Revelation 9
Revelation Chapter 9
Fifth Trumpet Judgment:
1 Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit. 2 And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit.
What happened when the fifth angel sounded?
1 Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit.
Read The Bottomless Pit topic that answers questions such as:
What is the other name for bottomless pit?
What is bottomless pit?
What is the difference between Hades, Bottomless Pit/Abyss and Hell?
Where is the bottomless pit?
...
Is this star is a real star?
Based on KJV, NIV translation and Rev 16:8 this star may be a real star like the first three trumpet judgments.
KJV: Rev 9:1 - And the fifth angel sounded , and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit.
NIV Rev 9:1-2 - 1 The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from the sky to the earth. The star was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss.
Rev 16:8 - 8 Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and power was given to him to scorch men with fire. 9 And men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory.
NIV: Rev 16:8 - 8 The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was given power to scorch people with fire. 9 They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.
Based on the grammar "fallen" this star may refers to a person.
Rev 9:1 - Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit.
NIV Rev 9:1 - The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from the sky to the earth. The star was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss.
Who is this fallen star if this star is person?
In general Satan is referred as fallen star based on Isaiah 14 and Luke 10.
Isaiah 14:12-15 - 12 "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! 13 For you have said in your heart: 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation On the farthest sides of the north; 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.' 15 Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, To the lowest depths of the Pit.
NIV: Isaiah 14:12-15 - 12 How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! 13 You said in your heart, "I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. 14 I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High." 15 But you are brought down to the grave, to the depths of the pit.
NLT: Isaiah 14:12-16 - 5 For the LORD has crushed your wicked power and broken your evil rule. 6 You persecuted the people with unceasing blows of rage and held the nations in your angry grip. Your tyranny was unrestrained. 7 But at last the land is at rest and is quiet. Finally it can sing again! 8 Even the trees of the forest -- the cypress trees and the cedars of Lebanon -- sing out this joyous song: 'Your power is broken! No one will come to cut us down now!' 9 "In the place of the dead there is excitement over your arrival. World leaders and mighty kings long dead are there to see you. 10 With one voice they all cry out, 'Now you are as weak as we are! 11 Your might and power are gone; they were buried with you. All the pleasant music in your palace has ceased. Now maggots are your sheet and worms your blanket.' 12 "How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world. 13 For you said to yourself, 'I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God's stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. 14 I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.' 15 But instead, you will be brought down to the place of the dead, down to its lowest depths. 16 Everyone there will stare at you and ask, 'Can this be the one who shook the earth and the kingdoms of the world? 17 Is this the one who destroyed the world and made it into a wilderness? Is this the king who demolished the world's greatest cities and had no mercy on his prisoners?'
Luke 10:18 - 17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name." 18 And He said to them, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven."
To whom the key was given?
The key may be given temporarily to Satan:
NIV: Rev 9:1-2 - 1 The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from the sky to the earth. The star was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss. 2 When he opened the Abyss, smoke rose from it like the smoke from a gigantic furnace. The sun and sky were darkened by the smoke from the Abyss
(Warren Wiersbe) This fallen star is a person, the king over the beings in the pit (Rev 9:11). He does not have complete authority, for the key to the pit had to be given to him before he could loose his army. This "star" is probably Satan and the army, his demons (Eph 6:10ff). One of the names for Satan is Lucifer, which means "brightness"; he also is compared to the "morning star" (Is 14:12-14). Jesus said to His disciples, "beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven" (Luke 10:18).
(David Guzik)
In the context, this star is best seen as an angel; whether he is a good or bad angel depends on his relation to the angel of the bottomless pit in Revelation 9:11. If the angel of Revelation 9:1 one is the same as the angel of Revelation 9:11, it is an evil angel - perhaps Satan himself. If it is a different angel, it may be a good angel sent by God to open up this bottomless pit for the purposes of judgment.
That this star is fallen makes us associate him with Satan, or another high ranking evil angelic being. But the fact that he is given the key to the bottomless pit makes us not want to associate him with Satan. The idea that Satan is the “master of hell” is foreign to the rest of the Scriptures. He will be hell’s victim, not ruler.
At the same time, we notice that the key is given to this being, and that it is given at a specific time and for a specific purpose that furthers God’s plan. This angel - evil or good - serves God’s purpose, even if he does not intend to.
Revelation 9:1 is a good example of how the Book of Revelation is wrongly spiritualized in its interpretation. Some commentators say that the star is the word of God, the pit is human nature, and the lesson is that if the gospel is rejected, horrors are unleashed. But this is far from the plain meaning of Revelation 9:1.
It is odd to give this key to Satan because Satan will be thrown into this bottomless pit later in Rev 20:1. In Rev 20:1 an angel is having the key and he come down from the heaven and opens the bottomless pit and throws Satan into it.
Rev 20:1-3 - 1 Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 2 He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; 3 and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while.
Here "To him" may refers to fifth angel who is blowing the trumpet similar to how the voice from altar requesting six angel who blows the trumpet as in Rev 9:14. Based on this and KJV translation this star may be a real star like the third trumpet judgment. And the key to the bottomless pit was given to the angel who blow the trumpet or another angel.
Rev 9:1 - Then the fifth angel sounded: And I saw a star fallen from heaven to the earth. To him was given the key to the bottomless pit.
KJV: Rev 9:1 - And the fifth angel sounded , and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit.
Rev 9:14 - 13 Then the sixth angel sounded: And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14 saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, "Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates." 15 So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind.
What happened when he opened the bottomless pit? What is the outcome of this smoke?
2 And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit.
(Warren Wiersbe) When the pit was opened, smoke emerged as though the door of a furnace had been loosened. Jesus compared hell to a furnace of fire (Matt. 13:42,50), an image that ought to make people stop and think before they jest about it. The smoke polluted the air and darkened the sun, which had already been darkened when the fourth trumpet sounded.
3 Then out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth. And to them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. 4 They were commanded not to harm the grass of the earth, or any green thing, or any tree, but only those men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads. 5 And they were not given authority to kill them, but to torment them for five months. Their torment was like the torment of a scorpion when it strikes a man. 6 In those days men will seek death and will not find it; they will desire to die, and death will flee from them.
What came out of the smoke?
3a Then out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth.
(Warren Wiersbe) But it is what came out of the smoke that truly terrorized mankind: an army of demons, compared to locusts. The eighth plague in Egypt was a devastating swarm of Locusts (Ex10:1-20). People who have never encountered these insects have little idea of the damage they can do. When God wanted to judge His people, He would sometimes send locusts to devour the harvests (Deut 28:38,42; Joel 2).
What was not given to the locust?
4a They were commanded not to harm the grass of the earth, or any green thing, or any tree, ... 5a And they were not given authority to kill them,
Grass completely destroyed in 1st trumpet judgment now it may be grown back again.
Rev 8:7 - The first angel sounded: And hail and fire followed, mingled with blood, and they were thrown to the earth. And a third of the trees were burned up, and all green grass was burned up.
What was given to the locust?
3b And to them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. 4b ... but only those men who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.
(Warren Wiersbe) The 144,000 men from the tribes of Israel would therefore escape this painful judgment (Rev 7:1-8). In fact, it is likely that all who have trusted the Lord will be sealed in some special way and protected from torment.
How long the locust were given authority to torment?
5b but to torment them for five months.
What is the average life span of the real locust in our days?
wiki.Answers.com - What is the life span of a locust? Usually from 3 to 5 months.
(Warren Wiersbe) The normal lifespan of the locust is about five months (May to September), and this is the length of time that the judgment will last. These demons will sting people and thus create such pain that their victims will actually want to die, but death will flee from them (Jer. 8:3).
How painful their torment was or to which their torment was compared to?
5c Their torment was like the torment of a scorpion when it strikes a man.
(Warren Wiersbe) These are not literal locusts, because locusts do not have scorpion like stings in their tails. These creatures do not devour the green vegetation; in fact, they are prohibited from doing so. This demonic army is given the assignment of tormenting all who have not been protected by the seal of God.
What is the response of men who go through this judgment?
6 In those days men will seek death and will not find it; they will desire to die, and death will flee from them.
(David Guzik)
The tormented ones want to die, as Paul did in Philippians 1:21-23, but for a completely different reason and result than Paul. For Paul, death led to eternal blessing, but for these tormented ones, death is a leap from the frying pan of present torment into eternal fire.
The idea of “Death as an escape” is a demonic deception. The infamous murderers of Littleton, Colorado made chilling home movies before their killing spree. Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold left behind a videotaped document spelling out their motivation. In the last segment of tape, shot the morning of the murders, Harris & Klebold are dressed and say they are ready for “our little Judgement Day.” Then Klebold, looking tense, says goodbye to his parents. He concludes, “I didn’t like life too much. Just know I am going to a better place than here.” What tragic deception to think - on the day you will commit terrible murders - that you will go “to a better place.” There was no escape in death for Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. Now is the time of repentance, to escape from sin, and to be restored.
Application:
Does God always protect us supernaturally like how he protected 114,000 believers from sting or pain in Rev 9:36 and like protected Jews in Egypt plague in Ex 9:26?
God blessed Abraham, Jacob and God's hand is always upon Jacob.
Why did God allow famine on their place? Instead God might have miraculously made their place fertile and allow rest of the world to go through famine.
David is man after Gods won heart.
Why didn't God made him as king immediately after anointing him as king?
Why did God allow David to run from Soul for 15 years even though God anointed him as king?
Why did God allowed sickness to Paul, Timothy?
Galatians 4:13 - You know that because of physical infirmity I preached the gospel to you at the first.
1 Timothy 5:23 - No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities.
Phil 1:21-23 - 21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 For I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.
Why did God allow suffering to believers?
1 Peter 3:17 - For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
Suffering strengthens our faith and establishes and strengthens our relationship with God. So endure suffering with the help of God.
NLT: Romans 5:3-4 - 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us -- they help us learn to endure. 4 And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation.
1 Peter 1:6-7 - 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ
Romans 5:3-4 - 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
1 Peter 5:10 - But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
NLT: 1 Peter 5:10 - In his kindness God called you to his eternal glory by means of Jesus Christ. After you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.
7 The shape of the locusts was like horses prepared for battle. On their heads were crowns of something like gold, and their faces were like the faces of men. 8 They had hair like women's hair, and their teeth were like lions' teeth. 9 And they had breastplates like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots with many horses running into battle. 10 They had tails like scorpions, and there were stings in their tails. Their power was to hurt men five months.
How the locusts looks like?
7 The shape of the locusts was like horses prepared for battle. On their heads were crowns of something like gold, and their faces were like the faces of men. 8 They had hair like women's hair, and their teeth were like lions' teeth. 9 And they had breastplates like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots with many horses running into battle. 10a They had tails like scorpions, and there were stings in their tails.
What is your personal understanding about this locust appearance/look?
(Warren Wiersbe) Reading the detailed description of these creatures, we realize that John is not writing about ordinary locusts. Yet, despite its obvious symbolism, it aptly portrays a powerful enemy armed for battle. With bodies like horses but faces like men, the demons' heads are crowned and covered with long hair. They have teeth like those of lions, and their skin is like a coat of mail. When they fly, the noise is like an army of chariots rushing by.
It is unnecessary to try to "spiritualize" these symbols, or to interpret them in light of modern means of warfare. John is heaping image upon image to force us to feel the horror of this judgment.
(David Guzik)
Many attempts have been made to show that this is an accurate (though poetic) description of natural locusts. But this approach misses the obvious demonic connection.
Like horses . . . like gold . . . like the faces of men . . . like women’s hair . . . like lion’s teeth: The repetition of like indicates something other than a literal description is intended. The total impact of this picture is one of unnatural and awesome cruelty.
Suggestions that these locusts actually describe something such as the “helicopter gunships of the Antichrist” are interesting, but purely speculative, and don’t fit all the details.
“There seems to be no alternative to concluding that God, satisfying the age-long desire of those wicked spirits to possess bodies of their own, has created bodies for them, bodies appropriate in demonic appearance to the character of the demonic inhabitants.” (Morris)
“There can be no specific answer to the question of exactly who or what is symbolized by the plague of locusts. All we can know for sure is that in the period immediately before the end the wicked will be subjected to a time of unprecedented demonic torment. Exactly how this will take place will remain unknown until disclosed by history itself.” (Mounce)
How long the locust were given power to hurt men?
10b Their power was to hurt men five months.
Read more details in Rev 9:5b notes
11 And they had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apollyon. 12 One woe is past. Behold, still two more woes are coming after these things.
What do they all have in common in addition to their own?
11a And they had as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit,
Do the Locust have king in reality?
No
Proverbs 30:27 - 24 There are four things which are little on the earth, But they are exceedingly wise: 25 The ants are a people not strong, Yet they prepare their food in the summer; 26 The rock badgers are a feeble folk, Yet they make their homes in the crags; 27 The locusts have no king, Yet they all advance in ranks; 28 The spider skillfully grasps with its hands, And it is in kings' palaces.
NLT: Proverbs 30:27 - 24 There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise: 25 Ants -- they aren't strong, but they store up food for the winter. 26 Rock badgers -- they aren't powerful, but they make their homes among the rocky cliffs. 27 Locusts -- they have no king, but they march like an army in ranks. 28 Lizards -- they are easy to catch, but they are found even in kings' palaces.
What is the name of the king and what it means?
11b whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apollyon.
Abaddon - Greek Abaddōn - Strongs 3 - It means Destruction
1) ruin 2) destruction 3) the place of destruction 4) the name of the angel-prince of the infernal regions, the minister of death and the author of havoc on the earth
Apollyon - Greek Apollyōn - Strongs 263- It means Destroyer
Who is this?
No doubt this is Satan or another high-ranking leader of demons assisting Satan.
John 10:10 - The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Revelation 11:7 - When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.
Revelation 17:7-8 - 7 But the angel said to me, "Why did you marvel? I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and the ten horns. 8 The beast that you saw was, and is not, and will ascend out of the bottomless pit and go to perdition. And those who dwell on the earth will marvel, whose names are not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world, when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.
Who is this beast which has seven heads and then ten horns in Revelation 17:7-8?
Anti Christ
Revelation 12:3,9 - 3 And another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads. 4 His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. 5 She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne. 6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days. 7 And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, 8 but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. 9 So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him
Revelations 13:1-3 - 1 Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name. 2 Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority. 3 And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast
Revelations 13:11-12 - 11 Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon. 12 And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.
Revelations 19:19-21 - 19 And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. 20 Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh.
(Warren Wiersbe) Real locusts do not have a king (Prov 30:27), but this army follows the rule of Satan, the angel of the bottomless pit. His name is "Destroyer." "the thief [Satan] cometh not but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy" (John 10:10). Real locusts are pervasive destroyers, but this army only tortures those who do not belong to the Lord.
As God's people, we can be thankful that Jesus Christ hold the keys of hell and death (Rev 1:18) and exercises divine authority even over Satan. God has his timetable for all these events, and nothing will happen too soon or too late (2 Thes 2:6; note also Rev. 9:15).
2 Thes 2:6 - 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.
Rev 9:15 - So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind.
Which woe is this? How many woes are remaining?
12 One woe is past. Behold, still two more woes are coming after these things.
This is the first woe. Remaining two were covered in Rev 9:13-11:19
First Woe: Rev. 9:1-12
Second Woe: Rev. 9:13 - 11:14
Third Woe: Rev. 11:15 - 19th chapter
Which judgment/plague similar to this?
This is similar to 5th bowl judgment
Rev 16:10-11 - 10 Then the fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom became full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues because of the pain. 11 They blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and did not repent of their deeds.
This judgment parallels the eighth plague in Egypt which is Locust all the land of Egypt - Exodus 10:1-20 and sixth plague which is Boils on the people and beasts of Egypt - Exodus 9:8-12
Application:
Why would God call them locusts if they are not literal locusts, but demonic spirits who swarm and destroy like locusts?
Among other reasons, because locusts are agents of God’s judgment. This is a consistent Old Testament figure in passages like Exodus 10:4-14, Deuteronomy 28:38, 1 Kings 8:37, 2 Chronicles 7:13, Joel 1:4, and Amos 4:9. (David Guzik)
Deuteronomy 28:38 - (curse/consequence of disobedience to God) 38 You shall carry much seed out to the field but gather little in, for the locust shall consume it. 39 You shall plant vineyards and tend them, but you shall neither drink of the wine nor gather the grapes; for the worms shall eat them.
1 Kings 8:37 (Solomon's Prayer of Dedication 1 Kings 8:22-53pp -- 2Ch 6:12-40) - 37 "When there is famine in the land, pestilence or blight or mildew, locusts or grasshoppers; when their enemy besieges them in the land of their cities; whatever plague or whatever sickness there is; 38 whatever prayer, whatever supplication is made by anyone, or by all Your people Israel, when each one knows the plague of his own heart, and spreads out his hands toward this temple:
NLT: 1 Kings 8:37 - 37 "If there is a famine in the land, or plagues, or crop disease, or attacks of locusts or caterpillars, or if your people's enemies are in the land besieging their towns -- whatever the trouble is -- 38 and if your people offer a prayer concerning their troubles or sorrow, raising their hands toward this Temple,
2 Chronicles 7:13 - (The LORD Appears to Solomon when Solomon had finished the temple of the LORD - 2Ch7:11-22pp -- 1Ki 9:1-9 11) 12 Then the Lord appeared to Solomon by night, and said to him: "I have heard your prayer, and have chosen this place for Myself as a house of sacrifice. 13 When I shut up heaven and there is no rain, or command the locusts to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, 14 if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 15 Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place.
Joel 1:4 - 1 The word of the Lord that came to Joel the son of Pethuel. 2 Hear this, you elders, And give ear, all you inhabitants of the land! Has anything like this happened in your days, Or even in the days of your fathers? 3 Tell your children about it, Let your children tell their children, And their children another generation. 4 (these are stages of Locust) What the chewing locust left, the swarming locust has eaten; What the swarming locust left, the crawling locust has eaten; And what the crawling locust left, the consuming locust has eaten. 5 Awake, you drunkards, and weep; And wail, all you drinkers of wine, Because of the new wine, For it has been cut off from your mouth.
NIV: Joel 1:4 - What the locust swarm has left the great locusts have eaten; what the great locusts have left the young locusts have eaten; what the young locusts have left other locusts have eaten.... (A Call to Repentance)13 Put on sackcloth, O priests, and mourn; wail, you who minister before the altar. Come, spend the night in sackcloth, you who minister before my God; for the grain offerings and drink offerings are withheld from the house of your God. 14 Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.
Amos 4:9 - 9 "I blasted you with blight and mildew. When your gardens increased, Your vineyards, Your fig trees, And your olive trees, The locust devoured them; Yet you have not returned to Me," Says the Lord. 10 "I sent among you a plague after the manner of Egypt; Your young men I killed with a sword, Along with your captive horses; I made the stench of your camps come up into your nostrils; Yet you have not returned to Me," Says the Lord. 11 "I overthrew some of you, As God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, And you were like a firebrand plucked from the burning; Yet you have not returned to Me," Says the Lord. 12 "Therefore thus will I do to you, O Israel; Because I will do this to you, Prepare to meet your God, O Israel!"
God may send us Locust like plague to use to bring us to His attention, to draw us closer to him. If we didn't turn to God then Satan is ready to devour and destroy us:
John 10:10 - The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
1 Peter 5:8-10 - 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
James 4:7 - 6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." 7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Sixth Trumpet Judgment:
What happened when the sixth angel sounded?
13 Then the sixth angel sounded: And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, 14 saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, "Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates." 15 So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind.
From where John hear this voice?
13b And I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar
Where this altar located?
13c which is before God,
Whose voice is this?
Based on Revelation 6:9; 16:7 this voice is the Voice of the Martyrs with one accord/unison or a voice of a Martyr.
Based on Revelation 8:3-5 these are answer to the prayers of the saints.
Read Revelation 8:3-5 notes for this golden altar and prayer of the saints offered to it.
(David Guzik) In the tabernacle and temple of Israel, the golden altar was the altar of incense, which was a representation of the prayers of God’s people.
The four horns of the golden altar stood at each corner. Atoning blood was applied to the horns. From these horns, John hears a voice. In this, John recalls a persistent theme: the prayers of God’s people play a large role in the end-times drama.
(Warren Wiersbe) It was at the golden altar of incense that the angel offered the prayers of the saints (Rev 8:3-5); now from this same altar a voice speaks, commanding the at four angels be loosed.
Revelation 6:9 - 9 When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held. 10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, "How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?" 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed.
Revelation 8:3,5 - 3 Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 4 And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel's hand. 5 Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.
Revelation 11:1 - Then I was given a reed like a measuring rod. And the angel stood, saying, "Rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there.
Revelation 14:18 - And another angel came out from the altar, who had power over fire, and he cried with a loud cry to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, "Thrust in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for her grapes are fully ripe."
Revelation 16:7 - 4 Then the third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they became blood. 5 And I heard the angel of the waters saying: "You are righteous, O Lord, The One who is and who was and who is to be, Because You have judged these things. 6 For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, And You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due." 7 And I heard another from the altar saying, "Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments."
To Whom a voice from the four horns of the golden altar saying?
14a saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet
From where they are blowing this trumpet?
At Heaven
Revelation 8:2,6 - 1 When He opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 2 And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets. 3 Then another angel, having a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 4 And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, ascended before God from the angel's hand. 5 Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake. 6 So the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.
What this voice from the four horns of the golden altar saying?
14b "Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates."
Where is river Euphrates?
In Earth and it was one of the boundary to the land of Israel which God promised to them.
Genesis 15:18 - (God's Covenant With Abram) 17 And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces. 18 On the same day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying: "To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates-- 19 the Kenites, the Kenezzites, the Kadmonites, 20 the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, 21 the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites, and the Jebusites."
Also we know that this is the place God created Adam and Eve and where the Garden of Eden was.
Genesis 2:8-15 - 8 The Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden, and there He put the man whom He had formed. 9 And out of the ground the Lord God made every tree grow that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 10 Now a river went out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it parted and became four riverheads. 11 The name of the first is Pishon; it is the one which skirts the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold. 12 And the gold of that land is good. Bdellium and the onyx stone are there. 13 The name of the second river is Gihon; it is the one which goes around the whole land of Cush. 14 The name of the third river is Hiddekel; it is the one which goes toward the east of Assyria. The fourth river is the Euphrates. 15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.
(David Guzik) Why are these angels of judgment connected with the Euphrates River?
The Euphrates was a landmark of ancient Babylon. It was the frontier of the Israel’s land as fully promised by God (Genesis 15:17-21). It was also the boundary of the old Roman Empire, which will be revived under the Antichrist.
The Euphrates is also associated with the first sin (Genesis 2:10-14), the first murder (Genesis 4:16), the first organized revolt against God (Genesis 11:1-9), the first war confederation (Genesis 14:1), and the first dictatorship (Genesis 10:8-10).
(Warren Wiersbe) Why they are bound at Euphrates River is not explained, through that area is the cradle of civilization (Gen 2:14), not to mention one of the boundaries for Israel (Gen 15:18).
From where the sixth angel has to come release these four angels?
They have to come from heaven to the earth and release these four angels.
Are these four angels are good or bad?
What is the difference between the four angels in Revelation 7:1-3 and four angels here?
In Revelation 7:1-3 they were not bound but here they were bound.
Revelation 7:1-3 - 1 After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. 2 Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, 3 saying, "Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads."
Since these angels are bound they are very very bad angels, disobedient angels or demons.
(Warren Wiersbe) These angels are apparently wicked because no holy angel would be bound.
(David Guzik) These four angels have no necessary connection with the four angels of Revelation 7:1. They may be the same four angels or they may not be. Whomever they are, they are prepared for the hour and day and month and year of the unleashing of this judgment.
Were released: “Most of Satan’s angels are yet free - being the principalities against which we wrestle, but some terrible offenders of high rank have been bound.” (Newell)
This assumes these are “bad” angels; they may or may not be, but they probably are evil angels. No matter what, they are servants of the divine purpose.
When these four angels were released?
15a So the four angels, who had been prepared for the hour and day and month and year
Why these four angels were released? What for these angels are prepared for?
15b were released to kill a third of mankind.
Who are these one-third of the people on earth got killed?
We don't know.
This death toll may include some new believers/converts due to Locust torment, other trumpet judgments and evangelistic work of these sealed 144,000 belivers.
But definitely these are not those 144,000 sealed believers because they appear in heaven later on in
Revelation 14:1-5 - 1 Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father's name written on their foreheads. 2 And I heard a voice from heaven, like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of loud thunder. And I heard the sound of harpists playing their harps. 3 They sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could learn that song except the hundred and forty-four thousand who were redeemed from the earth. 4 These are the ones who were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. 5 And in their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God.
How much population left after these 1/3rd mankind are killed?
After these 1/3rd mankind killed the world population reduced to less than half (1/2). Because already in Revelation 6:8 1/4th of population has been killed (after this 3/4th will be remaining and from this 1/3rd will be killed)
Revelation 6:8 - 7 When He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, "Come and see." 8 So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him. And power was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, with hunger, with death, and by the beasts of the earth.
(Warren Wiersbe) The army is released at a precise time, for a special purpose: to kill (not just torment) a third of the world's population. Since a fourth of mankind has already been killed (Rev 6:8), this means that half of the world's population will be dead by the time the sixth trumpet judgment is completed.
These four angels given authority to kill only third of the population living at that time.
(David Guzik) The demonic locusts described earlier in the chapter were restricted to tormenting mankind. But these four angels have the authority to kill on a massive scale.
These angels have a specific sphere of activity (a third of mankind), and are only activated in God’s timing. They execute God’s will in God’s timing.
As per whose plan and timing are these Great Tribulation events are happening?
These are not plans originated from the Martyrs mind who were saying these from the altar but God's plan and in His timing - Revelation 9:15a.
We can see this in following verses in Revelation:
Revelation 10:7 - but in the days of the sounding of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, the mystery of God would be finished, as He declared to His servants the prophets.
NLT: Revelation 10:7 - But when the seventh angel blows his trumpet, God's mysterious plan will be fulfilled. It will happen just as he announced it to his servants the prophets."
Revelation 17:17 - For God has put it into their hearts to fulfill His purpose, to be of one mind, and to give their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled.
NLT: Revelation 17:17 - For God has put a plan into their minds, a plan that will carry out his purposes. They will mutually agree to give their authority to the scarlet beast, and so the words of God will be fulfilled.
(Warren Wiersbe) God has his timetable for all these events, and nothing will happen too soon or too late (2 Thes 2:6; note also Rev. 9:15).
2 Thes 2:6 - 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.
Application:
During Great Tribulation everything happens as per God's time and plan. This shows God is in control all the time. In His time He makes all things beautiful. If that is so then think for a moment ...
Is it not everything in our life will happen according to God's timing and plan if we allow God's will to work in our life?
NLT: Jeremiah 29:11 - 11 For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. 14 I will be found by you," says the LORD. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land."
Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Here (in heaven) God is using angels and saints to get involved in His judgments by giving unique responsibilities. Same way In earth God has given responsibilities to evil people (like Judas Iscariot), demons (these four bounded angels) then....
Don't God our Almighty give responsibilities to believers/saints and expects us to complete with His help?
Eph 2:10 - 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Matthew 6:33 - 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
NIV: Revelation 3:2 - Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of my God
How God will accomplish His will/work through us?
God Puts His desire/burden in our hearts to those you delight in Him and accomplish His tasks.
Matt 11:28-30- 28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
The burden which God gives is light. We get this light God's burden in exchange of our heavy burden unloaded/given to Him.
Ps 37:4-5,23-24 - 4 Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass......23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, And He delights in his way. 24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the Lord upholds him with His hand.
NLT: Ps 37:4-5 - 4 Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires. 5 Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you
In the above verse God is not fulfilling our desire but giving His desires to us. Following are the verses that God fulfills our desire of our hearts:
Psalms 20:4 - May He grant you according to your heart's desire, And fulfill all your purpose.
Psalms 145:19 - He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them.
Phil 2:13 - for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
NLT: Phil 2:13 - For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him.
Ps 37:23 - The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, And He delights in his way.
NLT Ps 37:23 - The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.
Ps 32:8 - I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. 9 Do not be like the horse or like the mule, Which have no understanding, , Which must be harnessed with bit and bridle, Else they will not come near you.
Ps 33:10-11 - 10 The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. 11 The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart to all generations.
Prov 3:5-8 - 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. 8 It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.
How these four angels kill a third of mankind?
16 Now the number of the army of the horsemen was two hundred million; I heard the number of them. 17 And thus I saw the horses in the vision: those who sat on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow; and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths came fire, smoke, and brimstone. 18 By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed--by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which came out of their mouths. 19 For their power is in their mouth and in their tails; for their tails are like serpents, having heads; and with them they do harm.
What was John saw and heard once the four angels were released?
16a Now the number of the army of the horsemen was two hundred million;
(Warren Wiersbe) Each angel is in charge of part of the vast army that follows them at their liberation, an army of 200 million beings!
How John knows this big army count?
16b I heard the number of them.
What did John see in the vision?
17 And thus I saw the horses in the vision: those who sat on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow; and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths came fire, smoke, and brimstone.
How these horsemen look like in John's vision?
those who sat on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow;
How these horses look like in John's vision?
and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths came fire, smoke, and brimstone.
NLT: Revelation 9:17 - And in my vision, I saw the horses and the riders sitting on them. The riders wore armor that was fiery red and sky blue and yellow. The horses' heads were like the heads of lions, and fire and smoke and burning sulfur billowed from their mouths
How these four angels kill a third of mankind?
18 By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed--by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which came out of their mouths.
Where is the power for these horses?
19 For their power is in their mouth and in their tails; for their tails are like serpents, having heads; and with them they do harm.
What is your understanding about this 200 million army? Who are these 200 million army?
(David Guzik) They are given a weird, grotesque description. This is a powerful picture of horror, destruction and demonic association.
Does this speak of a natural or a supernatural army? An army of men or an army of demons?
If this describes a natural army of men, then the weird description might speak of modern, mechanized warfare. John may describe modern machinery in the only terms he can, and the result is this weird, grotesque, terrifying account.
But, a human army this size has never been seen. The total size of all armies - on both sides - at the height of the Second World War was only 70 million. In 1965 China claimed to have an army and militia of 200 million, but this claim was doubted by many. Even if such an army was assembled, and marched towards the west, it is hard (but not impossible) to see such an army killing a billion or more people - a third of mankind.
Therefore, perhaps the safest interpretation is to see this as a literal 200 million strong army, but a demonic army invading earth. This continues the idea of the demonic army like locusts described earlier in the chapter.
(Warren Wiersbe) Are we to identify this as a literal army of men, moving in conquest across the globe?
Probably not. For one thing, the emphasis in this paragraph is not on the riders, but on the horses. The description cannot fit war-horses as we know them or, for that matter, modern warfare equipment, such as tanks. To assert that this is a literal army, and to point to some that this is a literal army, and to point to some nation (such as China) that claims to have 200 million soldiers, is to miss the message John is seeking to convey.
The deadly power of these horses is in their mouths and tails, not in their legs. Fire, smoke, and brimstone issue from their mouths, and their tails are like biting serpents. They can attack men from the front as well as from the rear.
I take it that this another demonic army, headed by four fallen angels; and that all of them are today bound by the Lord, unable to act until God gives them permission.
Which judgment/plague similar to this?
This is similar to 6th bowl judgment
Rev 16:12-16 - 12 Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared. 13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 15 "Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame." 16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.
There is no direct parallel here to ay of the plagues of Egypt. However, once they started the Exodus, Pharaoh army followed them and try to attack them and God protected them and destroyed the army while they cross the Red sea. - Exodus 14:1-31
Compare this with 6th bowl judgment then we will know which is real army formed by human:
Rev 16:14 - 12 Then the sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, so that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared. 13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. 14 For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 15 "Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame." 16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon.
Here Satan, Anti Christ and false prophet forms the human army but they and possessed by evil spirits (demons).
This army lead by Satan and its team demons to kill this 1/3rd of population now. Later Satan and his team sends evil spirits to enter into the humans Kings of East to fight with our Almighty God Jesus Christ during His 2nd coming:
Rev 19:17-21 - 17 Then I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in the midst of heaven, "Come and gather together for the supper of the great God, 18 that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, free and slave, both small and great." 19 And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. 20 Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh.
What do the rest of the mankind (who were not killed by these plagues) will do?
20 But the rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood, which can neither see nor hear nor walk. 21 And they did not repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts.
What are the areas these remaining population not repent from?
But the rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues,
did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship
demons, and idols of gold, silver, brass, stone, and wood, which can neither see nor hear nor walk.
(Warren Wiersbe)
Demon worship, which goes hand-in-hand with
idolatry (see 1 Cor 10:19-21), will be the leading sin.
Satan will be at work (always under the permissive will of God), and Satan has always wanted to be worshiped (Isa 14:12-15; Matt 4:8-10).
A great deal of "religion" will be practiced at this time, but it will be false religion. People will worship the works of their own hands, which could well as their idols.
Here are dead sinners worshiping dead gods! Their gods will not be able to protect or deliver them, yet these people will continue to reject the true God and worship Satan and idols!
Basically not repent from their self to God instead they worship themselves or someonelse.
And they did not repent of their murders or
their sorceries or
(Warren Wiersbe) The word translated "sorcery" is the Greek word pharamakia, which means 'the use of drugs." drugs are often used in pagan religious rites and demon worship. As we see the expansion of today's "drug culture," we have no problem envisioning a whole society given over to these demonic practices.
their sexual immorality or
their thefts.
(Warren Wiersbe)
Mankind will be breaking the first two Mosaic commandments by making and worshipping idols. In their murders, they will violate the sixth commandment, and in their thefts, the eighth by their fornication, they will break the seventh commandment.
One would think that the combination of five months of torment and then death (from fire, smoke, and brimstone) would bring men and women to their knees in repentance; but such is not the case. These judgments are not remedial but retributive: God is upholding His holy Law and vindicating His suffering people (see Rev. 6:9-11). Even a casual reading of Revelation 9:20-21 reveals the awful wickedness of mankind, even in the midst of God's judgments. The most frightening thing about Revelation 9 is not the judgments that God sends but the sins that men persist in committing even while God is judging them.
It will be an age of lawlessness with "every man doing that which is right in this own eyes" (see Jud. 21:25).
But God is working out his plan; and neither the sins of mankind nor the schemes of Satan will hinder Him from accomplishing His will.
(David Guzik)
This list of sins is a striking accusation against our present age. Certainly, our modern world is characterized by murders, sorceries (associated with the taking of drugs), sexual immorality and thefts.
In general, mankind shows no repentance, despite the presence of some pretty overwhelming “signs and wonders.”
Instead, man continues with his idol worship in a “business as usual” sort of way. They continue in their worship of demons, whether their worship is witting or unwitting.
It is amazing to see how quickly things return to “normal” after some calamity such as an earthquake. We are so quick to forget God’s lessons, even the lessons that come in judgment.
Is second woe is completed? NO
Rev 11:14 - 7 When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them. 8 And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. 9 Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves. 10 And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth. 11 Now after the three-and-a-half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them. 12 And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, "Come up here." And they ascended to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies saw them. 13 In the same hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. In the earthquake seven thousand people were killed, and the rest were afraid and gave glory to the God of heaven. 14 The second woe is past. Behold, the third woe is coming quickly.
Timeline:
(Warren Wiersbe) We have come now to the midpoint of the Tribulation (Rev. 10-14), a time during which some important events must take place. Thus far, we have covered about three-and-a-half years of this seven-year period (Dan 9:27). During this time, Antichrist began his career as a peacemaker and a special friend to Israel; but now, his true character will be revealed. He will become a peace-breaker and a persecutor of the people of God.
Things will not look bright for God's people during this middle stage of the prophetic journey, but they will still be overcomers through the power of the King of kings and Lord of lords!
Application:
Are these types of people exist only during the Great Tribulation period or even now?
Romans 1:18-32 - 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man--and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. 26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
Whom do you turn to first and far most in the midst of trouble (if you are bugged)?
If we turn to other than God then that is the idol in our life.
Some times our heart are hardened formed callous and become stony heart that goes on our way instead of listening and establish and maintain relationship with our Lord.
Ezekiel 3:7 - But the house of Israel will not listen to you, because they will not listen to Me; for all the house of Israel are impudent and hard-hearted.
Jeremiah 3:10 - And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah has not turned to Me with her whole heart, but in pretense," says the Lord.
Jeremiah 9:26 - Egypt, Judah, Edom, the people of Ammon, Moab, and all who are in the farthest corners, who dwell in the wilderness. For all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel are uncircumcised in the heart."
Jeremiah 11:8 - Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but everyone followed the dictates of his evil heart; therefore I will bring upon them all the words of this covenant, which I commanded them to do, but which they have not done.' "
Jeremiah 16:12 - And you have done worse than your fathers, for behold, each one follows the dictates of his own evil heart, so that no one listens to Me.
Jeremiah 17:5 - Thus says the Lord: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his strength, Whose heart departs from the Lord.
Jeremiah 17:9 - "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?
Jeremiah 18:12 - And they said, "That is hopeless! So we will walk according to our own plans, and we will every one obey the dictates of his evil heart."
Jeremiah 11:20 - But, O Lord of hosts, You who judge righteously, Testing the mind and the heart, Let me see Your vengeance on them, For to You I have revealed my cause.
Jeremiah 17:10 - I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.
1 Chronicles 28:9 - (David says) "As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever.
Romans 2:28-29 - 28 For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; 29 but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.
NLT: Romans 2:28-29 - 28 For you are not a true Jew just because you were born of Jewish parents or because you have gone through the Jewish ceremony of circumcision. 29 No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not a cutting of the body but a change of heart produced by God's Spirit. Whoever has that kind of change seeks praise from God, not from people.
Luke 9:23 - 23 Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?
Turn your eyes upon him always first and completely Trust Him always.
Psalms 62:8 - Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.
Psalms 20:7 - Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.
Psalms 18:30 - As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
If we do that then He will give you new heart or renew your callous formed stubborn heart:
Jeremiah 24:7 - Then I will give them a heart to know Me, that I am the Lord; and they shall be My people, and I will be their God, for they shall return to Me with their whole heart.
Hebrews 8:10 - For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.
Hebrews 10:16 - "This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them,"
Hebrews 10:22 - let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
If we maintain the relationship with Him though we may fall but not completely wiped out:
Micah 7:8 - Do not rejoice over me, my enemy; When I fall, I will arise; When I sit in darkness, The LORD will be a light to me.
Psalm 37:23,24 - The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand.
Proverbs 24:16 - For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity.