Revelation 16:20

Then every island fled, and no mountain could be found.

Study Bible

Then every island fled
The phrase "every island fled" is a vivid depiction of the cataclysmic events that characterize the end times as described in the Book of Revelation. The Greek word for "island" is "νήσος" (nēsos), which refers to a landmass surrounded by water. In the ancient world, islands were often seen as places of refuge and stability. The imagery of islands fleeing suggests a complete upheaval of the natural order, emphasizing the totality of God's judgment. This aligns with the prophetic language found in the Old Testament, such as in Isaiah 24:19-20, where the earth is described as being violently shaken. The fleeing of islands symbolizes the removal of all earthly securities and the inescapable nature of divine judgment.

and no mountain could be found
The phrase "no mountain could be found" continues the theme of cosmic disturbance. The Greek word for "mountain" is "ὄρος" (oros), which often symbolizes strength, permanence, and the presence of God, as seen in biblical accounts like Mount Sinai. The disappearance of mountains signifies the dismantling of creation's most enduring features, highlighting the power and sovereignty of God over all creation. Historically, mountains have been places of divine revelation and encounter, such as Moses receiving the Law on Mount Sinai or Jesus' transfiguration on a high mountain. The absence of mountains in this apocalyptic vision underscores the idea that in the final judgment, all creation will be laid bare before the Creator, and nothing will stand in the way of His ultimate authority and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Islands
In the biblical context, islands often symbolize distant lands or places of refuge. Here, their disappearance signifies the removal of all places of escape or refuge from God's judgment.

2. Mountains
Mountains in Scripture often represent stability, permanence, and the presence of God. Their vanishing indicates the complete upheaval of the natural order and the removal of all that is considered stable and enduring.

3. The Great Earthquake
This event is part of the seventh bowl judgment, a series of divine judgments poured out upon the earth, signifying the culmination of God's wrath against sin and rebellion.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Creation
The disappearance of islands and mountains underscores God's ultimate authority over the natural world. Believers are reminded that nothing in creation is beyond His control.

The Certainty of Divine Judgment
The dramatic imagery of islands and mountains fleeing serves as a powerful reminder of the certainty and seriousness of God's judgment. It calls believers to live in readiness and reverence.

The Impermanence of Earthly Stability
Mountains and islands, symbols of stability, are shown to be temporary. This teaches believers to place their trust not in earthly things but in the eternal God.

The Urgency of Repentance
As the natural order is upended, the urgency for repentance and turning to God is highlighted. Believers are encouraged to share the gospel with urgency.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of islands and mountains fleeing challenge our understanding of stability and permanence in our lives?

2. In what ways does the certainty of God's judgment, as depicted in Revelation 16:20, influence your daily walk with Christ?

3. How can the themes of God's sovereignty and power over creation in this passage encourage you in times of personal upheaval or uncertainty?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your trust is placed in God rather than in the temporary things of this world?

5. How does this passage motivate you to share the message of repentance and salvation with others, and what specific actions can you take to do so?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 40:4
This verse speaks of every valley being raised and every mountain and hill made low, symbolizing the leveling of all human pride and the preparation for the Lord's coming.

Nahum 1:5
Describes mountains quaking before the Lord, emphasizing God's power over creation and His ability to bring about dramatic change.

Revelation 6:14
Earlier in Revelation, the sky recedes and every mountain and island is moved, showing a consistent theme of cosmic upheaval in the face of divine judgment.