Revelation chapter 19 follows the judgments of God on the fallen systems of man explained in the previous chapter. Chapter 19 then describes the beginning of His righteous reign and the marriage of Jesus and his bride (verses 6-9). In verse 10, the Apostle John was so overwhelmed by the message that he fell at the feet of the angel who was speaking. The angel responded saying, “do it not, for I am thy fellow servant that have the testimony of Jesus.” He then adds, “for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”
In other words, the angel’s message about the Lord’s reign would see the same spirit that was demonstrated in Jesus’ willing sacrifice. As he freely sacrificed himself for the blessing of others, his reign will demonstrate the same righteous and loving spirit. Verse 11 then states that Jesus is “faithful and true” and symbolically riding a white horse while judging in righteousness. Verse 15 says that his warfare will “smite the nations.” This does not mean their destruction. Instead, it indicates that unrighteousness will no longer be tolerated, since he will then “rule them with a rod of iron.” No evil will be permitted once his kingdom is established on the earth.
This beautifully echoes the prophetic words of Isaiah and conveyed the true spirit of prophecy.
“And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” Isaiah 2:4
