A Righteous War

“Together they will go to war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will defeat them because he is Lord of all lords and King of all kings. And his called and chosen and faithful ones will be with him.” Revelation 17:14

In the Book of Revelation, we learn about the final conflict when Satan gathers the nations for battle against the Lamb of God, who is depicted as a warrior riding on a white horse. There will be a real confrontation. The forces of darkness will be defeated. Revelation reminds us again and again that God will not allow evil to go unpunished.

But here’s the thing: When this climactic conflict takes place, it will be completely one-sided. There will not be casualties on both sides. Whether you view this battle as literal or spiritual, don’t let the language of war confuse you. There will not be a war as we think of wars. The imagery is of the kings of the world and their armies gathered together to fight, but we are not told that there is a struggle.

Notice that the only weapon mentioned in this battle is the sharp, two-edged sword that came from the mouth of the one riding the white horse, the sword of Christ. With His sword, the enemies of God will be utterly defeated. Jesus is the Lamb that was slain, but he is also the Lamb that slays. Revelation 19:11 says he is “Faithful and True, for he judges fairly and wages a righteous war.”

Whatever you are struggling with today, remember that the Lamb of God who was slain for you is also the one who slays. He is Lord of all Lords and King of all kings. He has conquered the power and penalty of sin. And in God’s perfect timing, he will finally and fully conquer all that belongs to this world.