What does Matthew 24:46 teach about readiness for Christ's return? Setting the Scene • Matthew 24 records Jesus’ answer to His disciples’ questions about the end of the age. • Verses 45-51 present a contrast between the faithful and wicked servants. • The focus is not on predicting dates but on living faithfully until the Master returns. The Key Verse “Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.” (Matthew 24:46) What Readiness Means • Continuous obedience: The servant is “doing” his assigned work, not merely planning to. • Faithful stewardship: In context (v. 45) he “gives the household their food at the proper time.” Responsibility toward others is central. • Expectant perseverance: He works as though the master could arrive at any moment. Readiness is active, not passive. Supporting Passages • Luke 12:35-37 — “Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 — “So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.” • 1 Peter 4:7-10 — “The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded… Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” • Revelation 16:15 — “Blessed is the one who remains clothed, so that he will not go naked and let his shame be exposed.” Practical Marks of Readiness Today • Daily faithfulness in small tasks: integrity at work, consistency at home, honesty in finances. • Loving service to fellow believers: encouraging, teaching, meeting needs. (Galatians 6:9-10) • Alertness in prayer and Scripture intake: sharpening spiritual discernment. • Proclamation of the gospel: investing in eternal outcomes while time remains. • Rejecting complacency: avoiding the attitude, “My master is staying away a long time” (v. 48). Blessing and Warning • Blessing: The faithful servant is “blessed” — approved and rewarded by the returning Christ (Matthew 24:47). • Warning: Neglect or abuse of responsibility invites judgment (vv. 48-51). The same return that crowns some will expose others. Takeaway Matthew 24:46 teaches that readiness for Christ’s return is measured by ongoing, diligent, and loving obedience to the tasks He has assigned. The believer who lives each day in that posture will meet the Lord not with surprise or shame, but with joy and blessing. |
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