The Revelation Of Jesus Christ (Part 4)
The Revelation Of Jesus Christ (Part 4) • Sermon • Submitted
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· 7 viewsRevelation 19:11-16 uses several adjectives and titles to reveal Jesus.
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1. Revelation 19:11, “Then I saw heaven opened, ...” marks the beginning of another vision.
It seems that the Book of Revelation wasn’t one continuous vision but a series of multiple visions.
Some may have even been visions within visions.
2. Revelation 19:11-16 uses several adjectives and titles to reveal Jesus.
I. Faithful And True (v11) “... behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, ...”
I. Faithful And True (v11) “... behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, ...”
A. Faithful (pistos): faithful; reliable; believing; trustworthy; dependable
A. Faithful (pistos): faithful; reliable; believing; trustworthy; dependable
B. True (alethinos): In the vernacular we would say Jesus is the real deal; truth is fully revealed and embodied in Him.
B. True (alethinos): In the vernacular we would say Jesus is the real deal; truth is fully revealed and embodied in Him.
II. Righteous Judge (v11) “... in righteousness he judges ...”
II. Righteous Judge (v11) “... in righteousness he judges ...”
A. The LORD As A Righteous Judge Is Seen Throughout Scripture:
A. The LORD As A Righteous Judge Is Seen Throughout Scripture:
(Ps 96:13) he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness.
(Isaiah 11:4, ESV) but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.
(Isaiah 33:14, ESV) The sinners in Zion are afraid; trembling has seized the godless: “Who among us can dwell with the consuming fire? Who among us can dwell with everlasting burnings?”
(Hebrews 10:30–31, ESV) For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
B. “He Judges” / Present Tense Reveals That This Is Something That Jesus Does Constantly
B. “He Judges” / Present Tense Reveals That This Is Something That Jesus Does Constantly
Jesus listens, assesses the actions of the one(s) involved, and acts accordingly.
We have nothing to fear if we walk before Jesus humbly seeking to do that which is right, but we have much to fear if we are living a lie and trying to cover over our unrighteousness with deception.
C. Those Who Think That Jesus Will “Wink” At Their Sins Need To Realize That Jesus Is A Righteous Judge
C. Those Who Think That Jesus Will “Wink” At Their Sins Need To Realize That Jesus Is A Righteous Judge
The fact that this verse speaks of Jesus as the righteous judge as well as the one who makes war reveals that Jesus will enforce His righteous standard, even when it takes war to do so!
Yet, the war isn’t against those who are doing right, but against those who are living lives of sin and rebellion.
D. To Have Jesus As Your Judge Is A Good Thing If You Are Living Right; But An Extremely Fearful Thing If You’re Not!
D. To Have Jesus As Your Judge Is A Good Thing If You Are Living Right; But An Extremely Fearful Thing If You’re Not!
III. Warrior (v11) “... in righteousness he judges and makes war.”
III. Warrior (v11) “... in righteousness he judges and makes war.”
A. Early In The Old Testament We Became Aware That The LORD Is A Warrior
A. Early In The Old Testament We Became Aware That The LORD Is A Warrior
(Exodus 15:3, NIV) The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is his name.
B. Revelation 19:11 Emphasizes The Fact That Jesus Is Not A Victim But Instead Is The Aggressive Victor
B. Revelation 19:11 Emphasizes The Fact That Jesus Is Not A Victim But Instead Is The Aggressive Victor
1. Jesus is the one who is aggressively going after those who have rebelled against His Father and the Kingdom of God.
1. Jesus is the one who is aggressively going after those who have rebelled against His Father and the Kingdom of God.
“makes war” = Present Tense
2. Revelation 19:17-23 gives specific detail on who it is that Jesus is warring against: the false prophet, and the kings of the earth and their armies.
2. Revelation 19:17-23 gives specific detail on who it is that Jesus is warring against: the false prophet, and the kings of the earth and their armies.
C. Before Jesus Wages War Against The Disobedient Unbelievers, He Wages War Against The Disobedient Believers
C. Before Jesus Wages War Against The Disobedient Unbelievers, He Wages War Against The Disobedient Believers
(Rev. 2:16, ESV) Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth.
(1 Peter 4:17, ESV) For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
D. Revelation 19:11 Opens Up With Jesus On A White Horse
D. Revelation 19:11 Opens Up With Jesus On A White Horse
1. Is this the same rider described in Revelation 6:1-2?
1. Is this the same rider described in Revelation 6:1-2?
(Revelation 6:1–2, ESV) Now I watched when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice like thunder, “Come!” 2 And I looked, and behold, a white horse! And its rider had a bow, and a crown was given to him, and he came out conquering, and to conquer.
The four horses mentioned in Revelation 6 are part of the seven seals of God’s wrath.
The fact that the first horse in Revelation 6 is white (like the one Jesus rides) probably speaks of how the antichrist is a deceiver and will at first seek to counterfeit Jesus.
E. Jesus Isn’t Just A Warrior, He Is A Victorious Warrior!
E. Jesus Isn’t Just A Warrior, He Is A Victorious Warrior!
1. Jesus has already defeated the enemy. (Therefore, victory is sure!)
1. Jesus has already defeated the enemy. (Therefore, victory is sure!)
2. Victory is progressive. (It has many different levels.)
2. Victory is progressive. (It has many different levels.)
3. Victory never comes easily. (Even though it has already been accomplished by Jesus.)
3. Victory never comes easily. (Even though it has already been accomplished by Jesus.)
Revelation makes is clear that the power of the antichrist, the false prophet, and Satan are not to be underestimated.
(Revelation 13:4, ESV) ... “Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it?”
Only Jesus and those who are with Him!
F. Who Makes Up This Army Of Heaven?
F. Who Makes Up This Army Of Heaven?
1. (Revelation 19:14, ESV) “And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, ...”
1. (Revelation 19:14, ESV) “And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, ...”
2. Instead of this army being the angelic host this is most likely Christ’ faithful disciples previously mentioned in 17:14:
2. Instead of this army being the angelic host this is most likely Christ’ faithful disciples previously mentioned in 17:14:
(Revelation 17:14, ESV) They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”
This reasoning is supported by the fact that Revelation 19:14 speaks of the garments worn by the army, i.e. “arrayed in fine linen, white and pure” which coincides with Revelation 19:8 which reveals that fine linen symbolizes “the righteous deeds of the saints.”
G. There Are Those Who Believe That The Blood On Jesus’ Robe Comes From The Blood Of His Enemies
G. There Are Those Who Believe That The Blood On Jesus’ Robe Comes From The Blood Of His Enemies
1. However, in context, when this is written that battle had not yet been fought (It won’t take place until vv17-19)
1. However, in context, when this is written that battle had not yet been fought (It won’t take place until vv17-19)
2. Jesus is coming from Heaven on His white horse before the battle begins ... with His robe already dipped in blood!
2. Jesus is coming from Heaven on His white horse before the battle begins ... with His robe already dipped in blood!
Whose blood is it? His own!
The significance is striking! Jesus is wearing the symbol of His victory over the enemy, His blood from the cross.
3. “a robe dipped in blood” bapto (βάπτω), “to immerse, dip” which is also used in reference to dyeing a piece of cloth.
3. “a robe dipped in blood” bapto (βάπτω), “to immerse, dip” which is also used in reference to dyeing a piece of cloth.
It is by His blood that we are protected and defeat the enemy!
IV. Ruler (v12) “... on his head are many diadems, ...” / (v16) King of kings and Lord of lords
IV. Ruler (v12) “... on his head are many diadems, ...” / (v16) King of kings and Lord of lords
A. Diadem = Crown ... An Ornamental, Jeweled, And Probably Metal Headdress Which Signifies Sovereignty
A. Diadem = Crown ... An Ornamental, Jeweled, And Probably Metal Headdress Which Signifies Sovereignty
1. It is significant that on his head are many crowns, using the word diadēma rather than the term ‘wreath’, (stephanos)
1. It is significant that on his head are many crowns, using the word diadēma rather than the term ‘wreath’, (stephanos)
2. The wreath signifies victory (a wreath was given to a general who won a battle) whereas the diadem signifies the power to rule. (Kings were given crowns, not wreaths) Jesus has both!
2. The wreath signifies victory (a wreath was given to a general who won a battle) whereas the diadem signifies the power to rule. (Kings were given crowns, not wreaths) Jesus has both!
B. The Phrase, “He Will Rule Them With A Rod Of Iron” Is Literally Translated, “He Will Shepherd Them With A Rod Of Iron.”
B. The Phrase, “He Will Rule Them With A Rod Of Iron” Is Literally Translated, “He Will Shepherd Them With A Rod Of Iron.”
1. The rod of iron reveals the power of Jesus to protect and govern His sheep.
1. The rod of iron reveals the power of Jesus to protect and govern His sheep.
2. But in reference to the “nations” Jesus will govern them with severity for their rebellion.
2. But in reference to the “nations” Jesus will govern them with severity for their rebellion.
3. Jesus is good and merciful, but He doesn’t play “religious games.”
3. Jesus is good and merciful, but He doesn’t play “religious games.”
Jesus comforts and protects those who serve Him wholeheartedly, but He is stern to those who rebel.
The Book of Revelation reveals Jesus in ways that are more often seen in the OT; the sternness of God!
Jesus is absolutely loving, merciful, good, and kind. But He is not a parent who spoils His children.
He wants His followers to be useful and productive in the Kingdom of God.
The Book of Revelation makes it clear that Jesus is lion/lamb!
C. There Are Several Mentioned In Revelation Who Are Wearing Crowns: Jesus, As Well As The Red Dragon And The Beast
C. There Are Several Mentioned In Revelation Who Are Wearing Crowns: Jesus, As Well As The Red Dragon And The Beast
1. Since the crown(s) express sovereignty, the enemy and his leaders are claiming sovereignty.
1. Since the crown(s) express sovereignty, the enemy and his leaders are claiming sovereignty.
2. In every case in the Book of Revelation those claiming sovereignty don’t just wear one crown, they wear several!
2. In every case in the Book of Revelation those claiming sovereignty don’t just wear one crown, they wear several!
Emphasizing sovereignty over many different people, places, things, etc.
D. The Enemy May Claim Sovereignty And Even Appear To Be Sovereign But Jesus Is “King of kings and Lord of lords”
D. The Enemy May Claim Sovereignty And Even Appear To Be Sovereign But Jesus Is “King of kings and Lord of lords”
1. (Revelation 19:16, ESV) On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.
1. (Revelation 19:16, ESV) On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.
E. The Sovereignty Of Jesus Will Be Fought (For A Season) But It Has Already Been Firmly Established!
E. The Sovereignty Of Jesus Will Be Fought (For A Season) But It Has Already Been Firmly Established!
1. (Ephesians 1:20–22, NIV) ... he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church,
1. (Ephesians 1:20–22, NIV) ... he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church,
V. Mystery Name (v12) “... he has a name written that no one knows but himself.”
V. Mystery Name (v12) “... he has a name written that no one knows but himself.”
A. The Greek Word Translated “Knows” (oida) Can Mean To Know, Or To Understand (i.e. comprehend, discern)
A. The Greek Word Translated “Knows” (oida) Can Mean To Know, Or To Understand (i.e. comprehend, discern)
1. (Mark 10:38, ESV) Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?”
1. (Mark 10:38, ESV) Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?”
2. Obviously James and John knew what they had just asked Jesus, but they didn’t understood its ramifications.
2. Obviously James and John knew what they had just asked Jesus, but they didn’t understood its ramifications.
B. Revelation 19:12 May Not Be Referring To Knowing What The Name Is, But Instead Understanding Its Meaning.
B. Revelation 19:12 May Not Be Referring To Knowing What The Name Is, But Instead Understanding Its Meaning.
1. (Revelation 19:12, NLT) ... A name was written on him that no one understood except himself.
1. (Revelation 19:12, NLT) ... A name was written on him that no one understood except himself.
C. In The Bible The LORD’s Name Is So Important Because His Name Expresses His Being, Attributes, Character, etc.
C. In The Bible The LORD’s Name Is So Important Because His Name Expresses His Being, Attributes, Character, etc.
Having a name that no one understands reminds us that there are hidden depths to Jesus ... that Christ can never be completely understood by His creation. He is unfathomable!
D. Jesus Won’t Be The Only One Who Has A Mystery Name; All Those Who Overcome Will Be Given A Mystery Name!
D. Jesus Won’t Be The Only One Who Has A Mystery Name; All Those Who Overcome Will Be Given A Mystery Name!
(Revelation 2:17, NLT) ... And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it.
A name known and understood only by you and Jesus!
VI. The Word Of God (v13) “... the name by which he is called is The Word of God.”
VI. The Word Of God (v13) “... the name by which he is called is The Word of God.”
A. The Eternal Name By Which Jesus Was Known Before The Incarnation Was, The Word.”
A. The Eternal Name By Which Jesus Was Known Before The Incarnation Was, The Word.”
(John 1:1, ESV) “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Now, the name which God the Son was known from eternity before creation is now the name He uses in eternity, The Word of God!
B. The Name, “The Word Of God” Is Powerfully Significant!
B. The Name, “The Word Of God” Is Powerfully Significant!
1. Jewish thought:
1. Jewish thought:
In Jewish thought a word was more than a sound expressing a meaning; a word actually did things.
The Jews thought of the Word (God’s spoken word and later the written word) as being inseparable from God’s Wisdom. Thus, God’s Word was God’s power and wisdom in action!
2. The Greeks taught that the word (logos) was the mind of God which brought order in the world; the logos ruled over all things. (The times, seasons, tides, stars, etc. were ordered by the logos, i.e. the mind of God.)
2. The Greeks taught that the word (logos) was the mind of God which brought order in the world; the logos ruled over all things. (The times, seasons, tides, stars, etc. were ordered by the logos, i.e. the mind of God.)
3. By the time the NT was written Philo, a Jewish philosopher from Alexandria, joined Jewish and Greek thought and taught that the logos is the bridge between man and God.
3. By the time the NT was written Philo, a Jewish philosopher from Alexandria, joined Jewish and Greek thought and taught that the logos is the bridge between man and God.
4. The Holy Spirit used this Greek word so rich with meaning and used it to reveal who Jesus is, the logos of God!
4. The Holy Spirit used this Greek word so rich with meaning and used it to reveal who Jesus is, the logos of God!
God’s wisdom and power in action, the mind of God which created all and rules over all creation!
(John 1:1–3, ESV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.
When God speaks Jesus is being revealed; when Jesus is revealed God’s work is being released!
5. William Barclay, “New Testament Words”: “By calling Jesus the logos, John said two things about Jesus. (a) Jesus is the creating power of God come to men. He does not only speak the word of knowledge; he is the word of power. He did not come so much to say things to us, as to do things for us. (b) Jesus is the incarnate mind of God. We might well translate John’s words, ‘The mind of God became a man.’ A word is always ‘the expression of a thought’ and Jesus is the perfect expression of God’s thought for men.”
5. William Barclay, “New Testament Words”: “By calling Jesus the logos, John said two things about Jesus. (a) Jesus is the creating power of God come to men. He does not only speak the word of knowledge; he is the word of power. He did not come so much to say things to us, as to do things for us. (b) Jesus is the incarnate mind of God. We might well translate John’s words, ‘The mind of God became a man.’ A word is always ‘the expression of a thought’ and Jesus is the perfect expression of God’s thought for men.”
C. The Sword Coming Out Of His Mouth (v15) “From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations,”
C. The Sword Coming Out Of His Mouth (v15) “From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations,”
1. When Jesus comes again it will be a time of great joy to those who have served Him, but a time of great trepidation and fear for those who have not!
1. When Jesus comes again it will be a time of great joy to those who have served Him, but a time of great trepidation and fear for those who have not!
2. There are many similarities between Revelation 19:15 and Isaiah 11:4
2. There are many similarities between Revelation 19:15 and Isaiah 11:4
(Revelation 19:15, NIV) Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.
(Isaiah 11:4, ESV) ... and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. (In context Isaiah 11:4-9 seems to be referring to the Millennium.)
3. The Word is like a sword coming out of Jesus’ mouth.
3. The Word is like a sword coming out of Jesus’ mouth.
His words judge and destroy, but they also deliver!
Cutting away the evil from that which is good and destroying that which needs to be destroyed.
His words teach and give council.
4. What Jesus says to you will depend on you!
4. What Jesus says to you will depend on you!