Jesus Is the Word
Today’s passage: Revelation 19:11–21
Focus verse: His name is the Word of God. (Revelation 19:13)
Though the invitations to Jesus’s wedding have been sent, this doesn’t mean the wedding is ready to take place. Not yet. Jesus has more to do first.
The next thing John sees in his vision is heaven opening to reveal a white horse. Mounted on the horse is a rider who is known as Faithful and True.
These descriptors stand as names that reflect his character. He will act with integrity. His robe is washed in blood, which signifies success in prior battles.
The rider’s name is the Word of God.
Elsewhere John wrote that Jesus is the Word and that he came to live among us (John 1:14). John also wrote that the Word was there at the beginning of time with God, and as God, at creation. Through him came light and life (John 1:1–4).
The mighty rider strikes down nations and rules them with strength. He treads the winepress, a symbol of executing judgment.
On his robe are the words, “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
He is Jesus. And he’s poised for battle.
The beast and the kings of the earth amass their armies to fight against the rider on the white horse and his army. Though we might expect a great confrontation, the war is short.
Jesus captures the beast and the false prophet, who had convinced the people to receive the mark of the beast and worship him.
Jesus has the beast and the false prophet tossed alive into a fiery lake, burning with sulfur. Later, we will learn who will join them there and how long they’ll undergo their suffering.
The rest of the army dies in battle and the birds feast on their remains.
This is a gruesome end for those who oppose Jesus and his life-saving message, but it’s not an outcome that those of us who follow Jesus need fear.
Our wedding with him is about to take place. The invitations have been sent. Eternal paradise awaits us—his bride, his church.
Questions:
- How is Jesus the Word of God?
- What do we think about Jesus fighting for us?
- As Jesus’s church are we ready to marry him?
- Does the idea of being married to Jesus make us uncomfortable?
- Do we look forward to living for eternity with our bridegroom in paradise?
[Discover what else John says about the word of God in John 10:34–36 and 1 John 2:14. Read about the King of kings and Lord of lords in 1 Timothy 6:13–16.]
Tips: Check out our tips to use this online Bible study for your church, small group, Sunday school class, or family discussion. It’s also ideal for personal study. Come back each Monday for a new lesson.
Read more in Revelation Bible Study: Discover Practical Insights from John’s Epic Vision.
Discover practical, understandable insights from the book of Revelation.
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.