Revelation 15 Summary The Song of Moses and the LambVerses 1–2 – The Final Heavenly Sign and the Victorious Ones Verses 3–4 – The Song of Moses and the Lamb Verses 5–8 – The Temple Opened and the Seven Angels Sent Out Revelation 15, a small but powerful chapter in the final book of the New Testament, presents the prelude to the climactic outpouring of God's wrath. The Apostle John shares his vision of seven angels preparing to unleash the seven last plagues upon the world. Amidst the impending judgment, a glorious scene of victorious saints worshipping God unfolds on a sea of glass, embodying hope amidst chaos. Setting within Revelation • Chapter 15 stands as a bridge between the trumpet judgments (chs. 8–11) and the bowl judgments (ch. 16). • The scene echoes 8:1–5, where heaven’s temple opens before judgments fall. • The focus now shifts from warning to final execution; mercy offered throughout the book gives way to the last, decisive acts of justice. The Seven Last Plagues • “Last” (v. 1) signals completion: nothing further is required to fulfill divine justice. • The bowls will mirror and intensify the plagues on Egypt (Revelation 16) just as Pharaoh’s stubbornness prefigured the world’s rebellion. • Exodus 9:14: “For this time I will send all My plagues against…so you may know there is no one like Me.” Revelation brings that promise to its ultimate climax. Sea of Glass Mingled with Fire • A glassy sea already appeared in 4:6, representing God’s unapproachable purity. • The addition of fire suggests judgment or the fiery trials just endured by the overcomers (1 Peter 4:12). • Ancient throne rooms often used polished stone floors; John’s vision projects that splendor into spectacular heavenly form. The Victorious Saints • They overcame “the beast and its image and the number of its name” (v. 2). • 1 John 5:4: “Everyone born of God overcomes the world.” Genuine faith, not human strength, explains their victory. • Their harps mirror the twenty-four elders’ harps (5:8) and point to endless, joyful worship. The Song of Moses and the Lamb—One account of Redemption Connections to Moses’ first song (Exodus 15): 1. Both follow deliverance through judgment—Red Sea for Israel, tribulation for end-time believers. 2. Motif of nations trembling (Exodus 15:14–16; Revelation 15:4). 3. God’s holiness and wonders magnified (Exodus 15:11; Revelation 15:3). Combining Moses with “the Lamb” stitches together Old and New Covenants, showing a single divine plan. Heavenly Temple Imagery • “Tabernacle of the testimony” recalls the wilderness tent that housed the tablets of the Law (Exodus 40:2). • Hebrews 8:5 says the earthly sanctuary was a “copy and shadow” of the heavenly. Revelation lifts the curtain on the original. • Smoke of glory parallels Exodus 40:34–35 and 1 Kings 8:10–11—moments when God’s presence filled the earthly sanctuary so powerfully even priests could not enter. Angels in Priestly Garb • Linen represents purity (Leviticus 16:4). Gold sashes echo Christ’s appearance in 1:13. • Their attire underscores a priestly function: administering what God has declared. The Bowls of Wrath and Old-Testament Parallels • Bowls (phialai) resemble temple offering basins (Numbers 7:13–14). Judgment flows from God’s holiness, not mood. • Psalm 75:8: “In the hand of the LORD is a cup… He pours it out, and all the wicked of the earth drink it down.” The bowl motif picks up this imagery. Prophetic Threads Woven Together • Daniel 12:1—Time of unprecedented distress before ultimate deliverance. • Jeremiah 25:15—Cup of wrath passing to the nations. • Isaiah 2:2–4—Nations eventually coming to worship, fulfilled in Revelation 15:4. • Habakkuk 2:14—“The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD.” The song anticipates that day. Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Sea of glass possibly reflects the “molten sea” in Solomon’s Temple (1 Kings 7:23–26), a massive bronze basin used for priestly washing. • Gold-trimmed linen robes match descriptions of high-status priests in Second-Temple sources such as Josephus (Ant. 3.7.2). • Seven is a sacred number in Jewish thought, symbolizing completeness—seen in temple menorah branches and the seven days of creation. Living It Out • God’s justice is neither random nor cruel; it is the measured answer to rebellion after prolonged mercy (2 Peter 3:9). • Worship and witness go hand in hand. Those who sang had first stood firm against pressure to conform. • Confidence springs from viewing history through heaven’s lens: the seemingly invincible beast falls; the faithful stand on a crystal sea. • Assurance: Even in coming judgment, God’s goal is universal acknowledgment of His righteousness (Revelation 15:4; Philippians 2:10-11). Key Scripture Connections (Quick Reference) • Exodus 15; Deuteronomy 32 – Songs of Moses • Psalm 98 – Nations called to sing the new song • Isaiah 6:4; Ezekiel 10:4 – Temple filled with smoke • Daniel 3:25; 7:9–10 – Fire around God’s throne • Hebrews 9:23–24 – Heavenly realities behind earthly rituals • Revelation 4–5; 8:3–5; 16 – Related temple and judgment scenes Revelation 15, though brief, forms a pivotal pause: worship rises, the temple opens, and angels march out to finish what God began—proving forever that His judgments are righteous and His salvation sure.
The Song of Moses and the Lamb 1Then I saw another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven final plagues, with which the wrath of God is completed. 2And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, beside which stood those who had conquered the beast and its image and the number of its name. They were holding harps from God, 3and they sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: “Great and wonderful are Your works, O Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the nations!a 4Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed.” Preparation for Judgment 5After this I looked, and the temple—the tabernacle of the Testimony—was opened in heaven. 6And out of the temple came the seven angels with the seven plagues, dressed in clean and bright linen and girded with golden sashes around their chests. 7Then one of the four living creatures gave the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who lives forever and ever. 8And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power; and no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed. Footnotes: 3 a SBL and WH King of the ages; TR King of the saints Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures Exodus 15The Song of Moses, which celebrates God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt, parallels the song in Revelation 15. Psalm 98:1-3 This psalm of praise for God’s salvation and righteousness echoes the themes of worship and victory found in Revelation 15. Hebrews 12:28-29 This passage encourages us to worship God with reverence and awe, recognizing His holiness and consuming fire, similar to the imagery in Revelation 15. Teaching Points The Sign in HeavenRevelation 15:1 describes another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven last plagues—last, because with them God’s wrath is completed. This signifies the culmination of God's judgment and the completion of His divine plan. The Sea of Glass In Revelation 15:2, John sees what looked like a sea of glass mixed with fire. This imagery represents purity and judgment, reflecting the holiness and righteousness of God. The Victorious Saints Those who have victory over the beast and its image and over the number of its name stand by the sea of glass, holding harps given by God (Revelation 15:2). This highlights the reward for faithfulness and perseverance. The Song of Moses and the Lamb The victorious sing the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb (Revelation 15:3-4), a song of deliverance and praise, acknowledging God's mighty works and righteous ways. The Temple in Heaven Revelation 15:5-8 describes the opening of the temple in heaven, from which the seven angels emerge. This emphasizes the divine origin of the judgments and the holiness of God’s presence. Practical Applications Remain FaithfulJust as the saints in Revelation 15 remained faithful, we are called to persevere in our faith despite trials and temptations. Worship God The song of Moses and the Lamb reminds us to continually worship and praise God for His mighty works and righteous judgments. Trust in God’s Justice Understanding that God’s wrath is part of His righteous plan can help us trust in His justice, even when we face injustice in the world. Prepare for Christ’s Return The imminent completion of God’s wrath should motivate us to live holy lives, ready for Christ’s return. People 1. Seven AngelsDescription: These angels are described as having the seven last plagues, which are the final expressions of God's wrath. The Greek term used for "angels" is "ἄγγελοι" (angeloi), meaning messengers. They play a crucial role in the unfolding of God's judgment. 2. Those Who Had Conquered the Beast Description: These individuals are described as having victory over the beast, its image, and the number of its name. They are seen standing beside a sea of glass mixed with fire, holding harps given by God. The Greek word for "conquered" is "νικῶντας" (nikōntas), indicating their triumph over evil. 3. God Description: God is referenced as the one whose wrath is being completed through the seven plagues. The chapter emphasizes His holiness and righteousness, as those who conquered the beast sing the song of Moses and the Lamb, praising God's works and ways. 4. The Lamb Description: While not directly mentioned in the actions of this chapter, the Lamb is referenced in the song sung by those who conquered the beast. The Lamb symbolizes Jesus Christ, who is central to the themes of redemption and victory over evil. Places 1. HeavenRevelation 15:1 begins with a vision in heaven: "Then I saw another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven final plagues..." In this context, heaven is depicted as the realm where divine visions and judgments are revealed. The Greek word used here is "οὐρανός" (ouranos), which often signifies the dwelling place of God and the angels. 2. The Sea of Glass In Revelation 15:2, it states: "And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire..." This sea of glass is a symbolic place before the throne of God, representing purity and holiness. The imagery of glass and fire suggests a place of divine majesty and judgment. The Greek term "θάλασσα" (thalassa) is used for "sea," indicating a vast, expansive area. Events 1. Vision of the Seven Angels with Seven PlaguesRevelation 15:1 - "Then I saw another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven final plagues—with which the wrath of God will be completed." This verse introduces the vision of seven angels who are given the seven last plagues, signifying the completion of God's wrath. The Greek word for "plagues" (πληγὰς, plēgas) can also mean "strikes" or "blows," indicating severe judgments. 2. The Sea of Glass Mixed with Fire Revelation 15:2 - "And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who had conquered the beast and its image and the number of its name, standing on the sea of glass with harps of God." The "sea of glass" symbolizes purity and holiness, while the "fire" may represent judgment or purification. The victors over the beast are depicted as standing on this sea, indicating their triumph and purity. 3. The Song of Moses and the Lamb Revelation 15:3-4 - "And they sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: 'Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the nations! Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed.'" The song combines elements from the Old Testament (Song of Moses) and the New Testament (Song of the Lamb), celebrating God's mighty works and justice. The Greek word for "nations" (ἔθνη, ethnē) refers to all peoples, emphasizing the universal scope of God's reign. 4. The Temple in Heaven Opened Revelation 15:5 - "After this I looked, and the temple—the tabernacle of the Testimony—was opened in heaven." The opening of the heavenly temple signifies the revelation of God's presence and the preparation for the outpouring of the final judgments. The "tabernacle of the Testimony" refers to the dwelling place of God's covenant. 5. The Seven Angels Given Seven Golden Bowls Revelation 15:6-7 - "And out of the temple came the seven angels with the seven plagues, dressed in clean and bright linen and girded with golden sashes around their chests. Then 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." The angels are described in pure and holy attire, symbolizing their divine mission. The "golden bowls" (φιάλας, phialas) are vessels of God's wrath, ready to be poured out upon the earth. 6. The Temple Filled with Smoke from God's Glory Revelation 15:8 - "And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power, and no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed." The smoke represents God's glory and power, reminiscent of the Old Testament theophanies. The inaccessibility of the temple underscores the seriousness and finality of the impending judgments. Lessons from Revelation 15 1. The Majesty of God's Righteousness 2. The Victory of the Faithful 3. The Song of Moses and the Lamb 4. The Holiness of God 5. The Certainty of God's Judgment 6. The Sovereignty of God 7. The Call to Worship 8. The Unity of Believers 9. The Assurance of God's Promises 10. The Hope of Eternal Worship Topics 1. The Seven Angels with the Seven Last PlaguesRevelation 15:1 introduces the vision of "seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is completed." The Greek word for "plagues" (πληγὰς, plēgas) indicates blows or calamities, emphasizing the severity of God's final judgments. 2. The Sea of Glass Mixed with Fire In Revelation 15:2, John describes a "sea of glass mixed with fire," symbolizing purity and judgment. Those who have "victory over the beast" stand beside it, holding harps of God. The imagery of fire (πυρός, pyros) often represents purification and divine presence. 3. The Song of Moses and the Lamb Revelation 15:3-4 records the victorious singing "the song of God's servant Moses and of the Lamb." This song praises God's "great and marvelous" deeds and His "righteous acts." The reference to Moses connects the deliverance of Israel with the ultimate deliverance through Christ. 4. The Temple of the Tabernacle of Testimony Opened In Revelation 15:5, the "temple of the tabernacle of testimony in heaven was opened." The Greek term for "testimony" (μαρτυρίου, martyriou) refers to the witness or covenant, highlighting the divine authority and holiness of God's judgments. 5. The Seven Angels Given Seven Golden Bowls Revelation 15:6-7 describes the seven angels emerging from the temple, clothed in pure, bright linen, and receiving "seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God." The bowls (φιάλας, phialas) symbolize the completeness and readiness of God's judgment. 6. The Glory of God Fills the Temple Finally, Revelation 15:8 notes that "the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power," preventing anyone from entering until the plagues were completed. The smoke (καπνὸς, kapnos) signifies God's majestic presence and the seriousness of His impending judgments. Themes 1. The Seven Last PlaguesRevelation 15:1 introduces the theme of the seven last plagues: "Then I saw another great and marvelous sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven final plagues—with them the wrath of God is completed." The Greek word for "plagues" (πληγὰς, plēgas) indicates blows or calamities, emphasizing the severity and finality of God's judgment. 2. The Sea of Glass Mixed with Fire In Revelation 15:2, the "sea of glass mixed with fire" symbolizes purity and judgment: "And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who had conquered the beast and its image and the number of its name, standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of God." The imagery of fire (πυρός, pyros) often represents purification and divine judgment. 3. The Song of Moses and the Lamb Revelation 15:3-4 highlights the theme of worship and victory: "And they sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: 'Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God Almighty! Just and true are Your ways, O King of the nations! Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed.'" This song combines elements from the Old Testament (Exodus 15) and the New Testament, celebrating God's deliverance and righteousness. 4. The Temple of the Tabernacle of Testimony Revelation 15:5-6 describes the opening of the heavenly temple: "After this I looked, and the temple—the tabernacle of the Testimony—was opened in heaven. And out of the temple came the seven angels with the seven plagues, dressed in clean, bright linen and girded with golden sashes around their chests." The "tabernacle of the Testimony" (σκηνὴ τοῦ μαρτυρίου, skēnē tou martyriou) refers to the dwelling place of God's presence and His covenant faithfulness. 5. The Glory of God Filling the Temple Revelation 15:8 emphasizes God's holiness and glory: "And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from His power, and no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues of the seven angels were completed." The smoke (καπνός, kapnos) signifies God's majestic presence, reminiscent of the Old Testament theophanies where God's glory filled the tabernacle or temple. Prayer Points Praise for God’s Righteousness Thank God for His righteous judgments and His ultimate victory over evil. Strength to Persevere Heart of Worship Readiness for Christ’s Return Answering Tough Questions 1. Revelation 15:1 mentions seven last plagues—how can these be scientifically or historically validated? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the description of the seven angels and their plagues in verse 1 reflect God's nature and power? 2. How might the vision of the victorious saints standing by the sea of glass inspire believers facing persecution? 3. What does the song of Moses and the Lamb tell us about God's righteousness and holiness? 4. How does Revelation 15 challenge our perspective of God's wrath and judgment? 5. How might the image of the temple filled with smoke from God's glory and power deepen our reverence for God? 6. Why do you think no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues are completed? 7. How do the themes of judgment and worship intersect in this chapter? 8. How does Revelation 15 tie into the broader narrative of the Book of Revelation? 9. How does the triumphant scene in Revelation 15 contrast with the forthcoming outpouring of God's wrath? 10. How can we apply the perseverance of the triumphant saints to our present-day trials? 11. If you were to write your own song of praise like the triumphant saints, what would it include? 12. How does understanding the context of the song of Moses and the Lamb contribute to its significance in this chapter? 13. How does this chapter challenge our understanding of suffering and tribulation in the Christian walk? 14. In what ways does this chapter offer comfort and hope to believers today? 15. How can we prepare ourselves for trials and tribulations, as indicated in this chapter? 16. How does the finality of the plagues (as described in verse 1) impact our understanding of God's plan for the world? 17. What role does faith play in the face of impending judgment, as described in Revelation 15? 18. How does the scene of heavenly worship encourage you in your personal worship of God? 19. In light of this chapter, how can we handle criticism or hostility because of our faith in the contemporary world? 20. How can Revelation 15 serve as a call to witness to non-believers in today's society? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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