Definition: For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down that passage from Matthew 24:27. It’s a pretty famous and often-discussed verse in the Bible! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is about significant events that are coming in the future. It's saying that something big is going to happen soon, and it will be very noticeable. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Matthew 24…” : This refers to a specific book in the Bible – Matthew. It’s one of the most important books about Jesus's teachings and the end times. “…cometh out of the east…” : This describes a sudden, bright flash of light . It’s not a gradual glow; it's like lightning striking something far away. “East” is used to describe the direction of the sun, suggesting this event will be a dramatic display. “…and shineth even unto the west…” : This means the same thing as above – a bright flash that’s visible all the way across the world. It's like the lightning is traveling far and wide. “so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” : This is the key part! The verse says that this dramatic event (the lightning and the shining) will also happen when Jesus returns to Earth. The "Son of Man" refers to Jesus himself. In simpler terms: Jesus is going to appear in a spectacular, visible way soon after he returns. It's a sign that something important and significant is about to occur. What does it mean for us? It’s often interpreted as a warning about the end times – that there will be dramatic signs of Jesus’s return. It suggests that we should be prepared, vigilant, and aware of what's happening around us. It doesn't necessarily mean everything is bad; it's more about recognizing that things are changing and preparing for a significant event. Important Note: This verse has been interpreted in many different ways throughout history, and it’s still debated by scholars today. It’s best to understand it within the context of the rest of the Bible and its historical background. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Matthew 24? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in general terms? Give you a little more context about why this verse is significant?