New Testament
Matthew 24:45
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Who then is the faithful and wise servant that the master has put in charge of his household, to give the others their food at the right time?
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Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?
What Matthew 24:45 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus poses a question about the qualities of a faithful and wise servant. The servant is entrusted by the master with the responsibility of managing the household and ensuring that everyone receives their food at the appropriate time. This reflects the importance of being diligent and responsible in our roles, especially when given authority over others. The 'food' symbolizes not just physical sustenance but also spiritual nourishment, suggesting that leaders should provide guidance and support to those they oversee. The emphasis is on being prepared and acting wisely, as the master expects his servant to fulfill his duties faithfully. This verse encourages believers to consider how they manage their responsibilities and care for others, highlighting the virtues of faithfulness and wisdom in leadership.
How to apply Matthew 24:45 to your life
As individuals in positions of influence, we should strive to be faithful and wise in our responsibilities. This means being attentive to the needs of those we lead and providing support and guidance at the right moments. Reflect on how you can better serve others in your daily life.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 24:1–25:46)
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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.
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Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 24:45 mean?
Matthew 24:45 highlights the qualities of a faithful and wise servant who is entrusted with managing a household. It emphasizes the importance of being responsible and diligent in leadership roles, ensuring that others receive what they need at the right time.
What is the meaning of 'faithful and wise servant' in Matthew 24:45?
The 'faithful and wise servant' refers to someone who is reliable and prudent in their duties. This servant is expected to manage their responsibilities well and provide for others, reflecting the virtues of faithfulness and wisdom in leadership.
How can I apply Matthew 24:45 in my life?
You can apply Matthew 24:45 by being mindful of your responsibilities and how you lead others. Strive to be attentive to their needs and provide support and guidance when necessary, reflecting faithfulness and wisdom in your actions.
What does 'give them meat in due season' mean in Matthew 24:45?
'Give them meat in due season' means providing what is needed at the right time. This can refer to both physical sustenance and spiritual guidance, highlighting the importance of timely support in leadership.
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