New Testament
Luke 12:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of being prepared for His return, regardless of when it may happen.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Whether he comes at midnight or even later, those servants are blessed if he finds them ready.
And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of being prepared for His return, regardless of when it may happen. The 'second watch' and 'third watch' refer to the late-night hours, indicating that His coming could be unexpected and at any time. The servants who are found ready and alert when their master arrives are considered blessed. This highlights the value of vigilance and readiness in our spiritual lives. It serves as a reminder that we should live in a way that reflects our faith and commitment, always being prepared for the moment when we will meet the Lord. The focus is on the attitude of the servants, who are expected to be diligent and responsible, demonstrating their loyalty and readiness to serve. This teaching encourages believers to maintain a constant state of readiness, living each day with purpose and faithfulness, as we do not know the hour of Christ's return. Explore related preparedness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 12:38 to your life
To apply this teaching, we should cultivate a lifestyle of spiritual readiness. This means engaging in regular prayer, studying scripture, and living out our faith daily. By doing so, we prepare ourselves for Christ's return and demonstrate our commitment to serving Him faithfully.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 12:38 mean?
Luke 12:38 emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for Jesus' return, which can happen at any time. It highlights that those who are ready and vigilant when He arrives will be blessed.
What is the significance of the 'second watch' and 'third watch' in Luke 12:38?
The 'second watch' and 'third watch' refer to late-night hours, indicating that Jesus' return may be unexpected. This underscores the need for constant readiness and vigilance in our spiritual lives.
How can I apply the message of Luke 12:38 in my life?
To apply the message of Luke 12:38, focus on maintaining a lifestyle of spiritual readiness through regular prayer, scripture study, and living out your faith daily.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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