The Beginning of the End: The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse
In Revelation 6:1–8 Jesus shows the apostle John the beginning of the end by describing the planet’s coming horrors through descriptive pictures of four successive horses and their riders.
The White Horse
The White Horse symbolizes the coming Antichrist, masquerading as the Messiah, who will:
- Bring temporary peace
- Rebuild the temple in Jerusalem
- Survive an assassination attempt
However, three and a half years into the tribulation, the Antichrist will show his true colors.
The Red Horse
The Red Horse takes peace from the earth and carries a great sword, symbolizing the massive outbreak of war—and very possibly nuclear war. One-third of all trees, green grass, and human life will be destroyed instantaneously.
- There will be a great mountain burning with fire
- One-third of the sea will become blood
- The rebuilt city of Babylon will be destroyed in one hour
- Kings will stand at a great distance for fear of torment
Are these descriptions of a nuclear holocaust? Remember, John is describing twenty-first century phenomena in first century terms!
The Black Horse and the Pale Horse
The Black Horse and the Pale Horse symbolize famine and plagues. This certainly fits with the scenario our scientists give us of the results of a nuclear war.
Proclaiming the gospel
Though the tribulation will be a destructive and dark time, the light of God will still shine throughout the world. Many people will believe in Christ after the rapture of the church but they will have to avoid taking the mark of the beast—which means many will die for their faith.
The gospel will be preached throughout the earth by an angel “flying in the midst of Heaven having the everlasting gospel to preach to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6).
This also fulfills the statement of Jesus, “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14).
Jewish revival
During the Great Tribulation, God will bring about a tremendous revival among the Jewish people. Representing the twelve tribes of Israel, 144,000 Jews will be under divine protection with the mandate to proclaim the gospel throughout the world (Revelation 7:4–8).
Two prophets
In the last days, God will raise up two prophets who will have a ministry of miracles, including calling down fire from Heaven on those who attempt to hurt them! They will also have power over the waters, turning them to blood. But, as the whole world watches, they will be assassinated and left on the street as dead. Suddenly, they will be resurrected and ascend to Heaven.
Yet, even though the world will witness their resurrection, there will be those who remain hardened in their unbelief!
“And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19).
