Revelation 19
Berean Standard Bible Par ▾ 

Rejoicing in Heaven

1After this I heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude in heaven, shouting:

“Hallelujah!a

Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!

2For His judgments are true and just.

He has judged the great prostitute

who corrupted the earth with her immorality.

He has avenged the blood of His servants

that was poured out by her hand.”

3And a second time they called out:

“Hallelujah!

Her smoke rises forever and ever.”

4And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who sits on the throne, saying:

“Amen, Hallelujah!”

5Then a voice came from the throne, saying:

“Praise our God,

all you who serve Him,

and those who fear Him,

small and great alike!”

The Marriage of the Lamb

6And I heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude, like the rushing of many waters, and like a mighty rumbling of thunder, crying out:

“Hallelujah!

For the Lord our Godb the Almighty reigns.

7Let us rejoice and be glad

and give Him the glory.

For the marriage of the Lamb has come,

and His bride has made herself ready.

8She was given clothing of fine linen,

bright and pure.”

For the fine linen she wears is the righteous acts of the saints.

9Then the angel told me to write, “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”

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.”

The Rider on the White Horse

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. 13He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood,c and His name is The Word of God.

14The armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and pure, follow Him on white horses. 15And from His mouth proceeds a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and He will rule them with an iron scepter.d He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16And He has a name written on His robe and on His thigh:

KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Defeat of the Beast and False Prophet

17Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and he cried out in a loud voice to all the birds flying overhead, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God, 18so that you may eat the flesh of kings and commanders and mighty men, of horses and riders, of everyone slave and free, small and great.”

19Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies assembled to wage war against the One seated on the horse, and against His army. 20But the beast was captured along with the false prophet, who on its behalf had performed signs deceiving those who had the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. Both the beast and the false prophet were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. 21And the rest were killed with the sword that proceeded from the mouth of the One seated on the horse.

And all the birds gorged themselves on their flesh.

Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible.

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Revelation 19 Summary
The Marriage of the Lamb

Verses 1–5 – Heaven’s Fourfold Hallelujah
A roar rises from the vast crowd in heaven. They praise God for judging the prostitute-city that corrupted the earth and for vindicating His servants. Twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fall in worship while a voice from the throne urges every servant, “Praise our God, all you who serve Him.”

Verses 6–10 – The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
Another thunderous wave of praise rings out: “For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns!” The time has come for the wedding of the Lamb, and His bride is ready, clothed in “fine linen, bright and pure,” symbolizing righteous deeds. John is told, “Blessed are those invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb,” but when he falls at the angel’s feet, he is warned to worship God alone, “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

Verses 11–16 – The King of Kings Rides Out
“Heaven standing open,” John sees a white horse. Its Rider is called “Faithful and True.” His eyes blaze like fire, His robe is dipped in blood, and He wears many diadems. “And His name is called The Word of God.” Armies in white linen follow Him. From His mouth issues a sharp sword; He rules with an iron scepter and treads the winepress of God’s wrath. On His robe and thigh is written, “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”

Verses 17–18 – The Great Supper of God
An angel in the sun calls birds to gather for God’s supper—to feast on the flesh of kings, captains, mighty men, horses, riders, and all people who oppose the Lord.

Verses 19–21 – Final Victory Over the Beast
The beast and the kings of the earth wage war against the Rider. The beast and the false prophet are seized and thrown alive into the lake of fire. The rest are slain by the sword from the Rider’s mouth, and “all the birds gorged themselves on their flesh.”


Revelation 19 is a powerful chapter in the Bible, unveiling spectacular scenes of heavenly worship, divine marriage, and the triumphant return of Christ. The chapter presents the climax of God's plan, where His righteous judgment prevails, leading to a victorious celebration in heaven, the spiritual union of Christ and His church, and the ultimate defeat of evil.

Setting and Audience

Revelation was first read aloud to seven real congregations in Roman Asia. Caesar worship was pressuring believers; Revelation 19 answers the question, “Who really sits on the throne?” Instead of Rome’s emperor, heaven shouts, “The Lord our God the Almighty reigns” (v. 6).

Soundtrack of Hallelujahs

“Alleluia” appears only four times in the New Testament, all in verses 1-6. Jewish psalms used it for festival praise (e.g., Psalm 106:1). Its sudden burst here signals that the long-awaited judgment has arrived (compare Psalm 104:35).

Ancient Wedding Customs and the Marriage of the Lamb

In first-century Galilee a wedding had three stages: betrothal, procession, banquet. Jesus purchased the Church at Calvary (betrothal, Acts 20:28). The Rapture and Bema judgment purify the bride (procession, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 2 Corinthians 5:10). Revelation 19 depicts the banquet. Isaiah 25:6 foresaw it: “The LORD of Hosts will prepare a feast of rich food.” Jesus hinted at it in Matthew 22:2 and Luke 22:16-18.

Fine linen is “the righteous acts of the saints” (v. 8). Paul connected bridal clothing with holiness: Ephesians 5:25-27.

White Linen and Roman Triumphs

Victorious generals in Rome paraded in white garments, followed by soldiers in dazzling uniforms. Revelation swaps Rome’s legions for “the armies of heaven… wearing fine linen, white and clean” (v. 14). God stages His own triumph with Christ as the undisputed Conqueror.

The Rider: Titles, Weapons, and Robes

• Faithful and True (v. 11) – answers unseen questions about delayed justice; see 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7.

• Eyes like flame (v. 12) – perfect insight; echoes Revelation 1:14.

• Many diadems – more crowns than any emperor; Psalm 110:3.

• Name only He knows – hints at infinite majesty (compare Judges 13:18).

• Robe dipped in blood – may recall His own sacrifice (Isaiah 63:1-3) and/or the blood of His enemies.

• Word of God – John 1:1, Hebrews 4:12.

• Sharp sword from His mouth – authority through spoken word; Isaiah 11:4.

• Rules with an iron scepter – promise to the overcomer in Revelation 2:27, quoting Psalm 2:9.

• Winepress of wrath – vivid picture from Isaiah 63:2-3 and Joel 3:13.

The Two Suppers Compared

1. Wedding Supper of the Lamb (vv. 7-9) – joy, intimacy, reward.

2. Great Supper of God (vv. 17-18) – judgment, devastation, reaping of rebellion.

Everyone attends one or the other. Jesus used the same contrast in John 6:53-56 versus Matthew 24:28.

Birds of Prey and Old Testament Judgment Scenes

Ezekiel 39:17-20 also invites birds to feast after Gog’s defeat. Jeremiah 7:33 foretold corpses becoming food for birds. Those prophecies merge here, portraying total victory.

The Beast and False Prophet: Identity and Destiny

They represent political and religious rebellion bound together. Daniel 7 foresaw a blasphemous beast; Jesus prophesied false messiahs (Matthew 24:24). Revelation 13 unveiled their rise; chapter 19 shows their doom—“thrown alive into the fiery lake that burns with sulfur” (v. 20). No battle scene is described; God’s word simply conquers.

Fire Imagery and the Lake of Fire

“Lake of fire” appears only in Revelation (19:20; 20:10, 14-15; 21:8). OT roots include Daniel 7:11 where the beast’s body “was destroyed and given over to the burning fire.”

Prophetic Echoes Throughout Scripture

• Hallelujah chorus – Psalm 113-118.

• Marriage imagery – Hosea 2:19-20; Isaiah 54:5-8.

• Winepress – Lamentations 1:15.

• Sword from mouth – Isaiah 49:2.

• Angelic message “Worship God” – Exodus 20:3; Revelation 22:9.

Old-Testament Battle Language

Psalm 2, Isaiah 34, Zechariah 14, and Joel 3 speak of end-time clashes near Jerusalem. Revelation gathers these threads but stages the climax at “Armageddon” (16:16) and ends with global kings arrayed against Christ (19:19).

Archaeological Footnotes: Sharp Sword, Iron Scepter, Winepress

• Roman gladius, about 24 inches, symbolized imperial power, yet Christ’s sword is spiritual—His word.

• Iron rod matches Assyrian scepters unearthed in Nimrud; instruments of firm rule.

• First-century winepress caves in Galilee give imagery: grapes poured into a stone pit, trampled, red juice gushing like blood.

Angel Worship Warning

John’s impulse to bow (v. 10) mirrors human tendency to elevate messengers. Scripture disallows it (Colossians 2:18). The angel redirects focus, affirming that true prophecy lifts up Jesus.

Practical Takeaways for Today’s Disciple

• God’s justice is certain, even if delayed.

• Righteous actions are the bride’s garment; daily obedience matters.

• Worship belongs solely to God—avoid celebrity culture in the Church.

• Christ’s word is the real weapon; trust and proclaim it.

• Every ruler ultimately answers to the King of kings; pray confidently for God’s kingdom to come.

Connections to Additional Scriptures
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
This passage describes the return of Christ and the gathering of believers, paralleling the themes of victory and reunion in Revelation 19.

Ephesians 5:25-27
Paul speaks of the Church as the bride of Christ, emphasizing purity and holiness, which connects to the imagery of the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Philippians 2:9-11
These verses affirm the exaltation of Christ and His ultimate authority, resonating with His titles in Revelation 19.
Teaching Points
The Hallelujah Chorus in Heaven
Revelation 19:1-6 describes a heavenly multitude praising God for His salvation, glory, and power. The repeated Hallelujah emphasizes the joy and reverence of the heavenly hosts.

The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
Verses 7-9 introduce the marriage of the Lamb, symbolizing the union of Christ and His Church. The bride, representing the Church, is clothed in fine linen, symbolizing the righteous acts of the saints.

The Rider on the White Horse
Verses 11-16 depict Christ as a victorious warrior, riding a white horse. His titles, Faithful and True, and King of kings and Lord of lords, affirm His authority and righteousness.

The Defeat of the Beast and False Prophet
Verses 17-21 describe the final battle where the beast and the false prophet are captured and thrown into the lake of fire, signifying the ultimate defeat of evil.
Practical Applications
Live in Expectation
As believers, we should live with the expectation of Christ's return, allowing this hope to shape our daily lives and decisions.

Pursue Righteousness
Just as the bride is clothed in fine linen, we are called to pursue righteousness and live in a way that honors God.

Engage in Worship
The heavenly chorus reminds us of the importance of worship. Let us cultivate a heart of praise and gratitude for God's salvation and sovereignty.

Stand Firm in Faith
Knowing that Christ is victorious, we can stand firm in our faith, even amidst trials and challenges, trusting in His ultimate triumph.
People
1. The Great Multitude
Description: This group is described as a vast assembly in heaven, praising God for His salvation, glory, and power. They celebrate the judgment of the great prostitute and the marriage of the Lamb.
Reference: Revelation 19:1, 6
Greek Root: The term "multitude" (πλῆθος, plēthos) emphasizes the vast number of people.

2. The Twenty-Four Elders
Description: These elders are seen worshiping God, falling down before Him and affirming His righteous judgments.
Reference: Revelation 19:4
Greek Root: The word "elders" (πρεσβύτεροι, presbyteroi) indicates their role as leaders or representatives.

3. The Four Living Creatures
Description: These creatures, often associated with the cherubim or seraphim, join the elders in worshiping God.
Reference: Revelation 19:4
Greek Root: The term "living creatures" (ζῷα, zōa) highlights their vitality and unique nature.

4. God
Description: God is the central figure receiving worship and praise for His sovereignty and righteous acts.
Reference: Revelation 19:1, 6
Greek Root: The name "God" (Θεός, Theos) is used to denote the supreme deity.

5. The Lamb
Description: The Lamb, representing Jesus Christ, is celebrated for His marriage to the bride, symbolizing the union with the Church.
Reference: Revelation 19:7
Greek Root: The word "Lamb" (ἀρνίον, arnion) signifies Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb.

6. The Bride
Description: The bride symbolizes the Church, prepared and adorned for the marriage to the Lamb.
Reference: Revelation 19:7-8
Greek Root: The term "bride" (νύμφη, nymphē) reflects the intimate relationship with the Lamb.

7. The Rider on the White Horse
Description: This figure, identified as Faithful and True, is a depiction of Christ returning in victory and judgment.
Reference: Revelation 19:11-16
Greek Root: The title "Faithful and True" (πιστός καὶ ἀληθινός, pistos kai alēthinos) emphasizes His reliability and truthfulness.

8. The Armies of Heaven
Description: These armies, clothed in fine linen, follow the Rider on the white horse, symbolizing the saints or angelic hosts.
Reference: Revelation 19:14
Greek Root: The word "armies" (στρατεύματα, strateumata) indicates organized forces.

9. The Beast
Description: The Beast, representing the antichrist or a system opposed to God, is captured and defeated.
Reference: Revelation 19:19-20
Greek Root: The term "beast" (θηρίον, thērion) conveys a sense of wildness and opposition.

10. The False Prophet
Description: This figure, who performed deceptive signs, is captured alongside the Beast and thrown into the lake of fire.
Reference: Revelation 19:20
Greek Root: The term "false prophet" (ψευδοπροφήτης, pseudoprophētēs) highlights deceit and falsehood.
Places
1. Heaven
Revelation 19:1 begins with "After this I heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude in heaven, shouting: 'Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!'" The term "heaven" (Greek: οὐρανός, ouranos) is used here to describe the divine realm where God resides and where the multitude praises Him. In a conservative Christian perspective, heaven is seen as the ultimate dwelling place of God and the final destination for believers.

2. The Great City
In Revelation 19:2, it refers to the judgment of "the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality." This is a reference to Babylon, often interpreted symbolically as a representation of worldly systems opposed to God. The "great city" (Greek: πόλις μεγάλη, polis megalē) is understood as a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God.

3. The Earth
Revelation 19:2 also mentions "the earth" in the context of being corrupted by the great prostitute. The earth (Greek: γῆ, gē) is the physical realm inhabited by humanity, often contrasted with the spiritual realm of heaven. In this context, it represents the domain affected by sin and immorality.

4. The Sea
While not explicitly mentioned in Revelation 19, the sea is often symbolically referenced in Revelation as a place of chaos and evil. In the broader context of Revelation, the sea (Greek: θάλασσα, thalassa) can symbolize the tumultuous and rebellious aspects of creation.
Events
1. The Heavenly Hallelujahs (Revelation 19:1-5)
A great multitude in heaven praises God, saying, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God" (v. 1). This celebration is in response to God's righteous judgment on the great prostitute, symbolizing the corrupt systems of the world. The term "Hallelujah" (Ἁλληλουϊά) is derived from Hebrew, meaning "Praise Yahweh."

2. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6-9)
The multitude continues to praise God, acknowledging the reign of the Lord God Almighty. The marriage of the Lamb is announced, and His bride, representing the Church, is prepared. Verse 9 states, "Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb." The imagery of marriage reflects the intimate and covenantal relationship between Christ and His Church.

3. John's Attempted Worship of the Angel (Revelation 19:10)
John falls at the feet of the angel to worship him, but the angel rebukes him, saying, "Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God!" This emphasizes the sole worship due to God alone.

4. The Rider on the White Horse (Revelation 19:11-16)
Heaven opens, revealing a rider on a white horse, called "Faithful and True." He judges and wages war in righteousness. His eyes are like flames of fire, and on His head are many crowns. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is "The Word of God." The armies of heaven follow Him. This rider is understood to be Jesus Christ, returning in glory and power.

5. The Defeat of the Beast and the False Prophet (Revelation 19:17-21)
An angel standing in the sun calls all the birds to gather for the great supper of God, to eat the flesh of kings, captains, and mighty men. The beast and the kings of the earth gather to make war against the rider on the horse and His army. The beast and the false prophet are captured and thrown alive into the lake of fire. The rest are killed by the sword coming from the mouth of the rider, and all the birds gorge themselves on their flesh.
Topics
1. The Heavenly Hallelujahs (Revelation 19:1-6)
This section describes a great multitude in heaven praising God with loud voices, saying, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God" (Revelation 19:1). The term "Hallelujah" is derived from the Hebrew "halal" (to praise) and "Yah" (Yahweh), signifying praise to God. The multitude celebrates God's righteous judgments and the fall of Babylon.

2. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7-10)
The passage announces the marriage of the Lamb, with the bride (the Church) having made herself ready. "Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready" (Revelation 19:7). The Greek word "gamos" (marriage) signifies the union of Christ and His Church. The angel instructs John to write, "Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb" (Revelation 19:9).

3. The Rider on the White Horse (Revelation 19:11-16)
John sees heaven opened and a white horse, whose rider is called "Faithful and True." "He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is The Word of God" (Revelation 19:13). The Greek term "Logos" (Word) emphasizes Christ's divine nature and authority. The passage describes His righteous judgment and His title as "King of kings and Lord of lords" (Revelation 19:16).

4. The Defeat of the Beast and False Prophet (Revelation 19:17-21)
An angel standing in the sun calls all the birds to gather for the "great supper of God," to eat the flesh of kings and mighty men. The beast and the kings of the earth gather to make war against the rider on the horse. "But the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet" (Revelation 19:20). The Greek word "therion" (beast) indicates a wild, savage creature, symbolizing the antichrist forces. Both the beast and the false prophet are thrown alive into the lake of fire.
Themes
1. Heavenly Rejoicing and Praise
Revelation 19 opens with a scene of heavenly rejoicing, where a great multitude in heaven exclaims, "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God" (Revelation 19:1). The term "Hallelujah" is derived from the Hebrew "halal" (to praise) and "Yah" (a shortened form of Yahweh), emphasizing the theme of divine praise and worship.

2. Judgment and Justice
The passage highlights God's righteous judgment, as the multitude praises Him for judging the "great prostitute" who corrupted the earth (Revelation 19:2). The Greek word "krisis" (judgment) underscores the theme of divine justice being executed.

3. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
The theme of the marriage supper is introduced, symbolizing the union of Christ and His Church. "Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb" (Revelation 19:9). The Greek term "gamos" (marriage) signifies the celebratory and covenantal nature of this event.

4. The Faithful and True Rider
Revelation 19:11 describes the appearance of a rider on a white horse, called "Faithful and True," who judges and wages war in righteousness. This theme emphasizes Christ's role as the righteous judge and warrior. The Greek word "pistos" (faithful) highlights His reliability and trustworthiness.

5. The Word of God
The rider is also identified as "The Word of God" (Revelation 19:13), linking back to the Greek "Logos," which signifies divine reason and creative order. This theme underscores the authority and power of Christ as the living Word.

6. The Defeat of the Beast and False Prophet
The chapter concludes with the defeat of the beast and the false prophet, who are thrown into the lake of fire (Revelation 19:20). This theme of ultimate victory over evil is central to the narrative, highlighting the finality of God's triumph.

7. The Supper of God
A contrasting theme to the marriage supper is the "great supper of God," where birds are called to feast on the flesh of the defeated enemies (Revelation 19:17-18). This theme serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of opposing God.
Answering Tough Questions
1. In Revelation 19:11, how can a literal white horse descending from heaven be reconciled with modern scientific understanding?

2. Revelation 19:12 says Jesus has multiple crowns—how is this detail consistent with physical or metaphorical reality?

3. In Revelation 19:13, why would a divine figure be covered in blood if redemption was already achieved at the cross?

4. Revelation 19:14 describes an army in white linen on heavenly horses—what evidence supports a real historical or spiritual event like this?

5. Revelation 19:17–18 depicts a grisly feast of flesh for birds—how does this align with a compassionate God portrayed elsewhere in scripture?

Bible Study Discussion Questions

1. How does the picture of heavenly worship in verses 1-5 shape your personal worship of God?

2. In the context of God's judgment on Babylon, how should Christians view worldly systems that oppose God?

3. How does the imagery of the Bride preparing herself for the Lamb's marriage inspire you to live righteously?

4. Discuss the significance of the wedding feast of the Lamb. How does this event relate to God's promise for believers?

5. How can the scene of the marriage supper of the Lamb provide comfort to those facing difficulties and persecution?

6. How does the description of Jesus as the Rider on the white horse contrast with the images of Christ you usually encounter?

7. The Rider's name is known only to Himself (v.12). What does this tell you about the mystery of God?

8. Why do you think it's significant that the armies of heaven are wearing fine linen, clean and white?

9. How does the defeat of the beast and false prophet offer assurance to believers facing spiritual warfare today?

10. How does Revelation 19 shape your understanding of Christ's Second Coming?

11. In the modern world, what forms can the "beast" and the "false prophet" take?

12. How does the imagery of the birds feasting on the flesh of the defeated enemies resonate with you?

13. How does the certainty of God's final victory influence your day-to-day choices?

14. What practical steps can you take to prepare yourself as the Bride of Christ?

15. How should the truths in Revelation 19 shape your evangelistic efforts?

16. How does the righteous judgment of God provide hope in a world often marked by injustice?

17. The Rider on the horse judges and wages war righteously (v.11). How should this influence our understanding of justice and righteousness?

18. How does the knowledge of the ultimate defeat of evil influence your perspective on current global events?

19. How can you use the message of Revelation 19 to encourage fellow believers in their walk with God?

20. Reflecting on Revelation 19, what is one area of your life that you feel led to change?



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