What happensPermalink
A great multitude in heaven praises God for judging Babylon, while the elders and living creatures join in worship. The marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride is clothed in fine linen, representing the righteous deeds of the saints. Heaven opens, and John sees Christ riding a white horse as Faithful and True, leading the armies of heaven. With the sword of His mouth He defeats the beast and the false prophet, who are thrown alive into the lake of fire, while their armies are destroyed.
Why it mattersPermalink
Babylon’s fall gives way to the Lamb’s wedding: the prostitute-city is replaced by the faithful bride, the church. Her fine linen recalls Christ’s promises of white garments to the seven churches. Then the bridegroom appears as the victorious King whose word alone defeats every enemy. History’s outcome is certain: Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords.
Key versePermalink
Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war.