Revelation 19, then, offers us a prophetic peek at praise to occur after God finally judges the great prostitute for corrupting creation and slaying His servants.
“On the day God brings judgment, we are not called to applaud the tragedy of human lives under judgment. We are to applaud the God who does all things well.” Professor J. Scott Duvall
John received a sneak peek of the church who will somehow emerge ready for marriage despite centuries of Babylon’s use and abuse.
The marriage metaphor best reflects God’s desire to have close intimacy with His people! In the Old Testament, God took Israel as His bride. Even when she was unfaithful, He vowed to forgive, remain faithful, and restore their relationship.
While firmly founding our relationship with God on the faithfulness of Christ (HOW we’re saved), Scripture also says WHY He delivered us--it's “so we can do good things he planned for us long ago."
This gown of good deeds is a contrast to the awful activities with which Babylon adorned herself.
The Revelation of Jesus is the story of 1 collective Bride making herself ready, not individual brides out for themselves.
Preparing for our wedding is how we practice a peaceable rebellion in Babylon’s presence which keeps us from wearing her bankrupt styles or adorning ourselves in enemy uniforms and identities. Because the lamb has already won the war, let’s practice our victory until He returns by clothing ourselves in Him!
