LUKE 21:25-28
THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN
INTRODUCTION
In Luke 21:25-28, Jesus speaks of cosmic signs and upheavals that will signal His return, known as the coming of the Son of Man. This passage forms part of His broader teaching on the end times and is marked by dramatic imagery: the sun, moon, and stars being shaken, and nations in distress. While these warnings may appear frightening, they are ultimately meant to encourage the faithful to remain steadfast. Jesus assures His followers that even in the midst of chaos, their redemption is near. The call to “stand erect and raise your heads” points to a posture of hope and trust in God’s ultimate victory, rather than fear.
For Christians, this passage carries both an immediate and eschatological meaning. It invites reflection on how we live in anticipation of Christ’s second coming, reminding us that earthly trials are temporary and God’s kingdom is eternal. The imagery challenges us to focus not on the distress, but on Christ’s promise of redemption and the fulfillment of God’s divine plan. It is an invitation to vigilance and faith, calling believers to prepare their hearts, strengthen their relationship with God, and live in a way that reflects hope and readiness for the coming of the Son of Man.
Luke 21:25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.”
In Luke 21:25, Jesus provides a prophetic glimpse into events that will precede His second coming. These celestial and earthly signs are symbolic of both cosmic upheaval and divine intervention. They not only mirror biblical prophecies but also call the faithful to spiritual vigilance and hope.
Celestial Signs in Scripture
The Bible contains several instances where significant astronomical changes coincide with divine action. Such occurrences mark pivotal moments in salvation history and offer profound theological insights.
1. Joshua’s Battle and the Sun Stopping
In Joshua 10:12-13, during Israel’s battle against the Amorites, Joshua prays for the sun and moon to stand still. Miraculously, the sun halts in the sky, giving Israel more time to defeat their enemies. While some interpret this event metaphorically, the account underscores God’s dominion over creation and His active participation in the affairs of His people.
2. Hezekiah’s Extended Life
In Isaiah 38:8, King Hezekiah, on the brink of death, prays for healing, and God grants him 15 more years of life. As a sign of this promise, the shadow on the stairway of Ahaz miraculously moves back ten steps, an extraordinary event showing God’s power over time and nature.
3. The Star of Bethlehem
At the birth of Jesus, a star leads the magi to Bethlehem (Mt 2:2). This star, possibly a comet or planetary alignment, represents divine intervention and guidance, signifying the birth of the Messiah who would bring salvation to all nations.
4. Signs at the Crucifixion
When Jesus is crucified, there are dramatic cosmic and earthly signs. Darkness falls over the land (Lk 23:44-45), the earth shakes, and the temple veil is torn. These events reflect the profound spiritual consequences of Christ’s death, symbolizing the breaking of barriers between humanity and God and the defeat of sin and death.
Cosmic Signs at the Second Coming
Jesus also foretells that similar signs will accompany His second coming: “Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming upon the clouds of heaven with power and great glory” (Mt 24:30). This signals the final judgment and the fulfillment of God’s plan for humanity.
Isaiah also prophesies about such events, predicting the darkening of the sun and moon and the falling of the stars (Isa 13:9-11). These cosmic disturbances symbolize divine judgment on a sinful world, and they serve as a prelude to the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.
Theological Significance of Signs in the Sun, Moon, and Stars
The Bible presents celestial signs as evidence of God’s power over creation. These phenomena often herald significant divine actions, such as deliverance, judgment, or the fulfillment of prophecy. They serve as reminders that God remains sovereign over the universe, even when humanity faces turmoil and uncertainty.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes that these signs are not to be feared but understood within the context of Christ’s second coming. They are meant to prepare believers for the final judgment and the establishment of God’s kingdom in its fullness (CCC 675). As Catholics, we are called to watch for these signs with hope and anticipation, knowing that Christ’s return brings ultimate redemption.
Reflection: Living with Hope Amid Signs of the Times
While the cosmic signs described in Luke 21:25 can evoke fear, they also invite the faithful to deeper trust in God’s providence. Today’s world faces many upheavals – natural disasters, wars, and social unrest – that may seem to echo these biblical prophecies. However, Christians are called to respond not with panic, but with vigilance, faith, and a commitment to living out Christ’s teachings.
As Jesus reminds us in Luke 21:28: “Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Rather than succumbing to despair, we are encouraged to see these signs as part of God’s unfolding plan, leading to the final victory of Christ over sin and death.
Reflection: A Call to Readiness and Trust
The signs in the sun, moon, and stars remind us that history is moving towards a divine conclusion, one that promises salvation for those who remain faithful to God. As Catholics, we are invited to live each day in readiness for Christ’s return, placing our trust in His ultimate sovereignty and mercy. These cosmic disturbances, as unsettling as they may seem, are part of the grand narrative of redemption, and they point to a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness will reign (Rev 21:1-3).
Let us take this as an opportunity to renew our commitment to God, living in faith, hope, and love, and preparing our hearts for the coming of the Lord.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we trust in Your promises and await Your glorious return. As we witness the signs of the times, grant us peace and hope. May we remain vigilant in faith, always ready to receive You. Help us to be Your light in the world, offering hope and love to all we meet. Amen.
Luke 21:26: “People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken,”
This is a profound and sobering passage that forms part of Jesus’ discourse on the end times, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse. This verse encapsulates both physical and spiritual distress that will befall the world as a result of divine judgment.
“People Will Die of Fright”
The phrase “die of fright” does not imply literal death, but rather, the overwhelming terror that will grip people. It echoes moments of panic and fear that human beings have historically experienced during catastrophic events. In the Bible, we find such fear vividly portrayed in the account of St. Paul and his companions during a shipwreck: “Neither the sun nor the stars were visible for many days, and no small storm raged. Finally, all hope of our surviving was taken away” (Acts 27:20). Here, the despair was so intense that it all seemed lost. Likewise, the terror in Luke 21:26 refers to people being so overwhelmed by impending disasters that they feel as though death is imminent.
Anticipation of Catastrophe: “The Powers of the Heavens Will Be Shaken”
Jesus describes cosmic disturbances that will terrify the people. The sun will darken, the moon will fail to give light, and stars will fall from the sky (Mk 13:24-25). These phenomena will create profound anxiety, with people dreading what might happen next. According to Peter, “The day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar and the elements will be dissolved by fire” (2 Pet 3:10). For sinners, this represents the beginning of eternal destruction, while for true believers, it signals the long-awaited moment of redemption.
The phrase “the powers of the heavens will be shaken” conveys not only physical upheaval but also spiritual disruption. In Catholic theology, this signifies God’s judgment on a sinful world and the spiritual forces that have resisted His reign. This is a fundamental shift in both the physical and spiritual realms, where worldly powers and dominions fall before God’s ultimate authority. Jesus uses apocalyptic imagery to underscore the totality of God’s intervention. This isn’t just about earthquakes and celestial events but also about the spiritual purging of evil forces and the re-establishment of God’s kingdom.
The Catholic Interpretation
This passage serves as both a warning and a comfort for Christians. While the world may experience terrifying events, Jesus reminds His followers to “stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand” (Lk 21:28). For the faithful, these events are not a cause for despair but a sign that God’s promises are being fulfilled. It is important to understand that while this passage speaks of judgment, it also speaks of the hope for eternal life with God.
In the historical context, Jesus’ listeners would have recognized the apocalyptic language as part of Jewish eschatological thought. In this worldview, divine intervention was anticipated to rescue the faithful and establish God’s final reign. In light of this, the destruction of the Temple, predicted by Jesus, would have been seen as the end of an era, yet the beginning of God’s direct rule over creation.
Today, this message resonates with Christians as a call to live in readiness, not just for physical calamities, but for spiritual preparedness. We are reminded to be vigilant, to detach from the transient things of this world, and to anchor our trust in God.
Living with Vigilance and Hope
For Catholics, passages like Luke 21:26 emphasize the necessity of living in a state of grace. Our lives should be characterized by spiritual readiness, knowing that Christ will return to judge the world and reward the faithful. The “shaking” of the heavens serves as a reminder that earthly securities – power, wealth, and worldly assurances – are fragile and ultimately fleeting. Only our relationship with God, fostered through prayer, the sacraments, and a life of virtue, will endure.
As Jesus reminds us in this chapter, we should not be consumed by fear but instead live with hope. The upheavals and tribulations of this world are temporary. What matters is our eternal destiny. This is why the Church calls us to receive the sacraments regularly, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, which sustain us in grace and help us to stay spiritually prepared.
Reflection
In light of these words, we must reflect: Are we living in a way that prepares us for the return of Christ? Are our lives centered on worldly things, or are we focused on our eternal home with God? As we witness the uncertainties of the world, let us remember that our ultimate hope lies not in the material but in God’s eternal promises. We are called to trust in His mercy and live lives that reflect His kingdom.
Prayer for Readiness
Lord Jesus, as we await Your glorious return, strengthen our faith and hope. Help us to remain vigilant, living each day with the awareness that our true home is with You. May we not be overcome by fear in times of tribulation, but instead find peace in the knowledge that Your redemption is at hand. Guide us through life’s uncertainties, and prepare our hearts to stand with confidence before You when You come again in glory. Amen.
Luke 21:27 “And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.”
The verse above from the Gospel of Luke summarizes a profound promise that is central to Christian belief: the Second Coming of Christ. Jesus, referred to here as the “Son of Man,” will return in all His divine glory to judge the living and the dead. This momentous event, foreshadowed throughout Scripture, will mark the fulfillment of God’s ultimate plan for humanity. The imagery of Christ coming in a cloud draws deeply from both Old and New Testament theophanies, where God’s presence was frequently manifested in clouds, symbolizing His divine majesty.
The Tribulation and Christ’s Return
The context of Luke 21 speaks of the tribulations and cosmic disturbances that will precede Christ’s return. These trials, terrifying as they may be, are part of the anticipation of the Son of Man’s arrival in power and glory. As Jesus himself stated, “But of that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone” (Mt 24:36). This truth reminds us of the unpredictability of the event, underscoring the importance of always being spiritually prepared.
St. Paul further elucidates the return of Christ in his letter to the Thessalonians, where he writes, “For the Lord himself, with a word of command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God, will come down from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first” (1 Thess 4:16-17). This imagery is complemented by Jesus’ own words in the Gospel of John, where He promises the resurrection of both the just and unjust: “all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and will come out, those who have done good deeds to the resurrection of life, but those who have done wicked deeds to the resurrection of condemnation” (Jn 5:28-29). Both the saints and sinners, the living and the dead, will witness the Son of Man’s return.
The Significance of the “Son of Man”
Jesus frequently referred to Himself as the “Son of Man,” a title that highlights His humanity while simultaneously pointing to His divine mission. This term is rooted in the prophecy of Daniel 7:13, where Daniel envisions “one like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven.” By using this title, Jesus emphasizes His role as the prophesied Messiah who would come not only in humility, as He did in His first coming, but also in divine authority at His second coming.
In contrast, others often referred to Jesus as the “Son of God,” focusing on His divinity. Both titles point to different facets of Jesus’ identity: His human nature, which He took on for the sake of our redemption, and His divine nature, which will be fully revealed in His glorious return as judge and king.
The Cloud of Divine Presence
The reference to Christ “coming in a cloud” draws from the rich biblical tradition of clouds symbolizing God’s presence. In the Old Testament, God led the Israelites out of Egypt through a cloud by day and fire by night (Ex 13:20-22), and His presence filled the Temple in Jerusalem with a cloud of glory (1 Kgs 8:10-11). The rabbis referred to this visible manifestation of God’s presence as the Shekinah. Though the term itself is not found in the Bible, it encapsulates the notion of God’s dwelling among His people.
This same divine cloud appeared during key moments of Jesus’ life. During His transfiguration, “a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, and a voice from the cloud said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him’” (Mt 17:5). Likewise, during His ascension, “a cloud took him from their sight” (Acts 1:9), and the angels promised His return in the same manner: “This Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven will return in the same way” (Acts 1:11).
The Power and Glory of Christ’s Return
Christ’s first coming was marked by humility. As St. Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians, “though he was in the form of God, he did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness” (Phil 2:6-7). His earthly ministry culminated in His sacrifice on the cross, a profound act of love to redeem humanity from sin. However, at His second coming, there will be no such humility. Instead, Christ will return in the fullness of divine power and majesty, ready to judge all nations (Mt 25:31-32).
This event will be the fulfillment of God’s promise and the final revelation of Christ’s lordship over all creation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that Christ’s return will bring about the definitive establishment of God’s kingdom, where His will shall be fully realized on earth as it is in heaven (CCC 680).
Vigilance and Spiritual Readiness
As Christians, we are called to live in constant anticipation of Christ’s return. However, this is not an invitation to anxiety or fear. Jesus tells us not to try to predict the timing of His return: “But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mk 13:32). Instead, we are to live lives of faith, hope, and charity, always ready to meet our Lord.
This vigilance means being mindful of Christ’s presence in our daily lives—in the Eucharist, in our neighbors, and in the Church. It also calls us to be instruments of His love, spreading His message of salvation and preparing others for His glorious return.
Reflection
In these uncertain times, let the promise of Christ’s return anchor your hope. His glorious coming will bring an end to suffering, establish justice, and inaugurate God’s eternal reign. Live each day with the joy of knowing that the Lord will come again, and His Kingdom will have no end.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, as we await Your glorious return, fill our hearts with faith, hope, and love. Help us to live each day in readiness, not out of fear, but with joyful anticipation of Your coming kingdom. Strengthen our resolve to follow You faithfully and to share Your love with others. May we be found worthy to stand before You when You come again in power and glory. Amen.
Luke 21:28 “But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”
In Luke 21:28, Jesus offers words of encouragement to His followers during His eschatological discourse. This verse offers a message of hope and assurance, calling believers to remain confident even as the world experiences turmoil.
Confidence in the Face of Trials
The imagery of “standing erect” and “raising heads” signifies the posture of confidence, hope, and vigilance that Christians should adopt in the face of troubling signs. Unlike those who may cower in fear due to their guilt or the imminent destruction of the sinful world, the faithful are encouraged to look beyond their immediate trials. The faithful know that their redemption is near, not through any earthly means, but by the victorious return of Christ. It is in this moment that Jesus’ followers will be delivered from the influence of evil and sin, and it is the fulfillment of His promise of ultimate redemption.
This concept of deliverance aligns with other Biblical teachings, notably the prophecy in Isaiah 25:8-9, which speaks of God wiping away the tears of His people and bringing salvation: “The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from all faces; The reproach of His people He will remove from the whole earth.” This is the same hope that Jesus points to – a hope that Christians can anticipate with confidence, knowing that God’s eternal plan is unfolding.
The Phases of Redemption in Salvation History
Redemption, however, has a multifaceted history in Christianity, with distinct phases:
1. Initial Redemption: The first phase of redemption was achieved through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. By His suffering and sacrifice, humanity was offered salvation and reconciliation with God, as foretold in Isaiah 53:5: “He was pierced for our sins, crushed for our iniquity. He bore the punishment that makes us whole, by His wounds we were healed.”
2. The Destruction of Jerusalem (70 AD): This was a temporal redemption for early Christians who were being persecuted by the Jewish authorities. The fall of Jerusalem marked an end to Jewish persecution of Christians and was a sign of God’s justice upon those who rejected Jesus as the Messiah.
3. The Conversion of Constantine (312 AD): The conversion of Constantine marked the end of Roman persecution of Christians. With the emperor’s support, Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire, offering believers a period of peace and growth. This temporal deliverance was yet another foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption.
4. Final Redemption: The ultimate and complete redemption will take place at Christ’s second coming. Revelation 21:1-4 envisions a “new heaven and a new earth” where “there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing, or pain, [for] the old order has passed away.” At this time, the fullness of God’s kingdom will be established, and the righteous will experience eternal peace.
The Twin Judgements: Destruction and Salvation
Jesus spoke of both the destruction of Jerusalem and the Last Judgment in similar terms, though they are distinct events. Both involve tribulation, the separation of the wicked from the righteous, and the eventual salvation of those who remain faithful. The fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD was a temporal judgment for the Jewish people who had rejected Jesus, while the Christians, who heeded Christ’s warnings, were spared.
This destruction foreshadows the final judgment at the end of time, when Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead. As Matthew 16:27 emphasizes: “The Son of Man will come with His angels in His Father’s glory, and then He will repay everyone according to His conduct.” Just as Christians were saved during the destruction of the temple, the righteous will again be saved in the last days, receiving eternal life with God.
Catholic Reflection on Luke 21:28
In the Catholic understanding, Luke 21:28 not only serves as a reminder of the tribulations that will accompany the end times but also emphasizes the need for hope and confidence in God’s promise. The call to “stand erect and raise your heads” amidst suffering is a reminder that believers must not be discouraged by the trials of this world. Instead, they should remain steadfast, trusting in the ultimate redemption that comes through Christ’s second coming.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1042) assures us that at the end of time, God’s kingdom will come in its fullness: “At the end of time, the Kingdom of God will come in its fullness. After the universal judgment, the righteous will reign forever with Christ, glorified in body and soul.” We are called to be vigilant and prepared, living their faith in anticipation of this final victory.
Living with Hope and Expectation
This passage calls for hope, patience, and perseverance. Life may present us with trials – whether personal hardships or larger global tribulations – but as followers of Christ, we are invited to look beyond the immediate pain to the eternal redemption that awaits us. Our hope is grounded in the knowledge that Christ has already won the battle over sin and death. As Christians, we are called to embody this hope by living lives of virtue, prayer, and service, always keeping our eyes fixed on Christ, the source of our salvation.
As we journey through this life, the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, serve as both a sign of God’s grace and a foretaste of the final redemption to come. They strengthen us as we await the fulfillment of God’s kingdom and remind us of the glorious future that awaits those who remain faithful.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, as we await Your glorious return, grant us the strength to stand firm in faith. Help us to lift our heads high, filled with the hope of our redemption. May we be beacons of Your light in this world, living each day in joyful anticipation of Your coming. Give us the grace to persevere through trials, always keeping our eyes fixed on You, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
CONCLUSION
In Luke 21:25-28, Jesus offers His followers both a sobering warning and a message of hope, calling them to remain steadfast amidst signs of upheaval and cosmic disturbance. These prophetic words remind Christians that earthly trials are temporary, and Christ’s return will bring redemption for the faithful. As Christians, we are invited to live in vigilant readiness, trusting in God’s ultimate plan and preparing ourselves spiritually for the final victory of Christ over sin and death. The message is clear: while the world may tremble, the faithful should “stand erect and raise your heads,” assured that God’s promise of salvation is near.
This passage calls us to embrace hope and perseverance, recognizing that even in times of great turmoil, God’s plan is unfolding, and His kingdom is at hand. In our daily lives, we are encouraged to foster a deeper relationship with Christ through prayer, the sacraments, and acts of love and charity. As we anticipate the return of the Son of Man, may we live each day with hearts filled with hope, knowing that our redemption is not just a distant future but a present reality that sustains us through life’s challenges.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, we thank You for Your promise of redemption and the hope of Your return in glory. Strengthen our faith in times of trial and help us to stand firm in Your love. May we always live with joyful anticipation of Your coming, trusting in Your mercy and grace. Guide us in our daily walk, that we may be a light to others, sharing the hope of salvation with all we encounter. Amen.