"The Warrior God" by Rev. Susan Salo

Text: Rev. 19:11-16

It is important to know and understand the underpinnings of our faith because one of the primary ways the enemy works is to cause us to doubt. The trinitarian nature of our God is one of those foundational doctrines that has been attacked by heresies throughout the church's  history. In this section of teaching we are looking primarily at God the Father, although it must be understood that we cannot separate the members of the Trinity because they are so intertwined that when we speak of the Father as the Warrior God we know that Jesus won the battle for our redemption on the cross. The Holy Spirit hovered over the water during creation and came upon Jesus at his baptism empowered him to endure till the  end. They are Three in One. One God.

Q. What are the names of Jesus listed in Rev. 19:11-16?

There is a sword pictured in V.15. In Greek, the word used for this sword is "Romphia." This is one of the long swords used in ancient warfare. The sword mentioned in Ephesians 4 is the short sword,  the "Machairan," typically used for defense. In the vision described in this passage,  this sword is being used to 'strike down the nations'.

Q. In your opinion, what does this sword represent?
     A. God's authority?
     B. Truth?
     C. The blood of the Lamb?
     D. Judgement
     E. All of the above?
     F. Or .....?

Q. Why do you think it fitting that Christ has a name known only to himself (V.12)? What mystery about Christ are you looking forward to understanding in heaven?

Q. What hopes and fears does this triumphant picture bring out in you? How has Jesus been your deliverer this past year?