Revelation 19:6-10
Read Revelation 19:6-10
Helpful Background Information:
In concluding our theme for the week, marriage telling a greater story between God and his people, we come to the final book of the Bible: Revelation. We read the hallelujahs of heaven as Christ comes in glory to take His Bride, the church. The picture of the church being the bride of Christ reaches its fullest realization in the New Heavens and the New Earth! To fully understand the imagery of our passage, we must understand the elements of a first-century Jewish marriage, which this imagery draws on.
First comes the betrothal, which was more binding than our modern engagements. The marriage terms were agreed upon before witnesses, and God’s blessing was given. From that moment, the man and woman were legally husband and wife. Next came a waiting period before the wedding feast. During this time, the groom paid the dowry, either money or service, to the bride’s father (Gen. 29:20; 34:12). Then came the procession. The bride, beautifully prepared, awaited her groom. Dressed in his finest clothes, the groom went with friends carrying torches and singing to the bride’s home. He received her and brought her to his own house (Matt. 9:15; 25:1–13). Finally came the wedding feast, often lasting seven days or more.
Today, the church is betrothed to Christ. Christ has paid the dowry for her by his blood; he has bought his bride. As we await the Lord’s return, the waiting period has come. During this time, the Church prepares herself in “fine linen,” symbolizing righteous deeds and holy living. This righteous “fine linen” is both a gift from God and a reward for walking in holiness. (Rev. 19:8)
When the end of history comes, Christ the Bridegroom will return with the angels (Matt. 25:31) to receive His bride. The wedding feast of the Lamb will then begin: a celebration that lasts forever!
This eternal feast fulfills God’s plan from the beginning: full union, fellowship, and joy between Christ and His redeemed people - and no sin or tragedy will impact it! Chosen from eternity, bought at Calvary, and now waiting in hope, the Church longs for the moment when the Bridegroom returns. We will be with Him forever in perfect, everlasting communion.
Reflection Questions:
We live in the waiting period between Christ making us his bride at his death and resurrection, yet we still await the wedding feast which is yet to come. In what ways can you “prepare” yourself for Christ's return? How can you walk in righteousness and kill sin in your life?
In what ways can you cultivate a heart that longs for Christ’s return rather than being distracted by the present world? In what ways can you help others look forward to the “wedding feast of the Lamb”?
How does this passage inspire gratitude, worship, or renewed devotion in your relationship with Jesus?