Matthew 24:29-31 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The signs of the heavens.

The earlier verses of this chapter set forth principally the signs from the earth. The "tribulation" referred to here is that consequent upon the siege of Jerusalem in the first place, and in an extended sense may be viewed as continued through the whole period of the dispersion of the Jews.

I. THE SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IS PRECEDED BY REVOLUTIONS .

1 . These are described under the figure of the shaking of the powers of the heavens.

2 . Trace now the fulfilment of the prophecy.

3 . In all commotions Christ will be merciful to his people. "And he shall send forth his angels with a great sound of a trumpet," etc. (verse 31).

II. THE " SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IN HEAVEN ," AND THE " COMING OF THE SON OF MAN IN THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN ," ARE THE SAME .

1 . This was the sign for which the sceptics clamoured.

2 . They will receive it to their confusion.