Session 12: The Banquet
Session Overview
Creedal Statement
Coming soon.
Key Elements
- Key Passage - Revelation 19:1–21
- Scripture Memory - For your husband is your Maker—the Lord of Hosts is His name—the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; He is called the God of all the earth. Isaiah 54:5
- Catechism - Q: What do Christians hope for in their relationship with Christ? A: Union.
Introduction
You will be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, a royal diadem in the palm of your God. No longer will you be called Forsaken, nor your land named Desolate; but you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the Lord will take delight in you, and your land will be His bride. For as a young man marries a young woman, so your sons will marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so your God will rejoice over you.
The only true bond of Church unity is Christ the Lord, who has reconciled us to God the Father, and will gather us out of our present dispersion into the fellowship of His body, that so, through His one Word and Spirit, we may grow together into one heart and one soul. John Calvin, “The Reply to Sadoleto,” 1539
Knowledge of the future helps us live faithfully in the present. For Christians, knowing what will take place at the conclusion of human history better equips us to serve Christ during the short years of our earthly lives. In contrast, ignorance of future events makes us vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes and the sinful society’s influence. Without being firmly rooted in Christ’s future work, we are susceptible to life’s anxieties, defenseless to worldly pressures, weak against sinful temptations, powerless during threatening persecution, and unfaithful when unexpected suffering arises. The difficulties common to life in a sinful world can disturb and disorient the firmest of Christian faiths. Even more, those unanchored by future hope cannot maintain devotion to Christ.
Human history is unfolding as a cosmic drama of God’s redemptive work in creation. God is saving a people for himself. God’s work to save sinners will also result in the restoration of fallen creation. At the end of time, God’s people will enjoy an everlasting union with their Lord in a new creation. This promised future infuses hope, fosters endurance, deepens faith, and offers comfort when life’s tumultuous seas rage. Individually, a person’s devotion to Christ will determine their ultimate destiny at the end of time. When a Christian has clear vision of God’s future, it can reinforce their devotion to Christ in the most hostile of situations. Collectively, the church nourishes herself by hope in this promise of life in the world to come. Christian communion is a means of practicing Christian devotion as a community of faith. The church is as much oriented to its future as it is rooted in historical events. As people who live between Christ’s first and second coming, Christians partake of the Lord’s Supper as an important spiritual practice to help them remain devoted during their present earthly pilgrimage. This sacred meal points us to a future meal, a wedding banquet that will occur when God brings his redemptive plan to fruition—when God’s people are finally completely united to their Lord.
The narrative of Revelation 19:1–21 records this future wedding feast. It helps to orient God’s people to the future in a way that strengthens their devotion as a community of faith. This narrative contains vivid imagery of a heavenly vision. This heavenly vision tells of a certain coming reality and begins with a great multitude exalting God. This prelude of praise celebrated God’s redemptive work of salvation and judgment. After this, a multitudinous chorus offered thunderous praise to God because the time had arrived for the marriage of the Lamb: the full union of Christ to his people. The feast for this marriage would bring great joy to God’s people. As a bridegroom and bride are united in marriage, God’s people will be forever united to their Lord. After the announcement of this wedding feast, Christ appeared as a rider on a white horse, coming as judge, warrior, and king. The return of Jesus is the great hope of God’s people. As the executor of God’s wrath, Christ faced off with God’s enemies for a final battle. When the godless are defeated, they are devoured by birds at the great supper of God’s judgment.
As we venture into this otherworldly narrative, we must be aware of this story’s relevance for the community of faith during her existence in this world. This story helps to stir Christian hope in a way that our devotion to Christ grows and is sustained. Moreover, as it depicts two meals—a joyous supper of salvation and a gruesome banquet of judgment—it helps Christians understand the nature and practice of Christian communion. The practice of this sacred meal helps to equally root us in future hope as much as ground us in Christ’s past redemptive work. Toward this end, may we enter this story with a humble posture and hopeful anticipation to know how we can live today as people of the life to come.
Biblical Interpretation: Hearing the Word
Study the Text: The Bible is God’s inspired word to his people. Christian disciples mature in the faith when they are grounded in God’s word. In this movement, you will study the basic details of the biblical text.
Observation Questions
Read (or listen to) the whole passage of Scripture. Discuss the questions below for each section of the story. Pay attention to the details of the text to recall what the passage is saying. Use the focus verses to guide your conversation.
1. Read Revelation 19:1–5: At the beginning of this passage, who was singing the “Hallelujah” choruses? What were they singing about?
2. Read Revelation 19:6–10: In this vision of future reality, what do we learn about the marriage supper of the Lamb?
3. Read Revelation 19:11–16: Who appeared riding on a white horse? What do we learn about this figure?
4. Read Revelation 19:17–21: What took place in the battle scene between Christ (and his army) and his enemies?
Storycraft
Retell the story in your own words, recounting the overall flow of the narrative, the main segments of the story, and the major developments that take place.
Narrative Elements
Who are the main characters? What major events happen? What are the major conflicts or problems in the story? How are they resolved?
Story Retell
Retell the story in your own words.
Below are the typical features in every good story.
- IntroductionThe narrative provides an opening that establishes the setting, background, or context.
- ConflictThere emerges a problem, difficulty, struggle, tension, or misfortune that begs to be resolved.
- DevelopmentAs the story continues, the plot thickens, characters interact, events unfold, and conflict builds.
- ClimaxThe problem reaches its height, but the resolution is not fully clear.
- FallingEventually, hope emerges as the conflict resolves, tensions calm, and problems disentangle.
- ResolutionAt the end of the narrative, a new reality is formed.
Theological Dialogue: Discussing the Plot
Explore the Text: God’s word is his trustworthy and sufficient revelation to his people. We grow as Christ’s disciples by rooting our lives in God’s unchanging truth. In this movement, you will explore vital teachings of this biblical passage.
Discussion Questions
Summarize the biblical story. As a community, discuss the following questions. Be attentive to the truths taught in this text. Use the commentary on the next pages to uncover core principles this passage teaches about the Christian faith.
1. Christian Song: What role does song (i.e., hymn, lyrics, poetry, etc.) play in the cultivation of Christian devotion?
2. Marriage Supper: How is the marriage supper of the Lamb a fulfillment of God’s work of salvation? How should this inform the way Christians practice communion in the contemporary church?
3. Christ’s Return: What are some core aspects of Christ’s return? What importance does Christ’s return have for Christian devotion and the practice of Christian communion?
4. God’s Wrath: What role does God’s wrath have in his redemptive work? How does an accurate understanding of God’s wrath mature our devotion to Christ and help us rightly practice the Lord’s Supper?
Biblical Commentary
Use this commentary to help you understand the meaning of the text. Refer to the infographic on the next page to think through how narratives work.
Passage Introduction
Key Idea
Christian devotion is fueled by a future hope of God’s promised redemption coming to full fruition.
Passage Overview
In addition to placing their faith in Christ and his finished work on the cross, Christians also anticipate Christ’s return when he will bring his work of salvation to completion. The church lives between Christ’s first and second coming. This narrative records an otherworldly vision of true events that will take place at the end of time: celebration of God’s redemptive work, the marriage supper of the Lamb, the return of Christ, and the defeat of God’s enemies. As a prelude to eternity, Christians give themselves to song in order to celebrate all that Christ has done and will do. Hopeful for full and unbroken union with Christ, Christians devotedly practice the Lord’s Supper in anticipation of the final marriage supper of the Lamb. Christian devotion is reinforced by the sure and certain hope of Christ’s return to earth. At this time, he will return as judge, warrior, and king and exact his judgment upon God’s enemies. Two meals await all humanity: the marriage supper, which celebrates God’s salvation, and the great supper in which God’s enemies are devoured. Christian devotion and worship are oriented toward the future. To the extent we have a clear vision of the unfolding reality to come, the church can experience a firm and sturdy devotion to Christ. Use the commentary to guide your understanding of this biblical text in order to clarify the importance of future hope fueling Christian devotion.
Passage Outline
Building a Community of Common Faith
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
It is a consolation to the believer to know, that if he has evidence of being now a Christian, he may be sure that he shall live with Christ. As long and as surely as the head lives, so long and so surely must all members live … To be in Christ is the source of the Christian’s life; to be like Christ is the sum of his excellence; to be with Christ is the fulness of his joy.
Introduction
All of human history will culminate with these events: the return of Christ, the final judgment, the resurrection of the dead, and the recreation of the world. At the end of time, every person will experience one of two fates: eternal separation from God or everlasting bliss in union with God. Faith in Christ in our present lives is the determining factor of our future existence. In this life, humans have a choice whether to accept or reject Christ. When the end comes, the time for decision has ended. At that time, eternal fates will be decided, earthly lives will be judged, wicked enemies will be defeated, and God’s praise will be the unceasing refrain of the cosmos. At the return of Christ, no being—whether in heaven or on earth—will be able to deny that Christ is the true and eternal King. Inasmuch as the Christian faith is rooted in past historical events, the life of a disciple is also future-facing and eternity-minded. Our maturity in Christ is determined by our understanding of and faith in God’s future redemptive work.
A clear vision of the future cultivates Christian devotion. Our understanding of God’s future judgment helps us prioritize our devotion to Christ. Armed with the conviction that God is a righteous judge to whom all must give an account, we can walk purely and suffer patiently in this world. We know that God will make all things right in the end. The hope of full and unbroken union with Christ energizes us in obedience, sustains us in tribulation, encourages us during heartache, and emboldens us to self-sacrifice. Jesus will return to earth, bring decisive victory over his enemies, and establish his unending rule on the earth. These promises help us prioritize our lives by investing fully in God’s kingdom now. We can effectively seek justice here and now, knowing the kind of righteous kingdom Jesus will ultimately create. Future events also foster holiness. We can become sober-minded, humble, and watchful in our personal lives as we understand the gruesome reality of God’s future wrath. The outpouring of his rightful judgment upon humanity should mobilize us to evangelistic fervor and gospel integrity as our life’s highest vocation. Christian devotion is anchored in a sure and certain future reality.
In Revelation 19:1–21, we witness a heavenly vision of events that will take place at the end of time. In this narrative, we witness unfolding drama as recorded by John, one of Jesus’ apostles. The narrative gives a graphically rich account of an otherworldly vision of a future world. This vision teaches us about future events and how they inspire present-day devotion to Christ. The whole narrative revolves around two meals. The first meal—the marriage supper of the Lamb—was offered to all the redeemed who will eternally and eagerly enter into unending union with Christ. The other meal—the great supper of God’s judgment—involved the tragic and calamitous consequences of God’s wrath upon his enemies. In the marriage supper, God’s people feast with great joy; in the banquet of wrath, God’s enemies are consumed by righteous judgment. This passage—an apocalyptic narrative of sorts—recounts the final work of Christ’s salvation and judgment in his work of redemption. After a prelude that celebrates God’s coming judgment, the heavenly chorus celebrates the marriage supper of the Lamb. This supper is the culminating hope of Christian communion. After the announcement of this meal, a heavenly vision reveals the returning Christ who sits on a white horse and comes as judge, warrior, and king. When the armies of God’s enemies gather against Christ and his heavenly forces, there is no contest. Christ defeats all his foes, and the wicked are devoured by scavenging birds at the great supper of God’s judgment.
It is too easy for humans ( even Christians) to be so consumed with present urgencies that we lose our focus on future realities. To reinforce and strengthen our devotion to Christ, Christians have given themselves to the practice of a sacred meal—communion—that keeps us healthily focused on God’s past and future redemptive work. To the degree we can understand the nature of the future meal(s) told in this Revelation story, we will be able to grow in our devotion to Christ and practice communion with greater earnestness. More than a mere individual commitment to Jesus, communion fulfills our longing for the collective worship and devotion of the whole body of Christ. To this end, may we have open hearts, thoughtful minds, and perceptive eyes to be able to see how this unfolding narrative of future reality can aid us in our present faith pilgrimage.
Three Hallelujahs: Joining Eternity’s Prelude in Celebrating God’s Judgment
Biblical Narrative (Revelation 19:1–5)
The apostle John had been exiled on the island of Patmos because of faith in Christ (1:1–11). Banished to this island, John had visions that would guide the church in her devotion to Christ. He gave an account of a resplendent vision of the resurrected and exalted Christ (1:12–20) addressing letters to seven of his churches (2:1–3:22). John saw a heavenly vision of worship around the throne (4:1–5:14) and judgments coming upon the earth (6:1–11:19). After this, John told of fierce enemies who opposed God and his saints (12:1–13:18). Then he announced the sure victory and righteous judgment of God’s kingdom (14:1–20). God would exact his righteous and indisputable judgments over the earth (15:1–21) and conquer his enemies (17:1–18), bringing them to complete and total destruction (18:1–24). The vivid imagery of these otherworldly visions tells a story of hostile forces of wickedness who mount their most powerful assaults against God and his people, but, in the end, come to certain ruin.
The present story records one of John’s final visions in the book of Revelation. In this account, John “heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude in heaven” (19:1). This was not the first time John had heard loud voices in his heavenly visions (cf. 1:10; 5:2, 12; 6:10; 7:2, 10; 8:13; 10:3 11:12, 15; 12:10; 14:2, 7, 9, 15, 18; 16:1, 17) and it would not be the last (19:17; 21:3). The loudness of the voice was matched by the largeness of the group, “a great multitude” (19:1; cf. 7:9, 19:6). This heavenly chorus praised God for his person and works. The roaring sound represented the truth and undeniability of the choral confession; the huge gathering depicted the widespread agreement and jubilant celebration of their praise. In essence, the vision opens with praising God for the completion of his redemptive work. What follows from this great heavenly crowd is a series of “Hallelujah” (meaning, “Praise the Lord!”) statements. As time and human history come to a close, God will receive praise for accomplishing his sovereign purposes in the world. God has successfully orchestrated all the events of human history to climax in a consummation of judgment, culmination of salvation, and crescendo of praise. Announced in lyrical hymns, these songs of praise form a prelude to the story and a refrain that God’s people are invited to join in singing.
The first “Hallelujah” chorus (19:1–2) celebrated the two sides of God’s redemptive work: his glorious salvation and just judgment. The crowd celebrated that “salvation and glory and power belong to our God” (19:1). Although God’s salvation involves the glorious and gracious rescue of his people, it also involves the judicious defeat of his enemies. Therefore, the chorus also celebrated that God’s “judgments are true and just” (19:2). God never errs and always does what is right. Bringing righteous retribution to evil, God “has judged the great prostitute” and “has avenged the blood of His servants” (19:2). An emblem of immorality and sin, this great prostitute was guilty before God: she “corrupted the earth with her immorality” and “poured out [the blood of God’s people] by her hand” (19:2). In sum, this praise song offered a testimony of praise for God’s saving work and righteous judgment.
This multitude offered a second “Hallelujah” chorus (19:3). Affirming the certainty and completeness of this judgment, the heavenly crowd announced God’s praise that the great prostitute would be forever defeated: “her smoke rises forever and ever” (19:3). This second offering of praise to God affirmed that God’s judgments were bound by human limitations of space and time. What God metes out in human history has enduring and lasting effects for all eternity.
As a third “Hallelujah” chorus (19:4–8) was offered, elders and creatures “fell down and worshiped God who sits on the throne” (19:4). They cried out “Amen” (19:4) with their praise to God as an assertion of the finality of his judgment. In these three offerings of praise—a prelude to the narrative and to all eternity—God was worshiped for his righteous (19:1–2), enduring (19:3), and final (19:4) judgment. Then, a voice came from the throne and invited all of God’s servants to join in this heavenly worship: “Praise our God, all you who serve Him, and those who fear Him, small and great alike” (19:5). The prelude to eternity will be a celebration of God’s just judgment and gracious salvation.
Biblical Principles
Community Worship. The main focus of this opening section is God’s praise. Three “Hallelujah” choruses (19:1–4) are followed by an exclamation of God’s excellence: “praise our God” (19:5). This praise is an act of worship. The elders and creatures “fell down and worshiped God who sits on the throne” (19:4). The heavenly chorus is loud and booming. The sound was “like the roar of a great multitude” (19:1). This large heavenly assembly was “shouting” (19:1), and they “called out” (19:3). The fact that these events took place with a loud voice is significant. Elsewhere in Revelation, a loud voice is used for instruction (1:10–11; 7:2; 11:12), proclamation (5:2; 11:15; 12:10; cf. 21:3), praise (5:12; 7:10; 14:2–3, 7), petition (6:10), judgment (8:13; 10:3; 14:7, 15, 18; 16:1, 17; cf. 19:17), invitation (14:7), and warning (14:9). Representing powerful, authoritative, decisive, and definitive realities, God was celebrated as the ultimate conductor of the great orchestra of history. All events in human history—salvation and judgment, redemption and retribution, gracious rescue and holy wrath—will redound to God’s praise.
Devotion to Christ is a community venture. In this passage, God’s praise is sung by many. The “great multitude” (19:1) singing out intimates the collective praise from all who belong to God. In Revelation, the multitude of God’s people (cf. 7:9–12) is contrasted with the multitude of the wicked who oppose God (cf. 17:1–2, 15). In addition to this large assembly, “the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures” (19:4) join in this worship. These beings represent the authority and majesty of God. Those who praise God are defined by their faithfulness to God. All who have genuine faith—“small and great alike” (19:5)—are a part of the community of praise that exists for God’s worship and honor. In the world, two communities exist: those of faith in Christ and those opposed to him. As much as our devotion is defined by alignment with Christ, so our devotion is nurtured by the community to which we belong. Faith in Christ brings us into the community of faith, among whom we sing a song of praise to God. Rejection of Christ leaves us stranded in the world system, seeking failing paths to pleasure and empty idols that can offer us nothing. This worship-filled prelude to eternity is an invitation to join the community of faith, worshipping God to whom all “salvation and glory and power belong” (19:1).
Lyric and Song. No end of song or lyric has been used to cultivate Christian devotion. Since the refrain of all eternity will be God’s praise, Christians should also give themselves to a life of worship and song as a prelude to this everlasting laud. In Jesus’ final meal with his disciples, they concluded the meal with a hymn (cf. Matthew 26:30). In this story, a heavenly chorus preceded the final meal to usher in eternity (19:6–10). Throughout the history of God’s people, poetry, hymns, melody, and song have been used to crystallize the Christian faith, provide hope to God’s suffering people, and bear witness to God’s incredible worth. Cherished by God’s people, Christian hymns and songs are a mode of speech that connects mind to emotion, body to spirit, conviction to conduct, and individual to community. Indeed, corporate song helps the church mature in her faith: to sing together is to stand together and to stay together. Christian songs also have a proclamatory dimension. As Christians sing of God’s praise, we are announcing him to the wider world, inviting them to inquire of the one who is so worthy of our praise. The rich depth of God’s character, the full breadth of his work, the unmatched might of his power, and the uncompromised perfection of his person are worthy of praise from all of creation. Inasmuch as the hymns of this passage are a prelude to this story, the singing church offers a God-centered overture to the final consummation of all things.
Redemption as Salvation and Judgment. John’s revelation reminds us that we should give ourselves to singing about the full scope of God’s redemptive work. In this section of Scripture, the heavenly chorus sings of God’s salvation, glory, and power (19:1) alongside his judgment, righteousness, and vengeance (19:2). God’s redemptive agenda involves retribution upon his enemies as much as the rescue of his people. Lest this song of judgment misconstrue God as unloving, we must see that the announcement of God’s judgment is an invitation to repent from one’s sin and receive God’s gracious salvation. Appended to the third “Hallelujah” chorus is an identification of all those who praise God: “All you who serve Him, and those who fear Him, small and great alike” (19:5). A person’s acceptability to God is not determined by size, class, wealth, position, or prestige. Those who belong to God’s people—those who escape God’s wrath—are people who humbly serve God and fear him in faith. To sing of God’s salvation and judgment is to speak truthfully about God as well as to speak about one’s personal experience of God’s grace and forgiveness. Humans do not come to know their need for salvation until they are confronted with their pending judgment before a holy God. As God’s praise is announced by the heavenly chorus, God’s people are invited to join in, declaring the greatness of God’s gracious salvation and the justice of his righteous judgment.
Marriage Supper of the Lamb: Accepting God’s Invitation to Unending Union
Biblical Narrative (Revelation 19:6–10)
After three “Hallelujah” choruses celebrating God’s salvation and judgment, John recorded a fourth and final lyric of praise (19:6–8). The sound of this heavenly celebration was impressive, “like the roar of a great multitude, like the rushing of many waters, and like a mighty rumbling of thunder” (19:6). In this hymn, God was praised as an all-powerful King: “the Lord our God the Almighty reigns” (19:6). This refrain mirrored the previous words of praise. It praised God, summoning others to join in: “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory” (19:7; cf. 19:5). Because salvation is secure, judgment is just, and divine rule is unshakeable, God’s people can celebrate the culmination of God’s redemptive work. In John’s vision, this climactic celebration rejoices that “the marriage of the Lamb has come” (19:7; cf. 19:9). The Lamb clearly refers to Jesus, the crucified and resurrected Lord. This marriage celebration vividly depicts the long-awaited union of Christ and his people. In John’s revelation of this future event, the time had come, and the bride was prepared. The bride refers to Christ’s followers. This bride “has made herself ready” (19:7) and “was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure” (19:8). Her preparedness was more than external adornment or temporary beautification. God’s people had grown in an adornment of godliness: “The fine linen she wears is the righteous acts of the saints” (19:8).
During this vision, the angel instructed John to write an important message about this marriage celebration. This message said, “Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb” (19:9). In contrast to the decisive and definitive destruction of the great prostitute (cf. 19:2), God’s people will enjoy a holy union with Christ for all time. The hope of this union is secure. It was more than a wish-dream or fanciful notion. The promise of this future union is certain because “these are the true words of God” (19:9; cf. 19:10). The revelation of this certain union inspired praise. Upon seeing and hearing this vision—a hymnic prelude to eternity—John fell before the angel in worship (19:10). The angel forbade such an action saying, “I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus” (19:10). He explained to John that God alone was to be praised: “Worship God” (19:10).
The angel told John that the revelation in this vision was of great importance: “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (19:10). These “true words of God” are prophetic: foretelling the future and calling for us to respond. Specifically, these visions of future events reinforced the gospel message and urgently appealed for people to respond to Jesus in faith. For all those alive on the earth, there is still time to respond to the gospel and become one of Christ’s followers before the end comes. Those who do so can be invited to the marriage supper, enjoy union with Jesus for all time, and join in the Hallelujah refrain. Those who do not heed this true and reliable prophecy will suffer judgment like the great prostitute. The choral refrain, heavenly vision, and divine revelation contained in this word about the marriage supper of the Lamb offer God’s people hope for unending union with God, a vision that moves us to a greater devotion to Jesus Christ.
Biblical Principles
Marriage Supper of the Lamb. John’s vision did not provide many details about the marriage union of Jesus and his people. However, it was referred to as a celebration that had been long anticipated: “The marriage of the Lamb has come” (19:7). That the bride had “made herself ready” (19:7) and needed proper adornment (19:8) suggests that there were many details that needed to be arranged in preparation for this marriage celebration. This future banquet represents a culmination of our eucharistic hopes, confident expectations of a future reality that are celebrated when we participate in the Lord’s Supper. In his last meal with his disciples, Jesus mentioned a future meal that would take place near the end of time: “I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in My Father’s kingdom” (Matthew 26:29).
For generations, Jesus’ prophetic words whet the spiritual palate of the Christian community to share in this final meal—a banquet that marked the coming of the future kingdom. Our hopeful expectation of God’s unquestioned future reign reinforces Christian devotion in the present. Therefore, it is important that this fourth “Hallelujah” chorus celebrates God as King: “The Lord our God the Almighty reigns” (19:6). The wedding celebration and the coming kingdom’s world-altering events give cause for great joy and uninhibited worship. God’s people can “rejoice and be glad” and “give Him glory” (19:7) because God will fulfill his redemptive work in the world and establish his rule over all creation. When God’s kingdom comes in full, evil will be vanquished, righteousness will be established, and God’s praise will be joyously upheld. The promise of this future kingdom enables God’s people to live as faithful agents of his kingdom in the present world.
Union with Christ. The meal depicted in this section is a marriage feast (19:7, 9). The Lamb is the bridegroom, a reference to Jesus; the bride alludes to God’s people. Having adorned herself for this climactic celebration, the bride is described as ready, pure, and brilliant (19:7–8). That this feast is a marriage supper tells us about the deeply held desire for God’s people to be united to Christ. Like a bridegroom and bride long for unbroken union at their wedding, so God’s people yearn to be inseparably joined to Jesus for all eternity. The final meal in this passage tells of a future time when God’s people will enjoy unbroken, uninterrupted, uncorrupted, and complete union with God’s Son. The marriage motif is continued into the next chapters of Revelation. At the end of time, God will recreate the world, and there will be a marrying together of heaven and earth, a union of God with his people (cf. 21:2, 9). While Christians enjoy union with Christ in the present life, they await a fuller and richer union in the life to come. History’s final, culminating crescendo will be God dwelling with his people for all time. In remembering Christ’s past work on the cross and looking ahead to this future reality, the Christian practice of communion joyfully celebrates union with Christ.
Godly Living. Christian communion also fosters godly living. While our devotion to Christ in the present will determine our eternal destiny, our future destiny impacts our present lifestyle. Importantly, the bride’s purity was described as “the righteous acts of the saints” (19:8). The brightness and purity of her adornment is the beauty and splendor of a holy life. This holiness was a gift of God and the fruit of faithful devotion. The heavenly chorus testified that the bride “was given” (19:8) her spectacular clothing and also that she “has made herself ready” (19:7). This beautiful imagery shows us that God sanctifies his people to prepare them for this final union with Christ. The future hope of union with Jesus should cause each Christian to express devotion to Christ with godly living and Christlike character: to grow in the faith, to renounce sin, to purify oneself of immorality, and to embrace a lifestyle rooted in God’s word. While godliness of life is something all believers should seek with earnestness, mere human effort does not result in a transformed lifestyle. It is a divine gift God gives to his faithful followers.
Importantly, genuine Christians have already experienced union with Christ. The present experience of this union should increase our desire for a fuller union with Christ at the end of time. This future promise stirs within God’s people a desire to prepare for this union. Preparation for union with Christ is expressed in spiritual growth: maturing in holiness and godliness. It is both a daily responsibility and a lifelong process. Fundamentally, righteous living is part of our expressed devotion to Christ. A Christlike life is most beautiful and majestic to the Lord and the watching world. In anticipation of the future marriage supper of the Lamb, the Lord’s Supper should urge God’s people to view their whole life as progress in holiness, a sanctifying experience of becoming more and more prepared to be fit and ready for union with Jesus.
Testimony of Christ. John’s revelation amounts to a testimony about Jesus Christ. The vision of the marriage supper of the Lamb is itself a powerful testimony of Christ. The vision recorded that everyone who participates in the marriage supper of the Lamb will be blessed (19:9). To bear testimony of Jesus (19:10) is to speak prophetically: to announce God’s rule, to confront past sin, to forecast future reality, and to urge people to a present response. We cannot faithfully bear witness to Christ without depicting the future blessings offered to all who are in Christ. Christian devotion involves the proclamation of the gospel to all, inviting them to receive salvation through Christ. Faith in Christ gives access to the future marriage supper of the Lamb. This is the only place a true and enduring blessing can be found. The practice of Christian communion as a meal that anticipates a future meal, is part of the church’s witness to the world, a witness of “the true words of God” (19:9). As the church gathers to sing, teach, encourage, worship, and eat together, she depicts in her body life together a foretaste of future kingdom realities and blessings for all in Christ. In this way, “the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (19:10)—proclaiming “the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26).
The One on the White Horse: Anticipating the Certain Hope of Jesus’ Return
Biblical Narrative (Revelation 19:11–16)
The promises contained in the Hallelujah choruses—a hymnic prelude to eternity—will come to fruition at the coming of Christ. As depicted in this story, Christ’s return will bring about the decisive defeat of evil and the unquestioned establishment of God’s kingdom. After John witnessed the heavenly chorus offering praise to God, he “saw heaven standing open” (19:11). On a white horse was sitting the one called “Faithful and True” (19:11). A reference to the returning Lord Jesus, the rider on the white horse came “with righteousness” and “He judges and wages war” (19:11). As sovereign King, he had “many royal crowns on His head” (19:12). Able to judge all events with precision, equity, and care, the returning Lord had “eyes like blazing fire” (19:12). He had written on him a secret name that only he knew (19:12). His name was also “The Word of God” (19:13; cf. John 1:1).
This mighty figure wore “a robe dipped in blood” (19:13). It is hard to know the exact reference of the blood. It could be a reference to his own blood (blood shed on the cross for the salvation of his people) or the blood of his enemies (blood spilled in the defeat of all who oppose God). Either way, Jesus returned in victory and triumph. Following this resplendent figure were “the armies of heaven” (19:14). Following Jesus on horses, these armies were “dressed in fine linen, white and pure” 19:14). Jesus’ march into battle highlighted his unique and unparalleled character. Showing his unmatched power, a sharp sword came from the rider’s mouth by which he would “strike down the nations” (19:15). Signifying his total authority, he would rule over the nations “an iron scepter” (19:15). Expressing his just judgment, he “treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty” (19:15). Being Christ himself, this figure had the following name written on his robe and on his thigh: “King of kings and Lord of lords” (19:16).
Biblical Principles
Christ’s Return. While the Lord’s Supper reflects back on the first coming of Christ, it also looks forward to his second coming. After John’s final “Hallelujah” chorus about the marriage supper of the Lamb, he depicted Jesus coming to bring all human history to a climactic close. In his first coming, Jesus came as a humble servant and sacrifice for sin. In his second coming, Christ returns as a conquering warrior, a rider on a white horse who brings all his enemies into full submission (19:11). The double imagery of sacrificial lamb (19:7, 9) and warrior king (19:11–16) highlights these two comings of Christ. Exiles on earth, Christians live between Christ’s first and second coming. Christ successfully completed his work of salvation in his first coming. But this work of salvation will not be fully realized until Christ returns. The Christian practice of communion nourishes and sustains God’s people in their faith pilgrimage toward the future. A sacred meal practiced regularly, it sustains our memory of Christ’s past redemptive work and stokes the flames of hope for Christ’s final triumph.
Christ’s Person and Work. This vision of the returning Christ gives us insight into his person and work. The variety of names recorded in this heavenly vision help us understand Jesus’ character: “Faithful and True” (19:11), “a name written on Him that only He Himself knows” (19:12), “The Word of God” (19:13), and “King of kings and Lord of lords” (19:16). Jesus is trustworthy: he is loyal to God’s will and God’s people. He is also true, the full revelation of God to humanity. At the same time he reveals truth, he is mysterious and inexhaustible. There is no one in dominion over him. He is the sovereign ruler of all. This vision also offers us a picture of Christ’s redemptive work. We learn that Jesus will return as a righteous judge (19:11–12), victorious warrior (19:13–15), and definitive king (19:15–16). He will bring every deed into account and set everything right in the world. Jesus will defeat his enemies and establish his kingdom over all creation. Christ must come again to complete this work of salvation. In our present life, our devotion to Christ is lived in a context of ongoing conflict with sin and evil. In our own strength, we cannot bring an end to this ongoing scuffle. What we need more than anything else is for Christ to return and reclaim his rightful place as King. As an anticipation of the future meal celebrated at the end of time, communion is as much about basking in Jesus’ past redemptive work in his first coming as hoping for Jesus’ future consummatory work in his second coming. In this way, each communion meal should both faithfully fill us and leave us spiritually hungry (and thirsty). When we eat and drink, we are satisfied by what Jesus has accomplished on the cross. Our salvation is secure. But we also leave the communion table with unfulfilled longing. Jesus must return to fulfill his work of salvation in our lives and in all of creation.
The Wrong Side of the Meal/Table: Avoiding the Great Supper of God’s Wrath
Biblical Narrative (Revelation 19:17–21)
In contrast to the marriage supper of the Lamb (cf. 19:6–10), John now tells of a gruesome and wrath-filled feast in which his enemies are fully and finally destroyed. The glorious depiction of the returning Christ riding on a white horse was more than a static image. The returning Christ will take action in the world to set all things right. As John’s vision continues, he recounted how he heard a loud voice call all the birds, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God” (19:17). Here is the introduction of a second, end-time feast. The marriage supper of the Lamb was a feast to celebrate the completion of God’s redemptive work; this “great supper of God” invited birds to consume the carcases of God’s enemies: “Eat the flesh of kings and commanders and mighty men, of horses and riders, of everyone slave and free, small and great” (19:18). The redemptive work of Christ would not be complete until evil is finally judged—until God’s enemies are defeated, destroyed, and consumed.
After giving birds an invitation to the “great supper of God,” John narrated how the beast and earthly kings gathered their armies “to wage war against the One seated on the horse, and against His army” (19:19). Completely overpowered by Christ and his armies, the beast and the false prophet were captured and “thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur” (19:20). These opposing forces were no contest against God’s power and rightful rule. After the defeat of the beast and false prophet, “the rest were killed with the sword that proceeded from the mouth of the One seated on the horse” (19:21). With this decisive and demonstrative defeat, the battle was over, and the great supper could begin. Consequently, “all the birds gorged themselves on their flesh” (19:21). The marriage supper of the Lamb, which celebrated God’s redemptive work of salvation, is accompanied by a feast of judgment, in which the flesh of the wicked is devoured.
Biblical Principles
Divine Judgment. God’s judgments were celebrated in Revelation 19:1–5. The outpouring of God’s wrath was depicted in Revelation 19:17–21. In this final scene, birds are invited to feast upon the flesh of the wicked (19:17–18). The beast and the false prophet are cast away into the lake of fire (19:20). Their banishment to this fiery torment is a sign of decisive judgment on evil. As the armies align for battle, all Jesus has to do is open his mouth, and it brings complete and total destruction upon his enemies (19:19, 21). They immediately yield to his righteous power and sovereign rule. They suffer devastating judgment under his authoritative word and have no response to this invincible power and indomitable might. Their destruction leaves them as food upon which scavenging birds gorge (19:21). Their taunt against God has ended. Their defiance against God has been judged. Their reckless lifestyle has brought about their own demise. Their lack of faith has caused the personal empire of their autonomous lives to collapse.
Reflection on Divine Wrath. When Christians consider their devotion to Christ, they must remember that consequences await those outside of the fold of the community of faith. The reality of divine wrath should not cause Christians to naively gloat or hold others in contempt. Rather, it should stir our hearts to have compassion for the lost, hopeful that they will turn and receive the gracious invitation for the forgiveness of sins. Moreover, it should warn Christians of the true consequences of sin, encouraging a life of steadfastness in holiness. It may seem as if evil is currently winning, but Christ guarantees full victory in the end. As Christians, while our salvation is secure in Christ, we hope for the defeat of all of God’s enemies. Further, we rightfully think about God’s wrath when it causes us to remember the incredible weight that Jesus bore on the cross. In this way, the final supper(s) of the Bible are connected with the Christian practice of the Lord’s Supper: faith in Christ’s wrath-absorbing death on the cross is the only means to escape the excruciating (and unending) wrath of the great supper and enjoy the blessing of the marriage feast. Living between Christ’s first and second coming, the church nourishes her devotion to Christ by her participation in the Lord’s Supper in hope of two great banquets to come: the marriage feast of union with Christ and the great supper of evil’s demise.
Conclusion
All human history will culminate with two meals. The first meal is offered to all who have placed their faith in Christ and received his gracious redemption. With the people of God eternally wed in union to their Savior Christ for all time, the redeemed will enjoy this marriage feast, celebrating Christ’s saving work on behalf of his people. The second meal is a gruesome tragedy for all who rejected or opposed Christ. They will face him as a warrior king and righteous judge who will return to earth to reclaim his rightful rule over creation. Rather than joining in a feast of celebration, they will become the food for scavenging birds as Christ’s second coming brings about divine wrath and evil’s destruction. These future meals help us make sense of the Christian practice of communion and galvanize our devotion to Christ. With the clear vision of this future reality, Christians can be (and should be) forward-facing in their devotion to Christ.
All Christian communion should leave us hungry for the future marriage supper of the Lamb. The picture of the gruesome feast upon the flesh of God’s enemies should make us ever vigilant and watchful. In the end, our devotion to Christ determines our eternal destiny. The practice of Christian communion keeps ever before the hearts and minds of the church how human history will conclude. While communion sustains God’s people on their pilgrimage of faith, it also reminds them that only the future meal that celebrates our final union with Christ will bring about the deep satisfaction we all long to experience. We are also sobered by the eternal judgment that comes upon those who oppose Christ unto the end. As we roam the earth as sojourners and exiles, we cling to Christ and announce his gracious redemption to others that they may accept his invitation to the marriage feast and escape the brutal and irrevocable wrath of the great supper of judgment. In this way, the church is marked as a people who live their lives in wholehearted surrender to God—to do all they do for the glory due his name.
Session Synopsis
| SESSION 12 SYNOPSIS | |
|---|---|
| Banquet | In this passage, we learn about two final meals. This heavenly vision records four choruses of praise, celebrating God’s redemptive work. These hymns of praise are followed by the announcement of the marriage supper of the Lamb, the return of Christ, and the defeat of God’s enemies. This final defeat is described as a great supper of God in which birds feast on the carcases of evil forces. Two meals await all humanity. One meal is the marriage supper of the Lamb at which all believers will enjoy and celebrate God’s redemptive work of salvation and judgment. The other meal is a great and gruesome banquet at which the wicked who opposed God are judged and devoured. This story of these future meals encourages Christians to grow in their devotion to Christ and to practice Christian communion. As the songs offer a prelude of God’s praise to the marriage supper of the Lamb, so our worship is a prelude of worship that will last for all eternity. The marriage supper of the Lamb anticipates the full and final union of Christ with his people. The return of Christ brings all Christian hope to fruition as Christ comes as judge, warrior, and king. He will not only provide salvation for his people but also pour out God’s wrath upon the wicked. The Christian practice of communion nurtures Christian hope and reinforces our devotion to Christ. A summary of this story’s principles is outlined below. |
| Praise and Worship | For all eternity, God will be praised for his great work of redemption (19:1–8). Worship and praise should mark the life of believers, and it is a prelude to all eternity. God’s people often give praise to God through lyrics, songs, melodies, and hymns. The table fellowship of Christian communion is a time to worship and praise God. |
| Complete Redemption | God’s people praise God for his redemptive work: a work of salvation and judgment. God powerfully and graciously saves all those who trust him in faith (19:1, 5). God also brings complete and total judgment on evil (19:2–4, 11–21). In the end, God’s people will experience union with Christ, like a bride and bridegroom being united in marriage (19:7, 9). The Christian practice of communion celebrates God’s work of gracious salvation and righteous judgment of sin. |
| Second Coming | Jesus will return to earth to secure his people’s salvation and to bring decisive victory over evil. He will return as a righteous judge (19:11–12), a victorious warrior (19:13–15), and the definitive king (19:15–16). Jesus is faithful, true, sovereign, divine, and authoritative (19:11–16). The hope of God’s people is for Jesus to return to earth. Christians practice communion as a meal of faith and hope: remembering Jesus’ past works of salvation on the cross and awaiting his future coming in victory. |
| Divine Judgment and Wrath | At the end of time, God will execute judgment on evil. God’s judgment is an expression of his wrath against evil, which opposes God (19:17–21). No one will be able to withstand God’s wrath. It is crucial now that all people who hear about God’s wrath repent of their sin and place their faith in Christ (19:5). The practice of the Lord’s Supper considers how Jesus bore God’s wrath on the cross. |
| Two Meals | Two meals will take place at the end of time. The marriage supper of the Lamb is a celebratory feast of the union of Christ and his people (19:7, 9). It is a feast of joy and praise (19:7). The great supper of God is the gorging on the flesh of God’s enemies (19:17, 21). It is a time of victory over evil and vindication of God’s people (19:17–21). |
Personal Reflection: Entering the Story
Apply the Text: The word of God is binding and authoritative, the only reliable guide for faith and godliness. True disciples submit themselves to God’s word. In this movement, you will apply God’s word to your lives.
Reflection Questions
Encourage one person to share a testimony about how this story has impacted them so far. Use the reflection questions to examine your life in light of this biblical passage.
1. Devotion to Christ: How would you evaluate your devotion to Christ? If you were to assess your current life, which meal (i.e., marriage supper of God’s salvation or great supper of God’s judgment) would you attend?
2. Future Hope on a Daily Basis: To what extent is the future hope a part of your daily Christian experience?
3. Deeper Understanding of Christian Hope: How are you growing in your understanding of the Christian’s future hope?
4. Living in Light of Eternity: With a growing clarity of the Christian’s future hope, how can you more faithfully live in light of eternity, both in your personal relationship with Christ and in your relationships with others?
Spiritual Practice
Ministry Practice: Rehearsing the Script
Minister the Text: God’s word is living and active. Through God’s word, the Christian community is edified. In this movement, you will utilize the biblical passage to minister to other believers and build them up in their faith.
Application Questions
Look at the infographic below. Use the questions to think about how to minister this text to other believers.
1. How is this passage an encouragement to disciples of Jesus Christ?
2. How does this biblical passage help us build up the church and encourage other believers in the faith?
3. How will you minister this text to other believers?
4. What was the experience like when you used this passage to minister to other disciples?
Missional Outreach: Publicizing the Truth
Witness the Text: The Bible is a message of God’s gracious salvation to the world. In word and deed, God’s people proclaim the good news of the gospel. In this movement, you will use this biblical passage to reach out to unbelievers.
Strategy Questions
Reflect on the infographic below. Consider how you can use this passage to witness to the surrounding world. Use the suggested ideas to prime your imagination. Then, put together a plan to share this passage with unbelievers, Afterward, reflect on this mission experience.
1. How can you use this passage as a way to share the gospel of Jesus with others?
2. How does this biblical passage inform your participation in God’s mission?
3. How will you use this text to reach out to unbelievers?
4. What was the experience like when you did your ministry with unbelievers from this biblical text?