What does Matthew 24:41 mean?

Various perspectives lead to varying interpretations of this passage. Based on the context of the end times (Matthew 24:14, 29–31), most commentators understand Him to be describing those who have rejected Christ being taken in judgment, in some sense (Matthew 24:40). Jesus has been comparing His return to earth as judge (Hebrews 9:28) with the timing of the flood in Noah's day (Genesis 6:5–8). Those people had no idea what was coming. They went about their daily lives as if nothing would ever change until the flood waters came and swept them all away (Matthew 24:37–39).

Jesus has said His return will be the same. Two men will be working in the field when one is taken in the judgment and the other left. Now He says that two women will be working at a mill grinder with the same result. At this time, turning a mill grinder was thought to be women's work. It was performed in pairs, sitting on either side of the grinder and moving it halfway around a circle.

Jesus' choice of situations might be meant to emphasize that class or status will not matter in this judgment. The people depicted here are working alongside one another: social or economic status will not be a factor in determining who receives judgment and who is rewarded. The difference will be based entirely on who belongs to Christ and who has rejected Him as Savior and Lord (John 3:36).