Revelation 6:10

And they cried out in a loud voice, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You avenge our blood and judge those who dwell upon the earth?"

Study Bible

And they cried out with a loud voice
The phrase "cried out" in the original Greek is "ekraxan," which conveys a sense of urgent, passionate pleading. This is not a mere whisper or quiet prayer; it is a loud, desperate cry that echoes the deep anguish and longing for justice. The "loud voice" signifies the intensity and unity of their plea, emphasizing the collective suffering and earnestness of the martyrs. Historically, this reflects the cries of the persecuted church throughout the ages, who have sought divine intervention and justice.

How long, O Lord
The question "How long" is a poignant expression found throughout Scripture, particularly in the Psalms, where the faithful cry out for God's intervention in times of distress. It reflects a deep yearning for God's righteous judgment and the fulfillment of His promises. The use of "O Lord" here is significant, as it acknowledges God's sovereignty and authority. The Greek word "Despotes" used for "Lord" implies a master or ruler, highlighting the martyrs' recognition of God's ultimate control over history and justice.

holy and true
These attributes of God, "holy and true," are central to His character. "Holy" denotes God's absolute purity and separation from sin, while "true" underscores His faithfulness and reliability. In the context of Revelation, these attributes assure the martyrs that God is both morally perfect and trustworthy. Historically, this assurance would have been a source of comfort to early Christians facing persecution, reminding them that God's nature guarantees the eventual triumph of justice.

until You avenge our blood
The plea for God to "avenge our blood" is a call for divine justice. In the ancient world, blood was seen as the life force, and the shedding of innocent blood cried out for retribution. The Greek word "ekdikeo" implies a legal vindication, a setting right of wrongs. This reflects the biblical principle that vengeance belongs to God (Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:19). The martyrs' request is not for personal revenge but for God's righteous judgment to be enacted, affirming His justice and the moral order of the universe.

on those who dwell on the earth?
The phrase "those who dwell on the earth" is often used in Revelation to describe those who are opposed to God and His people. It signifies a worldly, rebellious mindset that stands in contrast to the heavenly citizenship of believers. This distinction highlights the tension between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. Historically, this would resonate with early Christians who faced hostility from earthly powers, reinforcing the hope that God's justice will ultimately prevail over all earthly opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Souls under the Altar
These are the martyrs who have been slain for their testimony and faithfulness to God's word. They are depicted as being under the altar in heaven, symbolizing their sacrifice and the shedding of their blood.

2. The Altar
This is a heavenly altar, reminiscent of the altar of sacrifice in the Old Testament tabernacle and temple, where sacrifices were made to God. It signifies the place where the lives of the martyrs are offered as a sacrifice.

3. The Sovereign Lord
The martyrs address God as the "Sovereign Lord," acknowledging His ultimate authority and control over all events, including their persecution and eventual vindication.

4. The Earth Dwellers
These are the people on earth who are responsible for the persecution and martyrdom of the faithful. They are often depicted in Revelation as those who oppose God and His people.

5. The Cry for Justice
The martyrs cry out for God to judge and avenge their blood, highlighting the theme of divine justice and the eventual righting of wrongs.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Persecution
Christians should be aware that persecution is a reality for many believers around the world. We are called to stand firm in our faith, even in the face of opposition.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
Trust in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty. Though we may not see immediate justice, God is in control and will right all wrongs in His perfect timing.

The Power of Prayer
The martyrs' cry is a form of prayer, showing us the importance of bringing our pleas for justice and deliverance before God.

The Hope of Vindication
Believers can find hope in the promise that God will vindicate His people. This assurance should encourage us to remain faithful and steadfast.

Living Sacrificially
The imagery of the altar reminds us of the call to live sacrificially, offering our lives as a living sacrifice to God, as Paul exhorts in Romans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the depiction of the martyrs under the altar in Revelation 6:10 challenge or encourage your understanding of suffering for the faith?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and justice at work in the world today, even when immediate justice seems absent?

3. How can the prayers of the martyrs in Revelation 6:10 inspire and shape our own prayer life, especially in times of injustice?

4. What are some practical ways we can support and stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians around the world?

5. How does the promise of future vindication and justice influence the way you live out your faith daily?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The cry of the martyrs in Revelation 6:10 echoes the cries for justice found in the Psalms, where the psalmists often call upon God to judge the wicked and vindicate the righteous.

The concept of martyrdom and the reward for those who are faithful unto death is also seen in Jesus' teachings in the Gospels, where He promises blessings for those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake.

The theme of divine justice and vengeance is further explored in the Old Testament prophets, who often speak of a coming day when God will judge the nations and vindicate His people.