Revelation chapter 9 contains cryptic descriptions of horrific judgments brought on earth-dwellers during the first half of the Tribulation. This is one of the “shock & awe” sections that have puzzled biblical scholars, and confused everyday Christians for centuries.
By the end of this chapter, more than half of the world’s population has perished. But why? … to what end? Often while attempting to define the minute details of John’s vision, this bigger question of purpose gets lost.
The primary purpose of such mass destruction is redemptive!
In addition, here are several stunning take-aways from the 5th and 6th “Trumpet Judgments”:
- God is in control and omnipotent over the evil gods of this world.
- Nothing is random … not one detail … in His plan and purposes.
- God’s grace is still being offered in the midst of these judgments.
- Humanity remains belligerent and refuses to repent.
- The most alarming aspect of Revelation 9 is not God’s judgment, but mankind’s persistence in sin.
- Idol and demon worship are followed by unrighteous deeds (cf. Romans 1:20-32).
- A primary purpose of these judgments is to give earth-dwellers another (final?) offer of salvation.
Click on this link to download more details in the Revelation 9:1-21 Notes.
Now we’re on to an in-depth study of Chapter 10! Another handout and study questions will be posted to this blog later this week.
Grace & Truth!
~ tr
OC Bereans 
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