Understanding Matthew 24:36

But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Matthew 24:36

In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a verse that invites us to ponder the mysteries of the future. Matthew 24:36 states, “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” Let us explore the significance of this verse and the insights it offers about the timing of future events.

For further insight on this scripture, listen to this verses Spiritual Kick Off episode here.

Contextualizing the Verse

Matthew, the first Gospel in the New Testament, presents the teachings and life of Jesus. In this particular passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples on the Mount of Olives. They inquire about the timing and signs of His second coming and the end of the age. Jesus responds by providing them with several illustrations and explanations to guide their understanding.

The Mystery of Timing

Within the conversation, Jesus shifts his focus from the signs and events to the question of timing. He acknowledges that, during His earthly ministry, He voluntarily refrains from exercising His divine attribute of total omniscience. Thus, even though He possesses all knowledge as God, He surrenders His omnipresence and submits to the limitations of time and space. This dual nature of Jesus, being fully God and fully man, is beautifully demonstrated in this passage. Jesus humbly declares that only the Father knows the precise timing of future events, making a clear distinction within the Trinity.

Embracing the Mystery

The truth highlighted in Matthew 24:36 carries profound implications for Believers. It reminds us that our faith includes an element of uncertainty—a willingness to trust in God’s plan without having complete knowledge of the future. Faith, after all, is rooted in the conviction of things hoped for and the assurance of things not seen. In times when the rubber meets the road, our faith is truly tested.

Rather than striving to unravel the mysteries of God’s timing, we are called to embrace the unknown with trust and surrender. It is human nature to desire certainty and control, yet faith demands that we let go of our need for complete understanding. We find solace in the fact that the Father holds the full picture, and our role is to walk in faith, entrusting our lives and futures into His loving hands.

Matthew 24:36 serves as a humbling reminder that the timing of future events remains a mystery known only to the Father. As followers of Christ, we are invited to embrace this mystery, trusting in the divine wisdom and providence of God. Our faith is not dependent on our ability to comprehend the intricate details of the future but on our willingness to surrender and place our hope in Him. Let us navigate the uncertainties of life with faith, knowing that the One who knows all things holds our lives in His hands.  That is how we can demonstrate to others how to unleash the Lion Within!