The Commands of Christ - Matthew 25:13

"Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming." -Matthew 25:13


To whom is this command spoken?


This is a continuation of Jesus' discourse in response to the disciple's question: what will be the sign of your coming?

What does this command require?


The word translated 'watch' literally means to keep awake or to be vigilant. So the command here keep awake,  watch intently.

What truths do we learn here?


Jesus is coming back. There is no doubt about it. Some have tried to put a date down as to when He will return, but we know from this verse that we do not know the day or the hour in which Jesus is coming. The previous verses record for us a short parable about ten virgins in order to help us understand this command. Five of the virgins were wise and five were foolish. They were all waiting for their bridegroom to return for them. When the bridegroom returned, the foolish virgins didn't have any oil in their lamps so they asked the five wise virgins for some oil. The wise didn't lend any oil to the foolish for their might not have been sufficient for all. When the bridegroom returned, those who were wise entered into the wedding with him and the door was shut behind them. When the foolish returned from buying oil they said, "Lord, Lord, open to us!" but he answered them, "I do not know you."

This short parable teaches us a vital truth about Jesus return. We must be ready for Him to come. The wise virgins put oil in their lamps and waited for the return of the bridegroom. They knew he was coming back, and they looked for his coming. The foolish virgins did not prepare for his return. How sad it will be for those who do not prepare for Christ's return. He will say to them, "I do not know you." There is no second chances for those who hear those words from Jesus. When He returns, you must have already made your choice to follow Him.

So the question for you and I this morning is: Am I ready and waiting for Christ's return? O Christian, do not slumber or grow weary of waiting for your King. He is coming back on a day that we are not expecting. Let us eagerly await His return and let us be faithful in our preparation for our King. "But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good." -2 Thessalonians 3:13

If you have not trusted Christ as your Lord and Savior, the question for you is: What is keeping you from trusting in Jesus for salvation? The time is short. Jesus' return is unexpected. You must make your choice before He returns. Why not trust Him today? Why not admit that you cannot save yourself and that you need a Savior? He is eagerly awaiting your call. Come to Jesus, lay your sin at His feet, stop living for yourself and live for Him. "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved, you and your household." -Acts 16:31

What are the consequences of disobedience? the blessings for obedience?


If you are disobedient, you will hear Jesus say to you, "I do not know you."

If you are obedient, you will enter the wedding, just as the wise virgins in the parable.