Revelation 17:14
They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The real power in this verse isn't just Christ's ultimate victory, but the description of His followers: they are "called, and chosen, and faithful." This isn't just a list of adjectives; it highlights how God's divine selection and the believer's faithful response work together in the spiritual battle.
This verse summarizes a major conflict: the powerful earthly forces represented by the beast will wage war against Jesus, the Lamb. However, this battle is ultimately futile because Jesus holds supreme authority as Lord of lords and King of kings. The true victory belongs to those who are faithfully called, chosen, and remain loyal to Him, even amidst opposition.
Ever feel like you're fighting a losing battle against overwhelming forces? This verse speaks directly to that struggle, revealing a cosmic conflict older than time.
This verse describes a profound spiritual warfare where opposing forces, described as 'these' (referring to the ten horns/kings in league with the beast), actively wage war against 'the Lamb,' Jesus Christ. This isn't just a literal battle but a sustained opposition to Christ's reign, His truth, and His people. History is filled with instances where political powers and religious systems have aligned against the core message of the Gospel, seeking to suppress it and persecute its followers. This opposition, though fierce, is ultimately futile against the divine power it confronts.
Why is the Lamb guaranteed to win? It's not just about power; it's about His very nature and the unique character of His followers.
The reason for the Lamb's inevitable victory is His supreme identity: 'for he is Lord of lords and King of kings.' This title signifies His ultimate authority over all earthly rulers and powers. No earthly force, however formidable, can stand against His sovereign dominion. But the victory isn't solely Christ's. Those who are 'with him' share in this triumph. They are described with three powerful affirmations: 'called,' 'chosen,' and 'faithful.' 'Called' speaks to God's initiative in inviting them into relationship. 'Chosen' highlights their selection by God for a divine purpose. 'Faithful' points to their steadfast loyalty and perseverance in following Christ, even amidst opposition. These aren't just passive observers; they are active participants, equipped and empowered by the Conqueror Himself.
Understand the original words
arnion · Greek Noun
A title for Jesus Christ, highlighting His role as the sacrificial offering who takes away the sin of the world and the victorious King who overcomes His enemies.
kyrios · Greek Noun
A sovereign ruler with supreme authority; in the New Testament, this title is applied to Christ to declare His ultimate supremacy over all human and spiritual powers.
basileus · Greek Noun
One who holds supreme, absolute rule over a territory or people; Christ is the ultimate King, to whom all other kings are subordinate.
klētos, eklektos, pistos · Greek Adjective
Those who have been invited by God into His kingdom, set apart for His purposes, and have proven constant and true in their devotion to Him.
This verse speaks to a spiritual conflict that spans all of history, from Jesus' earthly ministry to the ongoing struggles of his followers, ultimately assuring us of Christ's supreme authority and inevitable triumph over all opposition.
c. 4 BC - c. AD 30— this verse
Life and Ministry of Jesus
Jesus, the 'Lamb of God,' lives, teaches, heals, and is crucified, initiating his spiritual kingdom and foreshadowing his ultimate victory.
c. AD 30 - c. AD 100
Early Church Growth and Persecution
The early followers of Jesus, 'called, chosen, and faithful,' spread the gospel despite facing significant opposition and persecution from both Jewish and Roman authorities.
c. AD 313
Edict of Milan
Emperor Constantine grants religious tolerance throughout the Roman Empire, ending widespread persecution of Christians and allowing Christianity to flourish openly.
c. AD 476
Fall of the Western Roman Empire
The collapse of the Western Roman Empire leads to a fragmented Europe, paving the way for the rise of various kingdoms and the increasing influence of the papacy.
This passage highlights a similar dynamic where a seemingly weaker force (David) confronts a mighty opponent (Goliath) due to God's power, echoing the Lamb's ultimate victory over opposing powers.
Psalm 2:1-4This psalm directly addresses the nations raging and kings conspiring against the Lord and His Anointed, paralleling the 'war' against the Lamb mentioned in Revelation.
1 Timothy 6:15This verse explicitly calls Jesus 'King of kings and Lord of lords,' reinforcing the divine authority and ultimate power claimed for the Lamb in Revelation 17:14.
John 15:16Jesus tells his disciples that He 'chosen you' and appointed them, connecting to the idea that the faithful followers with the Lamb are 'called' and 'chosen' by Him.
Revelation 19:11-16This passage describes the same victorious Lamb returning as King of kings and Lord of lords, leading His armies to conquer, providing a more detailed account of the victory mentioned here.
barnesRevelation 17:14: "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."
These shall make war with the Lamb - The Lamb of God - the Lord Jesus (See the notes at Revelation 5:6 ); that is, they would combine with the papacy in opposing evangelical religion. It is not meant that they would openly and avowedly proclaim war against the Son of God, but that they would practic…
pulpitRevelation 17:14: "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."
Verse 14. - These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them; shall war against. This connects the description with Revelation 16:34 and with Revelation 19:11-21. This war between the Lamb and the powers of evil is that which extends throughout the history of the world (vide infr…
The real power in this verse isn't just Christ's ultimate victory, but the description of His followers: they are "called, and chosen, and faithful." This isn't just a list of adjectives; it highlights how God's divine selection and the believer's faithful response work together in the spiritual battle.
This verse summarizes a major conflict: the powerful earthly forces represented by the beast will wage war against Jesus, the Lamb. However, this battle is ultimately futile because Jesus holds supreme authority as Lord of lords and King of kings. The true victory belongs to those who are faithfully called, chosen, and remain loyal to Him, even amidst opposition.
This verse summarizes a major conflict: the powerful earthly forces represented by the beast will wage war against Jesus, the Lamb. However, this battle is ultimately futile because Jesus holds supreme authority as Lord of lords and King of kings. The true victory belongs to those who are faithfully called, chosen, and remain loyal to Him, even amidst opposition.
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c. 6th - 8th Centuries AD
Rise of Papal Power
The Bishop of Rome (the Pope) consolidates authority, influencing secular rulers and establishing the papacy as a significant political and religious power in Europe.
c. 16th Century AD
The Protestant Reformation
A major religious movement challenges the authority and practices of the Roman Catholic Church, leading to a split in Western Christianity and further conflict.
Ongoing
Continuing Spiritual Conflict
The spiritual 'war' between Christ's followers and opposing spiritual forces continues throughout history, culminating in Christ's ultimate, decisive victory.
"They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”" — The real power in this verse isn't just Christ's ultimate victory, but the description of His followers: they are "called, and chosen, and faithful." This isn't just a list of adjectives; it highligh…
