Matthew 24:48

Matthew 24:48 Meaning and Explanation

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

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

The wicked servant says in his heart that his master is delaying.

What Does Matthew 24:48 Mean?

Jesus turns to the contrast: the evil servant who says in his heart that the master is delaying his coming. The corruption begins not in deeds but in a thought -- a quiet assumption that there is time to spare and no reckoning near.

This is where unfaithfulness is born: in the heart that presumes upon delay. Once the servant stops expecting the master, his conduct soon follows downward. Jesus exposes the inner root so his hearers will guard it. The danger is not only open rebellion but the slow forgetting of the master's return, which loosens the grip of faithfulness on the soul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 24:48

What does Matthew 24:48 mean?

The wicked servant says in his heart that his master is delaying.

Keep Studying Matthew 24

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.