What does Mark 13:26 mean?

Explanation

Mark 13:26 refers to an eschatological event in which Jesus Christ, referred to here as the "Son of man," will return to Earth. The image of him "coming in the clouds with great power and glory" evokes a sense of majesty and divine authority.

This verse is part of a passage in which Jesus is describing the signs that will precede His second coming. The literal meaning is clear: there will be a visible return of Christ.

In a deeper sense, this speaks to the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It assures the faithful that, despite present tribulations, a time of restoration and justice is coming.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Mark is believed to have been written around 60-70 A.D.

The early Christian community, which faced persecution, would have found comfort in these words.

They are part of what is known as the "Olivet Discourse," delivered by Jesus on the Mount of Olives.

At that time, messianic expectations were high, and the language used would resonate with Jewish apocalyptic literature that spoke of divine intervention in the affairs of the world.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted in various ways.

Many see it as a reference to the Second Coming, a core doctrine in Christianity holding that Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead.

Some Christian traditions interpret it more symbolically, suggesting a spiritual or metaphorical return, while others view it as a physical return that is yet to happen. Preterist theologians argue that this event was fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.

Practical Applications

The anticipation of Christ's return has practical implications for believers.

It encourages them to live with expectancy, integrity, and to remain steadfast in faith regardless of circumstances.

This message also compels Christians to be active in their communities, to show love, and to work for justice and peace, knowing their actions align with the upcoming kingdom of God that Jesus speaks of.

Cross-References

• Matthew 24:30: "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory."
• Revelation 1:7: "Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him.

Even so, Amen."

• Daniel 7:13-14: "I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him."

Language Study

The original Greek term for "coming" is "ἔρχομαι" (erchomai), which can mean both "to come" and "to appear." The phrase "with great power and glory" uses the Greek word "δύναμις" (dynamis) for "power," which denotes strength, ability, or mighty works, and the word "δόξα" (doxa) for "glory," which indicates honor, splendor, or divine radiance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The imagery of a divine figure coming with clouds is present in various ancient cultures.

In some Mesopotamian and Greco-Roman mythologies, gods are depicted riding clouds, denoting their power and heavenly origin.

In Jewish literature, similar imagery is used, such as in the book of Daniel, where a "son of man" figure coming with clouds symbolizes divine authority and vindication.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, the verse's depiction of someone "coming in the clouds" would not be understood literally but as a powerful metaphorical image.

Clouds could symbolize the obscurity and mystery surrounding eschatological events, or the notion of height and transcendence beyond the earthly realm.

No empirical evidence exists to either prove or disprove supernatural claims of a second coming.

Commentaries

Scholars and theologians offer diverse interpretations of this verse.

Some, like R.T.

France, argue that the language reflects Jewish apocalyptic expectation and is to be understood symbolically rather than predicting future historical events.

Others, like William Lane Craig, maintain it foretells a future physical return of Jesus Christ.

John Calvin saw it as comfort for persecuted believers, assuring them that Christ ultimately has sovereignty over the world.