Revelation #25: Revelation Chapter 15 Prelude to the Final Plagues on Earth

Revelation #25: Revelation Chapter 15 Prelude to the Final Plagues on Earth

Introduction to Revelation 15

The fifteenth chapter of Revelation marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the end times. Revelation 15 and 16 together form a cohesive unit that describes the final plagues—the last manifestations of God’s wrath upon the earth. Chapter 15 serves as an introduction to these plagues, preparing the reader for the intense judgment that follows in chapter 16.

The chronological sequence of the events in Revelation reveals that chapter 19 follows directly after chapter 16. Chapters 17 and 18, often called “parentheses,” focus on the fall of Babylon but do not move forward the timeline of events. These chapters act as an interlude rather than a continuation.

It’s important to note that the book of Revelation outlines three sets of divine judgments: the seven seals, the seven trumpets, and the seven bowls (or cups). These judgments unfold in a progressive and escalating manner. The final seven bowls represent the most severe of these judgments. After the seventh bowl is poured out, the Lord’s return occurs.

The Great Sign (Revelation 15:1)

John begins this chapter by describing a vision of “another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven last plagues—last, because with them God’s wrath is completed” (Revelation 15:1). This marks the culmination of divine judgment, as the wrath of God will be fully accomplished through these seven plagues.

Previously, John had witnessed two other significant signs: a “woman” and a “great red dragon” in Revelation 12 . These two signs carried profound prophetic meaning:

• The “woman” represented Israel (Revelation 12:1).
• The “great dragon” symbolized Satan, who exerts control over the final world empire (Revelation 12:3).

In this third sign, the seven angels with the seven plagues point directly to God’s ultimate judgment on Satan’s system and the political power of the beast. These plagues are “the last,” signaling that the time of God’s wrath is nearing its conclusion. This is emphasized by the Greek word “teleô,” meaning to complete or finish, and later in Revelation 16:17, a voice from heaven declares, “It is done!” after the seventh bowl is poured out.

The concept of “wrath” is central to the book of Revelation and is mentioned multiple times, though notably absent from the early chapters that address the church. This absence raises an important theological question: could it be that those who belong to Jesus Christ are spared from God’s wrath because Christ bore the wrath we deserved on the cross? (cf. Romans 5:9; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 5:9).

Two Songs of Worship (Revelation 15:2-4)

John’s vision continues with a scene reminiscent of Revelation 4 , where a sea of glass is described before God’s throne. However, in this passage, the sea of glass is “mixed with fire,” likely symbolizing God’s judgment.

Those standing on this sea of glass are the martyrs—those who had been victorious over the beast, its image, and the number of its name. These are the saints who remained faithful even unto death during the great tribulation (Revelation 13:5-8). Though they were persecuted, they are now depicted as conquerors, holding harps of God and singing songs of worship before His throne.

These martyrs sing two significant songs:

1. The Song of Moses – This song echoes the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, particularly the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15 ). The Song of Moses also appears in Deuteronomy 32 , which recounts God’s faithfulness to Israel and the eventual downfall of His enemies.
2. The Song of the Lamb – This song praises Jesus, the Lamb of God, for His mighty works and justice. It highlights God’s attributes: His power, righteousness, truth, and holiness. The universal reign of God is also emphasized, as all nations will eventually come to worship Him.

These songs declare the greatness of God’s works, His justice, and His truth. The nations are called to fear and glorify God, recognizing that His righteous acts have been revealed.

The Seven Angels and the Temple in Heaven (Revelation 15:5-8)

John’s vision shifts to the temple in heaven, which is described as the “tabernacle of the covenant law.” This heavenly sanctuary is opened, and from it emerge seven angels who carry the seven plagues. These angels are dressed in pure, shining linen, and they wear golden sashes around their chests—symbols of their divine mission and purity.

One of the four living creatures hands the seven angels golden bowls filled with the wrath of God. As this occurs, the temple is filled with smoke from the glory and power of God, echoing similar manifestations of God’s presence seen in the Old Testament. For example, when God descended on Mount Sinai, the mountain was covered in smoke (Exodus 19:18). Likewise, when Isaiah had a vision of God’s throne, the temple was filled with smoke (Isaiah 6:4).

In Revelation 15:8, it is noted that “no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed.” This statement underscores the finality and inevitability of God’s judgment. The time for intercession has passed, and the judgments must now be carried out. God’s holiness and justice demand that sin be punished, and no one can stand in His presence until these judgments are completed.

Conclusion and Reflection

The message of Revelation 15 is both solemn and hopeful. It reminds us of the severity of God’s judgment but also points to the victory and worship that await the faithful. The martyrs’ songs offer a glimpse of the ultimate triumph of God’s justice and the establishment of His kingdom. As believers today, we are encouraged to remain faithful, knowing that God’s righteous acts will be revealed and that His justice will ultimately prevail.

In light of these coming events, Peter’s exhortation in 1 Peter 4:7-8 takes on a new urgency: “The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

These are powerful reminders to live in holiness, be vigilant in prayer, and love one another fervently as we await the return of the Lord.

-sermon series by Pastor Michel Bohrer