Matthew 16:27 Meaning and Explanation
“For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Son of man will come in glory and reward each person according to their works.
What Does Matthew 16:27 Mean?
Jesus lifts the disciples' eyes from the present cost to the coming glory. The Son of man, soon to suffer, will return 'in the glory of his Father' with his angels. The lowly path leads to a royal arrival, and at that coming he will 'reward every man according to his works.'
This promise frames the call to take up the cross. What we do now is not lost; it is seen and will be answered by the King himself. The future judgment gives weight to present faithfulness. Lives poured out for Christ are not wasted but stored up. The same Jesus who walks toward Calvary will come in splendor, and on that day what was done in love and obedience will be brought to light and rewarded.
Matthew 16:27 in the Original Language
ergon (ἔργον), 'works' -- deeds or actions, the doings of a life, which the coming King will bring into account.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 16:27
What does Matthew 16:27 mean?
The Son of man will come in glory and reward each person according to their works.