The final battle part#
I’ve put a # in the title of today’s reading as there are so many “final” battles, I’m confused which one it is! Actually I’m not, because Revelation is not written in chronological order, it is written thematically. John has had another vision and is tackling the end from another angle.
Heaven opens and the whole world can see the divine warrior on a white horse. Jesus has worthy names on Him, in contrast to the blasphemous names on the beast.
Eyes like blazing fire – He can see and judge human hearts, not just outward appearances.
Many crowns – he is the King of Kings.
The name that no one knows – there are surprising aspects of Christ that no one knows yet – he is also transcendent and God!
He is the Word of God – just like John 1:1 and creator, Genesis 1:3.
Robe dipped in blood – it could be His own blood, that was shed. But it’s also like Isaiah 62:2-3 where God the divine warrior spatters his garment with the blood of his enemies that He has trampled in the winepress, v.15.
The armies of heaven are like their leader – riding white horses of purity.
Christ rules with an iron sceptre, fulfilling Psalm 2:9.
An angel standing in the sun, reflecting the brightness of God’s glory, summons the birds to a horrible supper, building on the imagery of Ezekiel 39:4, 17-20 – the wicked die and instead of an honourable burial, they are devoured by birds.
The fiery lake of burning sulphur is hell – the final abode of the wicked. Fire symbolises God’s all-consuming judgement.
Jesus wins!
Andy Moyle
