Revelation #15: Revelation Chapter 9:1-11 The Fifth Trumpet: The First Woe 

Revelation #15: Revelation Chapter 9:1-11 The Fifth Trumpet: The First Woe 

Introduction: In the Book of Revelation, we encounter a series of trumpet blasts that unleash divine judgments on the earth. The first four trumpets (described in Revelation 8) directly impact the natural world, affecting vegetation, seas, rivers, and the heavens. These judgments make life challenging, but they do not directly harm humanity. However, with the Fifth Trumpet, humanity itself becomes the target, marking the beginning of the final three judgments, ominously labeled the “woes” (Revelation 8:13).

In Revelation 9:1-11, John describes the sounding of the Fifth Trumpet, which releases demonic forces from the Abyss, also referred to as “the bottomless pit.” These entities unleash suffering on those who do not have the protective seal of God on their foreheads. This is the first woe, and it signifies a terrifying increase in the intensity of divine judgments during the end times.

The Abyss is Opened (Revelation 9:1-2): The passage begins with John seeing a “fallen star” to whom the key to the Abyss has been given. In biblical language, “fallen star” can represent a spiritual being, often an angel or a fallen one, as is implied here. This particular star is likely Satan, cast down after a celestial battle (cf. Revelation 12:7-9).

Upon opening the Abyss, a thick smoke rises, darkening the sun and air, reminiscent of the oppressive darkness of a massive volcanic eruption. However, this darkness is supernatural. It signals the release of demonic entities that have been contained until this moment.

The Demonic Locusts (Revelation 9:3-6): From the Abyss come terrifying locust-like creatures, unlike any ordinary locusts found in nature. They are commanded not to harm the earth’s vegetation but instead to torment those who lack God’s protective seal. Here, the concept of torment, not death, is emphasized as their primary function. These locusts are allowed to sting and cause intense suffering, much like a scorpion’s venomous sting. Their torment lasts five months, a period symbolizing prolonged suffering but also divine restraint, as the locusts cannot kill their victims.

These torments will drive people to seek death as a means of escape, yet death will evade them. This suggests a supernatural prevention of death, underscoring the severity of the judgment and leaving the affected in a state of prolonged agony.

The Appearance of the Locusts (Revelation 9:7-10): John gives a detailed description of the locusts, painting a picture that highlights their fearsome nature:

• They resemble horses prepared for battle, suggesting power and aggression.
• They wear something like golden crowns, symbolizing authority given to them.
• Their faces are like human faces, conveying intelligence.
• They have hair like women’s hair, possibly indicating allure or deception.
• Their teeth are like lion’s teeth, emphasizing ferocity.
• They have breastplates like iron, underscoring invincibility.
• The sound of their wings is like the thunderous noise of chariots rushing into battle, enhancing the sense of chaos and terror.

This vivid imagery is difficult to interpret literally, but it undoubtedly conveys a terrifying vision. The locusts are demonic entities, equipped to instill terror, and their appearance emphasizes the utter hopelessness for those enduring this plague.

The Locusts’ King – Abaddon or Apollyon (Revelation 9:11): Unlike earthly locusts, which have no leader (Proverbs 30:27), these supernatural creatures are ruled by a being named Abaddon in Hebrew, and Apollyon in Greek, both meaning “the Destroyer.” This demonic king is likely a high-ranking fallen angel, a dark ruler with the power to unleash these hordes upon the earth. His title as “the Destroyer” reflects Satan’s intent to cause destruction, in stark contrast to Christ, who brings life.

Implications and Conclusion: The events described in this passage serve as a warning about the severity of divine judgment. The Fifth Trumpet demonstrates God’s control even over forces of darkness, showing that He uses these demonic agents as instruments to fulfill His purposes of judgment. The locusts are specifically limited in their destructive power and duration of torment, signifying God’s ultimate sovereignty.

This passage also underscores the need for repentance and turning to God. The suffering is inflicted only on those without His seal, implying that those who belong to God are protected. For believers, this account serves as both a sobering reminder of the coming judgments and a call to faithfulness and endurance.

The Fifth Trumpet marks an intensification of the judgments upon the earth. For those who reject God, it is a foretaste of ultimate destruction. For those who belong to God, it is a reminder of His protection and deliverance. The message is clear: while Satan and his forces have destructive power, they are ultimately under God’s authority. As we contemplate this vision, we are reminded of the contrasting character of Jesus, who came to give life in abundance (John 10:10), standing as the only refuge from the wrath that is to come.

-sermon series by Pastor Michel Bohrer