The phrase “coming on the clouds” in the Bible is a powerful image that signifies Jesus’ return with divine authority, glory, and visibility. Rooted in the Old Testament book of Daniel and echoed by Jesus in the New Testament, it symbolizes a supernatural arrival marked by God’s presence and majesty. Clouds in biblical language often represent God’s power and glory, making this phrase more than just poetic—it’s a clear promise of Jesus’ second coming, a visible event that will bring justice and restoration.
Understanding this phrase helps you grasp the hope and expectation Christians have about the future. It’s a call to live ready and watchful for Jesus’ return, knowing it will be unmistakable and glorious. If you want to explore the deeper meaning behind these biblical images and how they impact your faith, keep reading for a more detailed look at the rich symbolism and promises tied to “coming on the clouds.”
If you’ve ever read the Bible, you’ve probably come across the phrase “coming on the clouds.” It’s a vivid, powerful image that pops up especially in the New Testament, but it’s rooted in the Old Testament too. You might wonder: What does it really mean? Is it literal, symbolic, or something else? Let’s break it down clearly and simply so you can understand exactly what’s going on with this phrase.
Where Does “Coming on the Clouds” Appear in the Bible?
The phrase shows up a few key places, mainly in prophetic and apocalyptic contexts. The two most important passages to know are:
- Daniel 7:13 – “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man…”
- Matthew 24:30 – “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.”
There are other references too, but these are the cornerstones. The Old Testament sets the stage, and Jesus and the New Testament writers pick it up and expand on it.
What Do Clouds Symbolize in the Bible?
Clouds are a common biblical symbol and often represent:
- God’s presence and glory
- Divine power and judgment
- A veil of mystery or majesty
For example, in Exodus 13:21, God led the Israelites by a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night. That cloud wasn’t just weather; it was God’s presence guiding and protecting His people.
Similarly, in Exodus 24:15-18, Moses ascended Mount Sinai and the glory of the Lord appeared as a consuming fire on the mountain, covered by a dense cloud—God’s presence enveloped in clouds.
So, “coming on the clouds” taps into this deep biblical tradition: clouds aren’t just natural phenomena; they’re a sign of something divine and powerful showing up.
What Does “Coming on the Clouds” Mean in Daniel 7:13?
Daniel 7 is a prophetic vision describing “one like a son of man” coming with the clouds of heaven. This figure receives eternal dominion, glory, and kingship.
Here’s what it means:
- “Son of Man”: This title refers to a human-like figure who has authority from God.
- “Coming with the clouds”: This shows divine authority and heavenly origin. It’s not just any person arriving—it’s someone arriving with God’s power and approval.
- “Receiving dominion”: This figure gets a kingdom that will last forever.
In short, Daniel 7:13 describes a powerful, divine figure who will rule forever, appearing in a majestic, supernatural way “on the clouds.” Many scholars and Christians understand this figure as the Messiah—Jesus Christ.
Jesus’ Use of “Coming on the Clouds”
Jesus quotes Daniel 7:13 in the New Testament. For example, in Matthew 26:64, Jesus says to the high priest, “You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
Why does Jesus use this phrase?
- To claim divine authority.
- To indicate His role as the promised Messiah.
- To show that His coming will be visible, unmistakable, and glorious.
When Jesus speaks about “coming on the clouds,” He’s referring to His second coming—the future event when He returns in power and glory to judge the world and establish God’s kingdom.
What Does “Coming on the Clouds” Mean for You Today?
If you’re wondering what this means for your life, here are the key points:
- It’s a promise of Jesus’ return. He will come back visibly and powerfully, not secretly or quietly.
- It’s a call to be ready. Jesus tells us in Matthew 24:42: “Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.”
- It’s reassurance. Jesus’ return will bring justice, restore all things, and defeat evil.
So, “coming on the clouds” isn’t just poetic language. It’s a clear promise about the future, reminding you to live with hope and expectation.
How Have Others Understood This Phrase?
Throughout Christian history, “coming on the clouds” has been understood mainly in two ways:
- Literal interpretation: Jesus will return physically in the sky, visible to all, as the clouds part. This view matches the plain reading of verses like Revelation 1:7: “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him.”
- Symbolic interpretation: The clouds symbolize divine authority and majesty rather than literal clouds. The phrase highlights the supernatural nature of Christ’s return.
Most Christians combine both views: Jesus will literally return, and His arrival will be marked by divine glory symbolized by clouds.
Related Bible Verses to Know
Here are some more verses to help you understand the phrase:
- Psalm 104:3 – “He makes the clouds his chariot; he rides on the wings of the wind.” (God’s power displayed in clouds.)
- Isaiah 19:1 – “Behold, the Lord is riding on a swift cloud…” (God as a divine warrior.)
- Revelation 1:7 – “Look, he is coming with the clouds… and all peoples will see him.” (Jesus’ return visible to everyone.)
These verses support the idea that clouds are linked to divine power, presence, and coming judgment.
Quick Summary: What “Coming on the Clouds” Means
- It’s a biblical way to describe a divine, powerful arrival.
- It points to Jesus’ second coming, visible and glorious.
- Clouds symbolize God’s presence, authority, and majesty.
- The phrase roots back to Daniel 7:13, a prophecy about the Messiah.
- It’s a promise for believers to live expectantly and ready.
Final Thoughts for You
If you want to understand the Bible better, this phrase is a key to unlocking the hope Christians have in Jesus’ return. It’s not just an ancient image; it’s a real promise that impacts how you live today.
Remember, when you see “coming on the clouds,” think of:
- God’s power and glory breaking into history.
- Jesus, the Son of Man, coming back to set things right.
- Your call to be watchful, faithful, and hopeful.
It’s a reminder that what Jesus started, He will finish—powerfully, visibly, and victoriously.
FAQs About “What Does ‘Coming on the Clouds’ Mean in the Bible?”
1. What does ‘coming on the clouds’ mean in the Bible?
It refers to a divine, powerful arrival—especially Jesus’ second coming—signified by clouds that represent God’s presence, authority, and glory.
2. Where is the phrase ‘coming on the clouds’ found in the Bible?
The key verses are Daniel 7:13 and Matthew 24:30, with additional references in Revelation and the Old Testament highlighting God’s presence through clouds.
3. Why are clouds important in biblical symbolism?
Clouds often symbolize God’s glory, presence, power, and sometimes judgment, making them a fitting image for divine appearances.
4. Who is the ‘Son of Man’ coming on the clouds?
The “Son of Man” is a title Jesus uses for Himself, referring to the Messiah who will return with divine authority and power.
5. Is the ‘coming on the clouds’ a literal or symbolic event?
Most Christians believe it’s both—a literal visible return of Jesus marked by divine glory, with clouds symbolizing His heavenly authority.
6. How does understanding ‘coming on the clouds’ affect my faith?
It encourages you to live with hope and readiness, trusting in Jesus’ promised return to bring justice and restoration.
7. Does ‘coming on the clouds’ refer only to Jesus?
In the Bible, it primarily refers to Jesus’ return, though clouds also represent God’s presence in other contexts.
8. What Old Testament background helps explain ‘coming on the clouds’?
Daniel’s vision in Daniel 7:13 is foundational, showing a divine figure receiving eternal kingship “with the clouds of heaven.”
9. How does Jesus use this phrase in the New Testament?
Jesus cites Daniel’s prophecy, claiming His future return will be glorious and unmistakable, affirming His divine authority.
10. What should I do knowing Jesus is ‘coming on the clouds’?
Be watchful, live faithfully, and hold onto the hope that Jesus will return visibly and powerfully to fulfill God’s promises.
