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1994-11-15
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PART VIII: THE MISCELLANEOUS PARABLES
CHAPTER 36
THE HOUSEHOLDER AND THE THIEF
Introduction
The Parable of the Householder and the Thief is found in
Luke 12:39-40 and in Matthew 24:42-44.
The Story
"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.
(Luke 12:39-40, New International
Version).
"Therefore keep watch, because you do
not know on what day your Lord will come.
But understand this: If the owner of the
house had known at what time of night the
thief was coming, he would have kept
watch and would not have let his house
be broken into. So you also must be
ready, because the Son of Man will come
at an hour when you do not expect him.
(Matthew 24:42-44, New International
Version).
If the owner had been watching for the thief, he would not
have allowed the thief to break into his house and steal his
goods.
The Interpretation
The owner of the house represents the Christian. The
thief represents Jesus--by contrast in nature and by likeness
in the element of surprise. The appearance of the thief
represents Jesus' Second Coming.
Earle comments on this "brief parabolic statement":
To be ready at every moment for the return of
Christ is the first responsibility of every
Christian." (BEACON BIBLE COMMENTARY, By Ralph
Earle, pp. 222-223).
Central Truth
WE MUST EXPECT THE LORD TO RETURN AT ANY TIME.
Conclusion
Wisdom demands that we get right with God and be
prepared for Jesus' Second Coming. Whether we die first or
we are alive when he returns, we must be ready at all times!
END