Revelation 15:6

And out of the temple came the seven angels with the seven plagues, dressed in clean and bright linen and girded with golden sashes around their chests.

Study Bible

And out of the temple
The phrase "out of the temple" signifies the divine origin of the events that are about to unfold. The temple, in the context of Revelation, often symbolizes the heavenly dwelling place of God. The Greek word used here, "ναός" (naos), refers to the inner sanctuary, emphasizing the holiness and sacredness of the proceedings. This imagery reminds us that the judgments are not arbitrary but are decreed by God Himself, emanating from His holy presence.

came the seven angels
The "seven angels" are significant in the apocalyptic literature of Revelation. The number seven often represents completeness or perfection in the Bible, indicating that these angels are carrying out a complete and divinely ordained mission. Angels, as messengers of God, are frequently depicted as executing His will, and their emergence from the temple underscores their divine commission.

with the seven plagues
The "seven plagues" are a series of divine judgments. The Greek word for plagues, "πληγές" (plēgés), can also mean blows or wounds, suggesting the severity and impact of these judgments. Historically, plagues have been seen as instruments of divine wrath and correction, reminiscent of the plagues of Egypt in the book of Exodus. This connection serves as a reminder of God's power and justice.

dressed in pure, bright linen
The attire of the angels, "pure, bright linen," symbolizes righteousness and purity. Linen was often used for priestly garments in the Old Testament, indicating holiness and service to God. The Greek word "καθαρός" (katharos) for pure, and "λαμπρός" (lampros) for bright, emphasize the unblemished and radiant nature of their mission. This attire reflects the divine authority and the sanctity of their task.

with golden sashes around their chests
The "golden sashes" are a mark of dignity and authority. Gold, in biblical symbolism, often represents purity, value, and kingship. The sash, or "ζώνη" (zōnē), worn around the chest, is reminiscent of the attire of Christ as described earlier in Revelation (1:13), suggesting a connection to His authority and priestly role. This imagery reinforces the idea that the angels are acting under the direct command and authority of Christ Himself.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Seven Angels
These are divine messengers tasked with executing God's judgment through the seven plagues. Their number signifies completeness and divine perfection.

2. Temple
Represents the heavenly sanctuary, the dwelling place of God, from which divine decrees and judgments are issued.

3. Seven Plagues
These are the final judgments of God upon the earth, symbolizing the culmination of His wrath against sin and rebellion.

4. Clean and Bright Linen
This attire symbolizes purity and righteousness, indicating the holy nature of the angels' mission.

5. Golden Sashes
These sashes signify authority and divine service, reflecting the angels' role as executors of God's will.

Teaching Points

Divine Judgment is Inevitable
The seven angels with the seven plagues remind us that God's judgment is certain and will be executed in His perfect timing.

Purity and Righteousness in Service
The clean and bright linen signifies the importance of purity and righteousness in serving God. Believers are called to live holy lives as they serve Him.

Authority in Christ
The golden sashes symbolize the authority given by God. As believers, we are called to act under Christ's authority, fulfilling His purposes on earth.

Heavenly Perspective
The temple setting encourages believers to maintain a heavenly perspective, understanding that earthly events are under divine control and direction.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the attire of the seven angels in Revelation 15:6 reflect their mission and character? How can this inspire our own walk with God?

2. In what ways does the imagery of the temple in Revelation 15:6 enhance our understanding of God's holiness and sovereignty?

3. How do the seven plagues in Revelation 15:6 relate to the broader theme of God's judgment throughout the Bible? What does this teach us about God's justice?

4. How can the connection between the angels' attire and the priestly garments in Exodus inform our understanding of service and worship today?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives reflect the purity and righteousness symbolized by the angels' clean and bright linen? How can we apply this in our daily interactions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28
The attire of the angels can be connected to the priestly garments described in Exodus, emphasizing purity and service to God.

Daniel 10
The description of the angels is reminiscent of the angelic beings in Daniel, highlighting their role as messengers of divine revelation and judgment.

Revelation 1
The golden sashes are similar to the description of Christ, indicating a shared divine authority and purpose.

Hebrews 9
The temple imagery connects to the heavenly sanctuary described in Hebrews, where Christ serves as the high priest.