The Clouds and the Revelation: Understanding Jesus’ Return

Introduction to the Controversy

The interpretation of Revelation 1:7 has long been a topic of discussion among religious scholars and believers. The passage states, "Look! He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail because of him. Amen." This verse mentions 'coming with the clouds' and 'every eye will see him,' which are often interpreted differently by various religious groups, including Jehovah's Witnesses. Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus returned invisibly in 1914, while many religious traditions interpret these verses more literally. Let us explore the context and meaning behind these phrases.

The Symbolism of Clouds

The phrase 'with the clouds' is more symbolic than literal. In Biblical times, clouds were often associated with the presence of God and his judgment. For example, in the Old Testament, it is mentioned that God appeared to Moses and the Israelites in a cloud. Moses also led the people out of Egypt with a pillar of cloud by day. In these instances, the cloud symbolizes the presence of the divine, both visible and invisible.

Jesus used the phrase 'caught up in a cloud' in Acts 1:9, which could be interpreted as His ascension being obscured or veiled from the disciples' direct line of sight. This further emphasizes that 'coming with the clouds' in Revelation 1:7 is a symbolic reference to his coming, rather than a literal return.

Vision and Literal vs. Figurative Interpreations

The phrase 'every eye will see him' is often misunderstood as referring to a literal, visible return. However, the Bible is replete with examples where 'seeing' refers to a figurative or spiritual understanding. For instance, the prophet Jeremiah in Jeremiah 5:21 writes, 'You people see but do not understand; you hear but do not comprehend.'" This indicates that 'seeing' should not always be understood as a physical act.

Similarly, in Revelation 14:14, the phrase 'a white cloud' and 'someone like a son of man' is likely a symbolic representation, not a literal one. Like the cloud in Revelation 1:7, this 'cloud' symbolizes the presence and guidance of God, not a literal object. The metaphor 'a sharp sickle in his hand' also adds to the symbolic nature of this verse, indicating a future harvest or judgment.

Scriptural Context and Interpretation

To better understand the context, we should consider Jesus' own words in Luke 17:20. He says, "When the Kingdom of God comes, do you think it will come with observable signs?" This passage reinforces the idea that the Kingdom of God is not to be anticipated through physical signs but through a spiritual understanding and faith.

Another passage that supports this interpretation is Revelation 19:11-16, where Jesus is described as coming in a cloud with power and great glory. However, this cloud is also described as a symbol of His divine presence and authority, not a literal vehicle for his return.

Conclusion

Given the symbolic nature of the cloud and the examples in the Bible where 'seeing' is figurative, it is more accurate to interpret Revelation 1:7 and Revelation 14:14 as references to the spiritual presence and authority of Jesus. This aligns with the teachings of Jehovah's Witnesses and other faiths that believe in the invisible presence of Christ.

For those who find it challenging to reconcile these interpretations with their beliefs, it may be helpful to re-examine the context of the Bible passages in question. Open dialogue with scholars and fellow believers can provide new insights and a deeper understanding of these complex texts.