sky and its constellations will not give their light. The sun will be darkened in its going out, and the moon will not cause its light to shine.
OldTestamentFoundation
All of the army of the sky will be dissolved. The sky will be rolled up like a scroll, and all its armies will fade away, as a leaf fades from off a vine or a fig tree.
OldTestamentFoundation
The sun will be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of Yahweh comes.
OldTestamentFoundation
I will pour on David’s house, and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplication; and they will look to me whom they have pierced; and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourns for His only son, and will grieve bitterly for Him, as one grieves for His firstborn. In that day there will be a great mourning in Jerusalem, like the...
ThemeParallel
If Your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of the heavens, from there Yahweh Your God will gather You, and from there He will bring You back.
OldTestamentFoundation
It will happen in that day that a great trumpet will be blown; and those who were ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and those who were outcasts in the land of Egypt, shall come; and they will worship Yahweh in the holy mountain at Jerusalem.
OldTestamentFoundation
Yahweh saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of man’s heart was continually only evil. Yahweh was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and it grieved Him in His heart. Yahweh said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the surface of the ground—man, along with animals, creeping things,...
OldTestamentFoundation
But beware of men: for they will deliver You up to councils, and in their synagogues they will scourge You. Yes, and You will be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the nations. But when they deliver You up, don’t be anxious how or what You will say, for it will be given You in that hour what You will say.
SameBook
For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will render to everyone according to His deeds.
SameBook
“Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. Those who were foolish, when they took their lamps, took no oil with them,
ImmediateContinuation
Jesus said to Him, “You have said it. Nevertheless, I tell You, after this You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of the sky.”
SameBook
As He went out of the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, see what kind of stones and what kind of buildings!” Jesus said to Him, “Do You see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone on another, which will not be thrown down.” As He sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him...
CounterpartPassage
As some were talking about the temple and how it was decorated with beautiful stones and gifts, He said, “As for these things which You see, the days will come, in which there will not be left here one stone on another that will not be thrown down.” They asked Him, “Teacher, so when will these things be? What is the sign that these things are about to...
CounterpartPassage
But You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon You. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.”
CanonicalPartner
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with God’s trumpet. The dead in Christ will rise first, then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. So we will be with the Lord forever.
CanonicalPartner
But concerning the times and the seasons, brothers, You have no need that anything be written to You. For You Yourselves know well that the day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night. For when they are saying, “Peace and safety,” then sudden destruction will come on them, like birth pains on a pregnant woman. Then they will in no way escape.
CanonicalPartner
Knowing this first, that in the last days mockers will come, walking after their own lusts and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For, from the day that the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” For this they willfully forget that there were heavens from of old, and an earth formed out of water...
CanonicalPartner
Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, including those who pierced Him. All the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. Even so, Amen.
CanonicalPartner
Passages
Chapter opening: Matthew 24:1-2
Went out from the temple (εξελθων απο του ιερου). All the discourses since Mt 21:23 have been in the temple courts (ιερον, the sacred enclosure). But now Jesus leaves it for good after the powerful denunciation of the scribes and Pharisees in chapter 23. His public teaching is over. It was a tragic moment. As he was going out (επορευετο, descriptive imperfect) the disciples, as if to relieve the thought of the Master came to him (προσηλθον) to show (επιδειξα, ingressive aorist infinitive) the buildings of the temple (τας οικοδομας του ιερου).
They were familiar to Jesus and the disciples, but beautiful like a snow mountain (Josephus, Wars V,5,6), the monument that Herod the Great had begun and that was not yet complete ( Joh 2:20 ). Great stones were there of polished marble.
One stone upon another (λιθος επ λιθον). Stone upon stone. A startling prediction showing that the gloomy current of the thoughts of Jesus were not changed by their words of admiration for the temple.
As he sat (καθημενου). Genitive absolute. Picture of Jesus sitting on the Mount of Olives looking down on Jerusalem and the temple which he had just left. After the climb up the mountain four of the disciples (Peter, James, John, Andrew) come to Jesus with the problem raised by his solemn words. They ask these questions about the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, his own second coming (παρουσια, presence, common in the papyri for the visit of the emperor), and the end of the world.
Did they think that they were all to take place simultaneously? There is no way to answer. At any rate Jesus treats all three in this great eschatological discourse, the most difficult problem in the Synoptic Gospels. Many theories are advanced that impugn the knowledge of Jesus or of the writers or of both. It is sufficient for our purpose to think of Jesus as using the destruction of the temple and of Jerusalem which did happen in that generation in A.
D. 70, as also a symbol of his own second coming and of the end of the world (συντελειας του αιωνος) or consummation of the age. In a painting the artist by skilful perspective may give on the same surface the inside of a room, the fields outside the window, and the sky far beyond. Certainly in this discourse Jesus blends in apocalyptic language the background of his death on the cross, the coming destruction of Jerusalem, his own second coming and the end of the world.
He now touches one, now the other. It is not easy for us to separate clearly the various items. It is enough if we get the picture as a whole as it is here drawn with its lessons of warning to be ready for his coming and the end. The destruction of Jerusalem came as he foretold. There are some who would date the Synoptic Gospels after A. D. 70 in order to avoid the predictive element involved in the earlier date.
But that is to limit the fore-knowledge of Jesus to a merely human basis. The word παρουσια occurs in this chapter alone ( 3 , 27 , 37 , 39 ) in the Gospels, but often in the Epistles, either of presence as opposed to absence ( Php 2:12 ) or the second coming of Christ ( 2Th 2:1 ).
Lead you astray (υμας πλανηση). This warning runs all through the discourse. It is amazing how successful deceivers have been through the ages with their eschatological programs. The word in the passive appears in 18:12 when the one sheep wanders astray. Here it is the active voice with the causative sense to lead astray. Our word planet comes from this root.
In my name (επ τω ονοματ μου). They will arrogate to themselves false claims of Messiahship in (on the basis of) the name of Christ himself. Josephus ( Wars VI, 54) gives there false Christs as one of the reasons for the explosion against Rome that led to the city's destruction. Each new hero was welcomed by the masses including Barcochba. "I am the Messiah," each would say.
Forty odd years ago two men in Illinois claimed to be Messiah, each with followers (Schlatter, Schweinfurth). In more recent years Mrs. Annie Besant has introduced a theosophical Messiah and Mrs. Eddy made claims about herself on a par with those of Jesus.
See that ye be not troubled (ορατε μη θροεισθε). Asyndeton here with these two imperatives as Mr 8:15 ορατε βλεπετε (Robertson, Grammar , p. 949). Look out for the wars and rumours of wars, but do not be scared out of your wits by them. Θροεω means to cry aloud, to scream, and in the passive to be terrified by an outcry. Paul uses this very verb (μηδε θροεισθα) in 2Th 2:2 as a warning against excitement over false reports that he had predicted the immediate second coming of Christ.
But the end is not yet (αλλ' ουπω εστιν το τελος). It is curious how people overlook these words of Jesus and proceed to set dates for the immediate end. That happened during the Great War and it has happened since.
The beginning of travail (αρχη οδινων). The word means birth-pangs and the Jews used the very phrase for the sufferings of the Messiah which were to come before the coming of the Messiah (Book of Jubilees, 23:18; Apoc. of Baruch 27 -29). But the word occurs with no idea of birth as the pains of death ( Ps 18:5 ; Ac 2:24 ). These woes, says Jesus, are not a proof of the end, but of the beginning.
Ye shall be hated (εσεσθε μισουμενο). Periphrastic future passive to emphasize the continuous process of the linear action. For tribulation (θλιψιν see 13:21 ), a word common in the Acts, Epistles, and Apocalypse for the oppression (pressure) that the Christians received. For my name's sake (δια το ονομα μου). The most glorious name in the world today, but soon to be a byword of shame ( Ac 5:41 ). The disciples would count it an honour to be dishonoured for the Name's sake.
False prophets (ψευδοπροφητα). Jesus had warned against them in the Sermon on the Mount ( 7:15 ). They are still coming.
Shall wax cold (ψυγησετα). Second future passive indicative from ψυχω. To breathe cool by blowing, to grow cold, "spiritual energy blighted or chilled by a malign or poisonous wind" (Vincent). The love of many (η αγαπη των πολλων). Love of the brotherhood gives way to mutual hatred and suspicion.
Shall be preached (κερυχθησετα). Heralded in all the inhabited world. Εν ολη τη οικουμενη supply γη. It is not here said that all will be saved nor must this language be given too literal and detailed an application to every individual.
The abomination of desolation (το βδελυγμα της ερεμωσεως). An allusion to Da 9:27 ; 11:31 ; 12:11 . Antiochus Epiphanes erected an altar to Zeus on the altar of Jehovah ( 1Macc. 1:54 , 59 ; 6:7 ; 2Macc. 6:1-5 ). The desolation in the mind of Jesus is apparently the Roman army ( Lu 21:20 ) in the temple, an application of the words of Daniel to this dread event.
The verb βδελυσσομα is to feel nausea because of stench, to abhor, to detest. Idolatry was a stench to God ( Lu 16:15 ; Re 17:4 ). Josephus tells us that the Romans burned the temple and offered sacrifices to their ensigns placed by the eastern gate when they proclaimed Titus as Emperor. Let him that readeth understand (ο αναγινοσκων νοειτω). This parenthesis occurs also in Mr 13:14 .
It is not to be supposed that Jesus used these words. They were inserted by Mark as he wrote his book and he was followed by Matthew.
Flee unto the mountains (φευγετωσαν εις τα ορη). The mountains east of the Jordan. Eusebius ( H.E. iii,5,3) says that the Christians actually fled to Pella at the foot of the mountains about seventeen miles south of the Sea of Galilee. They remembered the warning of Jesus and fled for safety.
On the housetop (επ του δωματος). They could escape from roof to roof and so escape, "the road of the roofs," as the rabbis called it. There was need for haste.
In the field (εν τω αγρω). The peasant worked in his time and left his mantle at home then as now.
In winter nor on a sabbath (χειμωνος, genitive of time, μηδε σαββατω, locative of time). In winter because of the rough weather. On a sabbath because some would hesitate to make such a journey on the sabbath. Josephus in his Wars gives the best illustration of the horrors foretold by Jesus in verse 21 .
Had been shortened (εκολοβωθησαν). From κολοβος, lopped, mutilated, as the hands, the feet. It is a second-class condition, determined as unfulfilled. It is a prophetic figure, the future regarded as past. For the elect's sake (δια τους εκλεκτους). See Mt 22:14 for another use of this phrase by Jesus and also 24:31 . The siege was shortened by various historical events like the stopping of the strengthening of the walls by Herod Agrippa by orders from the Emperor, the sudden arrival of Titus, the neglect of the Jews to prepare for a long siege.
"Titus himself confessed that God was against the Jews, since otherwise neither his armies nor his engines would have availed against their defences" (Vincent).
Lo, here is the Christ, or here (ιδου ωδε ο Χριστος η ωδε). The false prophets ( 24:11 ) create the trouble and now false Christs (ψευδο-Χριστο, verse 24 ) offer a way out of these troubles. The deluded victims raise the cries of "Lo, here," when these false Messiahs arise with their panaceas for public ills (political, religious, moral, and spiritual).
Great signs and wonders (σημεια μεγαλα κα τερατα). Two of the three words so often used in the N. T. about the works (εργα) of Jesus, the other being δυναμεις (powers). They often occur together of the same work ( Joh 4:48 ; Ac 2:22 ; 4:30 ; 2Co 12:12 ; Heb 2:4 ). Τερας is a wonder or prodigy, δυναμις, a mighty work or power, σημειον, a sign of God's purpose.
Miracle (μιραχυλυμ) presents only the notion of wonder or portent. The same deed can be looked at from these different angles. But the point to note here is that mere "signs and wonders" do not of themselves prove the power of God. These charlatans will be so skilful that they will, if possible (ε δυνατον), lead astray the very elect. The implication is that it is not possible.
People become excited and are misled and are unable to judge of results. Often it is post hoc, sed non propter hoc . Patent-medicine men make full use of the credulity of people along this line as do spiritualistic mediums. Sleight-of-hand men can deceive the unwary.
In the wilderness (εν τη ερημω). Like Simon son of Gioras (Josephus, War , IV,9,5,&7). In the inner chambers (εν τοις ταμειοις). Like John of Giscala (Josephus, War , V,6,1). False Messiahs act the role of the Great Unseen and Unknown.
As seen (φαινετα). Visible in contrast to the invisibility of the false Messiahs. Cf. Re 1:7 . Like a flash of lightning.
Carcase (πτωμα). As in 14:12 , the corpse. Originally a fallen body from πιπτω, to fall, like Latin cadaver from cado , to fall. The proverb here as in Lu 17:37 , is like that in Job 39:30 ; Pr 30:17 . Eagles (αετο). Perhaps the griffon vulture, larger than the eagle, which (Aristotle) was often seen in the wake of an army and followed Napoleon's retreat from Russia.
Immediately (ευθεως). This word, common in Mark's Gospel as ευθυς, gives trouble if one stresses the time element. The problem is how much time intervenes between "the tribulation of those days" and the vivid symbolism of verse 29 . The use of εν ταχε in Re 1:1 should make one pause before he decides. Here we have a prophetic panorama like that with foreshortened perspective.
The apocalyptic pictures in verse 29 also call for sobriety of judgment. One may compare Joel's prophecy as interpreted by Peter in Ac 21:16-22 . Literalism is not appropriate in this apocalyptic eschatology.
The sign of the Son of Man in heaven (το σημειον του υιου του ανθρωπου εν ουρανω). Many theories have been suggested like the cross in the sky, etc. Bruce sees a reference to Da 7:13 "one like the Son of man" and holds that Christ himself is the sign in question (the genitive of apposition). This is certainly possible. It is confirmed by the rest of the verse: "They shall see the Son of man coming." See Mt 16:27 ; 26:64 . The Jews had repeatedly asked for such a sign (Broadus) as in Mt 12:38 ; 16:1 ; Joh 2:18 .
With a great sound of a trumpet (μετα σαλπιγγος φωνης μεγαλης). Some MSS. omit (φωνης) "sound." The trumpet was the signal employed to call the hosts of Israel to march as to war and is common in prophetic imagery ( Isa 27:13 ). Cf. the seventh angel ( Re 11:15 ). Clearly "the coming of the son of man is not to be identified with the judgment of Jerusalem but rather forms its preternatural background" (Bruce).
Putteth forth its leaves (τα φυλλα εκφυη). Present active subjunctive according to Westcott and Hort. If accented εκφυη (last syllable), it is second aorist passive subjunctive (Erasmus).
This generation (η γενεα αυτη). The problem is whether Jesus is here referring to the destruction of Jerusalem or to the second coming and end of the world. If to the destruction of Jerusalem, there was a literal fulfilment. In the Old Testament a generation was reckoned as forty years. This is the natural way to take verse 34 as of 33 (Bruce), "all things" meaning the same in both verses.
Not even the Son (ουδε ο υιος). Probably genuine, though absent in some ancient MSS. The idea is really involved in the words "but the Father only" (ε μη ο πατηρ μονος). It is equally clear that in this verse Jesus has in mind the time of his second coming. He had plainly stated in verse 34 that those events (destruction of Jerusalem) would take place in that generation.
He now as pointedly states that no one but the Father knows the day or the hour when these things (the second coming and the end of the world) will come to pass. One may, of course, accuse Jesus of hopeless confusion or extend his confession of ignorance of the date of the second coming to the whole chain of events. So McNeile: "It is impossible to escape the conclusion that Jesus as Man, expected the End, within the lifetime of his contemporaries."
And that after his explicit denial that he knew anything of the kind! It is just as easy to attribute ignorance to modern scholars with their various theories as to Jesus who admits his ignorance of the date, but not of the character of the coming.
The days of Noah (α ημερα του Νωε). Jesus had used this same imagery before to the Pharisees ( Lu 17:26-30 ). In Noah's day there was plenty of warning, but utter unpreparedness. Most people are either indifferent about the second coming or have fanciful schemes or programs about it. Few are really eager and expectant and leave to God the time and the plans.
Were eating (ησαν τρωγοντες). Periphrastic imperfect. The verb means to chew raw vegetables or fruits like nuts or almonds.
At the mill (εν τω μυλω). So Westcott and Hort and not μυλων (millhouse) Textus Receptus. The millstone and then hand-mill which was turned by two women (αληθουσα) as in Ex 11:5 . This verb is a late form for αλεω. There was a handle near the edge of the upper stone.
Watch therefore (γρηγωρειτε ουν). A late present imperative from the second perfect εγρηγορα from εγειρω. Keep awake, be on the watch "therefore" because of the uncertainty of the time of the second coming. Jesus gives a half dozen parables to enforce the point of this exhortation (the Porter, the Master of the House, the Faithful Servant and the Evil Servants, the Ten Virgins, the Talents, the Sheep and the Goats). Matthew does not give the Parable of the Porter ( Mr 13:35-37 ).
In what watch (ποια φυλακη). As in 14:25 (four watches of the night). Broken through (διορυχθηνα). Digged through the tile roof or under the floor (dirt in the poorer houses).
That ye think not (η ου δοκειτε ωρα). It is useless to set the day and hour for Christ's coming. It is folly to neglect it. This figure of the thief will be used also by Paul concerning the unexpectedness of Christ's second coming ( 1Th 5:2 ). See also Mt 24:50 for the unexpectedness of the coming with punishment for the evil servant.
My lord tarrieth (χρονιζε μου ο κυριος). That is the temptation and to give way to indulge in fleshly appetites or to pride of superior intellect. Within a generation scoffers will be asking where is the promise of the coming of Christ ( 2 Peter 3:4 ). They will forget that God's clock is not like our clock and that a day with the Lord may be a thousand years or a thousand years as one day ( 2 Peter 3:8 ).