Luke 21:27 (KJV)

What does Luke 21:27 mean?

Luke 21:27 describes a future moment when people will see "the Son of man" arriving in a cloud, displaying power and great glory. This verse points to a dramatic, visible event where Jesus returns in a way that is unmistakable and majestic.

In this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples about events that will happen at the end of the age. He is describing signs and troubles that will take place, and then He says that He Himself—the "Son of man"—will appear in a powerful and glorious way. The verse emphasizes that this coming will be public and awe-inspiring, not hidden or secret.

The Greek behind Luke 21:27

• "Son of man" (υἱὸς ἀνθρώπου, huios anthrōpou) is a title Jesus often uses for Himself, drawing from Old Testament imagery, especially from Daniel, to show both His humanity and His unique authority.
• "Coming" (ἔρχεσθαι, erchesthai) is a common Greek word for arriving or appearing, but in this context, it carries the sense of a significant arrival—one that people will witness.
• "Cloud" (νεφέλη, nephelē) often represents God's presence in the Bible, so seeing Jesus "in a cloud" suggests divine authority and connection to God's glory.
• "Power" (δύναμις, dynamis) and "glory" (δόξα, doxa) both highlight the extraordinary and unmistakable nature of this event, showing that Jesus' return will be marked by strength and honor far beyond ordinary human experience.

Why Luke 21:27 matters

• Luke 21:27 clears up any idea that Jesus' return will be hidden or only for a select few; the language stresses that everyone will see this event.
• The verse connects Jesus directly with Old Testament expectations of a divine figure coming with authority, helping readers see how Jesus fulfills those hopes.
• In the context of Luke 21, this statement reassures listeners that despite chaos and fear in the world, Jesus' return will bring clarity and reveal His true identity and power.