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