Heavenly Army - A Bit More

Many Christians assume that Revelations 19:11-15 is a description of the second coming, but this is incorrect. The passage cannot be interpreted literally, as it would not make sense. Jesus will not be riding on a horse when he returns. There are no horses in heaven. Jesus does not have a sword real coming out of his mouth. If he did, he might whack anyone that came close, or if he turned his head suddenly. He would find it hard to eat and drink. The passage only makes sense if interpreted figuratively.

Jesus is wearing a white robe dipped in blood. This shows that his authority comes from his suffering and death on the cross. He does not fight with physical weapons; “he judges and fights with righteousness.” This is the opposite of the popular Bazooka Jesus.

This passage is actually a picture of the Kingdom coming in the way through Christian suffering. The riders are wearing white robes. In a previous post, I showed that white robes represent suffering for the sake righteousness . The kingdom of God comes when Jesus has enough followers who are willing to suffer for righteousness. Jesus is wearing a white robe too. He suffered on the cross though he was innocent. He actually died, which is signified by his robe being dipped in blood.

The sword out of Jesus’ mouth represents the proclamation of his word and gospel. The influence of his followers advances, as they speak his word and preach his gospel.

God will respond to the suffering of his disciples by sending judgment against the nations that oppose him and bring their kings down from their thrones. Christians will respond to evil with suffering. Kings and politicians will use military and political power to oppose God’s purpose, but they will fail and flee from the troubles they bring. Human political power will be so totally destroyed that it can never rise again.

The whole world will be convicted by the Spirit to acknowledge that Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

The rod of iron is often misunderstood. A shepherd uses his rod to protect his sheep from attack, not to whack the sheep, if they step out of line. More at iron rod.