Observed by many Christians this time of year, Holy Week is a reflective and moving reminder of Christ’s first arrival—one marked by humility, peace, and sacrifice. This week’s events, which included Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, are a pivotal part of the biblical story. However, the narrative extends beyond the cross, pointing toward a future, victorious return marked by judgment and war. While Jesus first entered Jerusalem in peace, His second coming will be to lead a war. Understanding this dual reality is essential for all who follow Christ and for those who are still seeking Him.
The King of Peace: The First Coming (Holy Week).
Christ’s entrance into Jerusalem, celebrated on Palm Sunday, stands as the definitive act of a peaceful King. His arrival was at its core about peace and sacrifice. The very mode of transport He chose—riding a humble donkey—underscored this mission, acting as a powerful symbol of peace and a sign of royalty in the ancient world. He did not arrive on a warhorse, leading an army to overthrow the Roman occupiers, as many expected. The prophet Zechariah foretold this moment centuries earlier: “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” (Zechariah 9:9)
This act was entirely non-violent, a testament to His mission: to save, not to slaughter; to reconcile humanity to God, not to conquer politically. This prophecy is also referenced in the Gospel of John (12:12-15). The action and tone of His arrival were characterized by humility, suffering, and redemption, purposefully setting it apart from the expectation of a military takeover. His true objective was not the overthrow of an earthly empire but the reconciliation of humanity with God. The crowds laid down palm branches and cloaks, shouting “Hosanna!” (meaning “Save now!”), recognizing Him as the promised Messiah, yet failing to grasp the spiritual nature of His kingdom. His first coming was the offering of peace through the atonement of the cross.
The Judge of War: The Second Coming (End Times).
In stark contrast to the humble donkey ride that characterized His first visit, the Bible paints a dramatically different scene for Christ’s second coming. This time, the focus of His return is not on suffering and sacrifice but on judgment and war. He returns not as a sacrificial lamb but as the ultimate warrior, judge, and King of kings, coming to execute righteous judgment and bring an end to all rebellion against God. The Apostle John records this powerful vision in the book of Revelation: “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God.” (Revelation 19:11–13)
Unlike his arrival on the donkey, Jesus’s means of travel this time is majestic. The white horse signifies victory and conquest, and the manner here is one of power, justice, and final authority. His mission this time is not to suffer or offer peace, but to make war—to finally and fully defeat evil, conquer His enemies, and establish His eternal kingdom in final judgment. The same Christ who offered peace first will return in power to complete His work, bringing complete justice where there was once only grace (Rev. 19:11-16, 1 Thess. 4:16-17).
An Exhortation for Today.
This powerful contrast—peace offered, war to come—is part of the message of the Gospel. For those who have believed and received the peace offered through Christ’s first coming: endure to the end—keep trusting in the finished work of Christ. We are living in the time between the two arrivals, the age of grace. The promise of the King’s return should fuel our hope and resolve (2 Cor. 5:11-21). We have the assurance that our King is Faithful and True, and He will return for His own. Do not lose heart, but live faithfully, knowing that your redemption is drawing near. The same blood that soaked His robe at the cross guarantees your salvation on the day of His return.
For those who have yet to receive the peace of God that only comes through faith in Christ, be reconciled to Him before it’s too late. It is through the death and resurrection of the Lamb of God that we stop being enemies of God. And you can receive this reconciliation by faith (Rom. 5:1-10). When the Rider on the white horse comes, the time for reconciliation will be over, replaced by the time of judgment. Today is the day of salvation. Do not wait for the judgment to come; embrace the peace that has already been bought for you (2 Cor. 5:21, 1 Pet. 2:21-25, Jn. 3:16). Recognize your need and confess your sin; believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved—so that when He rides forth in judgment, you will stand secure as one of His own.
Come and drink from The Well, my friends! The tomb is empty; He is alive forevermore!!!
Drink from The Well 
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