Introduction: Revelation 15 is a pivotal chapter in Revelation, which reveals the final acts of judgment by God upon a rebellious world. This chapter prepares the reader for the outpouring of God’s wrath through the seven last plagues. It highlights the majesty and justice of God, and the vindication of the saints who have overcome. The vision presents a scene of worship and anticipation as the curtains are drawn back for the final scenes of earthly history.
I. The Vision of the Seven Angels with the Seven Last Plagues (Revelation 15:1)
This section provides an introduction to the seven angels who hold the seven last plagues, filled with the wrath of God. It signifies the completion of God’s judgment.
Cross References:
- Exodus 7-11: Showcases the plagues on Egypt, reflecting God’s control over nature and judgment.
- Psalm 78:49-50: Describes God’s wrath and angels as instruments.
- Jeremiah 10:10: Affirms the reality of God’s wrath against evil.
- Nahum 1:2: God’s jealousy and vengeance toward His adversaries.
II. The Victorious Saints by the Sea of Glass (Revelation 15:2-4)
This passage describes the saints who have overcome the beast, standing by a sea of glass mixed with fire, holding harps, and singing the song of Moses and the Lamb, glorifying God for His just deeds.
Cross References:
- Exodus 15:1-21: The song of Moses, a song of deliverance, parallels the saints’ song of victory.
- Psalm 150:3-5: The use of harps in praise, similar to the saints with harps.
- Isaiah 43:2: God’s promise of deliverance through fire, correlating with the saints standing by the sea of glass mixed with fire.
- Deuteronomy 32:3-4: The song of Moses that speaks of God’s perfection and justice, like the song sung by the saints.
III. The Temple in Heaven is Opened (Revelation 15:5-8)
The temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven is opened, and the seven angels come out fully prepared to execute the final plagues. The glory of God fills the temple, and no one can enter until these plagues are completed.
Cross References:
- Exodus 40:34-35: The glory of the Lord fills the tabernacle, as God’s glory fills the temple in Revelation.
- Leviticus 16:17: No one is to be in the tabernacle when the high priest enters to make atonement, similar to no one being able to enter the heavenly temple.
- Isaiah 6:1-4: Isaiah’s vision of the Lord’s temple filled with smoke, reflecting God’s holy presence.
- Habakkuk 2:20: The call for silence before God, as the temple is filled with His glory and no one can enter.
Conclusion: Revelation 15 is the solemn start to the final divine intervention in human history. It signals the end of God’s patience with a world given over to sin and rebellion against His rule. The vision of the seven angels with the last plagues, the victorious saints by the sea of glass, and the opening of the heavenly temple, all point to a moment of awe and sober reflection. It is a call to recognize God’s holiness, justice, and the righteousness of His judgments. The chapter affirms that God’s ways are true and just, and it inspires believers to remain steadfast, knowing that ultimate victory and vindication await those who are faithful to the Lamb.
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