John hears a great crowd in heaven shouting "Hallelujah!" They praise God for judging the great prostitute and for avenging the blood of his servants. The elders and living creatures fall down and worship God. A voice from the throne calls everyone to praise God. Then the crowd roars again like the sound of rushing water and loud thunder: "Hallelujah! The Lord God Almighty reigns!"
The time for the wedding of the Lamb has come. His bride has made herself ready. She is dressed in bright, clean linen, which stands for the good things that God's people have done. An angel tells John that those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb are truly happy. John tries to bow down before the angel, but the angel tells him not to, only God deserves worship.
Then heaven opens and John sees a white horse. The rider is called Faithful and True. His eyes are like flames of fire, and on his head are many crowns. His robe is dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven follow him on white horses. He strikes down the nations, and on his robe is written: King of kings and Lord of lords. The beast and the kings of the earth gather to fight against him, but the beast and the false prophet are captured and thrown alive into the lake of fire.
Historical Context
The word "Hallelujah" comes from a Hebrew phrase that means "Praise the Lord." It appears four times in a row here, the only place in the whole New Testament where this word is used. In the Old Testament, the Psalms often used this word at festivals of praise. Here it marks the greatest celebration of all: God's enemies have been defeated.
The picture of Jesus on a white horse, riding as a warrior, shows that he is not just a gentle teacher, he is also a powerful King who wins every battle. The wedding feast of the Lamb is a picture of the joy that God's people will share with Jesus forever. For Christians who were suffering, this was the most hopeful message they could hear.
Chapter Outline
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Heaven Shouts Hallelujah for God's VictoryVerse 1-5
