Why Did Jesus Not Know the Day of His Return?
Mark 13:32: “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
John 5:19: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing.”
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Why Did Jesus Not Know the Day of His Return? |
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Meaning |
In Mark 13:32 and Matthew 24:36, Jesus said: “the Son does not know, but only the Father knows.” This does not mean He lacked divinity; rather, during His incarnation, He willingly placed the knowledge of that day into the Father’s hand, revealing His humility and obedience, and reminding believers to stay watchful. |
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Reason |
① Two Natures: Christ is fully God and fully man. As the Son of Man, He voluntarily accepted human limitations in knowledge (Luke 2:52). |
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Divinity vs. Humanity |
Divine Aspect (Son of God): |
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Examples |
1. Matthew 4:2: “After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry.” |
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Application |
1. Matthew 24:44: “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him.” |
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Core Point |
Jesus’ “not knowing” highlights the mystery of the union of His two natures. In His divinity, He knows all; in His humanity, He submitted to the Father’s authority. |
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Conclusion |
Jesus’ words teach us not to chase after dates, but to remain faithful, humble, and ready for His return. |
Summary:
Jesus's "not knowing" the date of his return was not due to ignorance, but rather to his willingness to surrender himself in the incarnation, completely submitting to the Father and allowing the Father to rule. This not only demonstrates his humility, but also teaches us: Don't be curious about the date, but be ever vigilant and faithful in waiting.
