Lamb of God – for feasting
The bond between God and his people is described as that of husband and wife (Hos. 1-3, Matt. 25:1-13, Eph. 5:22-33).
In biblical times, wedding feasts lasted for several days (Judges 14:12). The one Jesus attended ran out of wine, and he did his first miracle (John 2).
Jesus told a parable about a wedding feast a king prepared for his son. When he notified the invited guests that everything was ready, they came up with lame excuses for not attending. Some of them even assaulted and killed his messengers. The king sent his army to punish them.
He then sent his messengers out to bring all who were interested. Likewise, many are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb, but many will miss it by making wrong choices.
The Lamb-of-God imagery in the Book of Revelation starts with his slaughter, proceeds to his victory, and culminates in his wedding feast.
In the letters to the seven churches (Rev. 2-3), Christ made promises to those who overcome. Several of the images referred to customs at feasts of that time. The lukewarm church of Laodicea received the well-known invitation: “Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with me” (Rev. 3:20).
The Conqueror on the white horse is followed by saints on white horses, ready for the wedding feast of the Lamb (Rev. 19). Those who can partake of this feast are truly blessed.
The symbolism in Revelation 21 changes from New Earth to bride, and from bride to the New Jerusalem. All three point to a new dispensation.
The New Earth will be free from the curse (Rev. 22:3) and all the bad things that came with it (natural and manmade disasters; sin and its consequences; Satan and temptations; and all suffering).
The church is also depict as a bride who has made herself ready for her groom (Rev. 19:8, 21:2). She is clothed in righteousness, earned by Christ (Phil. 3:9). This image emphasizes the love for each other, the joy of togetherness, and the intimacy of marriage.
John’s vision about the New Jerusalem takes up more space. The measurements are meant to emphasize perfection, and the precious stones, pearls, and metals show the highest quality.
There will be no temple, for the presence of God and the Lamb will make the whole place a temple. There will be no sun, for the light of God and the Lamb will illuminate everything.
The crystal-clear river and fruitful trees will ensure abundant food and water. John concluded his book by inviting all to drink freely from the water of life (22:17).
Jacob Van Zyl of Lethbridge is a retired counsellor and the author of several faith-based books.