Revelation 19:16 Commentary and Bible Study

The title ‘king of kings’ is first used in the Bible by Artaxerxes, a pagan king, to describe himself (Ezra 7:12). The title to describe Nebuchadnezzar (Ezekiel 26:7; Daniel 2:37), but it is only true in its fullest sense of God alone, as employed by Paul (1 Timothy 6:15). The possession of this title is said to be the reason why Christ must prevail over his enemies (17:14). It draws attention to his irresistible and sovereign power and his unquestionable authority, and means that whatever authorities and powers there may be on earth, Christ is supreme over them all. Whatever fear we may have of the rulers of this world, there is one over them to whom they too must give account. Therefore in any genuine conflict of duty, we should look to him alone, for both we and they must give account to the same Lord of lords on the last day.This is a power and authority that even rebels must recognise, though they do so against their will. During his days on earth, the demons did not try to oppose him, knowing that if he chose to act against them, resistance would be futile. Instead they asked in great fear whether he had come to destroy them immediately. They recognised his supreme authority.