What does Matthew 24:46 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 24:46, "Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing," is part of a larger discourse known as the Olivet Discourse.

Here, Jesus Christ is speaking to his disciples about the end times and his second coming.

The "servant" in this context represents a follower of Christ, and the "lord" represents Jesus himself.

The phrase "so doing" refers to being actively engaged in the work and responsibilities that Jesus has given to His followers.

The deeper meaning stresses the importance of vigilance, faithfulness, and continuing in one's duties in anticipation of Christ's return, emphasizing that the moment of His return is unknown and thus constant readiness is required.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Matthew was written in a context where early Christians expected the imminent return of Christ.

The audience of Matthew's Gospel were primarily Jewish Christians who faced persecution and uncertainty.

The teaching of being ready for the master's return would have offered hope and a call to perseverance for these early believers living in turbulent times when they could relate to the concept of a master-servant relationship.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse can be interpreted in a variety of ways.

Pre-millennialists might view this as a literal preparation for the second coming of Christ.

Post-millennialists and a-millennialists might interpret the "coming of the lord" more figuratively or spiritually, suggesting a present reality of living under the lordship of Christ.

Regardless, the common insight across most Christian theology is an emphasis on living righteously and being prepared for the moment of judgment or return of Christ.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical applications, this verse encourages individuals to live in a state of spiritual readiness, engaging consistently in good works, ethical behavior, and the practices of their faith.

It teaches that discipleship involves ongoing action and that individuals should not become complacent or neglect their spiritual duties, regardless of the timing of Christ's return.

Cross-References

• Luke 12:37: "Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them."
• Mark 13:35-37: "Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.

And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch."

• Revelation 16:15: "Behold, I come as a thief.

Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text include:

• "Blessed" (makarios): often means fortunate or happy, in a deeper sense reflecting the idea of divine favor.
• "Servant" (doulos): implying a bond-servant or a person who is fully committed to another.
• "Lord" (kyrios): denoting master or one who has authority.
• "Cometh" (erchomai): comes or arrives, used in biblical texts in reference to a significant arrival.
• "Find" (heurisko): to discover or come upon, often with the sense of surprise or unexpectancy.
• "So doing" (houtos poieo): implies the continual act of doing, signifying persistence in action.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of preparedness for a deity's return or judgment is not unique to Christianity.

Many ancient religions and myths have themes of gods returning or the idea that humans must always be ready for divine visitation or intervention. For example, in Norse mythology, the idea of Ragnarok, the end of the world, was an event for which warriors must be prepared at any time.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not engage directly with scientific perspectives, the conversation about vigilance and preparedness can be tangential to discussions in fields such as psychology, which examines human behavior in anticipation of future events, and environmental science, which encourages preparation for natural disasters.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights on this verse:

• William Barclay notes the importance of the idea of a "watching church," emphasizing a community that actively anticipates their master's return.
• John Calvin comments on the servant's blessedness not only in being found working but in being found working "diligently" and with "unremitting" zeal.
• R.T.

France discusses how the parable connected to this verse demonstrated the contrast between those who are prepared and those who are not, with practical implications for the Christian life.