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Advent · First Sunday in Advent · Year C

Luke 21:25-36

Signs of the End of the Age

The Last Judgment, Joos van Cleve
The Last Judgment, Joos van Cleve, c. 1525–1530The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Christ comes in glory on the clouds, surrounded by angels and saints, while the dead rise from the earth below.Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.Joos van CleveA leading painter of Antwerp in the early sixteenth century, known for altarpieces and portraits.The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New YorkThe Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, one of the largest art museums in the world.The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Overview & Insights

“Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.” (Luke 21:27)

Since Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem it has become clear that his messianic authority is in irreconcilable conflict with the existing power structure in Jerusalem. His prediction of the destruction of the temple (21:5–6) now leads to an extended explanation (addressed to his disciples) that looks beyond his own imminent death and resurrection to a time when that conflict will be resolved. The power of the present Jerusalem establishment will be destroyed, and the risen Jesus will enter into his destined authority as the Son of Man. The reader’s awareness of this ultimate prospect will provide a vital counterpoint to the apparent “defeat” of Jesus in Jerusalem that will be narrated in chapters 22–23.

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What does Jesus say of the end?

There will be signs in sun, moon, and stars and distress among the nations, then the Son of Man will come in glory; straighten up, for your redemption draws near, and stay awake (Luke 21:25–36).

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