What does Matthew 24:31 mean?
"And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." - Matthew 24:31

Matthew 24:31 (KJV) states, "And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."
This verse is part of a larger discourse by Jesus on the signs of the end times as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. In this chapter, Jesus describes the signs of the end times and provides warnings to his disciples about the persecution and tribulations they will face. This particular verse speaks of the return of Jesus and the gathering of his chosen ones from all corners of the earth.
The verse begins with the phrase, "And he shall send his angels." The "he" in this verse refers to Jesus, as it is in reference to his return. It is important to note that in the context of this chapter, Jesus is speaking prophetically about the future, and his return as the victorious King who will gather his elect. Jesus himself speaks of his return with angels in Mark 8:38 and Luke 9:26, emphasizing the divine and celestial nature of this event.
The verse goes on to mention "a great sound of a trumpet," which is symbolic of a call to gather or assemble. The imagery of a trumpet blast is taken from the Old Testament, where the trumpet was used to signal important announcements and gatherings. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16, Paul also speaks of the return of Jesus accompanied by a trumpet call. This trumpet sound serves as a signal for the gathering of the believers and the commencement of the final reconciliation with God.
The next part of the verse states, "and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." This serves as a vivid picture of the universality of the gathering of God's chosen ones. The phrase "the four winds" is often used in the Bible to represent the whole earth, and thus the gathering of the elect from the four winds signifies a universal and all-encompassing assembly. This is a powerful reminder that the kingdom of God is not limited by geographical or cultural boundaries, and that all believers from every corner of the earth will be united in the presence of the Lord.
The image of gathering the elect from "one end of heaven to the other" further emphasizes the comprehensive and complete inclusion of all believers. This alludes to the idea that the gathering will include not only those who are currently alive, but also those who have already passed away and are in the presence of God in heaven.
In terms of themes, this verse speaks to the sovereignty and power of God, as well as the universal and inclusive nature of his kingdom. It also emphasizes the hope and assurance that believers have in being gathered and united with God at the culmination of history. The verse also serves as a call to readiness and preparation for the return of Jesus, as the gathering of the elect is an event that all believers should eagerly anticipate and be prepared for.
In conclusion, Matthew 24:31 (KJV) communicates a powerful message about the return of Jesus and the gathering of his chosen ones from all corners of the earth. It speaks to the universal and inclusive nature of God's kingdom, as well as the hope and assurance that believers have in being united with God at the end of time. It serves as a reminder to be watchful and prepared for the return of Jesus, and to eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of God's promises.
Have questions about Matthew 24:31?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Matthew 24:31 Artwork
Matthew 24:31 - "And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."
"And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." - Matthew 24:31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Matthew 24:30-31
Genesis 24-31
matthew 25:31
Matthew 21:31
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:35
Matthew 24:15
Matthew 24:27
Matthew 6:24
Matthew 24:8
Matthew 6:24