THEOSISJerome of Stridon
If we interpret this as pertaining to the ultimate conclusion of the world, this passage aligns with the Lord’s declaration, where He states, “There shall be great tribulation then, such as was not from the beginning of the world until now, nor ever shall be” (Matthew 24:21). The sun will be darkened, the moon will not shine, the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. The celestial powers represent the guardians of this world, while the mighty ones symbolize the fallen and opposing authorities that are scattered. Conversely, if this pertains to the personal conclusion of an individual at the end of their earthly life, then the sun, moon, stars, clouds, and rain will cease to hold significance for one who has died.
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Therefore, rejoice, young man, meaning the Christian community, and delight in the blessings God has bestowed upon you, yet be mindful that you will face the Lord's judgment in all things. Do not presume that since the earlier branches were broken off and you were grafted into the good olive tree, you are thus secure; rather, purge anger from your heart and indulgences from your life, forsake other vices, and remember your Creator until that day arrives, which is evil and irreversible, a day when sinners are destined for suffering. Remember, lest for you, who have sinned, the sun of righteousness sets at noon, and the light of understanding fades—lest the radiance of the church, symbolized by the moon, ceases, and the stars diminish, as it is written: “But in them you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life” (Philippians 2:15), and in another passage, “star differs from star in glory” (1 Corinthians 15:41). Until the clouds return after the rain, be cautious, lest the prophets, who nourish the hearts of believers with their teachings, find you unworthy and return to their place—namely, to Him who sent them.