Matthew 24:36
But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Matthew 24:36 (KJV)
Context
Matthew 24 is part of Jesus’ discourse on the Mount of Olives, commonly known as the Olivet Discourse. In this chapter, Jesus teaches about the signs of the end times, His second coming, and the importance of readiness and watchfulness for His return. He warns of false Christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, and tribulation, and He describes cosmic signs that will precede His coming. In verse 36, Jesus turns from these signs to the crucial truth that the exact day and hour of His return are known only to the Father.
Meaning
Jesus emphasizes the certainty of His return but the uncertainty of its timing. He states that no human being knows the specific day or hour, and He includes the angels of heaven among those who do not know. The parallel passage in Mark 13:32 adds the phrase “neither the Son,” clarifying that even Jesus, during His earthly ministry, voluntarily did not possess this knowledge. This highlights the mystery of the final day and the Father’s exclusive authority over the timetable of history.
This verse also underscores the limitations of human knowledge and understanding. Despite advancements in science, technology, and many fields, some mysteries remain beyond our grasp. The timing of Christ’s return is one such mystery. It reminds us that our finite minds cannot fully comprehend the plans and purposes of God. At the same time, the verse affirms divine sovereignty: God holds ultimate control over the unfolding of history and the fulfillment of His purposes.
Biblical connections
The parallel in Mark 13:32 is indispensable for understanding the full scope of Jesus’ statement, as it explicitly includes the Son’s voluntary limitation during His earthly ministry. This is consistent with the doctrine of the hypostatic union: Christ is fully God and fully man, and in His incarnate state, He submitted to the Father’s will, including the withholding of certain knowledge. The immediate context of Matthew 24 includes Jesus’ comparison of the days before His return to the days of Noah, when people were unaware until the flood came (Matthew 24:37-39). This comparison reinforces the need for readiness rather than speculation.
Application
Because the precise timing remains unknown, Jesus repeatedly urges His followers to be ready and watchful. Rather than obsessing over dates, believers are called to trust in God’s perfect timing and to focus on cultivating a deep relationship with God, living out their faith, and fulfilling the Great Commission. The hiddenness of the time is a test of faith and obedience, encouraging a posture of humility before God’s mysteries and a practical focus on daily faithfulness.
Humility: Matthew 24:36 humbles us, reminding us that there are aspects of God’s plan and knowledge beyond our understanding. It encourages us to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His infinite wisdom.
Watchfulness: This verse motivates us to live each day in anticipation of Christ’s return. It prompts us to examine our lives, align them with God’s will, and be faithful stewards of the tasks and responsibilities entrusted to us.
Trust in God: Matthew 24:36 calls us to trust in God’s sovereignty and timing. We are reminded that God is in control, even when events seem uncertain or chaotic. We can find peace and hope in knowing that God’s plans will come to pass at the appointed time.
Urgency in Sharing the Gospel: Since we do not know the exact timing of Christ’s return, this verse underscores the urgency of sharing the good news of salvation with others. It encourages us to be diligent in proclaiming the message of Christ’s love and forgiveness, seeking to lead others to faith in Him.
Reflection
The verse also serves as a comfort, reminding believers that God is in control of history and that the ultimate outcome is secure. The Father alone holds the timetable, and this truth should produce peace and perseverance, knowing that God’s timing is perfect. The certainty of Christ’s return is assured, but the time is hidden, and this hiddenness is a test of faith and obedience. The appropriate response is not speculation but humble dependence on God and diligent service, finding assurance not in knowing the date but in knowing the One who holds the future.
