What does Mark 13:34 mean?

Explanation

Mark 13:34 uses the metaphor of a man going on a journey to describe Jesus' expectations for his followers while he is absent from the earth.

This verse is part of Jesus' eschatological discourse, where He teaches about the end times and His return. The "Son of Man" is a title that Jesus frequently uses for Himself, and in this context, it signifies his role as the awaited Messiah and judge of the world.

As a component of the parable, the man on a journey represents Jesus ascending to heaven, while the "house" symbolizes the church or the kingdom of God on earth.

The "servants" represent Jesus' disciples and, by extension, all believers.

The distribution of "authority" and "work" implies that believers are given different gifts and responsibilities in serving God (see 1 Corinthians 12:4-11).

The command to the "porter" to watch reflects the emphasis on being vigilant for the return of Christ. This points to the need for constant readiness and spiritual watchfulness because the time of Christ's return is unknown (Mark 13:32).

Historical Context

At the time Jesus spoke these words, He was near the end of His earthly ministry.

Mark 13, often referred to as the "Olivet Discourse," records Jesus' teachings delivered on the Mount of Olives, overlooking the temple in Jerusalem.

This discourse was directed at His disciples, who had asked Him about the signs of the end of the age and of His return.

During this period, there was a strong apocalyptic expectation among the Jewish people for a Messiah who would deliver Israel from Roman rule and establish God's kingdom.

Jesus' teachings in Mark 13 took place against a backdrop of social and political unrest, and they address these messianic expectations, but also reshape them around the theme of His death, resurrection, and return.

Theological Insights

This verse has generated various theological discussions, particularly regarding eschatology, which is the study of the end times.

From a theological perspective, it has been interpreted to mean:

Christ's Return: The verse underscores the Christian belief in the second coming of Christ. 2.

Stewardship: It emphasizes the importance of stewardship of the gifts and tasks God has entrusted to His people. 3.

Watchfulness: It reinforces the need for spiritual vigilance and readiness for the Day of the Lord.

Different denominations may place varying emphases on the aspects of this verse. For instance, while some might stress the imminence of Christ's return, others may focus more on the call to active service in the present.

Practical Applications

Mark 13:34 encourages several practical applications for believers:

Faithful Service: Believers are encouraged to engage diligently in the work assigned to them by God. 2.

Spiritual Vigilance: Christians are reminded to live with an expectancy of Jesus' return, maintaining a lifestyle that is ready for His coming at any moment. 3.

Accountability: This verse underlines the reality of accountability, where followers of Jesus will eventually give account for how they have managed their responsibilities.

Cross-References

• [Matthew 24:45-51](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+24%3A45-51&version=KJV): Parable of the faithful and wise servant.
• [Luke 12:35-40](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+12%3A35-40&version=KJV): Encouragement to be dressed for service and keep lamps burning.
• [1 Corinthians 12:4-11](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+12%3A4-11&version=KJV): Different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit.
• [1 Thessalonians 5:6](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+5%3A6&version=KJV): Not to sleep as others do, but to watch and be sober.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, several key words are found:

• "Son of Man" (υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου): Emphasizes Jesus' humanity and messianic title used in Daniel 7:13-14.
• "A man taking a far journey" (ἀπόδημος): A man traveling abroad, reflecting a significant absence.
• "Authority" (ἐξουσίαν): Denotes the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
• "Servants" (δοῦλος): Refers to bond-servants or people who are committed to serving a master.
• "Work" (ἔργον): Work, task, or duty assigned to each person.
• "Porter" (θυρωρός): The doorkeeper or gatekeeper, responsible for watching.

These terms together build the image of delegation, responsibility, and expected return.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This parable has parallels in other cultural and religious stories that emphasize the importance of preparedness and accountability:

• In Jewish literature, there are several examples of masters entrusting their affairs to servants, with the expectation of accountability upon their return.
• In Greco-Roman culture, household management under absent masters was a common theme, where servants were expected to take care of the estate with diligence.

While the cultural setting would make the parable easily understandable to the original hearers, the religious significance of awaiting the Messiah was uniquely fulfilled in the person of Jesus according to Christian belief.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly engage with scientific perspectives, it touches on the human understanding of time, readiness, and the nature of responsibility.

From a psychological and sociological standpoint, it could be examined how beliefs in an imminent significant event, such as the return of Christ, influence individual and group behaviors.

Commentaries

Regarding this verse, commentators offer various insights:

• The Expositor's Bible Commentary highlights the need for watchfulness in light of Christ's second coming and how every generation needs to live in readiness for this event.
• Matthew Henry's Commentary suggests that Christ, as the master of the household, has appointed work for everyone and that idle servants will be accountable at His return.
• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges reflects on the allegory of the absent master and the entrusted servants, pointing out that all are expected to be found faithfully performing their duties upon the master's return.