Spoiler Alert . . .

 

 

READ Revelation 15–18

Reading Revelation promises a blessing, yet today I feel a bit depressed at the woes described the past few days. I’d like some happy reading instead. The first verse looks good . . .

Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished. (Revelation 15:1)

Those who conquered the beast and its image were then seen singing with joy at the “great and amazing deeds” of God and how “all nations will come and worship You” which is good news. But before the end, seven plagues hit — and they are not so good. The first put sores on all who follow the beast. The second turn the sea into blood; everything in it died. The third did the same to the rivers. The fourth allows the sun to scorch everyone who cursed the name of God and did not repent. The fifth destroys the beast and its throne. The sixth dries up the Euphrates so the demonic enemies of God could assemble at Armageddon. The seventh produces a great earthquake and great one hundred pound hailstones. This is not happy reading.

Then John was shown “the great prostitute” representing those drunk with sexual immorality, the “mother of prostitutes and earth’s abominations” and all those who “make war with the Lamb.” However, “the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.” (Revelation 17:14) That is good news!

Another angel comes to declare the fall of Babylon, representing all evil and unclean entities. While many weep and mourn for this loss, the saints and apostles and prophets are called to rejoice over her and for God’s judgment against her (18:20) because this evil person represents all the blood of prophets and saints who died under their persecution.

While this belongs to tomorrow’s reading, I cannot help but read what John wrote next: “After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God . . . .” (Revelation 19:1)

God hears the cries of my heart. He knows the sorrow I feel for millions who refuse His goodness and grace, who reject His Savior and who curse His name. Because God so loved this world, He sent Jesus to die for them, but they will miss it.

Lord Jesus, when I held that little lamb a few years ago, I realized why the Word of God uses the imagery of a lamb to describe You. Vulnerable, gentle, so appealing yet so fragile. You offered Yourself that all the world could be forgiven, could have victory over sin. That some would viciously destroy You is unthinkable. That so many now are dying because they trust You is a horrible reality as well. Yet You give us the last chapters of history’s book that we might know that in the end — Jesus wins!