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**EDWARD D. ANDREWS** (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 200+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).

Jehovah’s Witnesses’ Rendering of Matthew 24:45

Matthew 24:45 New World Translation (NWT)
⁴⁵“Who really is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give them their food at the proper time?

The Jehovah’s Witnesses translation of Matthew 24:45 is a reasonably accurate translation of the original Koine Greek text. However, it is not a literal translation and has been influenced by the theological perspective of the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

The Greek text of Matthew 24:45 reads, “ho pistos kai phronimos doulos,” which can be translated as “the faithful and prudent slave.” The word “doulos” can be translated as “servant” or “slave.” The words “faithful” and “prudent” describe the character and behavior of the slave.

The Jehovah’s Witnesses translation of “domestics” for the Greek word “oikonomon” is a reasonable choice, although other translations might use “household” or “stewards.” The word “oikonomon” refers to someone who is in charge of a household or a manager of household affairs.

The Jehovah’s Witnesses translation of “to give them their food at the proper time” for the Greek phrase “didaskein autois to trophon en kairō” is a reasonable representation of the original text, although other translations might use “to give them their portion of food in due season.” The phrase “to trophon en kairō” refers to providing sustenance or food at the appropriate time.

In conclusion, the Jehovah’s Witnesses translation of Matthew 24:45 is not a literal translation but is reasonably accurate and reflects the theological perspective of the organization. Other translations might choose different words or phrasing, but the overall meaning of the text is clear.

Updated American Standard Version Rendering of Matthew 24:45

Matthew 24:45 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
⁴⁵“Who then is the faithful and wise slave whom the master has put in charge of his household slaves to give them their food at the right time?

This translation of Matthew 24:45 is a more literal rendering of the original Greek text and provides a good representation of its meaning.

In this translation, the Greek word “doulos” (slave) is accurately translated as “slave.” The word “pistos” (faithful) and “phronimos” (wise) are also accurately translated, providing a clear picture of the character and behavior of the slave in question.

The phrase “whom the master has put in charge of his household slaves” accurately captures the meaning of the Greek word “oikonomos” (steward, manager) and its relationship to the household slaves.

Finally, the phrase “to give them their food at the right time” accurately conveys the meaning of the Greek phrase “didaskein autois to trophon en kairō” (to give them their portion of food in due season).

Overall, this translation provides a clear and accurate representation of the original Greek text of Matthew 24:45.

Jehovah’s Witnesses’ Interpretation of Matthew 24:45

The Jehovah’s Witnesses interpret Matthew 24:45-51 as referring to the appointment of a “faithful and discreet slave” class within their organization to care for their spiritual needs. In their interpretation, the “faithful and discreet slave” represents the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses and those associated with them who have been appointed to provide spiritual guidance and teachings to the members of the organization.

The “wicked slave” described in verses 48-51 is seen as representing any individual or group within the organization who might abuse their position of responsibility or engage in false teachings. Such individuals or groups would face severe consequences, including being cut off from the organization.

In this interpretation, the coming of the Lord is understood as the beginning of Christ’s millennial reign, which is seen as having commenced in heaven in 1914. The emphasis is on the importance of being faithful and obedient to the teachings of the “faithful and discreet slave” in preparation for the Lord’s return and the judgment that will come for those who are not faithful.

In summary, the Jehovah’s Witnesses interpret Matthew 24:45-51 as referring to the appointment of the “faithful and discreet slave” class within their organization and the importance of being faithful and obedient to their teachings in preparation for the Lord’s return and the judgment that will come for those who are not faithful.

Commentary on Matthew 24:45

Matthew 24:45 refers to a passage in the New Testament where Jesus is speaking to his disciples about the end times and the return of the Son of Man. In verse 45, Jesus says, “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?”

This verse is often interpreted as a parable about the responsibilities of leadership and the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Lord. The faithful and wise servant represents a leader who is responsible for caring for the people under their charge and ensuring that they are ready for the return of the Lord.

In practical terms, this verse can be seen as a call to all leaders to be faithful in their responsibilities and to exercise wisdom in their decisions. It also serves as a reminder to all individuals to be prepared for the coming of the Lord and to live in a manner that is pleasing to him.

A Phrase-by-Phrase Exegetical Commentary

“Who then is the faithful and wise servant”: This phrase sets the context for the rest of the verse, highlighting the focus on the character and qualities of the servant. The Greek word for “servant” (doulos) refers to someone who is a bondservant or a slave, emphasizing the servant’s complete obedience and loyalty to the master.
“Whom his master has set over his household”: This phrase indicates the servant’s position and responsibilities within the household. The Greek word for “household” (oikia) refers to the entire household, including all those living under the same roof, servants, and possessions. The servant has been given a position of authority and responsibility over all these people and things.
“To give them their food at the proper time”: The servant’s main responsibility is to provide food for the household, but it is not just any food, it is the proper food at the proper time. This emphasizes the importance of the servant’s role and the need for care and wisdom in fulfilling it.

In conclusion, Matthew 24:45 is a call to faithfulness and wisdom in leadership and a reminder of the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Lord. The faithful and wise servant represents a leader who is obedient, responsible, and ready to care for those under their charge.

A Commentary on Matthew 24:45 Touching on the Historical and Cultural Context

Matthew 24:45 is a verse that was written to a first-century audience within a specific historical and cultural context. To fully understand its meaning and significance, it is important to consider this context. Here is a commentary that touches on the historical and cultural context of this verse:

Historical Context: Matthew 24:45 is part of a larger discourse by Jesus, in which he is speaking to his disciples about the end times and his second coming. This discourse is often referred to as the “Olivet Discourse.” The first-century audience would have been familiar with the concept of the end times and the return of the Messiah, as these were common themes in Jewish apocalyptic literature. The historical context of Matthew 24:45 is one of uncertainty and expectancy, as the disciples were looking for the coming of the Messiah and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Cultural Context: The cultural context of Matthew 24:45 is that of a household in the ancient Mediterranean world. In this context, the head of the household was responsible for the well-being of all those under their roof, including servants and possessions. The servant described in Matthew 24:45 would have been a common figure in this culture and would have been held in high regard for their role in the household.

In conclusion, Matthew 24:45 was written to a first-century audience within a specific historical and cultural context. The historical context is one of uncertainty and expectancy as the disciples were waiting for the return of the Messiah, while the cultural context is that of a household in the ancient Mediterranean world where the head of the household was responsible for the well-being of those under their roof. Understanding this context helps us to see the significance of the faithful and wise servant as a model of leadership and responsibility within the household of God.

The Context of the Faithful or the Unfaithful Servant of Matthew 24:45-51

commentary on Matthew 24:45-51:

Verse 45: “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?” This verse sets the context for the rest of the passage and introduces the concept of the faithful and wise servant. The servant represents a leader who is responsible for caring for the people under their charge and ensuring that they are ready for the return of the Lord.
Verse 46: “Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.” This verse emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the return of the Lord. The faithful and wise servant who is found doing his job well will be blessed by the master.
Verse 47: “Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.” This verse emphasizes the reward for the faithful and wise servant. The master will not only bless him, but will also give him a position of authority and responsibility over all his possessions.
Verses 48-51: “But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants and eats and drinks with drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” These verses illustrate the consequences for the servant who is not faithful and wise. The wicked servant who mistreats his fellow servants and lives a life of excess will face severe punishment when the master returns.

In conclusion, Matthew 24:45-51 is a call to faithfulness and wisdom in leadership and a reminder of the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Lord. The faithful and wise servant represents a model of leadership and responsibility, while the wicked servant serves as a warning of the consequences of neglecting these responsibilities. These verses encourage us to live our lives in a manner that is pleasing to God and to be ready for his return at any time.

Other Scholar’s Interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51

John MacArthur is a well-known conservative Evangelical commentator who has written a multi-volume commentary on the New Testament, including Matthew. In his interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51, MacArthur would likely focus on the main themes of faithfulness, wisdom, and preparedness for the coming of the Lord.

MacArthur would emphasize the importance of being a faithful and wise servant, as described in verse 45. He would likely view this as a call to faithfulness and wisdom in leadership, both in the church and in everyday life. He would also likely stress the importance of being prepared for the return of the Lord, as described in verse 46.

MacArthur would also likely view the consequences for the wicked servant described in verses 48-51 as a warning to those who neglect their responsibilities and mistreat others. He would likely see these verses as emphasizing the importance of righteous living and the need to be prepared for the coming of the Lord at any time.

In summary, MacArthur’s interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51 would focus on the themes of faithfulness, wisdom, and preparedness for the coming of the Lord. He would emphasize the importance of being a faithful and wise servant and the consequences for neglecting these responsibilities. He would also likely view these verses as a call to righteous living and a reminder of the need to be prepared for the return of the Lord.

R.C. Sproul was a Reformed theologian and pastor who has written several commentaries on the New Testament, including Matthew. In his interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51, Sproul would likely focus on the themes of responsibility, accountability, and the sovereignty of God.

Sproul would likely see the faithful and wise servant described in verse 45 as a symbol of the believer’s responsibility to be a good steward of the gifts and resources God has given. He would emphasize the importance of being faithful and wise in the use of these resources and view the punishment for the wicked servant described in verses 48-51 as a reminder of the accountability believers will face for their stewardship.

Sproul would also likely stress the sovereignty of God in the coming of the Lord, as described in verses 46 and 51. He would view these verses as emphasizing that the Lord’s return is not dependent on the actions of believers, but is solely determined by the will of God.

In summary, Sproul’s interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51 would focus on the themes of responsibility, accountability, and the sovereignty of God. He would emphasize the believer’s responsibility to be a faithful and wise steward and the accountability believers will face for their stewardship. He would also view these verses as emphasizing the sovereignty of God in the coming of the Lord.

James Montgomery Boice was a pastor and theologian who wrote several commentaries on the New Testament, including a four-volume commentary on Matthew. In his interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51, Boice would likely emphasize the themes of faithfulness, obedience, and the consequences of unfaithfulness.

Boice would likely view the faithful and wise servant described in verse 45 as a symbol of the believer’s faithfulness to God and obedience to his commands. He would emphasize the importance of being faithful and obedient in all aspects of life and view the punishment for the wicked servant described in verses 48-51 as a reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness.

Boice would also likely stress the urgency of being ready for the coming of the Lord, as described in verses 46-47. He would see these verses as emphasizing the need to be vigilant and prepared for the Lord’s return at any time.

In summary, Boice’s interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51 would focus on the themes of faithfulness, obedience, and the consequences of unfaithfulness. He would emphasize the importance of being faithful and obedient in all aspects of life and view the punishment for the wicked servant as a reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness. He would also stress the urgency of being ready for the coming of the Lord.

James D.A. Carson is a well-known New Testament scholar who has written several commentaries on the New Testament, including a commentary on Matthew. In his interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51, Carson would likely focus on the themes of responsibility, judgment, and the coming of the Lord.

Carson would likely view the faithful and wise servant described in verse 45 as a symbol of the believer’s responsibility to be faithful in serving the Lord and to be wise in the use of his gifts and resources. He would emphasize the importance of fulfilling one’s responsibilities and view the punishment for the wicked servant described in verses 48-51 as a reminder of the judgment that will come for those who neglect their responsibilities.

Carson would also likely stress the significance of the coming of the Lord, as described in verses 46-51. He would see these verses as emphasizing the need to be prepared for the Lord’s return at any time and the judgment that will come for those who are not prepared.

In summary, Carson’s interpretation of Matthew 24:45-51 would focus on the themes of responsibility, judgment, and the coming of the Lord. He would emphasize the believer’s responsibility to be faithful in serving the Lord and wise in the use of his gifts and resources and view the punishment for the wicked servant as a reminder of the judgment that will come for those who neglect their responsibilities. He would also stress the significance of the coming of the Lord and the need to be prepared for it.

Comparison

Again, the verse Matthew 24:45 states, “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his domestics, to give them their food at the proper time?” (NWT). Here are the translations for this verse in the other Bible versions:

American Standard Version (ASV): “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath set over his household, to give them their food in due season?”

English Standard Version (ESV): “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?”

New American Standard Bible (NASB): “Who then is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master will put in charge of his servants to give them their rations at the proper time?”

Christian Standard Bible (CSB): “Who then is the faithful and wise slave, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give them their food at the proper time?”

Lexham English Bible (LEB): “Who then is the faithful and wise slave, whom his master has put in charge over his household, to give them their food in due season?”

All of the translations use similar language and convey a similar meaning, with small differences in wording and phrasing. For example, the NASB uses the phrase “discreet slave” while the other translations use terms such as “faithful and wise servant.” The use of footnotes, cross-references, and other aids vary among the translations. The overall readability and style also vary, with some being more formal and others more conversational in tone.

When considering the original Greek and grammar, the phrase “faithful and wise servant” is a direct translation of the Greek text. The Greek grammar and syntax support the meaning conveyed by all the translations.

The translation philosophy and methodology of each translation are important to consider when evaluating the accuracy and readability of the verse. For example, the NWT is known for its use of more modern English terminology, while the ASV is known for its more formal language. The intended audience and purpose of each translation should also be considered. Some translations are designed for more scholarly or academic audiences, while others are designed to be more accessible to a general audience.

While there are small differences in wording and phrasing among the translations, they all convey a similar meaning and are accurate representations of the original Greek text. The choice of which translation to use will largely depend on individual preferences for readability, style, and accessibility. A literal translation should be preferred.