Revelation 15:1

Then I saw another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven final plagues, with which the wrath of God is completed.

Study Bible

Then I saw
The phrase "Then I saw" indicates a continuation of John's visionary experience. The Greek word for "saw" is "εἶδον" (eidon), which implies not just physical sight but also spiritual insight. This suggests that John is being granted a divine revelation, a common theme in apocalyptic literature where the seer is given insight into heavenly realities. This vision is part of a sequence, emphasizing the unfolding of God's plan.

another great and marvelous sign
The word "another" suggests that this is not the first sign John has witnessed, linking it to previous signs in Revelation. The Greek word for "great" is "μέγας" (megas), and "marvelous" is "θαυμαστός" (thaumastos), both of which underscore the significance and awe-inspiring nature of the vision. In biblical context, signs are often miraculous events that point to a deeper spiritual truth. This sign is both great in its scope and marvelous in its divine origin, indicating its importance in the narrative of Revelation.

in heaven
The location "in heaven" signifies the divine origin and authority of the vision. Heaven, in biblical terms, is the realm of God, angels, and ultimate truth. This setting contrasts with earthly events, highlighting the transcendence and sovereignty of God over creation. The heavenly context assures believers of the divine orchestration behind the events that are about to unfold.

seven angels
The number "seven" is significant in biblical literature, symbolizing completeness and perfection. The presence of "seven angels" indicates a complete and divinely ordained mission. Angels, or "ἄγγελοι" (angeloi) in Greek, are messengers of God, often tasked with carrying out His will. Their role here underscores the seriousness and finality of the forthcoming events.

with the seven final plagues
The "seven final plagues" are the culmination of God's judgment. The term "plagues" (πληγαί, plēgai) recalls the plagues of Egypt, which were divine judgments leading to liberation. Here, they signify the ultimate judgment upon a sinful world. The word "final" emphasizes that these are the last in a series of divine judgments, bringing God's plan to completion.

with which the wrath of God will be completed
The "wrath of God" refers to His righteous anger against sin and injustice. The Greek word for "wrath" is "ὀργή" (orgē), which conveys a settled and just response to evil. The phrase "will be completed" (τελέω, teleō) indicates the fulfillment of God's righteous judgment. This completion is not arbitrary but is part of God's redemptive plan, offering hope that justice will ultimately prevail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of the Book of Revelation, who receives and records the vision.

2. Heaven
The setting of the vision, representing the divine realm where God's will is revealed.

3. Seven Angels
Divine messengers tasked with delivering the final plagues, symbolizing completeness and divine order.

4. Seven Final Plagues
Catastrophic events that signify the culmination of God's judgment and wrath.

5. The Wrath of God
The righteous anger of God against sin, which will be fully expressed and completed through these plagues.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Wrath
God's wrath is a response to sin and injustice. It is not arbitrary but a necessary aspect of His holiness and justice.

The Role of Angels
Angels are God's servants, executing His will. Their involvement in the final plagues underscores the divine origin and authority of these judgments.

The Significance of Seven
The number seven symbolizes completeness and perfection in the Bible, indicating that God's plan is perfect and will be fully realized.

Hope Amidst Judgment
While the plagues are severe, they also signal the completion of God's wrath, paving the way for the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Call to Repentance
The impending judgment serves as a warning and a call to repentance, urging individuals to turn to God before it is too late.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the seven angels with the final plagues in Revelation 15:1 relate to the plagues in Egypt, and what can we learn from this parallel?

2. In what ways does understanding the completeness of God's wrath (symbolized by the number seven) impact our view of His justice and mercy?

3. How can believers find hope and assurance in the midst of the descriptions of God's wrath and judgment in Revelation?

4. What role do angels play in the unfolding of God's plan, and how does this influence our understanding of spiritual realities?

5. How can the message of impending judgment in Revelation 15:1 serve as a catalyst for personal repentance and evangelism in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7-12
The plagues of Egypt serve as a precursor and parallel to the final plagues in Revelation, demonstrating God's power and judgment.

Revelation 8-9
Earlier trumpet judgments provide context for the severity and purpose of the final plagues.

Matthew 24:21-22
Jesus speaks of a great tribulation, which aligns with the events described in Revelation.

Isaiah 13:9-13
Prophecies of God's wrath and judgment on the Day of the Lord, echoing the themes in Revelation.

1 Thessalonians 5:9
Assurance for believers that they are not appointed to suffer God's wrath, highlighting the distinction between God's judgment and His salvation.