Luke 21:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 21:27
27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
Chapter Context
Luke 21 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, truth, love. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 21:27
27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
Analysis
And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. After cosmic signs and global terror, Jesus prophesies His visible return—tote opsontai ton huion tou anthrōpou (τότε ὄψονται τὸν υἱὸν τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, "then they shall see the Son of Man"). The future middle verb opsontai (ὄψονται, "they shall see") indicates direct visual perception—not spiritual insight but physical seeing. The title "Son of Man" alludes to Daniel 7:13-14, where Daniel saw "one like the Son of man" coming with clouds to receive everlasting dominion. Jesus consistently used this title to reference His messianic identity and future reign.
The phrase erchomenon en nephelē (ἐρχόμενον ἐν νεφέλῃ, "coming in a cloud") echoes His ascension (Acts 1:9-11)—as He departed in a cloud, so He returns in a cloud. Clouds in Scripture signal divine presence (Exodus 13:21, 19:9; 1 Kings 8:10-11). The manner of His coming combines meta dynameōs kai doxēs pollēs (μετὰ δυνάμεως καὶ δόξης πολλῆς, "with power and great glory"). Dynamis (δύναμις) is inherent power, ability, might; doxa (δόξα) is glory, radiance, majesty. Unlike His first coming in humility, the Second Coming displays His divine authority unmistakably.
This public manifestation fulfills Jesus' prophecy at His trial: "Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven" (Matthew 26:64). Every eye will see Him (Revelation 1:7), including those who pierced Him. This is vindication, judgment, and coronation combined.
Historical Context
Jesus' self-identification as Daniel's 'Son of Man' was revolutionary. Daniel 7:13-14 prophesies a divine-human figure receiving eternal dominion from the Ancient of Days. By claiming this title, Jesus asserted authority over all kingdoms. His trial before the Sanhedrin turned on this claim—when asked if He was Messiah, He answered by citing Daniel 7:13, which the high priest recognized as a claim to deity (Mark 14:61-64). The Second Coming will vindicate this claim before the world. Early church confessed "Jesus is Lord" (Philippians 2:9-11), anticipating the day when every knee bows at His visible return. Reformed theology emphasizes Christ's present reign at God's right hand, which will be manifested openly at His return.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' return 'with power and great glory' contrast with His first coming in humility, and what does this reveal about the two advents' different purposes?
- What is the significance of Jesus using the title 'Son of Man' from Daniel 7, and how does this claim relate to His deity and authority?
- How should the certainty of Christ's visible, glorious return shape Christian hope and perseverance through present suffering?
Word Studies
- Glory: δόξα (Doxa) G1391 - Glory, majesty, splendor
Cross-References
- Glory: Matthew 24:30, 25:31, Mark 13:26
- Parallel theme: Daniel 7:13, Matthew 26:64, Revelation 1:7