Revelation 6:14

The sky receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved from its place.

Study Bible

The sky receded like a scroll being rolled up
This phrase evokes a powerful image of cosmic transformation. The Greek word for "sky" here is "οὐρανός" (ouranos), which can refer to the heavens or the firmament. In ancient Jewish cosmology, the sky was seen as a solid dome over the earth, and the imagery of it "receding" suggests a dramatic unveiling or revelation of divine realities. The metaphor of a "scroll being rolled up" is significant; scrolls were the primary medium for written communication in the ancient world, and rolling them up signified the conclusion of a message or the concealment of its contents. This imagery suggests the end of an era or the completion of God's revelation, aligning with the apocalyptic nature of Revelation. It signifies the transition from the current world order to the new creation promised in Scripture.

and every mountain and island was moved from its place
Mountains and islands are often symbols of stability and permanence in the Bible. The Greek word for "mountain" is "ὄρος" (oros), and for "island," it is "νῆσος" (nēsos). The movement of these seemingly immovable objects signifies a profound upheaval in the natural order. Historically, mountains were seen as places of divine encounter, such as Mount Sinai or Mount Zion, and their displacement indicates a shift in the spiritual landscape. Islands, often isolated and self-contained, represent the far reaches of the earth. The phrase "moved from its place" suggests a divine intervention that disrupts the status quo, emphasizing God's sovereignty over creation. This upheaval is a precursor to the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom, where all creation is renewed and restored. The imagery serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly things and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sky
In this verse, the sky is described as receding like a scroll. This imagery is symbolic of a dramatic change or upheaval in the natural order, often associated with divine intervention or judgment.

2. Mountains and Islands
These geographical features represent stability and permanence in the natural world. Their movement signifies a profound transformation or disruption, indicating the magnitude of the events described.

3. The Scroll
The imagery of a scroll being rolled up is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing the completion or fulfillment of God's plans or judgments.

4. The Sixth Seal
This event occurs during the opening of the sixth seal in the Book of Revelation, which is part of a series of judgments leading up to the end times.

5. John the Apostle
The author of Revelation, who received these visions while exiled on the island of Patmos. His role is to convey the prophetic messages he received from God.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty
The imagery of the sky receding and mountains moving underscores God's ultimate control over creation. Believers are reminded of God's power and authority over the universe.

Judgment and Accountability
The upheaval described serves as a reminder of the coming judgment. Christians are called to live in a manner that reflects readiness and accountability before God.

Hope in Transformation
While the imagery is dramatic and unsettling, it also points to the hope of a new creation. Believers can find comfort in the promise of renewal and restoration.

Urgency of the Gospel
The events described highlight the urgency of sharing the Gospel. Christians are encouraged to be proactive in evangelism, knowing that time is limited.

Faith Amidst Chaos
In times of personal or global upheaval, believers can find peace in trusting God's plan and His ultimate victory over chaos.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the sky receding like a scroll impact your understanding of God's power and sovereignty?

2. In what ways can the movement of mountains and islands serve as a metaphor for changes in your own life? How can you find stability in God during these times?

3. How do the events described in Revelation 6:14 relate to Jesus' teachings in Matthew 24 about the end times?

4. What practical steps can you take to live with a sense of urgency and readiness for Christ's return?

5. How can the hope of a new creation, as implied in this passage, influence your perspective on current world events and personal challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 34:4
This verse also describes the heavens being rolled up like a scroll, indicating a cosmic upheaval associated with God's judgment.

Matthew 24:29
Jesus speaks of celestial disturbances in the end times, which parallels the imagery in Revelation 6:14.

2 Peter 3:10
Peter describes the heavens passing away with a roar, which aligns with the dramatic changes depicted in Revelation.