A study in the book of Revelation.
The rider of the second of the four horsemen unleashes the malignant forces of evil and removes peace from the earth. It is interesting to note that the Greek word for red is purros or pyros, which means the color of fire. Persons who start fires are called pyromaniacs coming from the word pyromania. However, we know that one of the translations for red is eruthros. Of note, this word is also used by John in Revelation 12:3 when he describes the color of the Dragon “And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” If you can imagine a wildfire that ravages the earth, destroying everything in its wake, you get the gist of what this color horse means. We know that the horse is a symbol of speed, strength, and power. Whether used for good or evil, the horse is representative of power for good or power for conflict. Based on scriptures we can surmise that the horse typifies an enterprise that utilizes military power and force. Therefore, we see the red horse and rider advancing the fearlessness of war and they represent the progress of some great diabolical enterprise backed by strong military power. In the Bible, the color red symbolizes blood and war, meaning the appearance of this rider and his horse will usher in a deadly war. The rider of this horse is not described in the same detail as the rider of the white horse. We do see that he was given a great sword. It is important to note that the color of the horse is associated with the weapon he carries. Both represent war and bloodshed on an international and civil level. Throughout history we hear of wars and rumors of wars. In essence, mankind’s battles against one nation or another goes on and on. The spirit of the red horse is riding throughout the earth causing havoc. As Christians we must understand why these things are taking place because they are a precursor to what is to take place in the future.
