Definition: And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and often-interpreted verse from Revelation 14:16. It's a really rich metaphor, so we need to unpack it layer by layer. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes the end of times – the final judgment – and the harvest that will follow. It’s about a complete reaping of all things. Let's break it down word by word: “And he that sat on the cloud” : This refers to Jesus Christ, who is often described as the “Lamb of God.” He represents divine justice and righteousness. “thrust in his sickle” : This is a crucial image. A sickle is a tool used for harvesting crops. So, "thrust in his sickle" means Jesus is actively working to bring about the end of evil and the establishment of good. It’s like He's actively reaping what is rightfully ours. “on the earth” : This signifies the completion of the process – the final judgment. “the earth was reaped” : This is the result of Jesus’ work. The earth, representing the entire world, is being harvested. It means: The Overall Meaning: Jesus Christ will be reaping what He has sown. This includes: Evil and sin: The things that are wrong and harmful in the world. Deadness and darkness: The spiritual decay and lack of faith that exists in people. The wicked: Those who oppose God and live in rebellion against Him. It’s a promise of ultimate justice and restoration. After the judgment, there will be a time of complete rest and renewal - a harvest of goodness. Important Note: This is a complex verse with various interpretations throughout Christian tradition. Some see it as a literal prophecy of Christ's return, while others interpret it symbolically to represent the final judgment and the establishment of God’s kingdom. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Explore different interpretations of the verse? Discuss the symbolism behind the imagery?