Revelation 19:7 – “Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse paints a joyful picture of celebration in heaven. It calls everyone to rejoice, be glad, and give glory to God. Why? Because a wedding is about to happen — a very special one. The “Lamb” is Jesus Christ, and the “bride” is His people, those who have trusted and followed Him. The wedding is a symbol of a final, unbreakable union between Jesus and His followers.
This isn’t just about a happy moment. It’s about the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise. The people of God, often called His bride in Scripture, are now ready to be joined forever with the One who gave His life for them. Their readiness is part of the celebration — it means they have been purified, set apart, and prepared for this moment by God’s grace.
Historical Context
In biblical times, weddings were huge community events full of meaning. There was a time of preparation, and then a final ceremony where the groom would come for his bride and the celebration would begin. That background helps us understand this verse better.
The early Christians who read this were suffering and waiting. Many had been rejected by their families, pushed out of society, and attacked for following Jesus. This promise of a wedding — not just survival, but joyful union with their Savior — gave them deep hope. It meant their struggle wasn’t the end of the story. Jesus hadn’t forgotten them, and one day, He would come to bring them home forever.
Theological Implications
This verse points to the deep relationship between Jesus and His people. It’s not cold or distant — it’s full of love and joy. The image of a wedding reminds us that following Jesus isn’t just about duty; it’s about being loved and chosen.
It also shows that there is a future event to look forward to — the final coming together of Christ and His people. The fact that the bride “has made herself ready” points to how God prepares His people for this moment through salvation, transformation, and holiness. We don’t earn this marriage — it’s a gift. But we do live in a way that reflects the reality of it.
Literary Analysis
The verse opens with a triple call: “rejoice,” “be glad,” and “give him glory.” These are not mild feelings — they’re loud, joyful, and full of gratitude. Then it moves into the heart of the celebration: “the wedding of the Lamb has come.” The word “Lamb” is rich with meaning in Revelation. It points back to Jesus’ sacrifice (Revelation 5:6). The idea of a wedding emphasizes joy, unity, and fulfillment.
The phrase “has made herself ready” is meaningful. It’s active but also implies something has been done for the bride — that she’s been made beautiful and clean, not by her own power, but through what the Lamb has done.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 61:10 – “He has clothed me with garments of salvation… like a bride adorned with her jewels.”
- John 3:29 – “The bride belongs to the bridegroom…”
- Ephesians 5:25-27 – “Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her… to present her to himself as a radiant church…”
- Revelation 21:2 – “The Holy City, the new Jerusalem, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.”
- Matthew 25:1-13 – Parable of the ten virgins, waiting for the bridegroom to arrive.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds every believer that the story isn’t over. Whatever you’re going through — trials, doubts, disappointments — this verse says there’s a wedding coming. A time of joy, beauty, and perfect union with Jesus.
It also encourages us to be ready. Not in fear, but in love. A bride prepares for her wedding with joy, excitement, and commitment. In the same way, we live our lives in response to the love of Christ, staying faithful, trusting in Him, and keeping our hearts focused on eternity.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is written all over this verse. He’s not just a ruler, or a judge — He’s a Bridegroom who delights in His people. He doesn’t just save them — He prepares them, treasures them, and looks forward to being with them forever.
The wedding image tells us that God isn’t distant or uninterested. He longs to be close to His people. And the joy of heaven reflects His heart. It’s not just about justice and power. It’s about love that lasts forever.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Lamb. He gave His life so that this wedding could happen. From the cross to the empty tomb to His return, Jesus is the center of the story. This verse shows us the end goal of His work — not just forgiveness, but forever fellowship.
He’s not only the Savior — He’s the Bridegroom. And He’s coming again to gather His people. Just as He promised in John 14:3, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” This verse is the fulfillment of that promise. The one who died for us is also the one who prepares a wedding for us.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does the image of a wedding teach you about God’s relationship with His people?
- How does this verse help you stay focused when life feels discouraging or overwhelming?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus is the Lamb and the Bridegroom?
- How can you prepare your heart and life for the return of Christ?
- What are some ways you can live with joyful expectation of this future celebration?
- How does this verse show God’s love in a personal, intimate way?
- Are you living like someone who is getting ready for a wedding with Jesus?