Revelation: Heaven’s Hallelujah Chorus

Revelation 19:1-10

The Revelation of Jesus Christ is from Jesus about Jesus. He gave his message to an angel, who then shared it with the apostle John. Much of this book (Rev. 4-22) describes what is to come. 

To this point in our study, we have seen what I believe to be the rapture of the saints, the tribulation on earth, and, in Revelation 17-18, the destruction of philosophical, religious, and economic systems. However, beginning in Revelation 19, the narrative shifts. 

After Babylon’s destruction, John heard “what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven…” (Rev. 19:1). This vast group was shouting praises to God. Some have described Revelation 19 as the “Hallelujah Chorus” of the New Testament. The Hebrew word hallelujah means “Praise the Lord” and is often used in the songs of the Old Testament.[1] In the New Testament, hallelujah appears four times, all in this chapter!

Let’s read Revelation 19:1-8, and then I’ll give four reasons for this magnificent song of praise. 

Revelation 19:1-6
“Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just; for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.” Once more they cried out, “Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up forever and ever.” And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!” And from the throne came a voice saying, “Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, small and great.” Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the  Almighty reigns.” 

Reasons for the “Hallelujah Chorus” 

1. God is worthy to judge (Rev. 19:1).
   God has judged the world’s economic and religious systems, and he is the only One worthy to do so. He has provided salvation through Jesus, the only One who can deliver us from our sins. God is the possessor of glory—moral perfection. He is the all-powerful God, as demonstrated in his destruction of all who oppose him. Salvation, glory, and power belong to him alone.
   
   
2. God’s judgments are true and just (Rev. 19:2).
   We can only observe the external. Through our best legal efforts and the court system we have in place, the evidence is presented, and a decision is rendered. However, every human judgment is tainted by bias. But God sees all. He knows every person’s heart. He makes his verdict using complete and perfect information. He is right and fair in every decision.
   
   Remember what the world has endured to this point. There have been three sets of severe and devastating afflictions. The seals, trumpets, and bowl judgments were unmistakable warnings, each calling for repentance and a turn to God. Again, God’s judgments are true and just.
   
   
3. God’s judgments are final (Rev. 19:3).
   The heavenly chorus sang, “Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up forever and ever” (Rev. 19:3). This is a figure of speech depicting the smoke from the destruction of earthly systems, which is final and complete.
   
   
4. God is in complete control (Rev. 19:4-6).
   Back in Revelation 4, God opened the door of heaven to show John that God the Almighty was seated on his throne, in absolute control. And he still is! The great song of praise declares, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns” (Rev. 19:6). The name “Almighty” describes God as all-powerful. He has been in control of every event throughout history and remains in total control as history winds down.

The great song of praise continues, “for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready; it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure” (Rev. 19:7). At the time John recorded these words, marriages were arranged. The process began with a commitment contract between the parents when the parties were children. When the parties reached a suitable age, the groom would escort the bride to his home, where the wedding supper—the great celebration of a fulfilled commitment—would be held.

This marriage tradition symbolizes the marriage supper of the Lamb, which fulfills the relationship between Christ and his Church. At the moment of our salvation, we are joined to Jesus and assume the role of the bride in a legal and binding covenant. At the rapture, Christ comes to take us home to be with him. Others will trust in Christ and join us in heaven. Then the wedding supper occurs—a celebration for all God’s invited guests. The marriage supper of the Lamb celebrates a completed commitment and a new relationship with our Savior in heaven forever!

After seeing this vision, the angel told John, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” The angel added, “These are the true words of God” (Rev. 19:9).

The apostle was so astounded by what he had witnessed and by the angel’s instruction that he fell to the ground and began worshiping the angel. But the angel said, “‘You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God.’ For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

Worship God! That’s our call today! That will be our privilege throughout eternity! 

PERSONAL TIME WITH GOD 
Time in the Word: Read and reflect on Revelation 19:1-10.

Talking to God: How does knowing that God’s judgments are true, just, and final shape the way you trust him amid injustice or uncertainty today?

Have questions? Please send your questions to our team. We're happy to assist as we explore God's Word together. Submit your question below, and we'll respond soon. If you're interested in learning more about a relationship with Jesus or seeking spiritual guidance, let us help you take the next step.

2026: A New Year. A New Series. A New Way to See Your Life in God’s Story.

Starting January 5, 2026, jump into our most engaging series yet—God’s Story in God’s People. From Genesis to Revelation, you’ll discover how God works through real people with real struggles and real purpose—and how he wants to do the same in you. Don’t just read the story—step into it—and apply it to your everyday life. 

RE-IGNITE YOUR MARRIAGE IN 2026!
Refocus, reconnect, and recharge your marriage—starting January 10 with an in-person kickoff and online classes, ending with a Valentine’s Day recommitment ceremony.
Make this the year your love grows stronger than ever!
Learn more and register: livinggrounded.org/marriage

SAVE THE DATE: Bible Immersion trip to Israel: November 4-14, 2026.