Revelation 9:20

Now the rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the works of their hands. They did not stop worshiping demons and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk.

Study Bible

The rest of mankind
This phrase refers to those who survived the catastrophic events described earlier in Revelation 9. The Greek word for "rest" (λοιποί, loipoi) indicates a remnant or those remaining. Historically, this suggests a division between those who have faced judgment and those who have been spared, highlighting God's mercy even amidst His wrath. Theologically, it underscores the persistent opportunity for repentance and redemption.

who were not killed by these plagues
The "plagues" mentioned here are the divine judgments unleashed upon the earth, reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt (Exodus). The Greek term for "plagues" (πληγαῖς, plēgais) implies a blow or wound, symbolizing God's direct intervention in human affairs. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine justice.

still did not repent
The concept of repentance (μετενόησαν, metenoēsan) is central to Christian doctrine, involving a change of mind and heart. Despite witnessing God's power and judgment, the survivors remain unrepentant. This highlights the hardness of the human heart and the spiritual blindness that can result from persistent sin.

of the works of their hands
This phrase refers to the idolatrous practices and creations of humanity. Biblically, "works of their hands" often denotes idols (Deuteronomy 4:28). The historical context reveals a world steeped in idolatry, where people crafted gods from materials, placing their trust in what they could control and manipulate.

they did not stop worshiping demons
The worship of demons (δαιμόνια, daimonia) indicates a spiritual allegiance to forces opposed to God. In the ancient world, idolatry was often linked to demonic influence (1 Corinthians 10:20). This phrase underscores the spiritual warfare at play and the deception that leads people away from the true God.

and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood
These materials represent the wealth and resources of the earth, fashioned into objects of worship. The Old Testament frequently condemns such idolatry (Isaiah 44:9-20). The use of these specific materials highlights the futility of trusting in created things rather than the Creator.

which cannot see or hear or walk
This description of idols emphasizes their impotence and lifelessness. Unlike the living God, who is active and relational, idols are powerless (Psalm 115:4-7). This contrast serves as a call to recognize the superiority of worshiping the one true God, who is alive and sovereign.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mankind
Refers to the people on earth who survived the plagues described in Revelation 9. Despite witnessing these catastrophic events, they remain unrepentant.

2. Plagues
Catastrophic events or judgments sent by God as part of the end-times tribulations. These are meant to lead people to repentance, yet many remain hardened.

3. Demons and Idols
Represents false gods and spiritual entities that people worship instead of the one true God. Idols are described as lifeless objects made of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood.

Teaching Points

The Hardness of the Human Heart
Despite witnessing divine judgment, the human heart can remain unrepentant. This calls for self-examination and a softening of our hearts towards God’s truth.

The Futility of Idolatry
Idols, whether physical or metaphorical, cannot provide salvation or true fulfillment. Believers are called to worship God alone, who is living and active.

Call to Repentance
The passage serves as a warning and a call to repentance. It reminds us of the importance of turning away from sin and towards God before it is too late.

Spiritual Warfare
Recognizing the influence of demonic forces in leading people away from God highlights the need for spiritual vigilance and reliance on God’s power.

Endurance in Faith
In times of trial and judgment, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God’s ultimate plan and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the persistence of idolatry in Revelation 9:20 reveal about the nature of sin and the human heart?

2. How can we identify and remove modern-day idols in our lives that may not be as obvious as those described in the passage?

3. In what ways does the call to repentance in Revelation 9:20 apply to both believers and non-believers today?

4. How can understanding the spiritual warfare described in Revelation 9:20 help us in our daily walk with Christ?

5. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' idolatry in Exodus 32 that apply to the warnings in Revelation 9:20?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The worship of the golden calf by the Israelites parallels the idolatry mentioned in Revelation 9:20, showing a historical pattern of turning away from God.

Psalm 115:4-8
This passage describes idols as having mouths but not speaking, eyes but not seeing, similar to the description in Revelation 9:20, emphasizing their powerlessness.

Romans 1:21-23
Paul discusses humanity's tendency to exchange the glory of God for images resembling mortal man and animals, which aligns with the idolatry mentioned in Revelation.