That which veils heaven from men was removed and John was able to see a white horse and the one who sat on him was called “Faithful” and “True.” This rider is the most valiant warrior of all time. He does not only have all power, but he uses his power justly. He is Faithful and His judgments are righteous. His eyes are a flame of fire, which is a reflection of his penetrating vision or knowledge of human deeds. Upon His head are many diadems to recognize His victories and accomplishments. He is clothed in a garment sprinkled with blood, the blood of the cross that enables the redeemed to appear in white (Rev. 7:14).
The Lamb of God has many names (Isa. 9:6-7) just as the Beast is full of names of blasphemy. He has a name written down that no one knows but he, himself. The same is said of faithful disciples who would be given a new name that no one knows but he that receives it (Rev. 12:17). He needs no accolades from men, though he is worthy. He knows the name and no one else needs to know as they cannot alter the outcome of that knowledge in either direction for good or bad. His name is also called the word of God (v. 13), which is used by John (John 1:1-18; 1 John 1:1-4). In verse 16, he has the names, “King of kings” and “Lord of lords.” He is the best and greatest of kings and lords. Like the Song of Solomon is called the Song of songs or Paul’s excellent example of Jewish zeal and devotion would label him the Hebrew of Hebrews (Phil. 3:5), so Jesus is Lord of lords and King of kings. As king, he possessed all the qualities that a great ruler would possess. Paul describes Him to Timothy, “That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen.”
The armies in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in line linen, white and pure (v. 14). When the Scriptures speak of Jesus coming in His kingdom, it sometimes tells us that he will come with his angels (Matt. 16:27-28; 2 Thess. 1:7-8) or with all His saints (1 Thess. 3:13; 4:14). Christians were taught to fight against the spiritual host of wickedness (Eph 6:10-20) and using the whole armor of God, victory can be accomplished.
Out of his mouth proceeds a sharp sword to smite the nations. This word was preached through the nations and by His word the nations will be judged (Col. 1:23, Jn. 12:47-50). He rules with a rod of iron for it breaks in pieces and subdues all things (Dan. 2:40). As was described in chapter one, his feet is of burnished brass, which is used in this verse to tread the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty.