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Revelation 19:11
Verse
Context
The Rider on the White Horse
10So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he told me, “Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”11Then I saw heaven standing open, and there before me was a white horse. And its rider is called Faithful and True. With righteousness He judges and wages war.12He has eyes like blazing fire, and many royal crowns on His head. He has a name written on Him that only He Himself knows.
Sermons
David WilkersonDavid WilkersonDavid Wilkerson
John Walvoord
F.J. Huegel
Carter ConlonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A white horse - This is an exhibition of the triumph of Christ after the destruction of his enemies. The white horse is the emblem of this, and Faithful and True are characters of Christ. See Rev 3:14. In righteousness he doth judge and make war - The wars which he wages are from no principle of ambition, lust of power, or extension of conquest and dominion; they are righteous in their principle and in their object. And this is perhaps what no earthly potentate could ever say.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him--identical with Rev 6:2. Here as there he comes forth "conquering and to conquer." Compare the ass-colt on which He rode into Jerusalem (Mat 21:1-7). The horse was used for war: and here He is going forth to war with the beast. The ass is for peace. His riding on it into Jerusalem is an earnest of His reign in Jerusalem over the earth, as the Prince of peace, after all hostile powers have been overthrown. When the security of the world power, and the distress of the people of God, have reached the highest point, the Lord Jesus shall appear visibly from heaven to put an end to the whole course of the world, and establish His kingdom of glory. He comes to judge with vengeance the world power, and to bring to the Church redemption, transfiguration, and power over the world. Distinguish between this coming (Mat 24:27, Mat 24:29, Mat 24:37, Mat 24:39; Greek, "parousia") and the end, or final judgment (Mat 25:31; Co1 15:23). Powerful natural phenomena shall accompany His advent [AUBERLEN].
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I saw heaven opened,.... This vision refers not to the same time the first seal does, Rev 6:2 for though a white horse, with a rider on it, is seen here, as there; that respects the first times of the Gospel, this the latter part of the dispensation of it; nor to the war in heaven between Michael and the dragon, and their angels, Rev 12:7 that issued in the downfall of Paganism in the Roman empire, this will issue in the downfall of the Papacy in it; nor to the personal coming of Christ to the last judgment, of which an account is given in the following chapter; but to the battle at Armageddon, to which the sixth vial is a preparation, and which is finished under the seventh, Rev 16:13 and what is briefly hinted at there is at large related here; in which Christ, the General, and his armies, on the one hand, and the kings of the earth, with the beast and false prophet, and their armies, on the other hand, appear to give battle to each other: and the issue of the battle is particularly represented, in order to have a view of which, "John saw heaven opened": not literally, as at Christ's baptism, and at the stoning of Stephen, nor in a spiritual sense, by the blood of Christ, but visionally, as in Rev 4:1 and since heaven, often in this book, signifies the church on earth, a more glorious and comfortable state of the church may be designed; when her gates shall be opened continually, and not shut day nor night, to receive the forces of the Gentiles, and their kings, Isa 60:15 such a state as is referred to in Rev 11:19 to which visions this is contemporary; and it may denote a very glorious appearing of Christ, not in person, which will be after this, but in his kingdom and power, in defeating his enemies, and reigning spiritually with his saints: and it may also design the clear revelation and discerning John had of the following things: and behold a white horse which, as in Rev 6:2 may be a symbol of the Gospel, and Gospel ministers, as there in the former, here in the latter part of the Gospel dispensation; signified by a horse, to denote the swift progress of the Gospel in the latter day, the majesty, power, and authority with which it will come, bearing down all opposition made against it; and by a white horse, to express the purity of the Gospel, and of its preachers and professors, and the peace it publishes, and gives, and the joy it brings, and the triumphs that will attend it. And he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True: that Christ is here meant, is evident from the description of his eyes, Rev 19:12 being the same as in Rev 1:14 and from his name, Rev 19:13 which is the peculiar name of the Son of God, Joh 1:1 and he sits upon, and is bore by, and rides forth in the Gospel, and the ministry of it, with glory and majesty, and prosperously, Psa 45:3 and the characters of faithful and true well agree with him; See Gill on Rev 3:7. See Gill on Rev 3:14. He is "faithful and true" to God, who appointed him a Leader and Commander of the people, and to them he is the Commander of: and these characters well suit him now, when he will accomplish all the glorious things spoken of the church, relating to her spiritual and happy state in the latter day, and serve greatly to recommend him as a General. And in righteousness he doth judge and make war; which is to be understood not of the last judgment, though that will be executed in righteousness, and therefore is called the righteous judgment, yet in that day there will be no war, no opposition, the wicked will at once submit; but of Christ's judging of his people, and avenging their blood on their enemies, and the remainder of them among Papists, Pagans, and Mahometans; who will be gathered together at Armageddon in battle array against them, when there will be an utter discomfiture of them in righteous judgment; for as in times past the beast made war with the saints and witnesses, and overcame them, Christ will enable his people to make war with him and his accomplices, and overcome them, as the sequel of this vision shows, Christ being at the head of them, though not in person, yet in power.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
No sooner was the marriage solemnized between Christ and his church by the conversion of the Jews than the glorious head and husband of the church is called out to a new expedition, which seems to be the great battle that was to be fought at Armageddon, foretold Rev 16:16. And here observe, I. The description of the great Commander, 1. By the seat of his empire; and that is heaven; his throne is there, and his power and authority are heavenly and divine. 2. His equipage: he is again described as sitting on a white horse, to show the equity of the cause, and certainty of success. 3. His attributes: he is faithful and true to his covenant and promise, he is righteous in all his judicial and military proceedings, he has a penetrating insight into all the strength and stratagems of his enemies, he has a large and extensive dominion, many crowns, for he is King of kings, and Lord of lords. 4. His armour; and that is a vesture dipped in blood, either his own blood, by which he purchased this mediatorial power, or the blood of his enemies, over whom he has always prevailed. 5. His name: The Word of God, a name that none fully knows but himself, only this we know, that this Word was God manifest in the flesh; but his perfections are incomprehensible by any creature. II. The army which he commands (Rev 19:14), a very large one, made up of many armies; angels and saints followed his conduct, and resembled him in their equipage, and in their armour of purity and righteousness - chosen, and called, and faithful. III. The weapons of his warfare - A sharp sword proceeding from his mouth (Rev 19:15), with which he smites the nations, either the threatenings of the written word, which now he is going to execute, or rather his word of command calling on his followers to take a just revenge on his and their enemies, who are now put into the wine-press of the wrath of God, to be trodden under foot by him. IV. The ensigns of his authority, his coat of arms - a name written on his vesture and thigh, King of kings, and Lord of lords, asserting his authority and power, and the cause of the quarrel, Rev 19:16. V. An invitation given to the fowls of heaven, that they should come and see the battle, and share in the spoil and pillage of the field (Rev 19:17, Rev 19:18), intimating that this great decisive engagement should leave the enemies of the church a feast for the birds of prey, and that all the world should have cause to rejoice in the issue of it. VI. The battle joined. The enemy falls on with great fury, headed by the beast, and the kings of the earth; the powers of earth and hell gathered, to make their utmost effort, Rev 19:19. VII. The victory gained by the great and glorious head of the church: The beast and the false prophet, the leaders of the army, are taken prisoners, both he who led them by power and he who led them by policy and falsehood; these are taken and cast into the burning lake, made incapable of molesting the church of God any more; and their followers, whether officers or common soldiers, are given up to military execution, and made a feast for the fowls of heaven. Though the divine vengeance will chiefly fall upon the beast, and the false prophet, yet it will be no excuse to those who fight under their banner that they only followed their leaders and obeyed their command; since they would fight for them, they must fall and perish with them. Be wise now therefore, O you kings, be instructed, you rulers of the earth; kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish from the way, Psa 2:10, Psa 2:12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:11–20:15 The drama moves into its climactic scenes: God’s enemies are defeated and punished in two episodes (19:11-21; 20:7-10). Meanwhile, the faithful experience a 1,000-year resurrection (20:1-6) followed by the final judgment (20:11-15). 19:11-16 Then I saw: John describes a new vision of Jesus Christ as the holy warrior and conquering King (see 14:1; see also Exod 15:1-7; Pss 24:8; 78:49-50; Isa 59:16-17). 19:11 The rider is both a judge and a righteous warrior (see Isa 11:1-5). He is named Faithful and True: He embodies God’s authenticity and reliability (see Rev 19:2; 21:5-6).
Revelation 19:11
The Rider on the White Horse
10So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he told me, “Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”11Then I saw heaven standing open, and there before me was a white horse. And its rider is called Faithful and True. With righteousness He judges and wages war.12He has eyes like blazing fire, and many royal crowns on His head. He has a name written on Him that only He Himself knows.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Hell - Part 1
By David Wilkerson9.8K45:10HellEZK 22:20JHN 3:36ROM 1:18ROM 9:22REV 19:11REV 21:23In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of hell and the judgment of God. He emphasizes that even before eternity comes, God will pour out His judgments on the earth, including scorching men with fire through His angels of wrath. The preacher also mentions the belief of millions of Iranians who have been promised paradise by the Ayatollah Khomeini, but warns that they will wake up in hell instead. He concludes by describing the never-ending nature of hell and referencing the biblical description of Jesus as the one who will judge and make war with righteousness.
(Revelation - Part 1): John Saw Further in All Directions
By A.W. Tozer8.2K43:14Book Of RevelationREV 1:1REV 1:12REV 4:2REV 4:5REV 5:6REV 6:12REV 9:1REV 9:15REV 10:1REV 19:11REV 20:1REV 21:16REV 22:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Revelation and the visions that John saw. He describes how John saw various apocalyptic events, such as the sun turning black, the moon turning into blood, and stars falling to the earth. The preacher also mentions the opening of the bottomless pit and the release of four angels and 200 million horsemen. He highlights the different appearances of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit that John witnessed throughout the book. The sermon emphasizes the importance of reading and understanding the prophecies in the book of Revelation.
Why Do the Heathen Rage
By David Wilkerson5.0K44:44ISA 40:6EZK 38:23LUK 6:26REV 18:4REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the inability to pacify the wicked and gives four reasons why it is impossible. He uses Hosea 11:1 as a reference and explains that pursuing one's brother with a sword, lacking pity, having perpetual anger, and keeping wrath forever are the four reasons why the wicked cannot be appeased. The preacher emphasizes that these principles apply to dealing with wicked individuals in various aspects of life, such as at work or within one's family. He also mentions that as Christians, we should not seek the approval of the world, as John the Baptist did not receive acceptance from worldly leaders. The preacher concludes by questioning how long God will tolerate the rage against His people and highlights that God has promised to deal with this ungodly rage in two ways, as mentioned in Psalm 76.
Jehovah Raphi-the Lord That Heals
By David Wilkerson5.0K1:01:00Names Of GodEXO 34:6EZK 7:2EZK 7:6MAT 6:33HEB 10:26JAS 4:8REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that there is something of God that will not let go of us. He speaks of God's love, mercy, and compassion, and how He sends His servants to bring healing. However, there comes a point when God must apply discipline and judgment. The preacher references the book of Ezekiel, where God warns the people of Israel that the end has come and He will judge them for their abominations. The sermon concludes with a call to know God intimately and to seek forgiveness and cleansing from bitterness.
Prophecy - Part 1
By John Walvoord2.8K50:21MAT 6:33JHN 3:3JHN 6:37REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that trouble and tribulation are a part of life, but the three and a half year period of the Second Coming of Christ will be a time of unparalleled trouble. The preacher urges the audience to reflect on their salvation, their service to the Lord, and their love for Him. The sermon also highlights the dramatic description of Christ's Second Coming as described in Matthew 24, emphasizing the power and authority of Jesus. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the importance of accepting the free gift of salvation through faith in Christ.
The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
By F.J. Huegel2.2K40:27MRK 16:202CO 11:2GAL 6:17EPH 2:4REV 19:7REV 19:11REV 19:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the symbolism of the union between the heavenly bridegroom (Jesus) and the bride (the church). The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana sets the tone for the series of miracles performed by Jesus during his time on earth. These miracles, such as healing the blind, raising the dead, and delivering the demon-possessed, represent Jesus turning the bitter waters of life into the wine of a heavenly experience. The preacher emphasizes the significance of this symbolism for Christians and highlights the responsibility that comes with being part of the bride of Christ, including sharing in the task of spreading the gospel to the world.
The Things Which Must Be Hereafter
By Carter Conlon1.9K56:21UnsavedPSA 68:18MAT 6:33EPH 1:13PHP 4:7REV 4:1REV 19:11REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a living testimony for God in our generation. He encourages believers to go where there is difficulty and opposition, boldly proclaiming the testimony of Jesus Christ. The speaker also expresses a belief in a future revival in the nation of Burundi, envisioning it as a role model of God's glory in Africa. He warns against being blinded by scriptural knowledge without a true relationship with Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a plea for supernatural love and a testimony of God's grace and glory in the last hour of time.
A Disciplined Army
By Robert Thompson1.4K58:32REV 19:11
This sermon emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's will, highlighting the need for discipline, repentance, and a spirit of obedience in the face of changing times and moral decay. It discusses the future events as depicted in Revelation, focusing on the victorious return of Christ and the army of saints, stressing the need for faithful and true believers to follow God's commands without compromise.
Developing a Warrior Mentality
By Michael L. Brown1.3K49:38EXO 15:3JOS 1:9MAT 5:39MAT 5:44ROM 15:302TI 2:3REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the spiritual battle that believers are engaged in. He highlights the urgency of sharing the gospel and interceding for those who are suffering and oppressed. The preacher encourages listeners to embrace the burden of the Lord and to pray fervently, even for seemingly unrelated situations. The sermon also references the book of Revelation, highlighting the ongoing war between good and evil and the ultimate triumph of God. The preacher cautions against being complacent or unaware of the spiritual forces at work and emphasizes the importance of staying anchored in holiness and devotion to God.
The Word of God
By Paul Ravenhill1.3K47:00PSA 8:2MAT 21:161CO 1:171CO 1:23REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of perseverance and getting back up after falling. He explains that even if a person falls multiple times, it does not mean they are not just, as long as they keep getting up. The preacher encourages listeners to keep their focus on Jesus and trust that God will lead them to their destination. He also highlights the power and wisdom of Christ, stating that it is through the anointing of Christ that the word of God can have a profound impact on people's lives.
(Revelation Thoughts From the Book) 5. the Glorious Culmination
By Roy Hession1.3K55:29CulminationMAT 6:33REV 4:1REV 5:11REV 6:6REV 15:7REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher provides a quick overview of the book of Revelation. He outlines the structure of the book, which includes the seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven vials of God's wrath. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the vision of the throne and the one sitting on it, representing God's sovereignty. The preacher acknowledges that not every symbol in the book is fully understood, but encourages listeners to seek understanding and find stability in their faith.
Faithfulness of God - Part 1
By Derek Melton1.2K55:46Covenant RelationshipGod's FaithfulnessCharacter Of GodPSA 46:1ISA 25:1JER 1:12HOS 14:4MAT 11:28ROM 8:161CO 1:82TI 3:101JN 1:7REV 19:11Derek Melton emphasizes the unwavering faithfulness of God, reminding believers that despite the uncertainties and challenges of life, God remains immutable and true to His covenant promises. He reassures the congregation that God's faithfulness is evident in His oversight of His Word, His ability to cleanse and forgive sins, and His commitment to complete the work He has begun in each believer. Melton encourages the faithful to trust in God's promises, especially during times of adversity, and to recognize that God's grace is available to all who seek Him. He concludes by urging those outside of the covenant to turn to Christ for salvation, highlighting the importance of repentance and faith in experiencing God's faithfulness.
The How of Missions
By Paul Ravenhill1.2K55:19MAT 6:33MAT 16:15MRK 9:23JHN 10:34ROM 1:17REV 19:11In this sermon, the speaker highlights a sense of something being wrong behind the glowing statistics and propaganda in the Church. The problem lies in the believers' inability to do what is necessary, despite God's power. The speaker shares a personal story about a child with Down syndrome who had a purpose and acceptance within her. The sermon emphasizes the importance of having a relationship with God, knowing Him, being like Him, and doing His works, as these three aspects are interconnected and cannot operate independently.
(Second Coming of Christ) 09 an Invasion From Outer Space
By Aeron Morgan1.1K47:57Spiritual PreparednessSecond Coming Of ChristSecond ComingREV 19:11Aeron Morgan emphasizes the significance of the Second Coming of Christ, as depicted in Revelation 19, where Jesus returns on a white horse, symbolizing His authority and righteousness. He contrasts the current fascination with science fiction and evil beings with the biblical truth of Christ's return, warning against the dangers of occult practices and the Antichrist's impending arrival. Morgan highlights the importance of being prepared for the marriage supper of the Lamb, urging believers to embrace the grace and righteousness offered through Christ. He calls for a recognition of Christ's sovereignty and the necessity of living according to His Word, as the ultimate judgment approaches.
The Battle of the Ages
By Ian Paisley1.1K34:47ISA 53:12ROM 8:28REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the final battle between Christ and the enemies of the Gospel. The captain of our salvation is described as faithful, true, the word of God, the king of kings, and the Lord of lords. The nature of his touch is seen in his righteous judgment and war against sin. The preacher emphasizes the crown of creation that Christ now wears, contrasting it with the flawed theories of evolution. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's providence is at work, and all things ultimately work together for good for those who love the Lord.
(Second Coming of Christ) 10 the Supper of the Great God
By Aeron Morgan88737:40Second ComingJOB 9:2MAT 6:33REV 11:17REV 19:2REV 19:11REV 19:15REV 19:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of heeding the warnings of the Word of God. He warns that a fearful day is coming, known as the Armageddon, where there will be a great war between the forces of evil and the righteous. The preacher describes the scene as horrific and the slaughter beyond imagination. He highlights the power and justice of the imperial Christ, who will ultimately defeat the beast and the kings of the earth. The preacher urges listeners to live in accordance with the will of God and to not remain at variance with the Lamb of God, as the day of his wrath is imminent.
Last Days Conference 1970 the Apostle Paul
By Neil Fraser79547:291TH 1:102TH 2:3HEB 2:13REV 19:6REV 19:11In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing a tremendous burst of praise that starts in heaven and spreads throughout creation. This outburst of praise is in response to the announcement of the final victory over evil and the reign of the Lord God. The sermon then discusses the wedding of the bride, which some believe takes place during the tribulation while the bridegroom rejoices in heaven. The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on the Son of Man and his return to earth, as well as the glory and honor he will receive from God. The sermon also mentions the coming wrath and the book of Revelation, which tells the story of the wrath that is to come through judgment.
Making a Real Soldier
By Robert B. Thompson5901:18:00EXO 4:2ISA 2:20MAT 24:442TI 4:10REV 19:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fully committing oneself to serving God. He shares a personal experience of realizing that the people in the church were not ready to be part of God's army. The speaker encourages listeners to make a conscious decision to no longer be of this world and to belong to Jesus. He highlights the difference between being a church member and being a disciple, stating that disciples are focused on growing in their relationship with Christ and serving Him, rather than pursuing worldly success.
Why Are the Nations on the Rampage?
By Basilea Schlink51504:35Radio ShowPSA 2:1PSA 2:6MAT 6:33MAT 21:9REV 19:11REV 19:16In this sermon, the speaker addresses the growing problems and tensions in the world, causing people to live in fear. The speaker highlights the hatred and conspiracies of nations against God, as described in the second Psalm. However, the speaker finds comfort in the words "in vain," knowing that Jesus will appear and destroy the nations with his breath, establishing his eternal kingdom. The speaker encourages listeners to sing and praise Jesus as the coming King, as this brings a sense of victory and protection against the powers of hatred. The sermon emphasizes that despite the increasing anti-Christian sentiment in the world, people will come to recognize who Jesus truly is, and God's help will be closest in times of great need and persecution.
Eternity to Eternity 12 Genesis 1:24
By Joseph Balsan4971:02:27GenesisGEN 2:18JOL 2:1ZEC 14:2REV 19:11REV 21:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of experiencing the new birth in order to find true happiness. He references the 67th Psalm, which speaks about those who feign obedience to the king out of fear of judgment. The preacher also mentions a newspaper clipping that claims scientists have discovered four high spots on the earth that represent the four corners of the earth. He connects this to the gathering of unbelievers from the four quarters of the earth in the battle against God. The sermon emphasizes the need to ensure one's place with Christ and not gamble with one's soul.
The Lord Hears Us
By Shane Idleman47140:09ISA 43:1JHN 6:44ACT 10:30ROM 2:12ROM 10:91CO 2:14EPH 5:18JAS 4:8REV 19:11This sermon from Acts 10:30 emphasizes the importance of God hearing our prayers. It highlights the story of Cornelius seeking God and Peter's vision, showing how God brings them together. The sermon delves into the power of Christian disciplines like fasting and prayer to help us hear from God. It also discusses the need to present the whole truth of the Gospel, the role of repentance, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives.
Touching the Tears of Failure
By Carter Conlon46846:00GEN 12:2PSA 139:23ISA 43:2MRK 9:24JHN 8:44HEB 11:21REV 19:11REV 21:4REV 21:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of worshiping God in the midst of struggles and failures, highlighting how God's anointing brings supernatural change, opens prison doors, heals wounded hearts, and gives sight to the blind. It encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness and see beyond their present circumstances, knowing that God's plan continues unhindered through their lives, regardless of their frailties and failures.
Gospel of John (Study 1 of 24, Chap 1 Start, Most Less Than 1hr)
By G.W. North16448:46Christian LifeMAT 28:18LUK 8:10JHN 1:1REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the Word of God. He highlights how people are often drawn to stories and anecdotes, but the true value lies in understanding the mysteries of the Gospel. The preacher focuses on the Gospel of John, stating that it is a simple and straightforward Gospel that can be understood by being filled with the Spirit. He encourages the audience to delve into the mysticism and mysteries of the Gospel, as it is through this understanding that one can truly be a child of God.
Schau Auf Jesus (6) (German)
By George Verwer1101:00:47GermanJOS 21:45MAT 6:33MAT 24:31JHN 4:23JHN 10:27REV 18:1REV 19:11In the sermon, the speaker describes a vision he had of Jesus riding on a white horse with a golden deck and crown, symbolizing his total lordship. The speaker also mentions hearing the voice of the Father, who spoke about gathering his people through his servants and angels. The sermon emphasizes the importance of worshiping God and praying together, regardless of denominational differences. The speaker shares his belief that all Christians, including Pentecostals, Charismatics, Evangelicals, Presbyterians, and Methodists, can come together to worship the Lord in spirit and truth.
Armageddon and the Second Coming of Christ
By Mike Bickle261:03:51Second Coming Of ChristArmageddon CampaignREV 16:16REV 19:11Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of understanding the Armageddon campaign to interpret current signs among Gentile nations. He explains that the final battle is not merely a conflict between nations but a direct war against God, culminating in Jesus' return to Jerusalem as the Messianic King. Bickle outlines the political and military developments leading to this event, highlighting the gathering of nations in a geographic location called Armageddon, where they will face divine judgment. He stresses that the second coming of Christ is intertwined with a military conflict, ultimately leading to the establishment of His authority over the earth. The sermon serves as a call to recognize the gravity of these prophetic events and their implications for humanity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A white horse - This is an exhibition of the triumph of Christ after the destruction of his enemies. The white horse is the emblem of this, and Faithful and True are characters of Christ. See Rev 3:14. In righteousness he doth judge and make war - The wars which he wages are from no principle of ambition, lust of power, or extension of conquest and dominion; they are righteous in their principle and in their object. And this is perhaps what no earthly potentate could ever say.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him--identical with Rev 6:2. Here as there he comes forth "conquering and to conquer." Compare the ass-colt on which He rode into Jerusalem (Mat 21:1-7). The horse was used for war: and here He is going forth to war with the beast. The ass is for peace. His riding on it into Jerusalem is an earnest of His reign in Jerusalem over the earth, as the Prince of peace, after all hostile powers have been overthrown. When the security of the world power, and the distress of the people of God, have reached the highest point, the Lord Jesus shall appear visibly from heaven to put an end to the whole course of the world, and establish His kingdom of glory. He comes to judge with vengeance the world power, and to bring to the Church redemption, transfiguration, and power over the world. Distinguish between this coming (Mat 24:27, Mat 24:29, Mat 24:37, Mat 24:39; Greek, "parousia") and the end, or final judgment (Mat 25:31; Co1 15:23). Powerful natural phenomena shall accompany His advent [AUBERLEN].
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I saw heaven opened,.... This vision refers not to the same time the first seal does, Rev 6:2 for though a white horse, with a rider on it, is seen here, as there; that respects the first times of the Gospel, this the latter part of the dispensation of it; nor to the war in heaven between Michael and the dragon, and their angels, Rev 12:7 that issued in the downfall of Paganism in the Roman empire, this will issue in the downfall of the Papacy in it; nor to the personal coming of Christ to the last judgment, of which an account is given in the following chapter; but to the battle at Armageddon, to which the sixth vial is a preparation, and which is finished under the seventh, Rev 16:13 and what is briefly hinted at there is at large related here; in which Christ, the General, and his armies, on the one hand, and the kings of the earth, with the beast and false prophet, and their armies, on the other hand, appear to give battle to each other: and the issue of the battle is particularly represented, in order to have a view of which, "John saw heaven opened": not literally, as at Christ's baptism, and at the stoning of Stephen, nor in a spiritual sense, by the blood of Christ, but visionally, as in Rev 4:1 and since heaven, often in this book, signifies the church on earth, a more glorious and comfortable state of the church may be designed; when her gates shall be opened continually, and not shut day nor night, to receive the forces of the Gentiles, and their kings, Isa 60:15 such a state as is referred to in Rev 11:19 to which visions this is contemporary; and it may denote a very glorious appearing of Christ, not in person, which will be after this, but in his kingdom and power, in defeating his enemies, and reigning spiritually with his saints: and it may also design the clear revelation and discerning John had of the following things: and behold a white horse which, as in Rev 6:2 may be a symbol of the Gospel, and Gospel ministers, as there in the former, here in the latter part of the Gospel dispensation; signified by a horse, to denote the swift progress of the Gospel in the latter day, the majesty, power, and authority with which it will come, bearing down all opposition made against it; and by a white horse, to express the purity of the Gospel, and of its preachers and professors, and the peace it publishes, and gives, and the joy it brings, and the triumphs that will attend it. And he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True: that Christ is here meant, is evident from the description of his eyes, Rev 19:12 being the same as in Rev 1:14 and from his name, Rev 19:13 which is the peculiar name of the Son of God, Joh 1:1 and he sits upon, and is bore by, and rides forth in the Gospel, and the ministry of it, with glory and majesty, and prosperously, Psa 45:3 and the characters of faithful and true well agree with him; See Gill on Rev 3:7. See Gill on Rev 3:14. He is "faithful and true" to God, who appointed him a Leader and Commander of the people, and to them he is the Commander of: and these characters well suit him now, when he will accomplish all the glorious things spoken of the church, relating to her spiritual and happy state in the latter day, and serve greatly to recommend him as a General. And in righteousness he doth judge and make war; which is to be understood not of the last judgment, though that will be executed in righteousness, and therefore is called the righteous judgment, yet in that day there will be no war, no opposition, the wicked will at once submit; but of Christ's judging of his people, and avenging their blood on their enemies, and the remainder of them among Papists, Pagans, and Mahometans; who will be gathered together at Armageddon in battle array against them, when there will be an utter discomfiture of them in righteous judgment; for as in times past the beast made war with the saints and witnesses, and overcame them, Christ will enable his people to make war with him and his accomplices, and overcome them, as the sequel of this vision shows, Christ being at the head of them, though not in person, yet in power.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
No sooner was the marriage solemnized between Christ and his church by the conversion of the Jews than the glorious head and husband of the church is called out to a new expedition, which seems to be the great battle that was to be fought at Armageddon, foretold Rev 16:16. And here observe, I. The description of the great Commander, 1. By the seat of his empire; and that is heaven; his throne is there, and his power and authority are heavenly and divine. 2. His equipage: he is again described as sitting on a white horse, to show the equity of the cause, and certainty of success. 3. His attributes: he is faithful and true to his covenant and promise, he is righteous in all his judicial and military proceedings, he has a penetrating insight into all the strength and stratagems of his enemies, he has a large and extensive dominion, many crowns, for he is King of kings, and Lord of lords. 4. His armour; and that is a vesture dipped in blood, either his own blood, by which he purchased this mediatorial power, or the blood of his enemies, over whom he has always prevailed. 5. His name: The Word of God, a name that none fully knows but himself, only this we know, that this Word was God manifest in the flesh; but his perfections are incomprehensible by any creature. II. The army which he commands (Rev 19:14), a very large one, made up of many armies; angels and saints followed his conduct, and resembled him in their equipage, and in their armour of purity and righteousness - chosen, and called, and faithful. III. The weapons of his warfare - A sharp sword proceeding from his mouth (Rev 19:15), with which he smites the nations, either the threatenings of the written word, which now he is going to execute, or rather his word of command calling on his followers to take a just revenge on his and their enemies, who are now put into the wine-press of the wrath of God, to be trodden under foot by him. IV. The ensigns of his authority, his coat of arms - a name written on his vesture and thigh, King of kings, and Lord of lords, asserting his authority and power, and the cause of the quarrel, Rev 19:16. V. An invitation given to the fowls of heaven, that they should come and see the battle, and share in the spoil and pillage of the field (Rev 19:17, Rev 19:18), intimating that this great decisive engagement should leave the enemies of the church a feast for the birds of prey, and that all the world should have cause to rejoice in the issue of it. VI. The battle joined. The enemy falls on with great fury, headed by the beast, and the kings of the earth; the powers of earth and hell gathered, to make their utmost effort, Rev 19:19. VII. The victory gained by the great and glorious head of the church: The beast and the false prophet, the leaders of the army, are taken prisoners, both he who led them by power and he who led them by policy and falsehood; these are taken and cast into the burning lake, made incapable of molesting the church of God any more; and their followers, whether officers or common soldiers, are given up to military execution, and made a feast for the fowls of heaven. Though the divine vengeance will chiefly fall upon the beast, and the false prophet, yet it will be no excuse to those who fight under their banner that they only followed their leaders and obeyed their command; since they would fight for them, they must fall and perish with them. Be wise now therefore, O you kings, be instructed, you rulers of the earth; kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish from the way, Psa 2:10, Psa 2:12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
19:11–20:15 The drama moves into its climactic scenes: God’s enemies are defeated and punished in two episodes (19:11-21; 20:7-10). Meanwhile, the faithful experience a 1,000-year resurrection (20:1-6) followed by the final judgment (20:11-15). 19:11-16 Then I saw: John describes a new vision of Jesus Christ as the holy warrior and conquering King (see 14:1; see also Exod 15:1-7; Pss 24:8; 78:49-50; Isa 59:16-17). 19:11 The rider is both a judge and a righteous warrior (see Isa 11:1-5). He is named Faithful and True: He embodies God’s authenticity and reliability (see Rev 19:2; 21:5-6).