The Bible verse Mark 13:35-37 from the King James Version (KJV) reads:

35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:

36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.

37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

This passage is part of a larger discourse by Jesus about the end times, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse. In this particular section, Jesus is warning his disciples to be watchful and ready for his return, which will come unexpectedly.

The theme of watchfulness and readiness for the return of Jesus is the central focus of these verses. Jesus emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and not becoming complacent or spiritually asleep. The “master of the house” refers to Jesus, who will return at an unknown time. The references to different times of day (even, midnight, cockcrowing, morning) highlight the idea that his return will be unexpected and could happen at any moment. The imagery of sleeping serves as a warning against spiritual laziness and apathy, urging believers to remain alert and prepared for Christ's return.

The urgency of this message is further emphasized in verse 37 when Jesus declares, “And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” This shows that the message of readiness and watchfulness applies not only to the disciples who were present at that time but to all believers throughout history. It is a universal call to be spiritually alert and prepared for the return of Christ.

The context of this passage is important for understanding its significance. The Olivet Discourse takes place in the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry, just before his crucifixion. Jesus is speaking to his disciples about the signs of the end times and his eventual return. This discourse is recorded in the synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, indicating its significance in the teachings of Jesus.

The symbolism in these verses serves to reinforce the message of watchfulness and readiness for Christ's return. The imagery of the master of the house coming at different times of the day symbolizes the unexpected nature of Jesus' return. This serves as a metaphor for the need for constant spiritual vigilance and preparedness. Additionally, the concept of sleeping symbolizes spiritual unawareness and negligence, highlighting the necessity of remaining spiritually awake and alert.

Overall, this passage conveys a sense of urgency and importance for believers to be spiritually vigilant and prepared for the return of Jesus. It serves as a reminder that the exact timing of Jesus' return is unknown, and therefore believers must stay spiritually awake and ready at all times. The universal call to “watch” in verse 37 underscores the timeless relevance of this message for all believers. It is a solemn and sobering reminder of the need to prioritize spiritual watchfulness and readiness in anticipation of the coming of the Lord.