Revelation 19:5-8 - His bride made herself ready

19:5

In reading Revelation we should always remember that it was written to people many of whom were enduring, or at risk of having to endure, serious persecution. So they were encountering the full force of the mighty Roman empire. But what John has seen in this vision is the complete collapse of the worldly empires, and the establishment of God’s kingdom. This is very good news! So all God’s servants are encouraged to praise the Lord.

19:6-8

Various parts of the vision are often introduced by great sounds. These indicate that something momentous is about to happen. Again there is the call to rejoice and be glad, and to give God the glory. It is not just that Babylon has collapsed, but that the kingdom of God has come. So we have the “wedding of the Lamb” to the church. “The bride has made herself ready”. The Bible teaches the absolute sovereignty of God, and that we are completely dependent upon Him for our salvation, but nowhere does it teach that this makes us passive! The Bible knows nothing of passive believers. So the bride is given fine linen to wear, and these are the righteous acts of the saints. Again, remember the situation this is addressed to. In the midst of persecution remaining faithful to Christ, acting in a godly manner can be very difficult. John is telling them that these acts are making them ready for the wedding of the Lamb, for the consummation of all things. It is worth remaining faithful to Christ in all circumstances!