Faithful and True

Scripture Reading — Revelation 19:11-16

Before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True.
— Revelation 19:11

The first people to receive the book of Revelation were facing great pressure and persecution to give up on Jesus. Christians were losing their property and livelihoods, and some faced public execution.

In Revelation 2-3, where we find the risen, exalted Jesus speaking to a number of his churches, we often hear the call to stand fast and to “overcome” even when their faith in him would bring suffering. To hear then, toward the close of this book, that Jesus is named “Faithful and True” must have been encouraging to Christians who were facing great uncertainty and fearful times.

Because Jesus is faithful, he will never abandon his suffering church. Because he is faithful, endurance is never wasted.

Because Jesus is true, he keeps his word. Because he is true, he does not compromise with evil. His judgments are good, and his victory is certain.

The name Faithful and True means that Jesus is who he says he is and that he will do what he says he’ll do. Notice the blood on Jesus’ robe. That points to his sacrifice for us. Faithful and true to his mission to save us, he purchased salvation for us with his blood (Revelation 5:9). Jesus gave his life to keep his promises.

Revelation 19 shows, at the end of all things, that Jesus is Faithful and True. He will take care of us—even in our most fearful times. “The one who calls [us] is faithful, and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

Lord, thank you for always being Faithful and True. Fill us with your life and love, that we may be faithful to you. Amen.

Written by: Lora Copley