Translation
Then the one sitting on the cloud
put forth his sickle
upon the earth
and the earth was harvested.
Go to footnote numberParaphrase
Then the one who exercises superhuman power took the resources needed to punish or reward and applied them to all mankind, and each person received the consequences of his actions.
Footnotes
1
Who does the reaping? It is the “Son of Man,” whom I call “the answer to man’s problems,” that is carrying out this action. Remember also that the phrase “Son of Man” was intended as a summary that wrapped up everything Jesus is. It started out as a somewhat empty container that God filled with the meaning He wanted, free from the preconceived notions of spiritually ignorant people. This package includes bringing to bear the consequences of one’s actions and choices. He is worthy of this honor, for He gave His very life to offer salvation to all. We can count on Him to be merciful and kind to those who
strive to follow Him, yet firm and harsh with those who refuse to accept His sacrifice. See the Special comment at the end of this section for more on the “gathering/harvesting” of the souls of men.