Revelation 15

The Angels with the Seven Last Plagues

1 John sees seven angels with seven plagues – which end the wrath of God. From Vision of Victory: This is the third time John sees a “sign from heaven.” The other two are Revelation 12:1 and 12:3. The first introduces Christ, with his hope for salvation; the second introduces Satan with his evil work; this one describes the wrath of God about to be poured out on the wicked.

2-4 John sees a sea of glass mixed with fire. Those who have conquered the beast stand beside the sea with harps of God, singing the song of Moses and the song of the Lamb, a song of praise to God for his might. The sea is probably the same one mentioned in 2:4. The fire could refer to either wrath about to be poured on the earth, or the trials through which the victorious have come.

5-8 John sees the “temple of the tent of witness in heaven” open, out of which come the seven angels. dressed in white linen with gold sashes. One of the four beasts give them golden bowls full of the wrath of God. The temple fills with smoke, and no one can enter until the plagues have ended. The “tent of witness” is reminiscent of the tabernacle in the wilderness (Acts 7:44; Deuteronomy 31:26,27). The angels’ attire indicates their purity and high rank. The seals of chapter 6 strike the 4th part; the trumpets of chapter 8 strike the 3rd part; these bowls bring the end. Yet there are still visions to be seen.