Revelation 9:21

Furthermore, they did not repent of their murder, sorcery, sexual immorality, and theft.

Study Bible

Furthermore
This word serves as a continuation from the previous verses, indicating that despite the severe judgments and plagues described earlier in Revelation 9, the people remained unrepentant. The Greek word used here is "καὶ" (kai), often translated as "and" or "also," emphasizing the ongoing nature of their rebellion. It highlights the stubbornness of humanity in the face of divine warnings, a theme consistent throughout the Bible, where God’s patience is met with human obstinacy.

they did not repent
The Greek word for "repent" is "μετενόησαν" (metenoēsan), which means to change one's mind or purpose. In the biblical context, repentance involves a heartfelt turning away from sin and turning towards God. The refusal to repent, despite witnessing God's power and judgment, underscores the hardness of human hearts. This phrase echoes the call to repentance found throughout Scripture, where God desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

of their murder
The term "murder" translates from the Greek "φόνων" (phonon), referring to unlawful killing. Murder is a direct violation of the sixth commandment (Exodus 20:13) and is often used in Scripture to illustrate the depth of human depravity. The persistence in such grave sin, even in the face of divine judgment, highlights the moral decay and spiritual blindness that can envelop humanity.

sorcery
The Greek word here is "φαρμακειῶν" (pharmakeiōn), which is related to the use of drugs or potions and is often associated with witchcraft or magical arts. In the ancient world, sorcery was linked to idolatry and the manipulation of spiritual forces, which is condemned throughout the Bible (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). This practice represents a reliance on powers other than God, reflecting a deep-seated rebellion against His sovereignty.

sexual immorality
Translated from the Greek "πορνείας" (porneias), this term encompasses a range of illicit sexual behaviors outside the bounds of biblical marriage. Sexual immorality is frequently condemned in Scripture (1 Corinthians 6:18-20) as it defiles the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit. The persistence in such sin, despite divine warnings, illustrates humanity's tendency to prioritize fleshly desires over spiritual obedience.

or theft
Theft, from the Greek "κλεμμάτων" (klemmatōn), involves taking what does not belong to oneself. It is a violation of the eighth commandment (Exodus 20:15) and represents a lack of trust in God's provision. The inclusion of theft in this list of unrepented sins underscores the pervasive nature of sin and the human inclination to covet and take rather than to give and trust.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Unrepentant People
This verse refers to those who, despite the plagues and judgments described earlier in Revelation, refuse to repent of their sins. They represent a hardened humanity resistant to God's call for repentance.

2. The Plagues
The context of this verse is the series of judgments unleashed upon the earth, specifically the sixth trumpet judgment, which is part of the larger account of God's wrath being poured out in the end times.

3. John the Apostle
The author of Revelation, who received these visions while exiled on the island of Patmos. He serves as the recorder of these divine revelations.

4. The Four Sins
The specific sins mentioned—murder, sorcery, sexual immorality, and theft—are indicative of the moral decay and rebellion against God prevalent in the end times.

5. The Trumpet Judgments
A series of catastrophic events described in Revelation, intended to bring about repentance and demonstrate God's sovereignty and justice.

Teaching Points

The Call to Repentance
Despite severe judgments, the refusal to repent highlights the importance of a heart willing to turn back to God. Believers are called to examine their own lives and repent of any sin.

The Reality of Sin
The specific sins mentioned are not just ancient issues but are prevalent today. Christians must be vigilant against these temptations and seek holiness.

God's Patience and Justice
God's judgments are both a demonstration of His justice and an opportunity for repentance. His patience should not be mistaken for tolerance of sin.

The Urgency of the Gospel
The unrepentant nature of humanity underscores the urgency of sharing the Gospel. Believers are called to be witnesses in a world resistant to God's truth.

Spiritual Warfare
The mention of sorcery points to the reality of spiritual warfare. Christians must be aware of and combat spiritual deception with the truth of God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the refusal to repent in Revelation 9:21 reveal about the human heart, and how can we guard against a similar attitude in our own lives?

2. How do the sins listed in Revelation 9:21 manifest in today's society, and what steps can we take to address them within our communities?

3. In what ways do the trumpet judgments in Revelation parallel the plagues in Egypt, and what can we learn from these events about God's character?

4. How does understanding the reality of spiritual warfare, as hinted at by the mention of sorcery, change the way we approach our daily walk with Christ?

5. Considering the urgency of the Gospel message, how can we effectively share the hope of repentance and salvation with those who are resistant to God's truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7-11
The plagues of Egypt serve as a parallel to the judgments in Revelation, both intended to lead people to repentance and acknowledge God's power.

Romans 1:18-32
This passage describes humanity's descent into sin and God's wrath against unrighteousness, similar to the unrepentant nature of people in Revelation 9:21.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the works of the flesh, including some of the same sins mentioned in Revelation 9:21, highlighting the ongoing struggle against sin.

2 Timothy 3:1-5
Describes the moral decline in the last days, echoing the unrepentant attitudes seen in Revelation.