Summary
Revelation 16:1–7 – First three bowls
What happens: Painful sores strike those with the beast’s mark. The sea and then rivers turn to blood. The angel of the waters and the altar affirm God’s judgments are true and just.
What it means: God answers blood with blood, repaying wickedness with measured justice. Creation bears witness to sin’s consequence under God’s rule. Heaven agrees with God’s judgments, showing His righteousness.
Revelation 16:8–11 – Fourth and fifth bowls
What happens: The sun scorches people with fierce heat, yet they do not repent. Darkness falls on the beast’s kingdom, causing agony and blasphemy instead of turning to God.
What it means: Hard hearts can resist even severe warnings. Judgment exposes rebellion and the need for grace. God remains just when people refuse mercy.
Revelation 16:12–16 – Sixth bowl and gathering for battle
What happens: The Euphrates dries to prepare the way for kings from the east. Three unclean spirit-like frogs go out to deceive the kings of the world and gather them at Armageddon. Jesus warns, “I come like a thief; keep watch.”
What it means: Spiritual deception drives nations to oppose God. Christ’s return calls for vigilance and purity. God controls the stage of history, even enemies’ movements.
Revelation 16:17–21 – Seventh bowl: It is done
What happens: A loud voice from the throne says, “It is done.” The greatest earthquake splits the great city; Babylon receives the cup of wrath. Huge hailstones fall, yet people curse God.
What it means: God finishes what He decrees; His justice falls on proud systems. Refusal to repent underlines human sinfulness. God’s holiness stands, and His word proves true.
Application
- Repent quickly; do not harden your heart under correction.
- Stay awake for Christ’s return, guarding your life from compromise.
- Trust God’s justice when evil seems bold, and keep honoring Him.
