Matthew 16:27

Matthew 16:27 (KJV) offers a profound glimpse into the future return of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His divine authority and the ultimate accountability of humanity. This verse serves as a foundational teaching on eschatology and divine justice, providing a powerful motivation for faithful living.

Context

This declaration by Jesus immediately follows His teaching on the cost of discipleship, where He calls His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. He had just asked, "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Matthew 16:26). Verse 27 provides the compelling reason for such radical commitment: the certainty of His glorious return and righteous judgment. It underscores that present choices have eternal consequences.

Key Themes

• The Second Coming of Christ: The phrase "the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father" unequivocally points to the future, visible, and majestic return of Jesus. This event is central to Christian hope and doctrine, often referred to as the Second Advent.
• Divine Glory and Authority: Jesus' return will not be humble, as His first advent, but accompanied by the "glory of his Father," signifying His full divine power and majesty. The presence of "his angels" further highlights His supreme authority and the solemnity of His coming, similar to descriptions found in Matthew 25:31.
• Universal Judgment and Reward: The promise "then he shall reward every man according to his works" establishes the principle of divine justice. This is not salvation by works, but rather accountability for the actions and choices made during one's life. Believers will be rewarded for their faithfulness and service, while unbelievers will face judgment for their rejection of God. This theme is echoed in passages like 2 Corinthians 5:10 and Revelation 22:12.

Linguistic Insights

• "Son of man" (Greek: huios tou anthrōpou): This is Jesus' most frequent self-designation, emphasizing both His true humanity and His unique, divinely appointed role as the Messiah and judge, often drawing parallels to the prophetic figure in Daniel 7:13-14 who receives everlasting dominion.
• "Glory" (Greek: doxa): Denotes splendor, majesty, and divine radiance. It speaks to the awe-inspiring nature of God's presence and power.
• "Reward" (Greek: apodidōmi): Means to give back, repay, or render. It implies a just and appropriate recompense, whether positive or negative, based on one's deeds.
• "Works" (Greek: erga): Refers to actions, deeds, or labors. In a biblical sense, these are the outward manifestations of one's inner faith and obedience (or lack thereof).

Practical Application

Matthew 16:27 serves as a powerful call to live with an eternal perspective. Knowing that Jesus will return in glory to judge and reward provides strong motivation:

• It encourages believers to live lives of genuine faith and obedience, not for salvation (which is by grace through faith), but as evidence of their transformed hearts and to earn eternal rewards.
• It reminds us that our actions, words, and even thoughts have significance in God's sight and will be brought into account.
• For those who have not yet trusted Christ, it is a sober warning of impending judgment and an invitation to respond to His call before that day.
• It offers hope and assurance to the faithful that their sacrifices and service for the Kingdom of God will not go unnoticed or unrewarded by the righteous Judge.