The Winepress - Part Two

     As with Revelation 12, chapter 19 is likewise one of the most misinterpreted passages in what Jesus said are the things that shall take place shortly. Sadly, this same man-made confusion has caused many to avoid the topic of the end-times altogether. The result is that many do not have comfort, hope, or a sense of victory. This ought not to be because now is the time to declare the merciful warning as in the times of Noah. Only God raises up and brings downs the nations (Dan. 2:21). Our job is to save souls, not nations.
       We are meant to link the figurative language of Christ on a white horse in Rev. 19 with what we saw earlier in the vision in Rev. 14 of the seated heavenly court releasing the wrath of that Day. That is, releasing the bowl judgments that bring down the Antichrist. The passage even uses the same imagery of the winepress, showing the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
       In ancient times, the trumpet call sounded forth at a momentous time, either warning of danger or calling the people to gather for a feast. Bowls signify something prepared that is to be poured out. In short, the trumpets and the bowls are the same vengeance against evil, the just judgments of God.
        This time around, we get two more details about the warfare that affirm the defeat of the Antichrist. “And He Himself  [Christ, the King of kings] will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.”  As always, our Lord Jesus has the preeminence (Col. 1:18). “For on His thigh a name is written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” (v. 16).
       End-Time Lesson: No word in Scripture is haphazard. So why do you think that of all the things that could be said about Jesus’ rule, that the passage refers to the rod of iron? If you said it is because it is one of the promises given to His Body (Rev. 2:26-27) then give yourself a pat on the back! We’re meant to see that we are always with Him, in the place of all authority—ruling and reigning from  Heaven.
       Likewise, why does the angel tell John to write, “Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!” when it is not yet time for it? That celebration doesn’t happen until the millennial rule is complete, when God makes all things new again. It is because of what the angel adds to his declaration:  “These are the true sayings of God.”  
     In short, God’s prophetic plan of redemption is unfolding as declared and nothing can stop it. Despite the present warfare, no matter how things may look at any given time, His plan shall be fulfilled. “Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns!” Besides, there is another supper that has to take place first. Stay tuned.