Definition: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 24:30. It's a pretty significant and often-discussed passage in the Bible. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a significant event that will happen very soon – around the time of Jesus’s ministry. It speaks about the arrival of a person who is known as “the Son of Man.” Let's unpack each part: “And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven” : This means that soon , there will be a visible sign or indication of this person. It’s not just any sign; it’s a noticeable and recognizable event. Think of it like a big, important marker. “and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn” : This is where it gets interesting. “Tribes” in this context refers to different groups of people throughout history – the Jewish tribes, the Roman tribes, and eventually, the entire world. This phrase means that a large number of people around the globe will be deeply saddened and worried about this event. It’s a widespread feeling of apprehension and concern. “and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory” : This is the most dramatic part . It describes a spectacular appearance of this person. “coming in the clouds of heaven” : This suggests he’s not just appearing on Earth; he's rising to a heavenly location – like a cloud, which symbolizes his divine nature and power. “with power and great glory” : This emphasizes that this person will be incredibly powerful and magnificent. It’s a display of divine authority and majesty. What does it mean in the bigger picture? The Bible often uses symbolism to communicate important truths about Jesus's coming. This verse is interpreted as: Jesus’s Return: It indicates that Jesus Christ will return to Earth, after a period of preparation and testing. A Time of Great Change: It suggests that there will be a time when the world is deeply troubled and filled with fear – a “time of trouble.” A Sign of His Reign: The appearance of this person signifies that Jesus’s kingdom (His rule) is about to begin. Important Note: It's crucial to remember that this verse isn’t necessarily about exactly what will happen. It’s a warning and a signpost . It’s a message of impending change, and it’s meant to inspire people to be prepared for the coming of Jesus. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail with an analogy? Discuss what the verse might mean from a specific biblical perspective (e.g., its connection to Old Testament prophecies)?