Matthew 26:64
Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
Matthew 26:64
In Matthew 26:64, Jesus answers, “Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.” Jesus confirms the High Priest’s implied claim but reframes it with a future, glorified dimension. The phrase “Hereafter” points to the eschatological reality—the Son of Man’s exalted authority and cosmic return. The image of seated at the right hand of power evokes judgment and authority, while “coming in the clouds of heaven” signals divine kingship and a future unveiling of God’s plan. While the immediate context involves a dangerous claim in a biased trial, Jesus’ words reveal his true identity and mission: to endure suffering, triumph through resurrection, and exercise sovereign authority in the end times. The paradox of a suffering servant who is also the exalted Lord is at the heart of the Passion narratives.
Theologically, these words anchor Jesus’ identity in both present and future glory. He embraces the role of the Messiah who rules, not through political force but through divine authority recognized by God the Father. The right hand imagery emphasizes power and legitimacy; the coming in the clouds affirms his heavenly majesty. This prediction challenges readers to hold together the suffering, the cross, and the exalted Christ. It also supplies the basis for Christian hope: Jesus is the crucified ruler who will return to consummate God’s kingdom. The response to the high priest’s accusation becomes a confession of who Jesus is and what he will do in fullness of time.
Today, this verse offers a framework for understanding Jesus’ identity and our response to him. We can trust that Jesus holds ultimate authority, even when life feels like a biased trial. It invites hope in God’s plan, especially in seasons of suffering or injustice, reminding us that present hardship is not the final word. It also calls us to live in light of Jesus’ return: ordering our values, actions, and priorities toward his coming kingdom . Practically, this can shape ethics in work, politics, or social issues—prioritizing mercy, justice, and truth, because our King is coming to judge and redeem. It encourages patient perseverance and faithfulness as we await the final revelation of God’s glory in Christ.
Cross-References: Psalm 110:1; Daniel 7:13-14; Mark 14:62; Revelation 1:7