Revelation 19:11-14 I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. 12 His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on himthat no one knows but he himself. 13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean.

Jesus Christ emerges on a white horse to wage a holy war against the nations and bring history to a close. The image is of a warrior messiah, which is not a common image in the NT of Jesus but is common in apocalyptic texts. How would we compare this passage with the Triumphal Entry to Jerusalem where the humble king comes riding on a donkey? The time of opportunity has ended. He comes as the mighty warrior king. He comes as judge and conqueror (see 2 Thessalonians 1:9-10). There are several significant descriptions of him:

  1. Faithful and True (see Psalm 96:13): This guarantees that his judgment is just. Nothing misses his gaze. His seven diadems (crowns) can be compared with the seven diadems of the dragon (12:3). Great Judge and bringer of God’s wrath
  2. Secret Name: This name is so awesome. It incorporates the essence of who Jesus is. It is beyond our imagination.
  3. Robe dipped in the blood. Whose blood is this? See Isaiah 1:5; 5:9; 7:14; 12:11)
  4. His known name is the Word of God (John 1:1). The emphasis here is on the declaration of power (see Hebrews 4:12). He is the exalted revelation from God.

In verse 14, Christ leads a heavenly army who are dressed in fine linen riding white horses. White suggests purity. This is God’s holy army.

The time will come when Christ the loving Savior comes with power and judgment. On what side will we find ourselves at that time?

For older posts, click here.

Enter Your Mail Address