The Scene in Heaven and the Seven Bowls (Revelation 15:1–16:21)

Throughout human history, God has stayed his hand of retribution, being “patient toward us, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet 3:9). But God’s patience with rebellion does not mean forgetfulness of rebellion. In fact, Paul teaches that the unrepentant are “storing up wrath for [themselves] in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God” (Rom 2:5). It is as though the sin in this world is building-up pressure like water against a dam until, one day, God will open his holy spillway, unleashing his just anger so as to punish evil, prompt faith, and bring restoration. Ultimate rest comes on the other side of wrath and perfect peace arrives after divine punishment.  Revelation 15 and 16 mark the near-culmination of this time of great testing, a finish line that prompts celebration in the heavens, sends devastation upon the earth, illustrates the corruption of the human heart, and provides much-needed exhortation for the waiting church today.