Mark 13:32

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Study Bible

But about that day or hour
This phrase introduces a specific time of eschatological significance, referring to the return of Christ and the end of the age. The Greek word for "day" (ἡμέρα, hēmera) and "hour" (ὥρα, hōra) emphasize the unpredictability and specificity of the event. Historically, Jewish apocalyptic literature often spoke of "the day of the Lord," a time of divine intervention and judgment. This phrase underscores the mystery and divine sovereignty over the timing of these events.

no one knows
The Greek word for "knows" (οἶδεν, oiden) implies complete understanding or awareness. This statement highlights the limitations of human and even angelic knowledge concerning divine plans. It serves as a humbling reminder that despite human curiosity and speculation, the precise timing of the end times remains hidden from all creation. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's omniscience and the call for believers to live in readiness and faithfulness.

not even the angels in heaven
Angels, often seen as messengers and servants of God, are depicted in Scripture as having significant roles in the unfolding of God's plans. However, this phrase indicates that even these celestial beings, who dwell in the presence of God, are not privy to the timing of the end. This emphasizes the unique authority and knowledge of God the Father and serves to remind believers of the hierarchy within the divine order.

nor the Son
This phrase has been the subject of much theological discussion, particularly concerning the nature of Christ's divinity and humanity. In His incarnation, Jesus voluntarily accepted certain limitations, including, as this verse suggests, the knowledge of the timing of His return. This highlights the mystery of the Incarnation, where Jesus is fully God and fully man. It also reflects His submission to the Father's will, a theme consistent throughout the Gospels.

but only the Father
The exclusivity of the Father's knowledge underscores His supreme authority and sovereignty. The Greek word for "only" (μόνος, monos) emphasizes that this knowledge is reserved solely for God the Father. This serves as a call to trust in God's perfect timing and wisdom. It reassures believers that the unfolding of future events is securely in the hands of a loving and omnipotent Father, encouraging a posture of faith and anticipation rather than anxiety or speculation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, Jesus is addressing His disciples about the end times and His second coming.

2. The Father
Refers to God the Father, who alone knows the timing of the end times.

3. The Son
Refers to Jesus Christ, highlighting His role in the Trinity and His submission to the Father's will.

4. Angels in Heaven
Spiritual beings who serve God, yet are not privy to the knowledge of the timing of the end times.

5. The Day or Hour
Refers to the specific time of Jesus' return and the culmination of the age.

Teaching Points

The Mystery of God's Timing
God's timing is beyond human understanding and is a divine mystery. This calls for trust in His perfect plan.

The Role of Jesus in the Trinity
Jesus' statement highlights His submission to the Father, illustrating the distinct roles within the Trinity while maintaining unity.

The Call to Watchfulness
Believers are encouraged to live in a state of readiness and spiritual alertness, knowing that the return of Christ could happen at any moment.

Humility and Trust
Just as Jesus submitted to the Father's knowledge, we are called to humbly trust in God's wisdom and timing in our lives.

Living with Eternal Perspective
Understanding that the exact timing of the end is unknown should motivate us to focus on living faithfully and purposefully in the present.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that only the Father knows the timing of the end times affect your daily walk with Christ?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of watchfulness and readiness for Christ's return?

3. How does Jesus' submission to the Father in this verse challenge or encourage you in your own relationship with God?

4. What practical steps can you take to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that the day of the Lord will come unexpectedly?

5. How do the roles of the Father, Son, and angels in this verse enhance your understanding of the Trinity and God's divine plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 24:36
This parallel passage reinforces the message that the timing of the end is known only to the Father.

Acts 1:7
Jesus tells His disciples that it is not for them to know the times or dates set by the Father's authority.

1 Thessalonians 5:2
Paul writes about the day of the Lord coming like a thief in the night, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the event.

Philippians 2:6-7
Discusses the humility of Christ, who, though in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, which relates to His submission to the Father's knowledge.

Revelation 3:3
Encourages believers to be watchful and ready, as the timing of the Lord's return is unknown.