John had mentioned this sword in Revelation 1:16, where it was referred to as “a sharp two-edged sword.” The Old Testament prophets had mentioned that the Word of God is a sword (Isaiah 49:2; Hosea 6:5) and the apostles had echoed that understanding (Ephesians 6:17), even indicating that the Word has the ability to expose the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). It is through the sword of the Word that Jesus, the rider of the first white horse, achieves his victory over his enemies (Revelation 14:6–8).
15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty.