New Testament
Luke 12:40
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So you must be ready too, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you don't expect."
Compare translations
Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.
What Luke 12:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of being prepared for His return. He refers to Himself as the 'Son of Man,' a title that signifies His authority and divine nature. The phrase 'at an hour you don't expect' highlights the unpredictability of His coming, urging believers to live in a state of readiness. This readiness involves maintaining a faithful and vigilant lifestyle, being spiritually alert, and not becoming complacent in one's faith. Jesus is teaching that His return could happen at any moment, and therefore, His followers should always be prepared, living in a way that reflects their commitment to Him. This call to readiness is a reminder that life is fleeting and that we should prioritize our relationship with God above all else, ensuring that we are living according to His will and purpose.
How to apply Luke 12:40 to your life
To apply this teaching, regularly assess your spiritual life and ensure you are living in alignment with God's will. Stay engaged in prayer, study scripture, and participate in community worship. This proactive approach helps maintain a heart that is always ready for Christ's return.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 12:40
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 12:40
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 12:40 mean?
Luke 12:40 emphasizes the need for believers to be prepared for the unexpected return of Jesus, referred to as the 'Son of Man.' It highlights the importance of living a vigilant and faithful life, as His coming could happen at any moment.
What is the meaning of 'Son of Man' in Luke 12:40?
In Luke 12:40, 'Son of Man' is a title Jesus uses to signify His authority and divine nature. It underscores His role as the Messiah and emphasizes the importance of His return.
How can I be ready for Christ's return according to Luke 12:40?
To be ready for Christ's return, regularly evaluate your spiritual life, engage in prayer, study the Bible, and participate in community worship. This helps ensure you are living in alignment with God's will.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.