Revelation 9:13

Then the sixth angel sounded his trumpet, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar before God

Study Bible

Then the sixth angel
The phrase "Then the sixth angel" introduces the continuation of the series of trumpet judgments, which are part of the apocalyptic visions given to John. The number six in biblical numerology often signifies imperfection or incompleteness, just short of the divine number seven, which represents completion and perfection. The angel, as a divine messenger, signifies the unfolding of God's sovereign plan. In the context of Revelation, angels are often seen as executors of God's will, emphasizing the divine orchestration of the events that are to unfold.

sounded his trumpet
The act of sounding the trumpet is deeply rooted in biblical tradition. In ancient Israel, trumpets were used for various purposes, including calling assemblies, signaling war, and announcing significant religious events. The trumpet here symbolizes a divine announcement, a call to attention for the events that are about to transpire. It is a moment of divine intervention, where God’s purposes are being revealed and executed in the world.

and I heard a voice
The phrase "and I heard a voice" indicates a direct communication from the divine realm to John, the author of Revelation. This voice is authoritative and commands attention, signifying the importance of the message being conveyed. In the biblical context, hearing a voice from heaven often precedes significant revelations or divine instructions, underscoring the gravity of the moment.

from the four horns
The "four horns" of the altar are significant in biblical symbolism. In the Old Testament, the altar's horns were considered places of refuge and were associated with the power and presence of God. The number four often represents universality or completeness in the earthly realm, suggesting that the message or action emanating from the horns has a comprehensive impact. The horns being part of the altar also imply a connection to sacrifice and intercession, highlighting the altar's role in the divine plan.

of the golden altar
The "golden altar" refers to the altar of incense, which stood before the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle and later in the temple. Gold, as a material, signifies purity, value, and divinity. The altar of incense is associated with the prayers of the saints, as seen earlier in Revelation (Revelation 8:3-4). This connection suggests that the events being announced are in response to the prayers and cries of God’s people, emphasizing the intimate relationship between divine action and human intercession.

before God
The phrase "before God" places the entire scene in the immediate presence of the Almighty. It underscores the divine authority and oversight of the events being described. Being "before God" implies that the actions and judgments are not arbitrary but are executed under the direct supervision and will of God. This setting assures believers of the righteousness and justice of the unfolding events, as they are orchestrated by a holy and sovereign God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sixth Angel
One of the seven angels given trumpets to sound, each heralding a specific judgment or event during the end times. The sixth angel's trumpet initiates a significant and terrifying event.

2. Trumpet
A symbolic instrument used throughout Revelation to announce divine judgments. The sounding of the trumpet signifies the commencement of a new phase in God's plan.

3. Voice
A divine command or message, often interpreted as coming from God or a heavenly being, indicating authority and the initiation of God's will.

4. Four Horns of the Golden Altar
The altar in the heavenly temple, reminiscent of the altar of incense in the earthly tabernacle, which had four horns. The altar represents the prayers of the saints and God's presence.

5. Golden Altar Before God
A sacred place in the heavenly temple, symbolizing the intersection of divine justice and mercy, where prayers are offered and divine decrees are issued.

Teaching Points

The Role of Angels in God's Plan
Angels are messengers and agents of God's will, executing His judgments and plans. Understanding their role helps us appreciate the order and authority in the spiritual realm.

The Significance of the Trumpet
The trumpet is a call to attention and action. In our lives, we should be attentive to God's calls and ready to respond to His direction.

The Power of Prayer
The golden altar symbolizes the power and importance of prayer. Our prayers are heard and play a role in God's divine plan, encouraging us to be persistent and faithful in prayer.

Divine Justice and Mercy
The altar represents both justice and mercy, reminding us that God's judgments are righteous and His mercy is abundant. We should strive to live in a way that reflects His character.

Preparation for End Times
The events in Revelation call us to be spiritually prepared and vigilant, living in anticipation of Christ's return and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the sixth angel in Revelation 9:13 help us understand the broader account of divine judgment in Revelation?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of the trumpet in Revelation 9:13 apply to our spiritual lives today?

3. How can the imagery of the golden altar and the prayers of the saints in Revelation 9:13 encourage us in our personal prayer life?

4. What lessons can we learn about God's character from the interplay of justice and mercy represented by the altar in Revelation 9:13?

5. How can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the events described in Revelation, and what practical steps can we take to live in readiness for Christ's return?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:1-10
Describes the altar of incense in the tabernacle, which the golden altar in Revelation mirrors. This connection highlights the continuity of worship and intercession from the Old Covenant to the New.

Revelation 8:3-5
Provides context for the golden altar, where the prayers of the saints are offered with incense, emphasizing the role of prayer in the unfolding of God's plan.

Hebrews 9:23-24
Discusses the heavenly sanctuary, of which the earthly tabernacle was a copy, reinforcing the idea of a heavenly altar before God.