Mark 13:26

And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.

Mark 13:26 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the Olivet Discourse, where Jesus answers His disciples’ questions about the destruction of the temple and the sign of His coming. In the preceding verses, He describes wars, famines, earthquakes, and tribulation as birth pains of the age to come. Here He moves from warning to promise, declaring that after those days, every eye will see the Son of man arriving in the clouds with great power and glory.

Meaning

The title “Son of man” is Jesus’ own preferred self-designation. It draws directly from Daniel 7:13-14, where the prophet sees “one like the Son of man” coming with the clouds of heaven, and the Ancient of Days gives Him dominion, glory, and an everlasting kingdom. By using this title, Jesus claims both His humanity and His divine authority, fulfilling Daniel’s vision in His own person.

The clouds are not merely weather; they are the visible sign of divine presence throughout Scripture. They recall the glory cloud that led Israel in the wilderness and filled the temple. Here they mark the Son of man’s return as a majestic, supernatural event, unmistakable to all who witness it.

“Great power and glory” describe the manner of His coming. His power will be displayed in the convulsions of nature and the resurrection of the dead, and His glory will be seen in His own person as He receives honor as Judge of all. This is not a quiet or secret arrival; it is the vindication of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

Biblical connections

The parallel account in Matthew 24:30 confirms the same teaching, adding that the tribes of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of man coming. Jesus also repeats this language before the high priest in Matthew 26:64, saying that Caiaphas will see the Son of man sitting at the right hand of power and coming on the clouds of heaven. Some interpreters understand this coming as Christ’s judgment upon Jerusalem in 70 A.D., while others see it as His final return at the end of the age. Both readings agree that the event is visible, powerful, and certain.

Application

Because no one knows the day or hour, Jesus calls His followers to watch and be ready (Mark 13:32-37). This verse is not only a prophecy but also a summons to faithful endurance. Believers live in the light of His promised return, serving with hope and confidence that the One who came in humility will come again in glory.

Reflection

Mark 13:26 turns the disciples’ fearful questions into a vision of triumph. The same Jesus who walked the dusty roads of Galilee will one day appear in the clouds with power and glory. That certainty shapes how we live today: watchful, hopeful, and ready to meet Him.