New Testament
Matthew 25:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So stay alert, because you don't know the day or the hour when the Son of Man will come.
Compare translations
Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
What Matthew 25:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and prepared for His return. He uses the term "Son of Man" to refer to Himself, indicating His authority and role in the final judgment. The uncertainty of the exact time of His coming serves as a reminder that believers should live in a state of readiness. This call to watchfulness is not just about waiting passively; it involves actively living out one's faith, making wise choices, and being responsible stewards of the gifts and opportunities God has provided. The unpredictability of the timing means that complacency can lead to missed opportunities for spiritual growth and service. Therefore, staying alert is crucial for maintaining a strong relationship with God and fulfilling His purposes in our lives.
How to apply Matthew 25:13 to your life
To apply this verse, regularly assess your spiritual life and commitments. Engage in prayer, study scripture, and serve others, ensuring you are living in a way that reflects your faith. Stay alert to opportunities for growth and service, knowing that Christ's return could be at any moment.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 24:1–25:46)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. 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.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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 Matthew 25:13
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 Matthew 25:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 25:13 mean?
Matthew 25:13 emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparedness for the return of Jesus, referred to as the 'Son of Man.' It reminds believers that they do not know when this event will occur, urging them to live actively in faith.
What is the meaning of 'stay alert' in Matthew 25:13?
'Stay alert' in Matthew 25:13 means to be watchful and ready for Jesus' return. It encourages believers to actively engage in their faith and be responsible with the opportunities God provides.
Why does Jesus refer to Himself as the 'Son of Man' in Matthew 25:13?
Jesus uses the term 'Son of Man' to signify His authority and role in the final judgment. It underscores His identity and the significance of His return.
How can I apply Matthew 25:13 in my daily life?
To apply Matthew 25:13, regularly evaluate your spiritual commitments, engage in prayer, study the Bible, and look for ways to serve others. This helps ensure you are living in a way that reflects your faith and readiness for Christ's return.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.