New Testament
Mark 13:26
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Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.
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And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.
What Mark 13:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks about a future event where He will return in a powerful and glorious manner. The phrase 'Son of Man' refers to Jesus Himself, emphasizing His authority and divine nature. The imagery of coming in the clouds suggests a dramatic and visible return, which will be witnessed by many. This moment is often associated with the end times, where Jesus will establish His kingdom and bring justice. The mention of 'great power and glory' highlights the majesty and sovereignty of Christ, contrasting with His humble first coming. This verse serves as a reminder of the hope and expectation believers have for Christ's return, encouraging them to remain faithful and vigilant in their faith.
How to apply Mark 13:26 to your life
This verse encourages believers to live with anticipation of Christ's return. It reminds us to stay faithful and prepared, knowing that Jesus will come back in power and glory. We should reflect on our lives and ensure we are aligned with His teachings, sharing this hope with others.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Teaching on the Mount of Olives (Mark 13:1–37)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 'Son of Man' mean in Mark 13:26?
In Mark 13:26, 'Son of Man' refers to Jesus, emphasizing His role as the Messiah and His divine authority. This title highlights both His humanity and His connection to prophetic scripture, particularly from the book of Daniel, where it signifies a figure of power and judgment. Jesus uses this title to remind His followers of His identity and the significance of His return.
What is the significance of Jesus coming in the clouds?
The imagery of Jesus coming in the clouds signifies a dramatic and visible return that will be witnessed by all. Clouds often symbolize God's presence in the Bible, suggesting that His return will be both majestic and divine. This event is associated with the fulfillment of prophecy and the establishment of God's kingdom, serving as a powerful reminder of His authority and the hope of redemption for believers.
How should believers prepare for Christ's return?
Believers are encouraged to live in a state of readiness and anticipation for Christ's return. This involves staying faithful to His teachings, engaging in prayer, and actively sharing the message of hope with others. It also means reflecting on one's life, ensuring alignment with Christian values, and fostering a community of faith that supports one another in spiritual growth and vigilance.
What does 'great power and glory' imply about Jesus' return?
The phrase 'great power and glory' emphasizes the majesty and sovereignty of Jesus at His return. Unlike His first coming in humility, this return will be marked by divine authority and the fulfillment of God's promises. It signifies that Jesus will come to judge the world, establish His kingdom, and restore justice, providing hope and assurance to believers of His ultimate victory over evil.
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