New International Versionand he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards.
New Living Translationand he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk?
English Standard Versionand begins to beat his fellow servants and eats and drinks with drunkards,
Berean Standard BibleAnd he begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards.
Berean Literal Bibleand should begin to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and to drink with those being drunkards,
King James BibleAnd shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
New King James Versionand begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards,
New American Standard Bibleand he begins to beat his fellow slaves, and he eats and drinks with those habitually drunk;
NASB 1995and begins to beat his fellow slaves and eat and drink with drunkards;
NASB 1977and shall begin to beat his fellow slaves and eat and drink with drunkards;
Legacy Standard Bibleand begins to beat his fellow slaves and eat and drink with drunkards;
Amplified Bibleand begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards;
Christian Standard Bibleand starts to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with drunkards,
Holman Christian Standard Bibleand starts to beat his fellow slaves, and eats and drinks with drunkards,
American Standard Versionand shall begin to beat his fellow-servants, and shall eat and drink with the drunken;
Contemporary English VersionSuppose this evil servant starts beating the other servants and eats and drinks with people who are drunk.
English Revised Versionand shall begin to beat his fellow-servants, and shall eat and drink with the drunken;
GOD'S WORD® TranslationThe servant may begin to beat the other servants and eat and drink with the drunks.
Good News Translationand he will begin to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards.
International Standard Versionand begins to beat his fellow servants and eat and drink with the drunks,
NET Bibleand he begins to beat his fellow slaves and to eat and drink with drunkards,
New Heart English Bibleand begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with the drunkards,
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd shall begin to beat his fellow-servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
Weymouth New Testamentand should begin to beat his fellow servants, while he eats and drinks with drunkards; Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleAnd he begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards.
World English Bibleand begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with the drunkards, Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand may begin to beat the fellow-servants, and to eat and to drink with the drunken,
Berean Literal Bibleand should begin to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and to drink with those being drunkards,
Young's Literal Translation and may begin to beat the fellow-servants, and to eat and to drink with the drunken,
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd he should begin to strike the fellow-servants, and to eat and drink with those intoxicated; Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd shall begin to strike his fellow servants, and shall eat and drink with drunkards:
Catholic Public Domain Versionand so, he begins to strike his fellow servants, and he eats and drinks with the inebriated:
New American Bibleand begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with drunkards,
New Revised Standard Versionand he begins to beat his fellow slaves, and eats and drinks with drunkards, Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd he begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with drunkards,
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishAnd will start to beat his associates and eat and drink with drunkards, NT Translations Anderson New Testamentand shall begin to strike his fellow-servants, and shall eat and drink with the drunken;
Godbey New TestamentMy lord delayeth; and may begin to smite his fellow-servants, and eat and drink with the drunken;
Haweis New Testament and shall begin to beat his fellow-servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
Mace New Testament and shall pretend to assault his fellow-servants, and spend his time with sots:
Weymouth New Testament and should begin to beat his fellow servants, while he eats and drinks with drunkards;
Worrell New Testament and shall begin to beat his fellow-servants, and shall eat and drink with the drunken;
Worsley New Testament and begin to beat his fellow-servants, and to revel with drunkards:
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Readiness at Any Hour… 48But suppose that servant is wicked and says in his heart, ‘My master will be away a long time.’ 49Andhe beginsto beathisfellow servantsandto eatanddrinkwithdrunkards.50The master of that servant will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not anticipate.…
Cross References Luke 12:45But suppose that servant says in his heart, ‘My master will be a long time in coming,’ and he begins to beat the menservants and maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk.
Matthew 25:26-30‘You wicked, lazy servant!’ replied his master. ‘You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed. / Then you should have deposited my money with the bankers, and on my return I would have received it back with interest. / Therefore take the talent from him and give it to the one who has ten talents. ...
1 Thessalonians 5:3While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
2 Peter 3:3-4Most importantly, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. / “Where is the promise of His coming?” they will ask. “Ever since our fathers fell asleep, everything continues as it has from the beginning of creation.”
James 5:5You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in the day of slaughter.
1 Timothy 5:6But she who lives for pleasure is dead even while she is still alive.
Romans 13:13Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
Galatians 5:19-21The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; / idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, / and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Ephesians 5:18Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who submit to or perform homosexual acts, / nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.
Isaiah 56:12“Come, let me get the wine, let us imbibe the strong drink, and tomorrow will be like today, only far better!”
Proverbs 23:20-21Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat. / For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags.
Jeremiah 12:10Many shepherds have destroyed My vineyard; they have trampled My plot of ground. They have turned My pleasant field into a desolate wasteland.
Ezekiel 34:2-10“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? / You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock. / You have not strengthened the weak, healed the sick, bound up the injured, brought back the strays, or searched for the lost. Instead, you have ruled them with violence and cruelty. ...
Isaiah 5:11-12Woe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drink, who linger into the evening, to be inflamed by wine. / At their feasts are the lyre and harp, tambourines and flutes and wine. They disregard the actions of the LORD and fail to see the work of His hands.
Treasury of Scripture And shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; to smite. Isaiah 66:5 Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed. 2 Corinthians 11:20 For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devouryou, if a man takeof you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face. 1 Peter 5:3 Neither as being lords overGod's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. and to. Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 1 Samuel 2:13-16,29 And the priests' custom with the peoplewas, that, when any man offered sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was in seething, with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand; … Isaiah 56:12 Come ye,say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day,and much more abundant. Jump to Previous BeatBeginBeginsCruelDrinkDrinksDrunkardsDrunkenEatEatsFellowFellow-BondmenFellowservantsFellow-ServantsOvercomePleasureServantsSlavesSmiteWineJump to Next BeatBeginBeginsCruelDrinkDrinksDrunkardsDrunkenEatEatsFellowFellow-BondmenFellowservantsFellow-ServantsOvercomePleasureServantsSlavesSmiteWineMatthew 24 1.Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple;3.what and how great calamities shall be before it;29.the signs of his coming to judgment.36.And because that day and hour are unknown,42.we ought to watch like good servants, expecting our Master's coming.And he begins to beat his fellow servantsThis phrase highlights the abuse of authority and the moral decline of the unfaithful servant. In biblical context, servants were often entrusted with significant responsibilities, and their treatment of fellow servants was a reflection of their character. The act of beating fellow servants symbolizes a betrayal of trust and a failure to uphold the master's standards. This behavior contrasts with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized servant leadership and humility ( Matthew 20:26-28). The imagery of beating also recalls the mistreatment of prophets and messengers throughout Israel's history ( Jeremiah 20:2, 2 Chronicles 24:21), serving as a warning against rejecting God's appointed leaders. and to eat and drink with drunkards This phrase illustrates the servant's indulgence in worldly pleasures and neglect of duty. Eating and drinking with drunkards signifies a lifestyle of excess and moral laxity, which was often condemned in Scripture (Proverbs 23:20-21,Isaiah 5:11-12). In the cultural context of the time, sharing a meal was an act of fellowship and association, indicating that the servant has aligned himself with those who live irresponsibly. This behavior is a stark contrast to the call for sobriety and vigilance in anticipation of the master's return (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8). The servant's actions serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of complacency and the importance of remaining faithful and prepared for Christ's return, as emphasized throughoutMatthew 24. Persons / Places / Events 1. The Wicked ServantThis character represents someone who has been entrusted with responsibility but abuses their position. In the context of Matthew 24, this servant is a metaphor for those who are unfaithful to their calling and duties. 2. Fellow ServantsThese are the individuals who are mistreated by the wicked servant. They symbolize the community of believers or those under the care of a leader. 3. DrunkardsThis group represents those who live indulgently and without regard for moral or spiritual discipline. Associating with them signifies a departure from righteous living. 4. The MasterAlthough not directly mentioned in this verse, the master is a key figure in the parable. He represents Christ, who will return to judge the actions of His servants. 5. The SettingThe broader context is the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus speaks about the end times and the importance of being watchful and faithful. Teaching Points Faithfulness in StewardshipBelievers are called to be faithful stewards of the responsibilities God has given them. Abusing authority or neglecting duties leads to spiritual decay. The Company We KeepAssociating with those who live contrary to God's ways can lead us astray. We must choose our companions wisely, as they influence our behavior and spiritual health. The Certainty of AccountabilityJust as the master returns unexpectedly, Christ will return, and we will be held accountable for our actions. This should motivate us to live righteously and diligently. The Danger of ComplacencyBecoming complacent in our spiritual walk can lead to moral and ethical lapses. We must remain vigilant and committed to our faith. The Impact of Our Actions on OthersOur behavior affects those around us. As believers, we should strive to uplift and support our fellow servants, not harm them. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Matthew 24:49?
2.How does Matthew 24:49 warn against abusing authority over others?
3.What consequences arise from the servant's actions in Matthew 24:49?
4.How can we ensure we remain faithful servants as described in Matthew 24?
5.What other scriptures warn against neglecting responsibilities like in Matthew 24:49?
6.How can Matthew 24:49 guide our behavior in positions of leadership today?
7.What does Matthew 24:49 reveal about human nature and temptation?
8.How does Matthew 24:49 challenge the concept of accountability in Christian life?
9.What historical context influences the interpretation of Matthew 24:49?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 24?
11.When did the disciples return to Galilee? They saw Jesus there after at least 40 days, as they were instructed to stay in Jerusalem until receiving power (Matthew 28:17, Luke 24:49, Acts 1:3-4).
12.Where did Jesus tell his disciples to stay after his resurrection? (Matthew 28:10 vs. Luke 24:49)
13.Romans 15:8 highlights Jesus as a servant to the Jews, so how does this align with the broader claim of salvation for all people?
14.Why does Isaiah 42:4 seem to contradict later passages that depict the Messiah as suffering and dying (e.g., Isaiah 53)?What Does Matthew 24:49 Mean And he begins• The words follow Jesus’ warning about a “wicked servant” who says in his heart, “My master is staying away a long time” (Matthew 24:48). • A wrong inner conclusion is the seed of outward rebellion.Proverbs 4:23 urges, “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” • Delay in the Lord’s return exposes what truly rules the heart—either steadfast devotion (2 Peter 3:11–12) or casual unbelief (2 Peter 3:3–4). •Luke 12:45 records the same scene, underscoring that this is a deliberate, conscious shift, not a sudden accident. to beat his fellow servants• Violence against “fellow servants” pictures mistreatment of believers by those who once claimed the same Master. •1 John 3:15 reminds us, “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer.” The wicked servant’s hatred turns active. •James 5:4–6 speaks of oppressors who live in luxury while “condemning and murdering the righteous.” Their cruelty will not escape God’s notice. • Contrast: The faithful servant is called to “encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Spiritual leadership that harms is a direct denial of Christ’s commands (John 13:34). and to eat and drink• Having crossed the line in violence, the servant plunges into unchecked indulgence—pleasure becomes his god (Philippians 3:19). •Isaiah 22:13 captures the same mood: “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!” The mindset is present-focused, pleasure-driven, and oblivious to judgment. •Luke 17:27 notes that in Noah’s day people were “eating and drinking, marrying and being given in marriage”—ordinary activities carried out with no regard for God. • Believers are instead urged, “Whether you eat or drink…do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). with drunkards• The servant’s companionship now openly aligns with those who live in habitual excess.Proverbs 23:20 warns, “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat.” •Psalm 1:1 frames life in terms of where we walk, stand, and sit; sitting “with drunkards” marks a settled choice of fellowship. •1 Corinthians 15:33 cautions, “Bad company corrupts good character.” Prolonged association shapes conduct and conscience. •Ephesians 5:18 contrasts drunkenness with being “filled with the Spirit,” highlighting two incompatible influences. summaryMatthew 24:49 sketches a tragic progression: first a hidden heart decision, then visible abuse of God’s people, followed by unrestrained self-indulgence, and finally full identification with the ungodly. The verse warns that drifting leaders and disciples alike can slide from mere neglect into active rebellion when they forget the nearness of the Master’s return. Watchfulness, love for fellow servants, and holy separation from sinful excess remain vital safeguards until He appears. Verse 49. - Shall begin. As soon as he conceives the idea of the delay in his lord's arrival, he changes his conduct, plays the master, and uses his power for oppression and injustice. But he has only time to commence these unrighteous acts, when he is arrested by the very occurrence which he had willfully ignored. To smite his fellow servants; i.e. those who are faithful to their master. Applied to Christian ministers, such conduct would appertain to those who use their authority for oppression or self-aggrandizement, "lording it over the charge allotted to them" ( 1 Peter 5:3). And to eat ( ἐσθίῃ, and shall eat) and drink with the drunken. He indulges in luxury and intemperance, choosing as his companions men of dissolute habits. A self-indulgent minister, or one who is not discreet in choosing his friends and acquaintance, has little influence in checking the excesses of his flock, and is far from being, as he ought to be, "a pattern of good works" ( Titus 2:7).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.he beginsἄρξηται(arxētai)Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 756:To begin. Middle voice of archo; to commence.to beatτύπτειν(typtein)Verb - Present Infinitive Active Strong's 5180:To beat, strike, wound, inflict punishment.hisαὐτοῦ(autou)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.fellow servantsσυνδούλους(syndoulous)Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural Strong's 4889:From sun and doulos; a co-slave, i.e. Servitor or ministrant of the same master.andδὲ(de)Conjunction Strong's 1161:A primary particle; but, and, etc.to eatἐσθίῃ(esthiē)Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 2068:Strengthened for a primary edo; used only in certain tenses, the rest being supplied by phago; to eat.andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.drinkπίνῃ(pinē)Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 4095:To drink, imbibe. A prolonged form of pio, which poo occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses; to imbibe.withμετὰ(meta)Preposition Strong's 3326:(a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives.drunkards.μεθυόντων(methyontōn)Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Plural Strong's 3184:To be intoxicated with wine, be drunk. From another form of methe; to drink to intoxication, i.e. Get drunk.
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NT Gospels: Matthew 24:49 And begins to beat his fellow servants (Matt. Mat Mt) |