Johan SlabbertPhoto: Marcus Woodbridge
Matthew 16:27 “For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done.”
The Certainty of Christ’s Return
The reason for denying yourself and even losing your life to follow Jesus is the fact that your eternal future is at stake. Therefore, it is of no profit to you to gain the whole world and thereby lose your soul. The word ‘for’ connects this statement of Jesus with his preceding instruction. There is a universal judgment coming when each person will be judged according to what they have done.
The return of Jesus Christ is a central expectation of the true church. Yet, many today seem to doubt or live as if it will never happen. For some, it is reduced to a statement of faith tucked away on a church webpage, checked off intellectually but not embraced in daily living. Why? Perhaps life is too comfortable, filled with pursuits of wealth, pleasure, and recognition. The thought of Jesus’ return feels like an interruption of worldly comforts rather than the glorious fulfilment of God’s plan. But for countless Christians suffering persecution, rejection, and hardship, the promise of Christ’s return is a beacon of hope. They long for the day when the Lord will set all things right, when justice will be served, and when the struggles of this life will give way to the glory of his kingdom.
However, Jesus makes it clear in this passage, as well as in the Last Days Discourse (Matthew 24:1-25:46), that this is the certain future the kingdom is headed for.
"At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other” (Matthew 24:30-31).
The Son of Man in Glory
Jesus’ use of the title, “the Son of Man” is deeply significant, rooted in Daniel’s vision:
“Behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days…
To him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him” (Daniel 7:13-14).
This passage also speaks of a judgment, ten thousand times ten thousand standing before him, the heavenly court being seated and the books being opened (Daniel 7:10).
At his return, Jesus will come in this glory, surrounded by the armies of heaven. This is not just a symbolic moment; it will be a universal revelation of his authority and kingship. Psalm 110 and Revelation 19 both paint vivid pictures of this event:
- Of a mighty King, ruling in the midst of his enemies.
- Of a Warrior on a white horse, leading heavenly armies, executing God’s righteous judgment.
- Of one called “King of Kings and Lord of Lords”, whose dominion is everlasting.
Justice and Judgment
On that day, Jesus will repay all people according to their deeds. For the faithful, this is a day of reward—a celebration of perseverance in Christ’s name. For the unrepentant and the ungodly, it is a day of reckoning. Revelation 11:15-18 describes this moment as the kingdom of the world becoming the kingdom of Christ, where wrath and reward are perfectly executed. This truth is a comfort to struggling believers who await God’s justice. It assures us that every act of faith, no matter how small, is seen and will be rewarded. At the same time, it warns against complacency. A life lived apart from Christ, rejecting his lordship, results in eternal loss.
A Foretaste of Glory
Though this ultimate Day of Judgment may seem far off, Jesus offered a glimpse of his glory to some of his disciples. This preview was a reminder that the kingdom is real, his authority is absolute, and his promises are sure.
Living in Light of His Return
Are you living as if Christ’s return is a certainty? Does the promise of his universal judgment inspire you to align your life with his purposes?
For believers, this truth should fuel our hope, deepen our commitment, and embolden our witness. Jesus is coming again—in glory, with justice, and for his people. Will you be ready?
Looking Ahead
As we look forward with expectation for the return of Christ, not as a Suffering Servant, but as an Anointed Conqueror or the glorious Son of Man, what can we as kingdom citizens expect?
Let us have a look at how Jesus gave his three followers a glimpse of his future glory.
Call to Action
Are you living as if Christ’s return is a reality?
What will you do to correct your lifestyle and commitment in light of Christ’s inevitable return?
What do you make of the following passages:
- Daniel 7:9-14
- Isaiah 63:1-6
- Revelation 14:18-19
- Revelation 19:11-16