Revelation 16:15

"Behold, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who remains awake and clothed, so that he will not go naked and let his shame be exposed."

Study Bible

Behold
This word serves as a call to attention, urging the reader or listener to pay close attention to what follows. In the Greek, "ἰδού" (idou) is an imperative form, often used in Scripture to introduce a significant revelation or divine truth. It is a reminder that the message is of utmost importance and demands immediate consideration. In the context of Revelation, it underscores the urgency and gravity of the prophetic vision being unveiled.

I am coming
This phrase is a direct declaration from Jesus Christ, affirming His imminent return. The Greek verb "ἔρχομαι" (erchomai) is in the present tense, indicating an action that is both certain and impending. Historically, this promise of Christ's return has been a cornerstone of Christian eschatological hope, providing believers with assurance and motivation to live faithfully in anticipation of His second coming.

like a thief
This simile emphasizes the unexpected and sudden nature of Christ's return. The imagery of a thief is used elsewhere in the New Testament (e.g., Matthew 24:43, 1 Thessalonians 5:2) to convey the idea that the timing of the Lord's coming will be unforeseen, catching many unprepared. It serves as a warning to remain vigilant and spiritually alert, as the exact moment of His return is unknown.

Blessed is the one
The term "blessed" (Greek: "μακάριος," makarios) denotes a state of spiritual well-being and divine favor. It is a pronouncement of happiness and fulfillment for those who heed the call to readiness. In the Beatitudes and other scriptural contexts, this word often describes those who live in accordance with God's will and are thus recipients of His blessings.

who remains awake
This phrase calls for spiritual vigilance and readiness. The Greek word "γρηγορέω" (grēgoreō) means to be watchful or alert. In the historical context of the early church, believers were encouraged to remain steadfast in faith and practice, anticipating Christ's return at any moment. This exhortation continues to resonate with Christians today, urging them to live in a state of constant spiritual preparedness.

and clothed
Being "clothed" in this context symbolizes being spiritually prepared and righteous. In biblical symbolism, clothing often represents one's spiritual state or condition (e.g., Isaiah 61:10, Revelation 19:8). The call to be clothed suggests maintaining a life of holiness and integrity, adorned with the virtues and righteousness that come from a relationship with Christ.

so that he will not go naked
Nakedness here represents shame and unpreparedness. In the ancient world, being found naked was a sign of disgrace and vulnerability. Spiritually, it signifies a lack of readiness and the absence of the protective covering of righteousness. This warning serves as a reminder to maintain one's spiritual garments, ensuring that one's life is aligned with God's standards.

and let his shame be exposed
The exposure of shame is a consequence of spiritual negligence. In biblical terms, shame is often associated with sin and the failure to live according to God's commands. This phrase underscores the importance of living a life that is above reproach, so that when Christ returns, believers will not be found wanting or embarrassed by their spiritual state. It is a call to live transparently and honorably, reflecting the light of Christ in a dark world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker in this verse, who warns of His unexpected return.

2. The Thief
A metaphor for the suddenness and unexpected nature of Christ's return.

3. The Blessed
Those who remain vigilant and prepared for Christ's coming.

4. Nakedness
Symbolizes spiritual unpreparedness and shame.

5. Armageddon
The context of this verse is within the broader account of the final battle between good and evil.

Teaching Points

Vigilance in Faith
Believers are called to remain spiritually alert and prepared for Christ's return, living in a state of readiness.

Spiritual Clothing
Just as physical clothing covers our bodies, spiritual clothing—righteousness and faith—covers our spiritual nakedness.

The Blessing of Preparedness
There is a blessing promised to those who are prepared and vigilant, highlighting the importance of living a life of faith and obedience.

Avoiding Spiritual Shame
Spiritual nakedness represents a lack of preparedness and can lead to shame; believers must strive to live in a way that honors God.

The Urgency of the Gospel
The unexpected nature of Christ's return should motivate believers to share the Gospel urgently and live out their faith boldly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of a thief in the night challenge your current spiritual preparedness?

2. In what ways can you ensure that you are "clothed" spiritually, and how does this relate to the armor of God described in Ephesians 6?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually "naked" or unprepared. What steps did you take to address this, and how can you apply this experience to your current walk with Christ?

4. How does the promise of blessing for those who remain vigilant encourage you in your daily life and spiritual practices?

5. Considering the urgency of Christ's return, how can you actively participate in sharing the Gospel with those around you? What practical steps can you take this week?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 24:42-44
Jesus uses the metaphor of a thief to describe the unexpected nature of His return, urging vigilance.

1 Thessalonians 5:2-4
Paul echoes the theme of Christ coming like a thief, emphasizing the need for spiritual readiness.

Genesis 3:7-10
The concept of nakedness and shame first appears in the Garden of Eden, symbolizing the awareness of sin.

Ephesians 6:10-18
Paul speaks of the armor of God, which relates to being spiritually clothed and prepared.

Revelation 3:18
Jesus advises the church in Laodicea to buy white garments to cover their shame, linking to the idea of being clothed.