Revelation 16:17

Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came from the throne in the temple, saying, "It is done!"

Study Bible

Then the seventh angel
The phrase "Then the seventh angel" introduces the final act in a series of divine judgments. The number seven in biblical numerology often signifies completeness or perfection, reflecting God's perfect plan and the culmination of His divine will. The angel, as a messenger of God, signifies the execution of God's final judgment. In the Greek, "angel" (ἄγγελος, angelos) means "messenger," emphasizing the role of angels as divine agents carrying out God's commands.

poured out his bowl
The act of pouring out the bowl symbolizes the release of God's wrath upon the earth. In the context of Revelation, bowls are vessels of judgment, and their pouring out signifies the full measure of divine retribution. The imagery of pouring is reminiscent of Old Testament practices where libations were poured out as offerings, but here it is God's wrath being fully dispensed.

into the air
The air, in ancient cosmology, was considered the realm of spiritual forces and powers. Ephesians 2:2 refers to Satan as the "prince of the power of the air," indicating that this act of judgment directly confronts and overcomes the spiritual forces of evil. The air being the medium of life and breath also signifies that this judgment affects all living beings.

and a loud voice
The "loud voice" signifies authority and power. In biblical literature, a loud voice often accompanies divine pronouncements, ensuring that the message is heard and acknowledged by all creation. This voice is not just any voice but one that commands attention and signifies the gravity of the moment.

came from the throne
The throne is the seat of divine authority and sovereignty. In Revelation, the throne is a central symbol of God's ultimate rule and power. The voice coming from the throne underscores that this declaration is from God Himself, affirming His control over the unfolding events.

in the temple
The temple represents the dwelling place of God, a sacred space where divine presence is manifest. In the heavenly context of Revelation, the temple signifies the ultimate reality of God's presence and the center of divine activity. This setting emphasizes the holiness and righteousness of the judgment being pronounced.

saying, 'It is done!'
The declaration "It is done!" echoes the finality and completion of God's judgment. The Greek word "γέγονεν" (gegonen) conveys a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. This phrase parallels Jesus' words on the cross, "It is finished" (John 19:30), signifying the completion of God's redemptive work. Here, it marks the end of God's judgment and the ushering in of His eternal kingdom. This statement reassures believers of the certainty of God's promises and the ultimate triumph of His justice and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Seventh Angel
The final angel in a series of seven who pours out God's wrath upon the earth. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible.

2. Bowl
Represents the final judgment of God being poured out. The bowls are symbolic of God's wrath and are part of the series of judgments in Revelation.

3. Air
The domain into which the bowl is poured, possibly symbolizing the pervasive nature of this judgment affecting all creation.

4. Loud Voice
This voice comes from the throne in the temple, signifying divine authority and the finality of God's judgment.

5. Throne in the Temple
Represents God's sovereign rule and presence. The temple is often seen as the dwelling place of God.

Teaching Points

The Finality of God's Judgment
God's judgment is complete and final. Believers can trust in God's ultimate justice and righteousness.

The Sovereignty of God
The voice from the throne emphasizes God's control over all events. We can find peace in knowing that God is sovereign over history and our lives.

The Urgency of Repentance
As the final bowl is poured, it serves as a reminder of the urgency to repent and turn to God before His judgment is complete.

The Assurance of God's Plan
The declaration "It is done" assures believers that God's plan will be fulfilled. We can live with confidence and hope in God's promises.

Living in Light of Eternity
Understanding the finality of God's judgment should motivate us to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing what truly matters.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the pouring of the seventh bowl into the air symbolize the pervasive nature of God's final judgment?

2. In what ways does the declaration "It is done" in Revelation 16:17 parallel Jesus' words "It is finished" on the cross, and what does this mean for believers today?

3. How can understanding the sovereignty of God, as depicted in this passage, impact our daily lives and decision-making?

4. What practical steps can we take to live with an eternal perspective, in light of the finality of God's judgment?

5. How does the urgency of repentance, as highlighted in this passage, influence our approach to sharing the Gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Revelation 15:1
Introduces the seven angels with the seven last plagues, which are the bowls of God's wrath.

John 19:30
Jesus' declaration "It is finished" on the cross parallels the finality of "It is done" in Revelation 16:17, both signifying the completion of God's redemptive and judgmental work.

Daniel 12:7
Speaks of the completion of God's plan, similar to the finality expressed in Revelation 16:17.