Revelation 19:15
And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
Revelation 19:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Revelation describes a powerful image of Jesus Christ as a conqueror and ruler. The "sharp sword" coming out of his mouth symbolizes the Word of God, which is powerful and effective in defeating his enemies. This imagery is reminiscent of other passages in the Bible that describe the Word of God as a double-edged sword that is able to judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. The mention of ruling with a rod of iron signifies Christ's absolute authority and control over the nations. It conveys the idea that he will rule with strength, justice, and discipline. The image of treading the winepress represents the judgment and punishment that will be meted out to those who oppose God. This imagery conveys the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God towards those who rebel against his authority. Ultimately, this verse illustrates the power and authority of Jesus Christ as the victorious ruler who will bring judgment and justice to the nations.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Revelation, the image of a sharp sword coming out of the mouth of Jesus signifies the power of His spoken word. This sharp sword is often interpreted as the Word of God, which is described in the Bible as living and powerful, able to pierce through the hearts of people. The reference to smiting the nations with the sword indicates judgment and authority over all the nations. The ruling with a rod of iron symbolizes the sovereignty and control that Jesus will have over the nations during the end times. The imagery of treading the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God signifies the judgment and punishment of those who have rebelled against God. This verse highlights the ultimate authority and power of Jesus Christ as the ruler of all nations and the one who will execute judgment with righteousness and justice.
Revelation 19:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And out of his mouth proceedeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty.
World English Bible
Out of his mouth proceeds a sharp, double-edged sword, that with it he should strike the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod. He treads the wine press of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty.
Douay-Rheims
And out of his mouth proceedeth a sharp two-edged sword, that with it he may strike the nations. And he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of God the Almighty.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And out of his mouth went out a sharpe sworde, that with it he should smite the heathen: for he shall rule them with a rod of yron: for he it is that treadeth the wine presse of the fiercenesse and wrath of almightie God.