Matthew 24 48

Matthew 24:48 kjv

But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;

Matthew 24:48 nkjv

But if that evil servant says in his heart, 'My master is delaying his coming,'

Matthew 24:48 niv

But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,'

Matthew 24:48 esv

But if that wicked servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed,'

Matthew 24:48 nlt

But what if the servant is evil and thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,'

Matthew 24 verses

Matthew 24 48 Meaning

This verse introduces a hypothetical scenario describing the inner thought process of an "evil servant." It illustrates the core mindset that leads to unfaithfulness and corrupt behavior: the servant concludes in their heart that the master is taking a long time to return, and therefore, they are free from immediate accountability. This perceived delay justifies their subsequent negligence, self-indulgence, and mistreatment of others, reflecting a failure of true loyalty and stewardship.

Matthew 24 48 Context

Matthew 24:48 is part of Jesus' Olivet Discourse, delivered to his disciples on the Mount of Olives. The discourse addresses pivotal questions about the destruction of the Temple, the signs of Jesus' coming, and the end of the age. Specifically, this verse occurs within the "Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant" (Mat 24:45-51). This parable immediately follows warnings about the uncertainty of the Lord's return ("you do not know on what day your Lord is coming," v. 42). Jesus uses this parable to distinguish between a diligent, ready servant who faithfully carries out their master's will, and a wicked, negligent servant. Verse 48 focuses on the internal self-deception that initiates the wicked servant's downward spiral, establishing a contrast crucial for understanding the need for constant spiritual vigilance. Historically, Jewish thought included messianic expectation, though not always clearly defined with a delay. Jesus' teaching here directly counters any presumption of long-term delay that might foster spiritual laxity among his followers, whether Jews awaiting the Messiah or early Christians anticipating His Second Coming.

Matthew 24 48 Word analysis

• But if (ἐὰν δὲ – ean de): Introduces a conditional, contrasting scenario. It sets up the antithesis to the faithful servant previously described, signaling a deviation from the path of wisdom and preparedness.
• that evil (ὁ κακὸς – ho kakos): The Greek kakos (κακός) denotes something morally bad, malicious, harmful, or depraved. It's not merely ineptitude or failure, but active wickedness originating from corrupt intent. This describes the servant's fundamental character flaw, rooted in an unregenerate heart or a heart hardened by self-interest.
• servant (δοῦλος – doulos): The Greek doulos (δοῦλος) literally means "bond-servant" or "slave." This term emphasizes complete submission, loyalty, and ownership by a master. For a doulos to be kakos highlights the betrayal of inherent trust and the violation of the master-servant covenant. It also indicates accountability to the master, even if neglected.
• says in his heart (εἴπῃ ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτοῦ – eipē en tē kardia autou):
  • eipē (εἴπῃ): "he says," signifying a concluded thought or determination.
  • kardia (καρδίᾳ): "heart," in biblical understanding, is the center of the person's entire being – thoughts, intentions, desires, will, emotions, and moral character. This phrase indicates an internal monologue, a hidden motive or spiritual conviction, before any external action is taken. The corruption begins deep within.
  • autou (αὐτοῦ): "his," making it a personal and intimate self-deception.
• My master (Ὁ κύριός μου – Ho kyrios mou): Even in their depravity, the servant acknowledges the master's ownership (kyrios). This is significant because it's not a denial of ownership, but a willful disregard of its implications and a presumption upon the master's authority.
• is delaying (χρο_νίζει – chronizei): The Greek chronizo (χρο_νίζει) means "to tarry," "to linger," "to delay," or "to take a long time." This word is key; it’s the servant’s perception of delay, not necessarily a divine postponement. This perception, whether accurate or not, becomes the false premise for their wickedness. It is a cynical dismissal of the master's imminence.
• his coming (ἔρχεσθαι – erchesthai): Literally "to come," referring to the master's expected return for accounting. The master's coming is the point of accountability that the servant cynically dismisses or attempts to escape by presuming a long delay.

Words-group analysis:

• "But if that evil servant says in his heart": This opening highlights the foundational internal corruption. The "evil servant" is characterized by a wicked moral nature (kakos), and their internal thoughts ("says in his heart") reveal the source of their unfaithfulness. The path to unrighteous action begins with a deceived or depraved inner disposition, not just outward temptation. This is a crucial diagnostic of spiritual health.
• "My master is delaying his coming": This phrase represents the dangerous self-deception and presumption that becomes the direct catalyst for the servant's wicked actions (described in the following verses). The servant's internal belief about the master's schedule negates immediate accountability and fosters a sense of false security. This reflects a lack of faith, hope, and understanding of God's timing, misinterpreting patience for indifference, or sovereignty for laxity.

Matthew 24 48 Bonus section

The concept of chronizo (delay) and its misuse is a recurring theme in the New Testament warnings against spiritual complacency. This verse serves as a crucial bridge between Jesus' general admonition to "stay awake" and the detailed consequences for those who do not. The emphasis on "in his heart" also underscores a significant aspect of biblical theology: God judges not just actions, but the hidden intentions and motivations of the heart. The servant's error is not primarily a misunderstanding of timing, but a failure of faithfulness stemming from a cynical heart. The parallel passages in Luke 12:45 reinforce the universality of this teaching, emphasizing its core theological weight for all believers throughout history. This parable, therefore, is a powerful warning against both theological speculation that leads to negligence and internal spiritual decay that presumes upon divine grace.

Matthew 24 48 Commentary

Matthew 24:48 precisely identifies the insidious mindset that underpins spiritual negligence and wickedness: the perception that God's judgment or the Lord's return is so distant that it ceases to be a motivating factor for holy living. The "evil servant" isn't depicted as ignorant but as morally perverse, his depravity rooted in a conscious decision, an internal thought that dismisses the immediacy of accountability. This "saying in his heart" (chronizo) demonstrates a cynical self-justification that leads to outward corruption, showing that true godliness begins in the inner man, manifesting in a diligent watchfulness rather than presuming upon God's patience. The perceived "delay" becomes an excuse for abandoning responsibility, rather than an opportunity for greater faithfulness.

Practical Examples:

• A Christian becoming lax in prayer, Bible study, or witness because they feel the Second Coming is far off.
• Someone in church leadership neglecting their flock, abusing power, or prioritizing personal gain, rationalizing that "God's judgment isn't immediate."
• Individuals living carelessly or unrepentantly, thinking they have ample time to "get right with God" later.