Daily Devotional for Wednesday, March 19, 2025

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Why Must Believers Stay Watchful for Christ’s Return?

Mark 13:35 states, “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn.” This verse is part of Jesus’ warning to his disciples about the necessity of spiritual vigilance. It teaches that since the timing of Christ’s return is unknown, believers must always be spiritually prepared, living faithfully and obediently so they will not be caught off guard.

The command “keep watch” (grégoreó in Greek) means to stay awake, be vigilant, and remain alert. Jesus frequently warned against spiritual complacency, knowing that distractions, worldly concerns, and temptation could cause believers to lose focus. A similar warning is found in Matthew 24:42: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” Since no one knows the exact time of Christ’s return, the only proper response is to remain in a constant state of readiness.

The imagery of the “owner of the house” returning at an unexpected hour emphasizes the suddenness of Christ’s return. This metaphor is also used in Luke 12:39-40, where Jesus states, “But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” Just as a homeowner must remain alert to protect his property, believers must guard their faith and remain steadfast in righteousness, knowing that Christ’s return could happen at any time.

Jesus’ mention of “evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn” references the Roman divisions of the night, which were four distinct watches. This detail reinforces the idea that his return could happen at any moment, whether expected or unexpected. The unpredictability of these time frames illustrates that there will be no warning or indication before his coming—only those who are already prepared will be ready.

This call to vigilance is echoed throughout Scripture. In 1 Thessalonians 5:6, Paul writes, “So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.” Spiritual laziness can lead to moral compromise, but those who remain alert in their faith will be ready when Christ returns. Similarly, in Revelation 16:15, Jesus declares, “Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.” Readiness requires ongoing faithfulness, not just occasional moments of devotion.

The consequences of failing to stay watchful are serious. In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the parable of the ten virgins, five of whom were prepared with enough oil for their lamps and five who were not. When the bridegroom arrived unexpectedly, the unprepared virgins were shut out from the wedding banquet. This serves as a clear warning that those who do not remain spiritually ready will miss out on the reward of Christ’s return.

Ultimately, Mark 13:35 teaches that believers must maintain a constant state of readiness for Christ’s return. Since the exact timing is unknown, faithfulness, obedience, and vigilance are essential. This verse calls believers to live each day as if Christ could return at any moment, ensuring that they remain steadfast in their devotion to Jehovah and His truth.

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About the Author

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 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).