Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff
In biblical times, a measuring rod was often used to denote authority and judgment. The act of measuring signifies God's ownership and protection, as seen in Ezekiel 40-42, where a similar measuring of the temple occurs. The rod being "like a staff" suggests guidance and leadership, akin to a shepherd's staff, symbolizing God's care and oversight.

and was told, “Go and measure the temple of God
The temple of God here is often interpreted as a symbol of the church or the body of believers, rather than a physical building. This aligns with 1 Corinthians 3:16, where believers are described as God's temple. The act of measuring indicates a divine assessment or evaluation of the spiritual state of the church.

and the altar
The altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship. In the context of Revelation, it may symbolize the prayers and sacrifices of the saints, as seen in Revelation 8:3-4. The altar's inclusion in the measurement underscores the importance of true worship and devotion in the life of believers.

and count the number of worshipers there.
Counting the worshipers emphasizes the remnant of faithful believers, reminiscent of the remnant theme throughout Scripture, such as in Romans 11:5. This phrase highlights God's intimate knowledge of His people and His concern for their faithfulness amidst persecution and trials. It also reflects the idea of a spiritual census, ensuring that those who truly worship in spirit and truth are recognized and preserved.

But exclude the courtyard outside the temple.
In the context of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, the courtyard refers to the outer court, also known as the Court of the Gentiles. This area was accessible to non-Jews, symbolizing the separation between Jews and Gentiles in worship practices. The instruction to exclude this area from measurement suggests a distinction between what is considered holy and what is not. This exclusion may symbolize the temporary nature of Gentile dominion over sacred spaces, reflecting the tension between the sacred and the profane.

Do not measure it,
The act of measuring in biblical terms often signifies ownership, protection, or judgment. By instructing not to measure the courtyard, it implies that this area is not under divine protection or ownership in the same way as the inner temple. This can be seen as a symbolic act indicating that the outer court is not part of the divine plan for preservation, possibly foreshadowing judgment or desecration.

because it has been given over to the nations,
The phrase "given over to the nations" indicates a period where Gentile powers have control or influence over the holy city. Historically, Jerusalem has been under the control of various empires, including the Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. This phrase may also allude to the times of the Gentiles mentioned in Luke 21:24, where Jesus speaks of Jerusalem being trampled by Gentiles until their time is fulfilled. It reflects a period of Gentile dominance over Jerusalem, which is part of the prophetic timeline.

and they will trample the holy city
The imagery of trampling suggests desecration and oppression. The holy city, Jerusalem, holds significant religious importance as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the temple. The trampling by the nations can be seen as a period of persecution and suffering for the Jewish people and the city itself. This aligns with historical events such as the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD and can also be interpreted as a future prophetic event.

for 42 months.
The period of 42 months, equivalent to 3.5 years, is a significant timeframe in biblical prophecy, often associated with tribulation and testing. This duration is mentioned in other prophetic contexts, such as the ministry of the two witnesses in Revelation 11:3 and the persecution of the woman in Revelation 12:6. It corresponds to the "time, times, and half a time" in Daniel 7:25 and 12:7, symbolizing a limited period of suffering before divine intervention. This timeframe emphasizes the temporary nature of Gentile dominance and the eventual restoration of God's order.

And I will empower my two witnesses
The identity of the "two witnesses" has been a subject of much debate. They are often seen as prophetic figures who will testify during the end times. The empowerment by God suggests divine authority and protection. The number two is significant in biblical law, as two witnesses are required to establish a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15). This could symbolize the sufficiency and reliability of their testimony. Some interpretations suggest they represent the Law and the Prophets, or figures like Moses and Elijah, who appeared with Jesus at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:3).

and they will prophesy for 1,260 days
The period of 1,260 days is equivalent to 42 months or 3.5 years, a time frame that appears in various forms throughout prophetic scripture (Daniel 7:25, Revelation 12:6). This period is often associated with tribulation and persecution. It reflects a time of divine judgment and testing, aligning with the second half of the seven-year tribulation period described in Daniel's prophecy (Daniel 9:27).

clothed in sackcloth.
Sackcloth is a coarse material traditionally worn as a sign of mourning, repentance, or humility (Jonah 3:5-6, Matthew 11:21). The attire of the witnesses indicates their message is one of repentance and warning. It underscores the seriousness of their mission and the somber nature of their prophecy. The use of sackcloth connects them to the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament, where prophets often wore sackcloth to convey messages of impending judgment (Isaiah 20:2, Jeremiah 4:8).

These witnesses
The term "witnesses" refers to individuals who testify or bear witness to the truth. In the context of Revelation, these witnesses are seen as prophetic figures who proclaim God's message during a time of great tribulation. The concept of witnesses is deeply rooted in biblical tradition, where two or more witnesses are required to establish a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15). This emphasizes the reliability and truthfulness of their testimony.

are the two olive trees
The imagery of olive trees is drawn from Zechariah 4, where two olive trees supply oil to a lampstand, symbolizing God's provision and the anointing of His Spirit. Olive trees are a symbol of peace, prosperity, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. In the context of Revelation, the two olive trees represent the anointed ones who are empowered by God to fulfill their prophetic mission.

and the two lampstands
Lampstands are symbolic of the church and its role as the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16). In Revelation, lampstands are used to represent the churches (Revelation 1:20). The two lampstands here signify the presence of God's light and truth being proclaimed through these witnesses. They are tasked with shining God's light in a world overshadowed by darkness.

that stand before the Lord of the earth
Standing before the Lord indicates a position of service and authority. The phrase suggests that these witnesses have a divine commission and are under God's direct authority. The "Lord of the earth" emphasizes God's sovereignty over all creation, reinforcing the idea that these witnesses operate under His command and protection. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of God's ultimate authority and judgment over the earth.

If anyone wants to harm them
This phrase refers to the two witnesses described earlier in Revelation 11. These witnesses are often interpreted as prophetic figures sent by God during the end times. The desire to harm them indicates opposition to their divine mission, reflecting the broader theme of conflict between God's messengers and the forces of evil throughout scripture, such as the persecution of prophets in the Old Testament (e.g., Elijah and Jeremiah).

fire proceeds from their mouths
This imagery is reminiscent of the prophet Elijah, who called down fire from heaven to consume his enemies (2 Kings 1:10-12). The fire symbolizes divine judgment and authority, emphasizing the power and protection granted to the witnesses by God. It also echoes the consuming fire of God's presence seen in other biblical passages (e.g., Deuteronomy 4:24).

and devours their enemies
The devouring fire signifies the totality of God's judgment against those who oppose His will. This reflects the ultimate triumph of God's purposes over evil, a recurring theme in apocalyptic literature. The imagery of devouring fire is also found in the Psalms and the prophets, where it often represents God's righteous anger and purification.

In this way, anyone who wants to harm them must be killed
This phrase underscores the inevitability of divine justice. The protection of the witnesses is assured by God, and their enemies' destruction is portrayed as a necessary consequence of their opposition. This mirrors the principle of divine retribution found throughout the Bible, where those who oppose God's plans face ultimate judgment, as seen in the fate of Pharaoh in Exodus or the enemies of Israel in the conquest narratives.

These witnesses have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall during the days of their prophecy
This phrase draws a parallel to the prophet Elijah, who, according to 1 Kings 17:1, declared a drought in Israel as a judgment from God. The ability to control rain signifies divine authority and judgment. In the context of Revelation, the witnesses' power to shut the sky symbolizes God's control over nature and His ability to use it as a tool for judgment. The drought during their prophecy highlights the severity and urgency of their message, emphasizing repentance and the consequences of ignoring divine warnings.

and power to turn the waters into blood
This imagery recalls the first plague in Egypt, where Moses turned the Nile into blood (Exodus 7:14-24). This act was a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and a demonstration of God's supremacy. In Revelation, the transformation of water into blood by the witnesses serves as a sign of judgment against those who oppose God's will. It underscores the seriousness of rebellion against God and the inevitability of divine retribution. The act also symbolizes the corruption and death that result from sin.

and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish
The reference to plagues connects to the ten plagues of Egypt, which were divine judgments against Pharaoh and his people (Exodus 7-12). These plagues were meant to demonstrate God's power and compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. In Revelation, the ability of the witnesses to unleash plagues signifies their role as agents of divine judgment. It highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the certainty of His justice. The phrase "as often as they wish" indicates the witnesses' authority and the persistent opportunity for repentance, emphasizing God's patience and desire for people to turn back to Him.

When the two witnesses have finished their testimony
The two witnesses are often interpreted as symbolic representations of the Church or specific prophetic figures. Their testimony signifies the completion of their divinely appointed mission. This echoes the biblical theme of God's servants fulfilling their purpose before facing opposition, as seen with prophets like Elijah and John the Baptist. The completion of their testimony suggests divine timing and protection until their mission is fulfilled.

the beast that comes up from the Abyss
The beast is a recurring symbol in Revelation, representing evil powers and opposition to God. The Abyss, or bottomless pit, is often associated with a place of demonic origin or imprisonment (Revelation 9:1-11). This imagery connects to Daniel's visions of beasts representing empires or rulers opposing God's people (Daniel 7). The beast's emergence from the Abyss indicates a release of evil forces permitted by God for a specific purpose.

will wage war with them
This phrase highlights the spiritual and physical conflict between God's messengers and evil forces. The concept of spiritual warfare is prevalent throughout Scripture, with Ephesians 6:12 emphasizing the struggle against spiritual forces of evil. The war against the witnesses symbolizes the broader battle between good and evil, reflecting the persecution faced by early Christians and the Church throughout history.

and will overpower and kill them
The temporary victory of the beast over the witnesses serves as a reminder of the apparent triumph of evil in the world. However, this is not the end of the story, as Revelation continues to reveal God's ultimate victory. The death of the witnesses parallels the death of Christ, who was also temporarily overcome by evil forces but ultimately triumphed through resurrection. This foreshadows the resurrection and vindication of the witnesses, reinforcing the theme of hope and redemption.

Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city
This phrase refers to the two witnesses mentioned earlier in Revelation 11. The "great city" is often interpreted as Jerusalem, a central location in biblical prophecy and history. Jerusalem is significant as the spiritual and political center of Israel, and it plays a crucial role in eschatological events. The imagery of bodies lying in the street suggests a public display of defeat and humiliation, which contrasts with the ultimate victory of God's plan.

figuratively called Sodom and Egypt
The use of "figuratively" indicates that the names Sodom and Egypt are symbolic. Sodom is associated with extreme wickedness and divine judgment, as seen in Genesis 19. Egypt represents oppression and idolatry, recalling the Israelites' bondage and God's deliverance in the Exodus. By using these names, the text highlights the moral and spiritual corruption of the city, drawing parallels to past judgments and emphasizing the need for repentance.

where their Lord was also crucified
This phrase identifies the city as Jerusalem, where Jesus Christ was crucified. The crucifixion is central to Christian theology, representing the atoning sacrifice of Christ for humanity's sins. The mention of the crucifixion connects the suffering of the two witnesses to the suffering of Christ, suggesting a pattern of persecution for those who bear witness to God's truth. It also underscores the irony that the city, which should be a place of holiness, is instead marked by rejection of God's messengers.

For three and a half days
The period of three and a half days is symbolic and often interpreted as a time of trial or judgment. This timeframe echoes the three and a half years (42 months) mentioned elsewhere in Revelation, which is associated with tribulation and persecution. It also parallels the ministry of Jesus, who was in the tomb for three days, suggesting a period of apparent defeat before victory.

all peoples and tribes and tongues and nations
This phrase emphasizes the universal scope of the event, indicating that the entire world will witness it. It reflects the global nature of the end times, as seen in other parts of Revelation where similar language is used to describe the reach of the gospel and the extent of God's judgment. This universality underscores the significance of the event and the widespread impact it will have.

will view their bodies
The public display of the bodies signifies humiliation and disgrace, as leaving bodies unburied was considered a great dishonor in ancient cultures. This act of viewing also suggests a level of technological advancement or communication that allows people from all over the world to witness the event simultaneously, which aligns with modern capabilities.

and will not permit them to be laid in a tomb
Refusing burial is a sign of contempt and rejection, highlighting the world's animosity towards the witnesses. In biblical times, burial was a sacred duty, and denying it was a severe insult. This act of disrespect reflects the spiritual blindness and rebellion of the people against God's messengers, reminiscent of the treatment of prophets and righteous individuals throughout biblical history.

And those who dwell on the earth
This phrase often refers to unbelievers or those who are opposed to God's kingdom. In Revelation, "those who dwell on the earth" typically signifies people who are aligned with worldly values rather than heavenly ones. This group is contrasted with those who are sealed by God and are faithful to Him.

will gloat over them
The gloating indicates a sense of triumph or satisfaction over the death of the two prophets. This reaction reflects the deep-seated animosity and rejection of God's message. It echoes the biblical theme of the world hating God's messengers, as seen in the persecution of prophets throughout the Old Testament and the New Testament.

and celebrate
The celebration signifies a temporary victory for evil over good. This mirrors the world's reaction to the crucifixion of Jesus, where His enemies believed they had won. It highlights the spiritual blindness and moral corruption of those who reject God's truth.

and send one another gifts
This act of sending gifts is reminiscent of ancient customs where gifts were exchanged to celebrate significant events. It underscores the perverse joy and unity among the wicked in their opposition to God's messengers. This behavior is similar to the celebration of the wicked in Esther 9:22, where gifts were exchanged to commemorate the defeat of their enemies.

because these two prophets had tormented them
The torment refers to the conviction and discomfort caused by the prophets' message of repentance and judgment. Like the prophets of old, these two witnesses call people to turn from their sins, which is often met with hostility. This is consistent with the biblical pattern where God's truth is seen as tormenting to those who reject it, as seen in the reactions to prophets like Elijah and Jeremiah.

But after the three and a half days
The period of three and a half days is symbolic and often interpreted as a time of trial or persecution. This timeframe echoes the three and a half years (1,260 days) mentioned earlier in Revelation, which is associated with the period of tribulation. It also parallels the three and a half years of drought during Elijah's time (James 5:17) and the time, times, and half a time in Daniel 7:25, suggesting a period of divine testing or judgment.

the breath of life from God entered the two witnesses
The "breath of life" is reminiscent of the creation account in Genesis 2:7, where God breathes life into Adam. This indicates a divine act of resurrection and restoration, emphasizing God's power over life and death. The two witnesses are often seen as representatives of the law and the prophets, or the church's testimony, and their revival signifies the triumph of God's word and testimony over evil.

and they stood on their feet
This phrase signifies resurrection and vindication. Standing on their feet indicates a return to life and strength, similar to the vision of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37:10, where the breath of God brings life to the slain. It symbolizes the ultimate victory of God's witnesses over their enemies and the validation of their testimony.

and great fear fell upon those who saw them
The reaction of fear among the observers highlights the undeniable power and authority of God. This fear is not just terror but a recognition of divine intervention and judgment. It parallels the fear that fell upon the guards at Jesus' tomb (Matthew 28:4) and the awe experienced by those who witnessed miraculous events throughout the Bible. This fear serves as a precursor to the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the impending judgment.

And the witnesses heard a loud voice from heaven saying,
This phrase indicates divine intervention and authority. The "loud voice from heaven" is often associated with God's direct communication, as seen in other biblical instances such as the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:17) and the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:5). The witnesses, identified earlier in Revelation 11 as the two prophets, symbolize God's messengers who have completed their testimony on earth. The voice from heaven signifies approval and a command for their next phase, reflecting the divine orchestration of events.

“Come up here.”
This command mirrors the call to John in Revelation 4:1, where he is invited to witness heavenly visions. It signifies a transition from earthly ministry to heavenly reward, emphasizing the theme of divine vindication and ascension. The phrase suggests a rapture-like event, where the faithful are taken up to be with God, echoing the experiences of Enoch (Genesis 5:24) and Elijah (2 Kings 2:11), who were also taken up to heaven without experiencing death.

And they went up to heaven in a cloud
The cloud is a significant biblical symbol of God's presence and glory, as seen in the Exodus narrative (Exodus 13:21) and the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:5). The ascension of the witnesses in a cloud parallels Jesus' ascension (Acts 1:9), reinforcing their role as Christ-like figures who share in His victory and exaltation. This imagery underscores the divine approval and the fulfillment of their prophetic mission.

as their enemies watched them.
The presence of enemies highlights the ongoing conflict between God's people and the forces of evil. The public nature of the ascension serves as a powerful testimony to God's sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His purposes. It echoes the vindication themes found in the Psalms (Psalm 23:5) and the prophetic literature (Isaiah 52:13-15), where God's servants are exalted in the sight of their adversaries. This moment foreshadows the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom, where justice and righteousness prevail.

And in that hour there was a great earthquake
Earthquakes in biblical times were often seen as manifestations of divine power and judgment. In the context of Revelation, this earthquake symbolizes a significant act of God intervening in human history. Earthquakes are mentioned in other prophetic contexts, such as in Matthew 24:7, where they are signs of the end times. The timing, "in that hour," suggests immediacy and divine precision in the unfolding of God's plan.

and a tenth of the city collapsed
The city likely refers to Jerusalem, a central location in biblical prophecy. The fraction "a tenth" may symbolize a partial but significant judgment, reminiscent of the tithe, which is a tenth given to God, indicating a portion set apart. This partial destruction could signify a call to repentance for the remaining inhabitants, aligning with the theme of God's mercy amidst judgment.

Seven thousand were killed in the quake
The number seven often represents completeness or perfection in biblical literature. The specific number "seven thousand" may indicate a complete and divinely ordained judgment upon those who perished. This echoes the Old Testament, where specific numbers often carry symbolic weight, such as in 1 Kings 19:18, where God preserves seven thousand in Israel who have not bowed to Baal.

and the rest were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven
The reaction of fear and giving glory to God suggests a recognition of divine authority and power. This mirrors other biblical instances where God's mighty acts lead to acknowledgment of His sovereignty, such as in Exodus 14:31, where the Israelites feared the Lord and believed in Him after witnessing the destruction of the Egyptian army. The phrase "God of heaven" emphasizes His supreme authority over all creation, a title used in Daniel 2:18-19, highlighting God's control over earthly events. This acknowledgment may indicate a moment of repentance or realization among the survivors, aligning with the theme of God's desire for repentance and restoration.

The second woe has passed.
This phrase refers to the conclusion of the sixth trumpet judgment in the Book of Revelation. The "woes" are part of a series of judgments that God unleashes upon the earth during the end times. The first woe is associated with the fifth trumpet, and the second woe with the sixth trumpet. These woes are characterized by intense suffering and calamity. The second woe includes the release of four angels bound at the Euphrates River, leading to a massive army and widespread destruction. This reflects the severity of God's judgment and the fulfillment of prophetic events. The passing of the second woe indicates a transition in the narrative, moving towards the final stages of God's plan.

Behold, the third woe is coming shortly.
The use of "behold" serves as a call to attention, emphasizing the imminence and seriousness of what is to follow. The third woe corresponds to the seventh trumpet, which heralds the final series of judgments known as the bowl judgments. These are the most severe and lead directly to the return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom. The phrase "coming shortly" underscores the urgency and inevitability of these events. This aligns with the prophetic nature of Revelation, where time is often compressed to convey the certainty of God's plan. The third woe culminates in the ultimate defeat of evil and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in the subsequent chapters of Revelation.

Then the seventh angel sounded his trumpet
The sounding of the seventh trumpet marks the final and climactic event in a series of judgments. In biblical numerology, the number seven often signifies completion or perfection, indicating the fulfillment of God's plan. The trumpet is a symbol of divine intervention and announcement, reminiscent of the trumpets used in the Old Testament to signal important events (e.g., Joshua 6:4-5, the fall of Jericho). This trumpet heralds the transition from the current world order to the reign of God.

and loud voices called out in heaven:
The loud voices in heaven suggest a heavenly chorus or assembly, possibly the angels or the redeemed saints, proclaiming a significant declaration. This reflects the heavenly perspective on earthly events, emphasizing the divine authority and the importance of the proclamation. The use of "loud voices" underscores the magnitude and certainty of the message being delivered.

“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ,
This phrase signifies the transfer of power and authority from earthly kingdoms to the divine rule of God and His Messiah. It echoes the prophetic visions found in Daniel 7:14, where dominion is given to the Son of Man. The phrase "our Lord and of His Christ" highlights the unity and shared authority between God the Father and Jesus Christ, affirming the messianic fulfillment and the ultimate sovereignty of Christ over all creation.

and He will reign forever and ever.”
The eternal reign of Christ is a central theme in Christian eschatology, affirming the everlasting nature of His kingdom. This echoes the promises found in the Old Testament, such as in Isaiah 9:7, where the government and peace of the Messiah's kingdom are described as having no end. The phrase "forever and ever" emphasizes the permanence and unchanging nature of Christ's rule, offering hope and assurance to believers of the ultimate victory and justice of God's kingdom.

And the twenty-four elders
The twenty-four elders are often interpreted as representing the fullness of God's people, encompassing both the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles, symbolizing the unity of the Old and New Covenants. This imagery is consistent with the structure of the heavenly throne room described in Revelation 4:4, where the elders are seen seated around God's throne. The number twenty-four may also reflect the divisions of the Levitical priesthood as outlined in 1 Chronicles 24, suggesting a priestly role in worship and governance.

who sit on their thrones before God
The elders sitting on thrones indicates a position of authority and honor, suggesting that they share in God's rule and judgment. This imagery aligns with Daniel 7:9, where thrones are set in place for the heavenly court. The location "before God" emphasizes their proximity to the divine presence, highlighting their role as intermediaries between God and humanity. This setting underscores the heavenly order and the divine governance over creation.

fell on their faces
Falling on one's face is a common biblical expression of deep reverence and submission, often seen in the presence of divine revelation or glory. This act of prostration is seen throughout Scripture, such as in Genesis 17:3 when Abraham falls facedown before God, and in Ezekiel 1:28, where the prophet falls on his face at the vision of God's glory. It signifies humility and acknowledgment of God's supreme authority and holiness.

and worshiped God
Worship in this context is an act of adoration and reverence directed towards God, acknowledging His sovereignty and majesty. The worship of God by the elders is a recurring theme in Revelation, as seen in Revelation 4:10-11 and 5:14, where they continually praise God for His creation and redemptive work. This worship reflects the ultimate purpose of creation, as all beings are called to glorify God. The elders' worship also anticipates the eschatological fulfillment of God's kingdom, where His will is perfectly realized on earth as it is in heaven.

saying: “We give thanks to You, O Lord God Almighty,
This phrase is a declaration of gratitude and reverence. The title "Lord God Almighty" emphasizes God's supreme power and authority. This title is used throughout Scripture to denote God's omnipotence and sovereignty (e.g., Genesis 17:1, Isaiah 6:3). The act of giving thanks is a common biblical theme, reflecting a heart of worship and acknowledgment of God's providence and grace (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

the One who is and who was,
This phrase highlights God's eternal nature, echoing the divine name revealed in Exodus 3:14, "I AM WHO I AM." It underscores God's unchanging presence throughout history, affirming His timeless existence and faithfulness. This concept is reiterated in Revelation 1:8 and 4:8, emphasizing God's constancy and reliability in a world of change.

because You have taken Your great power and have begun to reign.
This statement acknowledges a pivotal moment in the eschatological timeline where God's sovereign rule is fully realized. The "great power" refers to God's ultimate authority over creation, which He exercises to bring about His divine purposes. This reign is anticipated throughout Scripture, with prophecies pointing to a future where God's kingdom is established on earth (Daniel 7:14, Zechariah 14:9). The phrase signifies the fulfillment of God's promises and the culmination of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, who is the King of Kings (Revelation 19:16).

The nations were enraged
This phrase reflects the opposition of the world against God's sovereignty. Throughout biblical history, nations have often resisted God's plans, as seen in Psalm 2:1-3, where the nations conspire against the Lord and His Anointed. This enmity is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, highlighting the spiritual battle between God's kingdom and worldly powers. The rage of the nations can also be seen as a fulfillment of Jesus' words in John 15:18-19, where He warns that the world will hate His followers because it first hated Him.

and Your wrath has come.
God's wrath is a central theme in eschatological passages, representing His righteous judgment against sin and rebellion. This wrath is not arbitrary but a response to the persistent rejection of His authority and grace. Romans 1:18 speaks of God's wrath being revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness. In Revelation, God's wrath culminates in the final judgment, as seen in the bowls of wrath poured out in Revelation 16. This phrase underscores the certainty and imminence of divine judgment.

The time has come to judge the dead
This indicates the final judgment, where all individuals, living and dead, will be held accountable for their deeds. Daniel 12:2 speaks of a resurrection to either everlasting life or shame and everlasting contempt, pointing to this moment of judgment. The concept of judgment is also echoed in Hebrews 9:27, which states that people are destined to die once and then face judgment. This phrase assures believers that justice will ultimately be served.

and to reward Your servants the prophets,
The prophets, who often faced persecution and rejection, are promised a reward for their faithfulness. This reward is consistent with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:12, where He encourages those persecuted for righteousness to rejoice, for their reward in heaven is great. The prophets' role as God's messengers is honored, affirming the value of their obedience and perseverance in delivering God's word.

as well as the saints and those who fear Your name,
This includes all believers who have lived in reverence and obedience to God. The term "saints" refers to those set apart for God's purposes, a theme prevalent throughout the New Testament, such as in Ephesians 1:1. Fearing God's name implies a deep respect and awe for His holiness and authority, as seen in Proverbs 9:10, where the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of God's reward for all who are faithful, regardless of their status.

both small and great—
This highlights the impartiality of God's judgment and reward. In God's kingdom, earthly status and achievements are irrelevant; what matters is one's faithfulness and relationship with Him. This principle is echoed in Galatians 3:28, where Paul states that there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus. The phrase assures believers that God's justice and grace extend to all, regardless of their worldly position.

and to destroy those who destroy the earth.”
This part of the verse addresses the ultimate fate of those who have corrupted and harmed God's creation. The destruction of the earth can be understood both literally and metaphorically, referring to environmental degradation and moral corruption. This echoes the principle found in Genesis 6:11-13, where the earth was filled with violence, leading to God's judgment through the flood. The phrase serves as a warning that those who persist in rebellion and destruction will face divine retribution.

Then the temple of God in heaven was opened
This phrase signifies a divine revelation and access to the heavenly realm. The opening of the temple in heaven suggests a moment of significant spiritual insight and the unveiling of divine mysteries. In biblical context, the temple represents God's dwelling place, and its opening indicates a direct connection between heaven and earth. This imagery is reminiscent of the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing the removal of barriers between God and humanity.

and the ark of His covenant appeared in His temple
The appearance of the ark of the covenant is a powerful symbol of God's presence and faithfulness. Historically, the ark was housed in the Holy of Holies within the earthly temple, representing God's covenant with Israel. Its presence in the heavenly temple underscores the continuity and fulfillment of God's promises. The ark is associated with God's law, mercy, and guidance, as seen in its contents: the tablets of the law, Aaron's rod, and manna (Hebrews 9:4). This vision connects to the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant through Jesus Christ, who embodies the law and the prophets.

And there were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and a great hailstorm
These natural phenomena are often associated with divine judgment and theophany in Scripture. Similar imagery is found at Mount Sinai during the giving of the law (Exodus 19:16-19) and in other prophetic visions (Ezekiel 1:4, Revelation 4:5). The combination of lightning, thunder, earthquake, and hailstorm signifies God's power and the seriousness of His judgments. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the awe-inspiring nature of His presence. This imagery also foreshadows the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom, as seen throughout the book of Revelation.