1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.
2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, [and] over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.
3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous [are] thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true [are] thy ways, thou King of saints.
4 Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for [thou] only [art] holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
5 And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:
6 And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.
7 And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.
8 And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.
Overview of Revelation Chapter 15
Revelation Chapter 15 serves as a pivotal moment in the apocalyptic narrative of the Book of Revelation. This chapter introduces the final series of divine judgments known as the seven plagues, which lead to the culmination of God’s wrath against unrepentant humanity. It sets the stage for the subsequent events in the final chapters of Revelation, highlighting themes of judgment, worship, and the sovereignty of God.
Key Themes
- Divine Judgment: The chapter emphasizes the seriousness of God’s judgment against sin and rebellion.
- Worship and Praise: It illustrates the response of the faithful to God’s actions, showcasing worship as a central element of the believer’s life.
- Victory Over Evil: The imagery of victory over the beast and his image points to the ultimate triumph of God and His people.
Structure of the Chapter
- The Vision of the Seven Angels (Verses 1-2):
The chapter opens with a vision of seven angels holding the seven last plagues, which complete God’s wrath. This sets a somber tone as it indicates the finality of divine judgment.
- The Sea of Glass (Verse 2):
John describes a sea of glass mixed with fire, symbolizing purity and the judgment of God. Those who have overcome the beast stand on this sea, signifying their victory and faithfulness.
- The Song of Moses and the Lamb (Verses 3-4):
The faithful sing a song that combines elements from the Song of Moses (Exodus 15) and the Song of the Lamb. This reflects the continuity of God’s redemptive plan and the praise due to Him for His mighty acts.
- The Temple and the Angels (Verses 5-8):
John then sees the temple in heaven opened, and the seven angels emerge with the plagues. The temple symbolizes the presence of God and the holiness required to approach Him. The angels are given the final judgments, emphasizing the seriousness of their mission.
Symbolism and Imagery
- Sea of Glass: Represents divine judgment and the purity of God’s presence.
- Seven Angels: Symbolize completeness in God’s judgment; their seven plagues indicate the finality of God’s wrath.
- Song of Moses and the Lamb: Represents the unity of God’s people throughout history and their deliverance from oppression.
Theological Implications
The chapter underscores the belief in God’s ultimate sovereignty and justice. It reassures believers of their victory over evil and encourages them to remain steadfast in faith. The worshipful response of the faithful highlights the importance of praising God in the face of trials and tribulations.
Conclusion
Revelation Chapter 15 serves as a crucial transition into the final judgments of God, emphasizing themes of divine justice, worship, and the ultimate victory of God over evil. It encourages believers to remain faithful and to praise God for His mighty acts, reinforcing the hope found in the promise of redemption and deliverance.
