03.23. Lesson 23
Lesson 23:Read Revelation 19:11-21; Revelation 20:1-15; Revelation 21:1-8 once, and Revelation 19:11-21 two more times. This longer passage includes the description of the millennium, which we will consider in some detail in lessons 24 and 25; this lesson we focus on Revelation 19:1-21.
(1) Consider Revelation 19:11-16. What verb tenses are used here in the description of the rider on the white horse? Enumerate his characteristics. Read Revelation 1:12-16, the first description of Jesus in this book. Also look at the descriptions which begin each of the seven letters to the churches: Revelation 2:1, Revelation 2:8, Revelation 2:12, Revelation 2:18, Revelation 3:1, Revelation 3:7, and Revelation 3:14. Who is the rider?
(2) Consider Revelation 19:13 and Revelation 19:15. Why is his robe dipped in blood? Look back at Revelation 14:19-20, as well as Isaiah 11:1-5; Isaiah 63:1-6 and Psalms 2:1-12. Is this disturbing or comforting? Why?
(3) In Revelation 19:14, who are those with the rider? Why are they clothed in white linen? Do they wear armor or carry weapons? See Revelation 17:14 as well as Matthew 26:53 and 2 Thessalonians 1:7.
(4) Consider Revelation 19:17-18. To what are the birds called? Contrast this with Revelation 19:9. See also Isaiah 34:1-8 and Ezekiel 39:4; Ezekiel 39:17-20. What is the purpose of the feast of the birds in Ezekiel 39:1-29 (see Ezekiel 39:21-29)? Is the purpose in Revelation 19:17-18 similar?
(5) Who fights against the rider in Revelation 19:19-20? What do they represent? Look back at Revelation 13:1-18, and recall our discussion. What happens to these opponents? After this judgment, who is left to oppose the rider? Look back at Revelation 12:1-17.
(6) What is your reaction to these images? Is your conception of God consistent with these verses? What impact do these verses have on how we conduct our lives today? Consider Hebrews 12:18-29.
Now read Wilcock pages 182-187 and Stedman chapter 23. For now, skip over Wilcock pages 175-182, where he discusses different approaches to the millennium. (We’ll read that for next time.) Revise your answers to the questions in light of their comments.