Revelation 16:21

And great hailstones weighing almost a hundred pounds each rained down on them from above. And men cursed God for the plague of hail, because it was so horrendous.

Study Bible

And great hailstones
The phrase "great hailstones" refers to massive chunks of ice falling from the sky, a phenomenon that is both natural and supernatural in this context. The Greek word for "hailstones" is "χαλάζα" (chalaza), which is used in the Septuagint to describe the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 9:18-26). This connection suggests a divine judgment, reminiscent of God's power over nature. Historically, hail has been a symbol of God's wrath and judgment, as seen in various Old Testament passages. The size and intensity of these hailstones underscore the severity of God's final judgments during the end times.

about the weight of a talent
A "talent" in biblical times was a unit of weight, approximately 75 to 100 pounds (34 to 45 kilograms). The Greek word "τάλαντον" (talanton) indicates a significant burden, emphasizing the destructive power of these hailstones. This weight is beyond natural occurrences, highlighting the supernatural aspect of this judgment. The use of such a specific measurement serves to convey the enormity and inescapability of God's wrath upon the earth, as these hailstones would cause unprecedented devastation.

fell from heaven on them
The phrase "fell from heaven" signifies the divine origin of this judgment. The Greek word "ἐκ" (ek) implies a source or origin, indicating that these hailstones are not merely a natural disaster but a direct act of God. The imagery of something falling from heaven is often associated with divine intervention or judgment throughout Scripture. This act serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings given throughout the Bible.

And men cursed God
Despite the clear divine origin of the plague, the response of "men cursed God" reveals the hardness of human hearts. The Greek word "βλασφημέω" (blasphemeo) means to speak evil or slander, showing a deliberate rejection and defiance against God. This reaction is consistent with the rebellious nature of humanity depicted throughout Revelation, where instead of repentance, there is a continued resistance against God's authority.

for the plague of hail
The term "plague" (Greek: "πληγή" - plege) is used to describe a blow or wound, often associated with divine punishment. This word connects the event to the plagues of Egypt, reinforcing the theme of judgment. The "plague of hail" is not just a natural disaster but a specific act of divine retribution, intended to bring about repentance and acknowledgment of God's power.

because the plague was so severe
The severity of the plague is emphasized by the Greek word "μέγας" (megas), meaning great or large. This highlights the intensity and unprecedented nature of the judgment. The purpose of such severity is to demonstrate the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance. It serves as a final warning to humanity of the consequences of rejecting God's grace and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Great Hailstones
These are massive stones of ice, each weighing about a hundred pounds, symbolizing divine judgment and wrath.

2. Men
Refers to humanity experiencing the judgment, specifically those who are unrepentant and blasphemous towards God.

3. God
The sovereign deity executing judgment upon the earth, highlighting His power and justice.

4. Plague of Hail
A catastrophic event that is part of the series of judgments described in Revelation, emphasizing the severity of God's wrath.

5. Cursing of God
The response of the people to the judgment, showing their hardened hearts and refusal to repent.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Recognize that God is in control of all events, including natural disasters, and uses them to fulfill His purposes.

The Hardness of Human Hearts
Understand that despite clear signs of divine intervention, many will still refuse to repent, highlighting the depth of human rebellion.

The Call to Repentance
Use these warnings as a call to examine our own lives and ensure we are living in alignment with God's will.

The Reality of Divine Justice
Acknowledge that God's justice is real and will be executed, encouraging believers to live righteously and share the gospel.

Hope in God's Protection
Trust in God's ability to protect and preserve His people even amidst severe judgments.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the hailstones in Revelation 16:21 compare to the plagues in Egypt, and what does this tell us about God's consistency in judgment?

2. In what ways does the response of the people to the hailstones reflect the condition of the human heart, and how can we guard against such hardness?

3. How can understanding God's sovereignty over natural events impact our response to current global disasters?

4. What lessons can we learn from the repeated theme of repentance in Revelation, and how can we apply these lessons in our daily lives?

5. How does the assurance of God's protection during times of judgment encourage you in your faith journey, and how can you share this hope with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 9:22-26
The plague of hail in Egypt serves as a precursor to the end-time judgments, demonstrating God's power over nature and His ability to protect His people.

Job 38:22-23
God questions Job about the storehouses of hail, indicating His control over creation and His use of it for judgment.

Isaiah 28:17
Hail is used metaphorically to describe God's judgment against falsehood and injustice.

Ezekiel 38:22
Hailstones are part of God's judgment against Gog, showing consistency in God's use of natural elements for divine retribution.

Matthew 24:21-22
Jesus speaks of a great tribulation, which aligns with the catastrophic events described in Revelation, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of these judgments.