Mat 24:44 | MHM | STEP | v. 44 : Jesus warns, “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” This means that while we cannot know the exact time of Christ’s return, we can be absolutely certain that He will come. His promise, “Surely I come quickly,” obligates us to live in a state of constant expectation. The uncertainty of the hour is meant to keep us watchful—not just those who are careless, but even the most alert believers may be surprised. Like the wise virgins who were caught slumbering when the bridegroom arrived, we are reminded that it is better to live in continual readiness than to seek special signs or predictions about the end. Jesus illustrates this with the example of a householder who, if he knew a thief was coming during a certain watch of the night, would stay awake and guard his house, even when it was hardest to do so. In the same way, since we know Christ will come but not when, we must always be spiritually alert. Each of us has a “house” to keep—our own soul, which holds all our true treasure. If we are found unready, we risk losing everything, not by injustice, but by the just judgment of God. Therefore, we must put on the armor of God and be as ready at all times as the householder would be if he expected a thief.

‏ Matthew 24:44

v. 44: Jesus warns, “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” This means that while we cannot know the exact time of Christ’s return, we can be absolutely certain that He will come. His promise, “Surely I come quickly,” obligates us to live in a state of constant expectation. The uncertainty of the hour is meant to keep us watchful—not just those who are careless, but even the most alert believers may be surprised. Like the wise virgins who were caught slumbering when the bridegroom arrived, we are reminded that it is better to live in continual readiness than to seek special signs or predictions about the end.

Jesus illustrates this with the example of a householder who, if he knew a thief was coming during a certain watch of the night, would stay awake and guard his house, even when it was hardest to do so. In the same way, since we know Christ will come but not when, we must always be spiritually alert. Each of us has a “house” to keep—our own soul, which holds all our true treasure. If we are found unready, we risk losing everything, not by injustice, but by the just judgment of God. Therefore, we must put on the armor of God and be as ready at all times as the householder would be if he expected a thief.