Revelation 16:11

and curse the God of heaven for their pains and sores; yet they did not repent of their deeds.

Study Bible

and they cursed
The Greek word used here for "cursed" is "ἐβλασφήμησαν" (eblasphēmesan), which is derived from "blasphemeo," meaning to speak evil or slander. This indicates a deliberate and vocal rejection of God, highlighting the hardness of heart and rebellion against divine authority. Historically, blasphemy was considered a grave sin, reflecting a deep-seated animosity towards God. In the context of Revelation, this cursing is a response to the divine judgments being poured out, showing the obstinacy of those who refuse to acknowledge God's sovereignty.

the God of heaven
This phrase emphasizes the transcendence and supreme authority of God, who reigns from heaven. The title "God of heaven" is used throughout Scripture to denote God's ultimate power and dominion over all creation. It serves as a reminder of His rightful place as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. In the historical context of Revelation, this title contrasts the earthly powers and false gods that people may have worshipped, underscoring the futility of their rebellion against the one true God.

for their pains and sores
The "pains and sores" refer to the physical afflictions described earlier in Revelation 16, which are part of the bowl judgments. The Greek word for "pains" is "πόνους" (ponous), indicating severe distress or suffering, while "sores" is "ἕλκη" (helkē), meaning ulcers or open wounds. These afflictions are reminiscent of the plagues of Egypt, serving as a divine retribution for sin and a call to repentance. The historical and scriptural context suggests that these judgments are both punitive and redemptive, intended to lead people to repentance, though many remain unrepentant.

yet they did not repent
The Greek word for "repent" is "μετενόησαν" (metenoēsan), which means to change one's mind or turn away from sin. Despite the severity of their suffering, the people described in this verse refuse to repent. This highlights the tragic reality of human stubbornness and the depth of sin's hold on the heart. In a broader scriptural context, repentance is a central theme of the Bible, representing a turning back to God and a transformation of life. The refusal to repent, even in the face of divine judgment, underscores the spiritual blindness and hardness of heart that can result from persistent sin.

of their deeds
The "deeds" refer to the sinful actions and behaviors that have led to the judgments being poured out. The Greek word "ἔργων" (ergōn) is used, which can mean works or actions. In the biblical narrative, deeds are often seen as the outward expression of one's inner spiritual state. The refusal to repent of these deeds indicates a willful persistence in sin and a rejection of God's call to holiness. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of aligning one's actions with God's will. The historical and scriptural context emphasizes that true repentance involves not only a change of heart but also a change in behavior, turning away from sin and towards righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God of Heaven
The sovereign Creator and Ruler of the universe, who is being blasphemed by those suffering.

2. Those Suffering
Individuals experiencing the plagues and judgments described in Revelation, specifically those who refuse to repent.

3. Pains and Sores
Physical afflictions that are part of the divine judgments poured out upon the earth.

4. Judgment
The context of this verse is the outpouring of the bowls of God's wrath, a series of divine judgments.

5. Repentance
The act of turning away from sin and toward God, which the suffering individuals refuse to do.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Hardness of Heart
Persistent refusal to repent leads to further spiritual and physical suffering.

The Nature of True Repentance
Genuine repentance involves a change of heart and action, not just regret over consequences.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgments are just and serve as a call to repentance, even when they are severe.

The Danger of Blasphemy
Cursing God in times of suffering reveals a heart far from Him and invites further judgment.

The Urgency of Repentance
The time to repent is now, before judgment is fully realized and hearts are hardened beyond return.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the refusal to repent in Revelation 16:11 reveal about the human heart in the face of divine judgment?

2. How do the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 9) and the judgments in Revelation 16 compare, and what can we learn from these parallels?

3. In what ways does Romans 2:5 challenge us to examine our own hearts for areas of unrepentance?

4. How can the account of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16) inform our understanding of the consequences of ignoring opportunities for repentance?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure our hearts remain soft and responsive to God's call to repentance, as urged in Hebrews 3:15?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 9:8-12
The plagues of Egypt, particularly the boils, parallel the sores mentioned in Revelation, showing a pattern of divine judgment and human obstinacy.

Romans 2:5
This verse speaks of the hardness of heart and unrepentance leading to wrath, similar to the refusal to repent in Revelation 16:11.

Luke 16:19-31
The account of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates the futility of repentance after judgment has been set, akin to the unrepentant attitude in Revelation.

2 Peter 3:9
Highlights God's desire for all to come to repentance, contrasting with the refusal seen in Revelation 16:11.

Hebrews 3:15
Warns against hardening one's heart, a condition evident in those who curse God despite their suffering.