Revelation 16 - Introduction

The Seven Vials of God's Wrath Revelation Sixteen

Revelation Sixteen gives a picture of the seven vials of God's wrath being poured out. God's judgment, without mercy, issued forth against the Roman Empire and at the end of time similar judgment will be faced by all the ungodly. This judgment had been announced when the sixth seal was opened. (Revelation 6:12-17) The seven trumpets called the people to repentance. (Revelation 8:6-13; Revelation 9:1-21; Revelation 10:1-11; Revelation 11:1-19) Sadly, they were not willing to change. Now the judgment against Rome is final.

Evil people of all ages will face similar punishment to that received by the Roman Empire. The first vial was poured out because of the festering ulcers of sin that are everywhere and now man faces the consequences of his deeds. Moral and spiritual corruption was overwhelming in Rome and the corruptions of our day are grievous also.

As the others vials were opened we see the sea stinking with blood and death. The consequence of the corruptions of mankind is that the Roman Empire and later all the ungodly of the human race become like the Dead Sea. The cities along the rivers and streams face the consequences of sinful living as those waters are turned to blood. The great cites of the world face very server troubles today. Judgment against them proceed from a righteous and Almighty God.

Violence becomes a way of life where God is left out of the lives of people. These judgments against the unbelievers are so harsh that some wonder if they could have come from a loving God. We must remember that His judgments are "true and righteous." These severe judgments come because these people persecuted God's people. Those who rebel against God will go down to total defeat. The great city of Rome now faces the consequences of its sins.