Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 23:39

"For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed [is] he that cometh in the name of the Lord." — Matthew 23:39 (ASV)

Here Jesus refers to his Parousia. When he returns, all will acknowledge him as Lord in the future consummation. The context strongly implies that the Parousia spells judgment (cf. 24:30–31; Revelation 1:7); but the quotation of Ps 118:26 here keeps open the way Jesus will be received—as a consuming Judge or a welcomed King. Jesus turns away, leaves the temple (24:1), and will not be seen again till the End.