Revelation 1:7
Verse
Context
John Greets the Seven Churches
6who has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.7Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Behold, he cometh with clouds - This relates to his coming to execute judgment on the enemies of his religion; perhaps to his coming to destroy Jerusalem, as he was to be particularly manifested to them that pierced him, which must mean the incredulous and rebellious Jews. And all kindreds of the earth - Πασαι αἱ φυλαι της γης· All the tribes of the land. By this the Jewish people are most evidently intended, and therefore the whole verse may be understood as predicting the destruction of the Jews; and is a presumptive proof that the Apocalypse was written before the final overthrow of the Jewish state. Even so, Amen - Ναι, αμην· Yea, Amen. It is true, so be it. Our Lord will come and execute judgment on the Jews and Gentiles. This the Jews and Romans particularly felt.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
with clouds--Greek, "the clouds," namely, of heaven. "A cloud received Him out of their sight" at His ascension (Act 1:9). His ascension corresponds to the manner of His coming again (Act 1:11). Clouds are the symbols of wrath to sinners. every eye--His coming shall therefore be a personal, visible appearing. shall see--It is because they do not now see Him, they will not believe. Contrast Joh 20:29. they also--they in particular; "whosoever." Primarily, at His pre-millennial advent the Jews, who shall "look upon Him whom they have pierced," and mourn in repentance, and say, "Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord." Secondarily, and here chiefly, at the general judgment all the ungodly, not only those who actually pierced Him, but those who did so by their sins, shall look with trembling upon Him. John is the only one of the Evangelists who records the piercing of Christ's side. This allusion identifies him as the author of the Apocalypse. The reality of Christ's humanity and His death is proved by His having been pierced; and the water and blood from His side were the antitype to the Levitical waters of cleansing and blood offerings. all kindreds . . . shall wail--all the unconverted at the general judgment; and especially at His pre-millennial advent, the Antichristian confederacy (Zac 12:3-6, Zac 12:9; Zac 14:1-4; Mat 24:30). Greek, "all the tribes of the land," or "the earth." See the limitation to "all," Rev 13:8. Even the godly while rejoicing in His love shall feel penitential sorrow at their sins, which shall all be manifested at the general judgment. because of--Greek, "at," or "in regard to Him." Even so, Amen--Gods seal of His own word; to which corresponds the believer's prayer, Rev 22:20. The "even so" is Greek; "Amen" is Hebrew. To both Gentiles and Jews His promises and threats are unchangeable.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold he cometh with clouds,.... John carries on the account of Christ in his kingly office, one branch of which is to execute judgment; and describes him by a future coming of his, which cannot be understood of his coming to take vengeance on the Jews, at the time of Jerusalem's destruction, though that is sometimes expressed in such language, and with such circumstances, as here; see Mat 24:30; because if this revelation was made to John, in the latter end of Domitian's reign, as is commonly reported by the ancients, and in the year 95 or 96, as chronologers generally place it, it must be upwards of twenty years after the destruction of Jerusalem, and therefore cannot relate to that; nor to his coming in a spiritual sense to convert the Jews in the latter day; for this coming is personal, and with clouds, when he will be seen by every eye; all which circumstances do not so well agree with that; besides, all the kindreds of the earth will not lament on that account: the wicked will take little notice of it, the tribes of the Jews will rejoice at it, and so will all the converted Gentiles: it is better therefore to understand this of Christ's second coming to judge the quick and dead, which is represented as just at hand, to denote the certainty of it; and a "behold" is prefixed to it, to excite attention, and to denote the importance of it: things of great moment, and very surprising, will then be done; Christ will appear in great glory and majesty, the dead in Christ will be raised, Christ's personal kingdom will take place, and the general judgment come on. The manner of his coming will be "with clouds"; either figuratively, with angels, who will attend him both for grandeur and service, or literally, in the clouds of heaven; he shall descend in like manner as he ascended, and as Daniel prophesied he should, Dan 7:13. Hence, one of the names of the Messiah, with the Jews, is, "Anani" (r), which signifies "clouds"; and his coming is so described, both to denote the grand and magnificent manner, in which he will come, making the clouds his chariots; and to strike terror into his enemies, clouds and darkness being about him, thunder and lightning breaking out of them, as tokens of that vengeance he comes to take upon them; as also the visibility of his coming, he shall descend from the third heaven, where he now is, into the airy heaven, and sit upon the clouds, as on his throne, and be visible to all: hence it follows, and every eye shall see him; that is, everyone that has eyes shall see him, or all men shall see him; the righteous shall see him, and be glad; they shall see him in his glory, as he is, and for themselves, and be satisfied; they shall rejoice at the sight of him; they will be filled with joy unspeakable, and full of glory: but the wicked will see him and tremble; they will be filled with the utmost consternation and astonishment; they will not be able to bear the sight of him; they will flee from him, and call to the rocks and mountains to fall on them, and hide them from his face, And they also which pierced him; his hands, feet, and side, when they crucified him; both the Roman soldiers, who actually did it, and the body of the Jewish nation, the rulers and common people, who consented to it, and at whose instigation it was done; these, being raised from the dead, shall see him with their bodily eyes, whom they so used, And all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him; all the wicked, in the several parts of the world, will lament, and wring their hands, and express the inward terror and horror of their minds, at his appearing; they will fear his resentment of all their wicked words and actions; will dread his wrath, and tremble at his righteous judgment: even so, Amen, says John, and so say all true believers; what the wicked lament, they rejoice at; they desire the coming of Christ, they love it, look and long for it; they believe it shall be, and wish it may be quickly, as in Rev 22:20; This expression of faith in, and desire after the coming of Christ, is signified by two words, the one Greek and the other Hebrew; suggesting, that this is an article of faith among all the saints of all nations, Jews and Gentiles, and is what they are wishing and waiting for, (r) Targum in 1 Chron. iii. 24. vid. Beckii Not. in ib. Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 85. 2.
Revelation 1:7
John Greets the Seven Churches
6who has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.7Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Vision of the Latter-Day Glories
By C.H. Spurgeon5.4K38:52ISA 2:2MAL 4:1MAT 11:28ROM 5:8REV 1:7REV 5:9REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unstoppable growth of the church and the gathering of all nations to worship God. He uses the imagery of a dry riverbed gradually filling with water to illustrate the current state of the church, which may seem insignificant but holds great potential. The preacher then looks into the future and envisions a powerful and abundant flow of people from all nations coming to worship God. He highlights the significance of this gathering, comparing it to the nations climbing treacherous mountains with little benefit, while the true worship of God brings eternal blessings. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to stand as prophets of the Lord and anticipate the glorious future of the church.
The Ancient of Days on the Judgment Throne
By W.F. Kumuyi3.0K1:29:21ISA 9:6DAN 7:14MAT 24:44PHP 2:9REV 1:7REV 22:12REV 22:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the second coming of Christ, highlighting the need for repentance, righteousness, and readiness for judgment. It delves into the significance of surrendering to God, holding fast to His commandments, and living a life of holiness and obedience to avoid the eternal judgment that awaits those who reject salvation. The sermon also underscores the eternal dominion and kingdom of Jesus Christ, the Son of Man, who will come with the clouds of heaven to establish His everlasting reign.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 1
By Chuck Smith2.5K49:32Through The BibleMAT 22:37MAT 28:20HEB 12:1REV 1:3REV 1:7REV 1:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the structure and divisions of the book of Revelation. He explains that the book can be divided into three sections: the things which John has seen, the things which are currently happening in the church, and the things which will happen in the future. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding these divisions in order to interpret the book correctly. He also highlights the sense of urgency and the expectation of the return of Jesus Christ that has always been present in the church. The sermon concludes with a greeting from John to the seven churches in Asia, symbolizing completeness and perfection.
Ascension Power
By Erlo Stegen2.4K42:12Resurrection LifeMAT 24:43MRK 13:32ACT 1:7ACT 1:9PHP 2:9REV 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning away from sin. He reminds the audience that seeing the wounds of Jesus should make it difficult for them to continue sinning. The preacher also discusses the topic of the return of Jesus, highlighting that no one knows the exact time of his coming. He encourages the audience to focus on being witnesses for Jesus in their local communities and to the ends of the earth. The sermon references Bible verses such as Acts 1:7-8, Philippians 2:9-11, and Revelation 1:7 to support the preacher's message.
Communion: He Comes to Fill Us With His Love and Make Us Like Himself
By Hans R. Waldvogel2.0K22:43CommunionHEB 10:26REV 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being present when significant events occur in relation to the return of Jesus Christ. He contrasts the reactions of those who will wail and be filled with fear when they see Jesus coming in the clouds, with the hope and transformation that believers will experience. The preacher also mentions witnessing disrespectful behavior towards God and expresses his disagreement with articles questioning the existence of God. He concludes by reminding the audience of the need to love and honor Jesus Christ. The sermon references biblical verses such as Revelation 1:7 and 1 Corinthians 16:22.
(Revelation) Revelation 21:22-22:21
By Zac Poonen1.6K58:43REV 1:1REV 1:7REV 1:17REV 1:19REV 21:23REV 22:6REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Revelation and its central theme of the second coming of Christ. The sermon begins with an emphasis on the importance of obedience and proclaiming the word of God to others. The preacher then briefly reviews the content of the book of Revelation, starting with chapter 1 which introduces the revelation of Jesus Christ and the exhortations and promises given to believers. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the total sovereignty of God and the need for believers to trust in His control, especially in these days leading up to the fulfillment of the events described in Revelation.
When Christ Appears in Glory
By Albert Leckie1.4K40:51ChristMAT 24:6JHN 14:21CO 15:51COL 3:4TIT 2:11HEB 7:26REV 1:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the future manifestation of Jesus Christ in both judgment and salvation. He emphasizes that despite man's arrogance and disregard for the gospel, when Jesus appears, he will come in judgment. Those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel will face everlasting destruction. The preacher also highlights the importance of looking forward to the future manifestation of Jesus in glory and encourages believers to rejoice in their participation in Christ's sufferings. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Hebrews 9, Revelation 1 and 19, Matthew 24, 2 Thessalonians 1, and 1 Peter 4.
Prayer and the Victory of God
By John Piper1.3K38:01ISA 9:7MAT 6:9MAT 24:14MAT 24:29LUK 18:1ACT 4:311TH 4:152TH 1:6TIT 2:13REV 1:7REV 8:4This sermon emphasizes the power of prayer in bringing about the victory of God. Through various biblical passages and examples, the message highlights how prayers play a crucial role in ushering in God's ultimate triumph over evil and establishing His kingdom on earth. It encourages believers to pray boldly, connecting their everyday lives to the grand purpose of God's victory.
The New Man the Crucified Life
By Ulf Oldenburg1.1K21:32LEV 23:24ISA 62:3LUK 10:422CO 5:17PHP 2:9COL 3:11TH 4:16REV 1:7REV 3:20REV 19:6This sermon emphasizes the imminent return of Yeshua (Jesus) and the significance of being prepared for His coming. It delves into the symbolism of various biblical feasts, such as Passover and Pentecost, pointing to Yeshua as the fulfillment of these events. The message stresses the transformation believers undergo through Christ, becoming a new creation and part of His bride. It also highlights the importance of crowning Yeshua as the King of our lives and being ready for the marriage feast of the Lamb.
Forgiving and God
By R.T. Kendall7661:10:08HAB 2:1HAB 3:17MAT 10:32JHN 11:15ROM 3:23ROM 6:23HEB 11:1REV 1:7This sermon by R.T. Kendall focuses on the concept of total forgiveness, exploring the trilogy of Total Forgiveness, Totally Forgiving Ourselves, and Totally Forgiving God. The message delves into the need to let go of grievances, trust in God's justice, and wait for His ultimate vindication. Habakkuk's journey of questioning God's allowance of evil and suffering is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of faith and patience in understanding God's ways. The sermon concludes with a powerful call to accept Jesus' sacrifice for salvation and the significance of confessing faith publicly.
The Glorifier of Christ
By J. Sidlow Baxter71343:46ChristEXO 32:32MAT 27:50JHN 16:14ACT 2:32EPH 2:8REV 1:7REV 19:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the role of the Holy Spirit in glorifying Jesus. He emphasizes that throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, the central theme is Jesus. The speaker uses the example of the Bible itself to illustrate this, stating that the Bible is Jesus from beginning to end. He explains that in the Old Testament, there are prophecies about Christ, in the Gospels, we see the historical account of Jesus, in the Acts and Epistles, we witness the experience of Christ, and in the Apocalypse, we anticipate the coming glory of Christ. The speaker concludes by highlighting the progression of Jesus' story: He comes, He dies, He lives, and He saves.
Audio Sermon: I Will Come Again
By Leonard Ravenhill6711:06:151TH 4:3REV 1:7REV 22:20This sermon emphasizes the anticipation of the return of Jesus Christ, highlighting the need for purity and readiness among believers. It discusses the signs of the times, the hope and assurance found in Christ's promise to come again, and the importance of living in holiness and obedience in expectation of His return.
Micah 5:4
By Chuck Smith1The Greatness of ChristProphecy and FulfillmentPSA 22:27MIC 5:2MIC 5:4JHN 1:1EPH 1:17PHP 2:9HEB 2:1REV 1:7REV 5:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the greatness of the Messiah as prophesied in Micah 5:4, highlighting His future reign from Jerusalem and His humble beginnings in Bethlehem. He discusses the significance of Jesus being smitten and the implications of His eternal existence, as well as the promise that He will be great to the ends of the earth. Smith connects this prophecy to the New Testament, illustrating how Jesus fulfills these predictions and will ultimately be recognized and worshipped by all nations. The sermon underscores the importance of acknowledging Jesus' greatness and the salvation He offers to everyone who believes.
Rev. 1:7. the Great Advent
By A.B. Simpson0Readiness for His ReturnThe Second Coming of ChristPSA 96:11ZEC 12:10MAT 13:26MAT 17:5MAT 26:64LUK 9:34ACT 1:91TH 4:16REV 1:7REV 14:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes the certainty and urgency of Christ's return as depicted in Revelation 1:7, reminding the Church and the world that Jesus will come as Judge and King. He reflects on the hope that the early Church found in this promise, which sustained them through trials and persecution, contrasting it with the apathy of the modern Church and the world. Simpson warns that while the world may scoff and the Church may forget, the day of reckoning is approaching, and all will see Him, including those who pierced Him. He calls for readiness and vigilance, urging believers to hold fast to their faith and truth in anticipation of His glorious return. The sermon concludes with a passionate plea for the Church to awaken and prepare for the coming of the Lord.
The Current Rise of the Anti Christ Spirit and the One World Religion
By Edgar Reich0REV 1:7REV 2:4REV 4:8REV 5:6REV 6:15REV 20:4REV 20:7REV 20:10REV 21:1REV 21:4Edgar Reich delves into the Book of Revelation, unveiling God's divine plan for mankind and the universe. He discusses the elimination of sin and evil, the righteous judgment of Jesus, the restoration of a right relationship with mankind in heaven, on a New Earth, and in the New Jerusalem. Reich emphasizes the completion of God's redemptive program, the vindication of God's Holy Name, and the promise of a future free from tears, death, sorrow, crying, and pain as described in Revelation 21:4.
Parable of the Pounds (Part 1)
By J.C. Ryle0Understanding ProphecyChrist's AdventsPSA 22:16ISA 53:5DAN 9:26MIC 5:2ZEC 9:9MAT 24:30LUK 19:11ACT 1:11ROM 11:26REV 1:7J.C. Ryle discusses the Parable of the Pounds, emphasizing the misunderstanding of Jesus' disciples regarding the immediate establishment of God's kingdom. He highlights their error in overlooking the necessity of Christ's suffering before His glory, paralleling it with contemporary Christians who may misinterpret prophecies about Christ's second coming. Ryle urges believers to approach Old Testament prophecies with a literal understanding, warning against the dangers of spiritualizing texts that refer to Israel and Jerusalem. He calls for a renewed examination of prophetic scriptures, advocating for a balanced view of both Christ's first and second advents. Ultimately, Ryle stresses the importance of recognizing the literal fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and the implications for the Church today.
The Sun Still Shines - Job 37:21
By Bernard Fell0JOB 37:21PSA 34:17MAL 4:2HEB 11:1REV 1:7Bernard Fell preaches about finding hope and comfort in the midst of life's storms by focusing on the bright light in the clouds, symbolizing the presence of God's light and righteousness even in difficult times. He encourages the discouraged to look up to the Sun of Righteousness, Jesus Christ, whose comforting rays can dispel doubts and fears, turning gloom into joy. Through faith and trust in God, even in the darkest moments, believers can see triumph and experience the promise of the King of kings returning in glory with healing.
Sonidos Extranos Del Campamento Pretribulacional
By Eli Brayley0MAT 24:291CO 14:81CO 15:511TH 4:162TI 2:15HEB 9:282PE 3:10REV 1:7REV 20:4Eli Brayley preaches about the discrepancies and errors of the pretribulational doctrine, highlighting the misinterpretations of key biblical passages and the inconsistency with the teachings of the New Testament. He addresses the concept of a 'Second Coming before the Second Coming,' emphasizing the unison among the apostles regarding Christ's return and refuting the need for multiple comings of Jesus. Additionally, he discusses the fallacy of a 'First Resurrection before the First Resurrection,' pointing out the scriptural evidence that supports a single resurrection event for all believers. Brayley challenges the audience to discern between truth and conjecture, urging them to align their beliefs with the unadulterated Word of God.
2 Peter 1:16
By John Gill0Eyewitness TestimonyThe Certainty of Christ's ReturnMAT 14:3MAT 16:27JHN 1:14ROM 1:41TI 1:4TIT 1:14HEB 2:31PE 1:72PE 1:16REV 1:7John Gill emphasizes that the apostles did not follow cleverly devised fables but instead proclaimed the truth of Christ's power and coming based on their firsthand experiences and prophetic evidence. He contrasts the false teachings and myths prevalent in their time with the authentic witness of Christ's transfiguration, which affirmed His divine glory and future return. Gill highlights the significance of the apostles' eyewitness accounts as a foundation for their ministry, reinforcing the certainty of Christ's promises and the reality of His second coming.
The Gifts of God Not to Be Rejected on Account of the Channel That Brings Them.
By Francois Fenelon0MAT 6:19JHN 18:362CO 5:20EPH 2:6PHP 3:17PHP 3:20COL 1:131TH 4:16REV 1:7The preacher delves into the concept of citizenship in the Bible, emphasizing that Christians are citizens of a heavenly kingdom, distinct from the earthly realm, and under the authority of a new Ruler with different standards. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are delivered from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of God's beloved Son. The sermon highlights the responsibilities and privileges of heavenly citizenship, urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their heavenly status and eagerly await the return of the Savior, Jesus Christ.
Spiritual Food for a Hungry World
By Billy Sunday01TI 3:21TI 5:72TI 4:7REV 1:7The preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life without reproach, being above criticism, inviolable, unassailable, and irreprehensible. This involves conducting oneself in a manner that cannot be faulted or blamed, demonstrating a higher morality that is free from fault. The sermon highlights the need to rely on the Spirit of Christ for the desire and power to live without reproach, as seen in the examples of overseers in 1 Timothy. The imminent return of Christ serves as a strong incentive for holy living and faithful obedience to God's commands, motivating believers to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We Shall Rejoice Together in Him
By C.H. Spurgeon0The Role of IsraelUnity in ChristPSA 126:1ISA 53:3JER 31:31ZEC 12:10MAT 2:2JHN 19:37ROM 11:25GAL 3:28EPH 2:14REV 1:7C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the enduring identity and suffering of Israel, reflecting on their rejection of Jesus as their true King and the patience of God towards them. He laments the historical persecution faced by the Jewish people, often at the hands of those who claim to follow Christ, and highlights their unique role in God's plan. Spurgeon assures that despite their trials, Israel will ultimately be restored, and all believers, Jew and Gentile alike, will rejoice together in Christ, who unites us all. He calls for recognition of the Jewish people's significance and the hope of their future redemption.
Christ Was Possessed of a Body After His Resurrection
By Ignatius of Antioch0LUK 24:39JHN 20:27ACT 1:9REV 1:7Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the physicality of Jesus, both during His earthly life and after His resurrection, highlighting the importance of His bodily presence as a proof of His identity as the Christ. He points out how Jesus invited His disciples to touch Him and see that He was not just a spirit, but had flesh and bones. Ignatius underscores the significance of Jesus eating and drinking with His disciples after His resurrection for forty days, proving His bodily resurrection and His future return in glory and power.
John 9:35-38. Christ Finds the Outcast.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0ISA 25:9JHN 9:35JHN 20:291PE 1:8REV 1:7Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the compassion and care of Jesus towards those who suffer for His sake, using the story of the blind man who was cast out and found by Jesus as an example. Jesus sought the once blind man, revealed Himself to him, and the man believed and worshipped Him. Mortimer emphasizes the importance of believing in and loving the Son of God, even in the face of contempt, as the ultimate meeting with Jesus will bring joy and fulfillment. She urges believers to remain faithful to Christ, knowing that one day every eye will see Him, and those who have been faithful will rejoice in His presence.
The Second Coming of Christ.
By Edward Payson0JOB 19:26MAT 24:30LUK 21:271CO 15:521TH 4:161TH 5:22TI 4:82PE 3:101JN 3:2REV 1:7Edward Payson preaches about the second coming of Christ, emphasizing the certainty of this event as revealed in the Scriptures and the importance of being prepared for it. He describes the awe-inspiring scene of Christ coming in the clouds of heaven, where every eye shall see Him, and the contrasting reactions of different characters upon witnessing His return. Payson highlights the joy and comfort that faithful servants of Christ will experience, eagerly awaiting His appearing, while the unfaithful and wicked will be filled with terror, anguish, and despair. He urges the congregation to consider the impact of Christ's second coming on their own lives, emphasizing the need for readiness and faithful living in anticipation of that great day.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Behold, he cometh with clouds - This relates to his coming to execute judgment on the enemies of his religion; perhaps to his coming to destroy Jerusalem, as he was to be particularly manifested to them that pierced him, which must mean the incredulous and rebellious Jews. And all kindreds of the earth - Πασαι αἱ φυλαι της γης· All the tribes of the land. By this the Jewish people are most evidently intended, and therefore the whole verse may be understood as predicting the destruction of the Jews; and is a presumptive proof that the Apocalypse was written before the final overthrow of the Jewish state. Even so, Amen - Ναι, αμην· Yea, Amen. It is true, so be it. Our Lord will come and execute judgment on the Jews and Gentiles. This the Jews and Romans particularly felt.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
with clouds--Greek, "the clouds," namely, of heaven. "A cloud received Him out of their sight" at His ascension (Act 1:9). His ascension corresponds to the manner of His coming again (Act 1:11). Clouds are the symbols of wrath to sinners. every eye--His coming shall therefore be a personal, visible appearing. shall see--It is because they do not now see Him, they will not believe. Contrast Joh 20:29. they also--they in particular; "whosoever." Primarily, at His pre-millennial advent the Jews, who shall "look upon Him whom they have pierced," and mourn in repentance, and say, "Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord." Secondarily, and here chiefly, at the general judgment all the ungodly, not only those who actually pierced Him, but those who did so by their sins, shall look with trembling upon Him. John is the only one of the Evangelists who records the piercing of Christ's side. This allusion identifies him as the author of the Apocalypse. The reality of Christ's humanity and His death is proved by His having been pierced; and the water and blood from His side were the antitype to the Levitical waters of cleansing and blood offerings. all kindreds . . . shall wail--all the unconverted at the general judgment; and especially at His pre-millennial advent, the Antichristian confederacy (Zac 12:3-6, Zac 12:9; Zac 14:1-4; Mat 24:30). Greek, "all the tribes of the land," or "the earth." See the limitation to "all," Rev 13:8. Even the godly while rejoicing in His love shall feel penitential sorrow at their sins, which shall all be manifested at the general judgment. because of--Greek, "at," or "in regard to Him." Even so, Amen--Gods seal of His own word; to which corresponds the believer's prayer, Rev 22:20. The "even so" is Greek; "Amen" is Hebrew. To both Gentiles and Jews His promises and threats are unchangeable.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold he cometh with clouds,.... John carries on the account of Christ in his kingly office, one branch of which is to execute judgment; and describes him by a future coming of his, which cannot be understood of his coming to take vengeance on the Jews, at the time of Jerusalem's destruction, though that is sometimes expressed in such language, and with such circumstances, as here; see Mat 24:30; because if this revelation was made to John, in the latter end of Domitian's reign, as is commonly reported by the ancients, and in the year 95 or 96, as chronologers generally place it, it must be upwards of twenty years after the destruction of Jerusalem, and therefore cannot relate to that; nor to his coming in a spiritual sense to convert the Jews in the latter day; for this coming is personal, and with clouds, when he will be seen by every eye; all which circumstances do not so well agree with that; besides, all the kindreds of the earth will not lament on that account: the wicked will take little notice of it, the tribes of the Jews will rejoice at it, and so will all the converted Gentiles: it is better therefore to understand this of Christ's second coming to judge the quick and dead, which is represented as just at hand, to denote the certainty of it; and a "behold" is prefixed to it, to excite attention, and to denote the importance of it: things of great moment, and very surprising, will then be done; Christ will appear in great glory and majesty, the dead in Christ will be raised, Christ's personal kingdom will take place, and the general judgment come on. The manner of his coming will be "with clouds"; either figuratively, with angels, who will attend him both for grandeur and service, or literally, in the clouds of heaven; he shall descend in like manner as he ascended, and as Daniel prophesied he should, Dan 7:13. Hence, one of the names of the Messiah, with the Jews, is, "Anani" (r), which signifies "clouds"; and his coming is so described, both to denote the grand and magnificent manner, in which he will come, making the clouds his chariots; and to strike terror into his enemies, clouds and darkness being about him, thunder and lightning breaking out of them, as tokens of that vengeance he comes to take upon them; as also the visibility of his coming, he shall descend from the third heaven, where he now is, into the airy heaven, and sit upon the clouds, as on his throne, and be visible to all: hence it follows, and every eye shall see him; that is, everyone that has eyes shall see him, or all men shall see him; the righteous shall see him, and be glad; they shall see him in his glory, as he is, and for themselves, and be satisfied; they shall rejoice at the sight of him; they will be filled with joy unspeakable, and full of glory: but the wicked will see him and tremble; they will be filled with the utmost consternation and astonishment; they will not be able to bear the sight of him; they will flee from him, and call to the rocks and mountains to fall on them, and hide them from his face, And they also which pierced him; his hands, feet, and side, when they crucified him; both the Roman soldiers, who actually did it, and the body of the Jewish nation, the rulers and common people, who consented to it, and at whose instigation it was done; these, being raised from the dead, shall see him with their bodily eyes, whom they so used, And all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him; all the wicked, in the several parts of the world, will lament, and wring their hands, and express the inward terror and horror of their minds, at his appearing; they will fear his resentment of all their wicked words and actions; will dread his wrath, and tremble at his righteous judgment: even so, Amen, says John, and so say all true believers; what the wicked lament, they rejoice at; they desire the coming of Christ, they love it, look and long for it; they believe it shall be, and wish it may be quickly, as in Rev 22:20; This expression of faith in, and desire after the coming of Christ, is signified by two words, the one Greek and the other Hebrew; suggesting, that this is an article of faith among all the saints of all nations, Jews and Gentiles, and is what they are wishing and waiting for, (r) Targum in 1 Chron. iii. 24. vid. Beckii Not. in ib. Yalkut Simeoni, par. 2. fol. 85. 2.