Mark 13:35 – “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus warns His followers to stay alert because they do not know when He will return. He compares His return to an owner coming back to his house at an unknown time during the night. The specific times mentioned—“evening,” “midnight,” “when the rooster crows,” and “at dawn”—represent different parts of the night in Jewish timekeeping, emphasizing the unpredictability of the event.
Jesus is reminding believers that His second coming could happen at any moment, so they need to be spiritually ready at all times. The call to “keep watch” is not just about staying awake physically—it’s about living faithfully and being prepared for Christ’s return, whenever it happens.
The key message here is that believers should not become complacent. Instead, they should remain active in their faith, knowing that Jesus could return at any time.
Historical Context
Jesus’ warning fits within the context of the first-century Jewish world, where night was divided into four “watches” or time periods: evening (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.), midnight (9 p.m. to 12 a.m.), the time of the rooster crowing (around 3 a.m.), and dawn (6 a.m.). These were times when travelers or homeowners could be caught off guard, as people would typically be resting or sleeping.
The disciples understood the seriousness of this warning because they were living under Roman occupation and often faced persecution. The early church believed that Jesus could return within their lifetime, so they viewed this teaching as an urgent call to faithfulness and vigilance.
This verse is part of Jesus’ broader teaching in Mark 13, where He prepares His disciples for future trials, including the destruction of Jerusalem and the final fulfillment of God’s plan at the end of time. His warning to stay ready applies not only to His disciples but to all believers throughout history.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes the doctrine of Christ’s return and the need for ongoing spiritual readiness. Since no one knows the day or hour of His return (Mark 13:32), believers are called to live in a state of constant preparedness. This doesn’t mean living in fear but in faithful obedience, trusting in God’s timing.
The verse also highlights the unpredictable nature of God’s plans. While humans often seek certainty and control, Jesus teaches that some things are known only to God. This calls believers to trust in God’s wisdom and to focus on being faithful stewards of the time and resources they have been given.
Additionally, this verse addresses the danger of spiritual complacency. Just as someone could be caught off guard by a homeowner returning at an unexpected time, believers who are not actively engaged in their faith risk being unprepared when Christ returns.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse is built around the metaphor of the owner returning at night. The progression through different times of the night creates a sense of anticipation and uncertainty. The repetition of specific time periods reinforces the unpredictability of the event and the need for constant vigilance.
The command to “keep watch” is central to the passage. This imperative highlights the urgency and seriousness of Jesus’ warning. The phrase “you do not know when” adds to the suspense, reminding believers that the timing of Christ’s return is deliberately hidden to encourage faithful living.
The metaphor of the houseowner connects to other parables and teachings where Jesus compares His return to a sudden or unexpected event (e.g., the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13).
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 24:42-44 – Jesus tells His followers to keep watch because they do not know on what day their Lord will come, comparing His return to a thief coming at night.
- Luke 12:35-40 – A similar teaching about being dressed and ready for service, waiting for the master to return from a wedding banquet.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 – Paul warns that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night and encourages believers to stay awake and sober.
- Revelation 3:3 – “If you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.”
- 2 Peter 3:10 – Describes the day of the Lord as coming like a thief, with sudden and unexpected judgment.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a call to live with a sense of urgency and purpose. It’s easy to get caught up in the routines and distractions of daily life, but Jesus reminds believers to stay spiritually focused and ready for His return. This means living in obedience, sharing the gospel, and being faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to them.
Keeping watch involves staying grounded in God’s Word, maintaining a consistent prayer life, and being aware of spiritual dangers that could lead to complacency or sin. It also means living with hope and anticipation, knowing that Christ’s return will bring ultimate justice and restoration.
This verse challenges believers to examine their priorities. Are they living in a way that reflects the reality of Christ’s return, or are they putting off important spiritual responsibilities? Being prepared doesn’t mean predicting when Christ will return—it means living faithfully in the present.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His desire to prepare His people for Christ’s return. Jesus’ warning is not meant to create fear but to provide guidance and protection. God doesn’t want His people to be caught off guard or unprepared—He lovingly warns them so they can be ready.
God’s love is also reflected in His patience. The fact that Christ hasn’t returned yet is a sign of God’s mercy, as He is giving people time to repent and turn to Him (2 Peter 3:9). His love motivates Him to extend the opportunity for salvation to as many people as possible.
Additionally, God’s love is seen in His promise to return. The “owner of the house” will come back, and when He does, it will be a time of joy and reward for those who have remained faithful. God’s love ensures that His people will be gathered to Him and experience eternal life in His presence.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse as the “owner of the house” who will return. His departure after His resurrection was not permanent—He promised to come back (John 14:3), and this verse points to the fulfillment of that promise. His return will mark the completion of God’s plan and the final victory over sin and death.
Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd is also reflected in this verse. Just as a shepherd watches over his flock, Jesus cares for His people and provides them with the guidance they need to remain faithful. His return will be a time of joy for those who have followed Him and a time of accountability for those who have ignored His warning.
Additionally, Jesus’ death and resurrection give meaning to the command to “keep watch.” His victory over sin assures believers that their faithfulness is not in vain. When He returns, those who have trusted in Him will be rewarded with eternal life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean for you to “keep watch” in your daily walk with Christ?
- How can you stay spiritually alert and avoid the distractions that lead to complacency?
- In what areas of your life do you need to be more prepared for Christ’s return?
- How does knowing that Christ’s return is unpredictable motivate you to live with urgency and purpose?
- How can you encourage others to stay faithful and ready for the return of Christ?