Matthew 24:45

Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of his household, to give the others their food at the proper time?

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — Jesus addresses his disciples in the Olivet Discourse, immediately after commanding them to be ready for the Son of Man's unexpected return (24:44). The question introduces a parable whose answer follows in the next verses.

The words — φρόνιμος (phronimos) is a stronger term than the common σοφός (sophos), carrying the sense of practical discernment and good sense rather than abstract wisdom. πιστός (pistos) here denotes the reliability of one who has been entrusted with a specific charge, not merely general trustworthiness.

The thread — The same "faithful servant" language appears in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:21, 23), where the master's commendation echoes the question posed here. Paul applies the stewardship principle to apostolic ministry in 1 Corinthians 4:1, framing service as administration of God's mysteries.

Why it lands — The question is not descriptive; it is a commission addressed to the listener, asking whether they are the one set over the household. The standard is not abstract virtue but a concrete task: giving food at the proper time.

Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.

The Greek words

King James Version

Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?

Cross-references

Matthew 25:21 His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’
1 Corinthians 4:1 So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Matthew 25:23 His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’
Luke 12:41 “Lord,” said Peter, “are You addressing this parable to us, or to everyone else as well?”
Luke 16:10 Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.
Matthew 25:35 For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in,
2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others as well.
John 21:15 When they had finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus replied, “Feed My lambs.”
Acts 20:28 Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.
1 Timothy 1:12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, that He considered me faithful and appointed me to service.