Revelation 15: Preparation for the Bowls

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Revelation 15 reveals a powerful preparation for God’s righteous judgments as the seven angels prepare to pour out the bowls of wrath. This chapter reveals a “great and marvelous sign in the sky”, introducing the seven angels who carry the seven last plagues, signifying the culmination of God’s wrath. This chapter emphasizes God’s justice, holiness, and the ultimate victory of His saints. The heavenly scene celebrates those who have overcome, standing before God with harps of praise, singing the song of Moses and the Lamb. Through this chapter, we witness a divine transition, preparing for the final culmination of God’s plan.

Revelation 15 Overview

The Song of Moses and the Lamb (vv. 1–4)
The Seven Angels with the Seven Plagues (vv. 5–8)

The Song of Moses and the Lamb

1 I saw another great and marvelous sign in the sky: seven angels having the seven last plagues, for in them God’s wrath is finished.

2 I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who overcame the beast, his image, and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, having harps of God.

3 They sang the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and marvelous are your works, Lord God, the Almighty! Righteous and true are your ways, you King of the nations.

4 Who wouldn’t fear you, Lord, and glorify your name? For you only are holy. For all the nations will come and worship before you. For your righteous acts have been revealed.”

The Seven Angels with the Seven Plagues

5 After these things I looked, and the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened.

6 The seven angels who had the seven plagues came out, clothed with pure, bright linen, and wearing golden sashes around their chests.

7 One of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever.

8 The temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from his power. No one was able to enter into the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels would be finished.

Bible Commentary

▷ Matthew Henry Concise Commentary on the Bible, taken from e-Sword app.

Revelation 15:1-4

Seven angels appeared in heaven; prepared to finish the destruction of antichrist. As the measure of Babylon’s sins was filled up, it finds the full measure of Divine wrath. While believers stand in this world, in times of trouble, as upon a sea of glass mingled with fire, they may look forward to their final deliverance, while new mercies call forth new hymns of praise.

The more we know of God’s wonderful works, the more we shall praise his greatness as the Lord God Almighty, the Creator and Ruler of all worlds; but his title of Emmanuel, the King of saints, will make him dear to us. Who that considers the power of God’s wrath, the value of his favour, or the glory of his holiness, would refuse to fear and honour him alone? His praise is above heaven and earth.

Revelation 15:5-8

In the judgments God executes upon antichrist and his followers, he fulfils the prophecies and promises of his word. These angels are prepared for their work, clothed with pure and white linen, their breasts girded with golden girdles, representing the holiness, and righteousness, and excellence of these dealings with men.

They are ministers of Divine justice, and do every thing in a pure and holy manner. They were armed with the wrath of God against his enemies. Even the meanest creature, when armed with the anger of God, will be too hard for any man in the world. The angels received the vials from one of the four living creatures, one of the ministers of the true church, as in answer to the prayers of the ministers and people of God.

Antichrist could not be destroyed without a great shock to all the world, and even the people of God would be in trouble and confusion while the great work was doing. The greatest deliverances of the church are brought about by awful and astonishing steps of Providence; and the happy state of the true church will not begin till obstinate enemies shall be destroyed, and lukewarm or formal Christians are purified.

Then, whatever is against Scripture being purged away, the whole church shall be spiritual, and the whole being brought to purity, unity, and spirituality, shall be firmly established.

Sermon Themes

Revelation 15 calls us to reflect on the holiness of God and His righteous judgments. How does this chapter inspire you to trust in God’s justice and praise His sovereignty? Explore the following themes and topics to shape your sermon on this chapter of Revelation. Let them inspire you to share God’s truth with clarity and impact.

Victory Over the Beast: (Revelation 15:2) This speaks to the triumph of believers who remain faithful and resist the Antichrist and his system, offering hope and encouragement in spiritual warfare.
The Song of Deliverance and Redemption: (Revelation 15:3) The dual songs emphasize God’s saving acts in both the Old and New Testaments, celebrating His faithfulness and the sacrifice of the Lamb.
God’s Holiness and Righteousness Revealed: (Revelation 15:4) This underscores the perfect and just character of God, which will ultimately be recognized and acknowledged by all nations.
The Opened Heavenly Temple: (Revelation 15:5) This signifies divine access and the unveiling of God’s plans for judgment, emphasizing His active involvement in the unfolding of end-time events.
Golden Bowls of Divine Wrath: (Revelation 15:7) The preciousness of the bowls contrasts with the severity of their contents, emphasizing the weighty and just nature of God’s judgment.
The Urgency of Repentance: (Revelation 15:1) Understanding the finality of God’s wrath should motivate individuals to seek reconciliation with God before it is too late.
The Power of Worship: (Revelation 15:3) Engaging in heartfelt praise and worship is a crucial response to God’s mighty acts and strengthens believers in their spiritual journey.
Living in Light of God’s Holiness: (Revelation 15:4) Recognizing God’s holiness should inspire believers to live lives that reflect His purity and righteousness.
The Seriousness of Sin: (Revelation 15:7) The imagery of the bowls of wrath underscores the grave consequences of rejecting God and His ways.
Awe and Reverence for God: (Revelation 15:8) The overwhelming glory of God calls for deep respect and reverence in our relationship with Him.

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▷ Scripture quotations taken from the World English Bible (WEB), which is in the public domain.