Matthew 26:64

KJV

Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

KJV (with Strong's)

Jesus {G2424} saith {G3004} unto him {G846}, Thou {G4771} hast said {G2036}: nevertheless {G4133} I say {G3004} unto you {G5213}, Hereafter {G737}{G575} shall ye see {G3700} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} sitting {G2521} on {G1537} the right hand {G1188} of power {G1411}, and {G2532} coming {G2064} in {G1909} the clouds {G3507} of heaven {G3772}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua said to him, "The words are your own. But I tell you that one day you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of HaG'vurah and coming on the clouds of heaven."

Berean Standard Bible

“You have said it yourself,” Jesus answered. “But I say to all of you, from now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

American Standard Version

Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Henceforth ye shall see the Son of man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Matthew 26:64, Jesus delivers a profound and prophetic declaration to the High Priest Caiaphas during His trial, unequivocally affirming His divine identity, present authority, and future glorious return. This statement serves as a pivotal moment, revealing Jesus' self-understanding as the promised Messiah and Son of God, who, despite His imminent suffering, will be exalted to ultimate power and return in triumph to judge the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This powerful declaration is uttered at the climax of Jesus' illegal night trial before the Jewish Sanhedrin. Following His arrest in Gethsemane and initial questioning by Annas, Jesus is brought before Caiaphas and the full council. They seek false testimony against Him, but when none suffices for a capital charge, Caiaphas directly challenges Jesus, "I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God" ([Matthew 26:63](/matthew/26-63 "Matthew 26:63 - Caiaphas's Question")). Jesus' response in verse 64 is not a defense against the false accusations, but a solemn, self-affirming pronouncement of His true identity and future glory, a truth that the Sanhedrin immediately interprets as blasphemy, sealing His condemnation. This moment underscores the profound irony of the trial: the accused is, in fact, the ultimate Judge.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The trial of Jesus took place during the Passover festival in Jerusalem, a time of heightened religious and political tension. The Jewish Sanhedrin, composed of chief priests, elders, and scribes, served as the supreme religious and judicial body. Their authority under Roman rule was limited, particularly concerning capital punishment, which required Roman approval. The charge of blasphemy, claiming to be God or the Messiah in a divine sense, was punishable by death under Jewish law. Caiaphas's adjuration by the living God was a solemn oath designed to compel a response, and Jesus' direct affirmation, coupled with His claim to divine authority and future judgment, was precisely the "blasphemy" they sought to condemn Him. The imagery of "sitting on the right hand of power" and "coming in the clouds of heaven" would have immediately resonated with the Jewish leaders as clear messianic claims drawn from their sacred texts.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 26:64 encapsulates several profound themes central to Matthew's Gospel and Christian theology. Firstly, it highlights **Christ's Divine Authority and Identity**, as Jesus unequivocally confirms He is the Christ, the Son of God, and the "Son of Man" (a title laden with divine authority from [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man's Authority")). Secondly, it emphasizes **Messianic Exaltation and Sovereignty**, drawing on [Psalm 110:1](/psalm/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord at God's Right Hand") to declare His future enthronement at God's right hand, signifying ultimate power and dominion. Thirdly, the verse powerfully foreshadows **The Second Coming and Final Judgment**, portraying Jesus' return not as a humble servant, but as a glorious, cosmic figure coming "in the clouds of heaven," a clear reference to the divine judgment and vindication of the Son of Man. This declaration transforms a moment of apparent defeat into a profound statement of ultimate triumph and eschatological hope.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** This word (G1411) signifies force, might, or miraculous power. In this context, "the right hand of power" serves as a reverential circumlocution for God Himself, avoiding direct utterance of the divine name. It emphasizes God's omnipotence and majesty, indicating that Jesus will be seated at the right hand of the Almighty God, sharing in His ultimate authority and dominion.
* **Right hand (Greek, _dexiós'_):** Referring to the right side or hand (G1188), this term is universally recognized in ancient Near Eastern and biblical contexts as the place of honor, authority, and power. To sit at someone's right hand denotes a position of co-regency, supreme authority, and intimate association with the one in power. Here, it signifies Jesus' ultimate exaltation and shared sovereignty with God the Father.
* **Coming (Greek, _érchomai'_):** This primary verb (G2064) means "to come or go" in a wide variety of applications. In the context of "coming in the clouds of heaven," it specifically denotes a majestic, public, and undeniable arrival, echoing the prophetic vision of the Son of Man in Daniel 7:13. It speaks to Jesus' future advent as judge and king, a dramatic contrast to His current humble and accused state.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said:"** Jesus' initial response to Caiaphas's direct question ("Art thou the Christ, the Son of God?") is a common Jewish idiom, "Thou hast said" (or "You have said it"). This is not an evasion but a firm and unequivocal affirmation, essentially meaning, "Yes, it is as you say," or "You have spoken the truth." It acknowledges the High Priest's statement as accurate, confirming Jesus' identity as both the Christ (Messiah) and the Son of God.
* **"nevertheless I say unto you,"** This phrase marks a significant shift from affirmation to a direct, authoritative declaration by Jesus Himself. "Nevertheless" (G4133, _plḗn_) introduces a strong contrast, implying that despite His current humble state and the impending judgment by men, a far greater reality awaits. Jesus asserts His own divine authority to speak prophetically to His accusers, shifting the focus from their judgment of Him to His future judgment of them.
* **"Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power,"** This clause contains a profound prophetic statement. "Hereafter" (G737, _árti_ G575, _apó_) indicates a future, yet certain, event. The title "Son of Man" (G5207, _huiós_ G444, _ánthrōpos_), Jesus' preferred self-designation, connects Him to the divine, authoritative figure of Daniel 7:13-14. "Sitting on the right hand of power" is a direct allusion to Psalm 110:1, a key messianic prophecy. It signifies Jesus' post-resurrection exaltation, ascension, and enthronement in a position of ultimate authority, majesty, and shared sovereignty with God. The very ones who condemn Him will one day witness His divine authority.
* **"and coming in the clouds of heaven."** This final phrase completes the powerful imagery of Jesus' future glory. It directly echoes Daniel 7:13, where "one like the Son of Man came with the clouds of heaven." The "clouds" (G3507, _nephélē_) are a biblical symbol of divine presence, glory (the Shekinah glory), and judgment (e.g., God's appearance at Sinai, the pillar of cloud). This signifies Jesus' glorious, undeniable, public, and authoritative return for judgment and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, a dramatic vindication of His claims.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 26:64 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological weight. **Allusion** is paramount, as Jesus directly references two foundational Old Testament prophecies: [Psalm 110:1](/psalm/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord at God's Right Hand") ("sitting on the right hand of power") and [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13 - The Son of Man's Arrival") ("coming in the clouds of heaven"). These allusions would have been immediately recognized by the Jewish Sanhedrin, highlighting Jesus' claim to be the prophesied Messiah with divine authority. There is profound **irony** in this scene: Jesus, the accused, declares that His accusers will one day witness Him as their Judge. The imagery of "right hand of power" and "clouds of heaven" serves as powerful **symbolism**, representing ultimate divine authority, majesty, and the glorious, public nature of His future return. Furthermore, the entire statement functions as a direct **prophecy**, a definitive declaration by Jesus about His future exaltation and eschatological role, which stands in stark contrast to His present humiliation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 26:64 is a theological cornerstone, revealing Jesus' self-understanding as the divine Messiah and Son of God, not merely a human prophet. It asserts His present and future sovereignty, establishing His ultimate authority over all creation and His role as the final Judge. This declaration transforms the narrative of His trial from one of human condemnation to one of divine vindication, underscoring that His crucifixion is not a defeat but a necessary step towards His ultimate exaltation and glorious return. The verse bridges the gap between His earthly ministry and His heavenly reign, providing a foundational truth for Christian eschatology and Christology.

* [Psalm 110:1](/psalm/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord at God's Right Hand")
* [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man's Authority and Kingdom")
* [Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus' Ascension and Promise of Return")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 26:64 offers profound assurance and a sobering warning. For believers, it is a powerful reminder that our Lord, though crucified in weakness, now reigns in ultimate power at the right hand of God. This truth provides immense comfort and hope in times of suffering or perceived defeat, knowing that our Savior is sovereign over all circumstances. His promise to return in glory calls us to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing His kingdom and mission. We are encouraged to persevere, knowing that His vindication is certain, and our ultimate reward is with Him. For those who deny or reject Him, the verse serves as a solemn warning: the very One they dismiss will one day return as the undeniable Judge, before whom every knee will bow and every tongue confess. This compels us to share the Gospel with urgency and compassion, inviting others to embrace Him as Lord before that day of reckoning arrives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' declaration of His future glory, even in the face of His imminent suffering, challenge your perspective on trials and difficulties in your own life?**
* **What does "sitting on the right hand of power" mean for your understanding of Jesus' current authority and reign?**
* **How should the promise of Jesus "coming in the clouds of heaven" impact your daily choices and priorities as a follower of Christ?**
* **In what ways does this verse encourage you to share your faith, knowing that Jesus will one day be revealed in His full glory to all?**

### FAQ
**What does "Thou hast said" mean in this context?**

Answer: "Thou hast said" (Greek: _Su eipas_) is a common Jewish idiom used as a polite but firm affirmation. It's not an evasion or a question, but a direct and unequivocal "Yes, it is as you say," or "You have spoken the truth." Jesus is confirming the High Priest's statement that He is indeed "the Christ, the Son of God" ([Matthew 26:63](/matthew/26-63 "Matthew 26:63 - Caiaphas's Question")).

**Why does Jesus refer to Himself as "the Son of Man" instead of "the Son of God" here?**

Answer: Jesus frequently used the title "Son of Man" as His preferred self-designation throughout the Gospels. While it highlights His true humanity, it also carries profound theological weight, particularly in light of the vision in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man's Authority"). In Daniel, the Son of Man is a divine, heavenly figure who receives everlasting dominion, glory, and a kingdom. By using this title in conjunction with "sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven," Jesus is not only affirming His humanity but, more importantly, asserting His unique, divinely appointed, and authoritative role as the Messiah and future Judge, a claim that the Sanhedrin would have understood as blasphemous.

**What is the significance of "sitting on the right hand of power"?**

Answer: "Sitting on the right hand of power" is a direct allusion to [Psalm 110:1](/psalm/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord at God's Right Hand"), a foundational messianic prophecy. In ancient cultures, the "right hand" symbolized supreme authority, honor, and power. "Power" (Greek: _dynamis_) here is a circumlocution for God Himself, meaning "the right hand of God." Thus, Jesus is declaring that He will be exalted to the highest position of authority and sovereignty alongside God the Father after His resurrection and ascension. It signifies His co-regency and divine majesty.

**What do "coming in the clouds of heaven" signify?**

Answer: This phrase directly echoes the vision of the Son of Man in [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13 - The Son of Man's Arrival"), where a divine figure comes "with the clouds of heaven" to receive an everlasting kingdom. In biblical imagery, "clouds" are often associated with God's presence (the Shekinah glory, e.g., at Sinai or the Transfiguration), His majesty, and His judgment. Therefore, Jesus' statement signifies His glorious, public, undeniable, and authoritative return, not as a suffering servant, but as the divine Judge and King, bringing ultimate vindication to Himself and judgment upon His adversaries.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 26:64 stands as a profound Christ-centered declaration, revealing Jesus' identity and future in light of His redemptive work. His affirmation to Caiaphas, "Thou hast said," followed by the declaration of His future enthronement and return, is a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's dual role as suffering servant and glorious King. The "Son of Man sitting on the right hand of power" points directly to His post-resurrection exaltation, as described in [Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - Peter's Sermon on Pentecost") where Peter proclaims, "Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted..." This enthronement signifies Christ's completed work of atonement and His current reign as Lord over all creation, having "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")). Furthermore, "coming in the clouds of heaven" anticipates His glorious Second Advent, when He will return not as a humble man on trial, but as the triumphant King and Judge, fulfilling the promise of His ascension where He was "taken up... and a cloud received him out of their sight," with the angels promising He would "so come in like manner" ([Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus' Ascension and Promise of Return")). This ultimate revelation of Christ's power and glory will be seen by "every eye" ([Revelation 1:7](/revelation/1-7 "Revelation 1:7 - Christ's Return")), establishing His eternal kingdom and bringing final judgment and salvation. Thus, Matthew 26:64 is not merely a statement about Jesus' future, but a foundational truth about His present reign and the certain hope of His return, all centered on His identity as the Christ who accomplished salvation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:13

I saw in the night visions, and, behold, [one] like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.

Mark 14:62

And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

Psalms 110:1

¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

Hebrews 1:3

Who being the brightness of [his] glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

Revelation 1:7

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Hebrews 12:2

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Luke 21:27

And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.