New Testament
Matthew 25:31
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"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.
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When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
What Matthew 25:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks about a future event when he will return in all his glory, accompanied by angels. This moment signifies the culmination of his earthly ministry and the establishment of his divine authority. The phrase 'Son of Man' refers to Jesus, emphasizing his humanity and messianic role. The 'glorious throne' represents his sovereign power and the judgment that will follow his return. This passage reassures believers that Jesus will come back to fulfill his promises and establish justice. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for his return, as it will be a time of accountability for all people. The imagery of glory and angels highlights the majesty and significance of this event, encouraging followers to live righteously in anticipation of his coming.
How to apply Matthew 25:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that Jesus will return. We should reflect on our actions and faith, ensuring we are prepared for his coming. Engaging in good works and sharing the message of hope can help us and others be ready for that day.
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Matthew 25:31
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 'Son of Man' mean in Matthew 25:31?
In Matthew 25:31, 'Son of Man' refers to Jesus, emphasizing both his humanity and his role as the Messiah. This title highlights his connection to humanity while also affirming his divine authority. It signifies that Jesus, who lived among people, will return in glory to judge the world, fulfilling the prophecies about the coming of the Messiah.
What is the significance of the 'glorious throne' mentioned?
The 'glorious throne' in Matthew 25:31 symbolizes Jesus' sovereign power and authority. It represents the ultimate judgment seat where he will evaluate the actions of all people. This imagery underscores the seriousness of his return and the establishment of divine justice, reminding believers that their lives will be assessed based on their faith and deeds.
How should we prepare for the return of Jesus as mentioned in this verse?
Preparing for Jesus' return, as indicated in Matthew 25:31, involves living a life of faith, engaging in good works, and sharing the message of hope with others. Believers are encouraged to reflect on their actions, cultivate a relationship with God, and remain vigilant in their spiritual practices. This preparation fosters a sense of accountability and readiness for the day of judgment.
What role do angels play in the return of Jesus?
In Matthew 25:31, the mention of 'all the holy angels' accompanying Jesus highlights their role as messengers and servants of God. They are present to witness his return and assist in the judgment process. This emphasizes the grandeur of the event and the divine support surrounding Jesus as he establishes his kingdom and executes justice.
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