Adventist Understanding of Revelation 19:16: The King of Kings

Revelation 19:16

16 And he has on his clothing and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

Revelation 19:16 describes Jesus Christ at His second coming as the supreme Sovereign, bearing the title "King of kings and Lord of lords," which signifies His transition from a servant in humility to a majestic Ruler in absolute glory Revelation 19:16ST April 19, 1905, par. 1.

The Manifestation of Supreme Authority

The title "King of kings and Lord of lords" is inscribed upon His vesture and thigh to declare His divine nature and His right to rule over all earthly powers Revelation 19:16. At His first coming, Christ's glory was veiled in the garb of humanity, and He wore a garment of humilityST April 19, 1905, par. 1. However, at His second advent, His divinity will not be concealed; instead of a crown of thorns, He will wear a crown of glory, and in place of humble attire, He will be clad in the magnificent garments of royaltyST April 19, 1905, par. 1. This exaltation demonstrates that He is equal with God, the Prince of heaven and earth, to whom every knee must eventually bow Philippians 2:9-11ST April 19, 1905, par. 1.

The Contrast of Two Advents

• First Advent: Jesus came with no outward manifestation of glory, living as a servant to provide a sacrifice that is the center of our hopeDA 660.1+1.

• Second Advent: He returns as the "King of kings," not as a man of sorrows, but as the one who has won the victory over death and sin Revelation 19:11-16ST April 19, 1905, par. 1.

The Final Judgment and Restoration

The appearance of the King of kings brings a decisive end to human history and the reign of earthly rulersCLD 2.1. While the wicked will experience woe and desolation at His appearing, the righteous find this event fraught with joy and hopeGC88 338.2. This supreme Ruler comes to:

• Execute Judgment: He will reckon with every servant regarding how they used the talents and goods He entrusted to them Matthew 25:19SpTA02a 15.2+1.

• Reward the Faithful: Those found watching and doing His will are made rulers over many things and enter into the joy of their Lord Matthew 25:21RH March 7, 1893, par. 6+1.

• Deliver the Covenant: The voice of God will roll through the earth like thunder, delivering the everlasting covenant to those who honored Him by keeping His Sabbath holyDD 49.3+1.

Preparing for the King's Return

Because the King of kings is coming at an hour we think not, a thorough preparation of character is required Matthew 24:448T 74.3. This preparation involves a personal acquaintance with the Lord and the revelation of His principles of righteousness in our daily dealingsPTUK June 23, 1898, page 389.20+1. We are called to live as faithful stewards, watching, praying, and working to hasten the day of His coming 2 Peter 3:12LDE 39.4+1. True recognition of Him as "Lord" means doing the will of the Father and keeping His commandments Matthew 7:21SITI February 4, 1889, page 75.20. At that time, many will accept the great truths intended to prepare a people for this glorious eventGC 464.1+1.