Revelation 16:4

And the third angel poured out his bowl into the rivers and springs of water, and they turned to blood.

Study Bible

Then the third angel
The phrase "Then the third angel" introduces the third of seven angels tasked with pouring out the bowls of God's wrath. The number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in biblical numerology. Angels, as messengers of God, are depicted throughout Scripture as executing divine judgment or delivering God's messages. The presence of the third angel signifies a continuation of God's sovereign plan, emphasizing the orderly and purposeful nature of divine judgment.

poured out his bowl
The act of pouring out the bowl signifies the execution of God's judgment. In the context of Revelation, bowls are symbolic of God's wrath being fully dispensed upon the earth. The imagery of pouring suggests a deliberate and complete action, leaving no part untouched. This reflects the thoroughness of God's justice, ensuring that His righteous judgment is fully realized.

into the rivers and springs of water
Rivers and springs are sources of life and sustenance, essential for human survival. In biblical times, water was a precious resource, often associated with life, purity, and blessing. The targeting of these water sources indicates a direct assault on the necessities of life, symbolizing the withdrawal of God's provision and blessing due to humanity's persistent rebellion and sin.

and they became blood
The transformation of water into blood is reminiscent of the first plague in Egypt (Exodus 7:17-21), where the Nile River was turned to blood as a sign of God's power and judgment against Pharaoh's hardened heart. Blood, in this context, represents death and judgment. The imagery is stark and unsettling, serving as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the seriousness of divine judgment. It underscores the theme of retribution, where the life-giving water is turned into a symbol of death, highlighting the severity of God's response to unrepentant sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Third Angel
This angel is one of the seven angels tasked with pouring out the bowls of God's wrath upon the earth. Each angel represents a specific judgment from God.

2. Rivers and Springs of Water
These are natural sources of fresh water, essential for life. Their transformation into blood signifies a severe judgment affecting the sustenance of life.

3. Bowl Judgments
These are the final series of seven plagues described in Revelation, representing God's ultimate judgment on a sinful world. The third bowl specifically targets the earth's water supply.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The transformation of water into blood demonstrates God's control over creation and His authority to execute judgment. Believers are reminded of the importance of revering God's power and justice.

The Seriousness of Sin
The severe nature of the bowl judgments underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance. Christians are called to examine their lives and turn away from sin.

Dependence on God for Sustenance
The judgment on water sources highlights humanity's dependence on God for life. Believers should cultivate gratitude and reliance on God for their daily needs.

The Certainty of God's Promises
The fulfillment of prophetic judgments assures believers of the certainty of God's promises, both in judgment and in salvation. This encourages faithfulness and hope in God's ultimate plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transformation of water into blood in Revelation 16:4 relate to the first plague in Egypt, and what does this teach us about God's consistency in judgment?

2. In what ways does the judgment on water sources in Revelation 16:4 challenge us to reflect on our dependence on God for our daily needs?

3. How can understanding the severity of the bowl judgments in Revelation motivate us to live lives of repentance and holiness?

4. What parallels can we draw between the third bowl judgment and other biblical instances of God's judgment on water, and how do these reinforce the message of Revelation?

5. How does the certainty of God's judgment in Revelation 16:4 encourage us to trust in His promises and remain faithful in our walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:17-21
The transformation of water into blood in Revelation 16:4 echoes the first plague in Egypt, where the Nile River was turned into blood. This connection highlights God's power and judgment against those who oppose Him.

Revelation 8:10-11
The third trumpet judgment also affects water sources, turning them bitter. This parallel emphasizes the progressive nature of God's judgments in Revelation.

Psalm 78:44
This Psalm recounts the plagues of Egypt, including the turning of rivers into blood, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution against sin.