Chapters 15 - 19:5
1881 to 1925-5A-7

THE SEVEN VIALS INTRODUCED AND THE SAINTS IN HEAVEN SING
1882-5A-7

First, the Scriptures presented the seven seals, followed by the seven trumpets. Now, the seven vials (or bowls) are about to be revealed.

15:1. AND I SAW ANOTHER SIGN IN HEAVEN, GREAT AND MARVEL-LOUS (or wonderful), SEVEN ANGELS HAVING THE SEVEN LAST (or final) PLAGUES; FOR IN (or with) THEM IS FILLED UP (or finished, or is completed) THE WRATH OF GOD. 7 vials introduced. T2, H.

15:1. AND I SAW ANOTHER SIGN IN HEAVEN, GREAT AND MARVELLOUS (or wonderful),

SEVEN ANGELS HAVING THE SEVEN LAST (or final)
PLAGUES; FOR IN (or with)
THEM IS FILLED UP (or finished, or is completed)
THE WRATH OF GOD. The intense wrath or fury of God is about to be poured out. The seven angels having the final seven plagues are a sign. Remember, the number seven stands for completeness.

15:2. AND I SAW AS IT WERE (or what looked like) A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED (or mixed) WITH FIRE: AND (standing beside the sea) THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY OVER (or been victorious or defeating) THE BEAST, AND OVER HIS IMAGE, AND OVER HIS MARK, AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD (or harps given them by God-NIV). Ref Rev 4:6; 14:2; 7:9-11. T2, H.

15:2. AND I SAW AS IT WERE (or what looked like)

A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED (or mixed)
WITH FIRE: AND (standing beside the sea)
THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY OVER (or been victorious, or defeating)

(1) THE BEAST, AND
(2) OVER HIS IMAGE, AND
(3) OVER HIS MARK, AND
(4) OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD (or harps given them by God-NIV). Also note the sea of glass mentioned in Rev 4:6. Harpers are mentioned in Rev 14:2. A great multitude is mentioned, in Rev 7:9-11, that came out of the Great Tribulation. The saints are mentioned as having harps in this verse, and singing is mentioned in v.3.

15:3. AND THEY SING THE SONG OF MOSES THE SERVANT OF GOD, AND THE SONG OF THE LAMB, SAYING, GREAT AND MARVELLOUS (or wonderful) ARE THY WORKS (or the things You have done-JNT¹⁶⁸), LORD GOD ALMIGHTY (or Adonai, God of heaven's armies-JNT¹⁶⁹); JUST AND TRUE ARE THY WAYS, THOU KING OF SAINTS (or nations, or ages). Ref Ex 15:1-21; Deut 32. T2, H.

15:3. AND THEY SING THE SONG OF MOSES THE SERVANT OF GOD, AND THE SONG OF THE LAMB, SAYING, GREAT AND MARVELLOUS (or wonderful)

ARE THY WORKS (or the things You have done-JNT¹⁶⁸),
LORD GOD ALMIGHTY (or Adonai, God of heaven's armies-JNT¹⁶⁹);
JUST AND TRUE ARE THY WAYS. Next is another description of Jesus,

#28 THOU KING OF SAINTS (or nations, or ages). The singing of the song of Moses (the Old Testament) and the song of the Lamb (the New Testament) can show there is no conflict between the Old and New Testaments. The singing of the "song of Moses" could indicate that these are martyred Jews-ref Ex 15:1-21; Deut 32.

15:4. WHO SHALL NOT FEAR THEE, O LORD (Adonai), AND GLORIFY THY NAME? FOR THOU ONLY ART HOLY: FOR ALL NATIONS SHALL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE THEE; FOR THY JUDGMENTS (or righteous deeds) ARE MADE MANIFEST (or revealed). T2, H, M.

15:4. WHO SHALL NOT FEAR THEE, O LORD (Adonai),

AND GLORIFY THY NAME? FOR THOU ONLY ART HOLY. Once again, fearing God is mentioned. (Note the commentary on Rev 14:7.)

FOR ALL NATIONS SHALL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE THEE. All nations shall worship before the Lord during the Millennium.

FOR THY JUDGMENTS (or righteous deeds)
ARE MADE MANIFEST (or revealed).

15:5. AND AFTER THAT I LOOKED, AND, BEHOLD, THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary) OF THE TABERNACLE OF THE TESTIMONY IN HEAVEN (or the Tent of Witness in heaven-JNT¹⁷⁰) WAS OPENED. T2, H.

15:5. AND AFTER THAT I LOOKED, AND, BEHOLD, THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary)

OF THE TABERNACLE OF THE TESTIMONY IN HEAVEN (or the Tent of Witness in heaven-JNT,¹⁷⁰ or the temple of the tabernacle of testimony-NASB)
WAS OPENED:

15:6. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS CAME OUT OF THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary), HAVING THE SEVEN PLAGUES, CLOTHED (or dressed) IN PURE (or clean) AND WHITE (or bright, or shining) LINEN, AND HAVING THEIR BREASTS (or chests) GIRDED WITH GOLDEN GIRDLES (or sashes). Ref Isa 11:5. T2, H.

15:6. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS CAME OUT OF THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary),

HAVING THE SEVEN PLAGUES, CLOTHED (or dressed)
IN PURE (or clean)
AND WHITE (or bright, or shining)
LINEN, AND HAVING THEIR BREASTS (or chests)
GIRDED WITH GOLDEN GIRDLES (or sashes). Their clothing would represent righteousness. The girdles may indicate God's glory or priests. AND RIGHTEOUSNESS SHALL BE THE GIRDLE OF HIS LOINS, AND FAITHFULNESS THE GIRDLE OF HIS REINS-Isa 11:5. THE FINE LINEN IS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF SAINTS-Rev 19:8.

15:7. AND ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) GAVE UNTO THE SEVEN ANGELS SEVEN GOLDEN VIALS (or bowls) FULL (or filled) OF THE WRATH (or fury) OF GOD, WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. Ref Rev 4:6-9. T2, H.

15:7. AND ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)

GAVE UNTO THE SEVEN ANGELS SEVEN GOLDEN VIALS (or bowls). The golden vials may represent the true and righteous judgments of God.

The wrath of God that is poured out is proportionate to the amount of sin on the earth. It is written, VENGEANCE IS MINE; I WILL REPAY, SAITH THE LORD-Ro 12:19.

The seven golden vials are
FULL (or filled)
OF THE WRATH (or fury)
OF GOD, WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. Note the four living creatures in
Rev 4:6-9. Again, we are reminded that God lives for ever and ever.

15:8. AND THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary) WAS FILLED WITH SMOKE FROM THE GLORY OF GOD, AND FROM HIS POWER; AND NO MAN WAS ABLE TO ENTER INTO THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary), TILL THE SEVEN PLAGUES OF THE SEVEN ANGELS WERE FULFILLED (or completed). T2, H.

THE FIRST VIAL SORES
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15:8. AND THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary)

WAS FILLED WITH SMOKE FROM THE GLORY OF GOD, AND FROM HIS POWER; AND NO MAN WAS ABLE TO ENTER INTO THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary),

TILL THE SEVEN PLAGUES OF THE SEVEN ANGELS WERE FULFILLED (or completed). The severity of the last seven bowls that are to be poured out is enormous. Man has rejected God. They have worshiped the beast and his image. They have taken his mark. Multiple millions of saints have been killed. God's wrath has already been coming forth during the Tribulation; however, with the end of the Tribulation approaching, far more wrath is about to be unleashed as the seven bowls are emptied. The smoke can indicate the fury of God's wrath and judgment being poured out upon an unrepentant earth. Smoke, fire, incense, and the altar are often related-ref Rev 8:3-5; 14:18.

THE FOLLOWING ARE MENTIONED IN REV 15:1, 5-8
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The following are mentioned in verses 1,5-8:

• Temple opened-v. 5,6 (the temple of the tabernacle of the [His] testimony in heaven)-v.5.

• The sign in heaven-v.1.

• Great and marvelous-v.1.

• One of the four beasts gave to the seven angels-v.7.

• The seven vials-v.7.

• The seven plagues-v.1,6,8.

• The wrath of God-v.7,1.

• The seven angels-v.7,1,6,8; came out of temple-v.6.
  Clothed in pure, white linen, breasts girded with golden girdles-v.6.

• The temple filled with smoke-v.8.

• The glory of God-v.8.

• His power-v.8.

• God lives forever and ever-v.7.

• No man could enter the temple-v.8.
  Till seven plagues done-v.8.

• In the temple-7 angels, 4 beasts, 7 vials, 7 plagues, smoke, the glory of God, God's power.

THE FOLLOWING ARE MENTIONED IN REV 15:2-4
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• The sea of glass-v.2.
  Mixed with fire-v.2.
• The saints-v.2.
• The victory-v.2.
• The beast-v.2.
• The image-v.2.
• The mark-v.2.
• The number of his name-v.2.
• The harps-v.2.
• Song-v.3, of Moses-v.3.
  Saying, great and marvelous - Thy works - Lord God Almighty
  Just and true - Thy ways-v.3.
• The King of saints-v.3.
• Fear Thee-v.4.
• Glorify Thy name-v.4.
• Thou art holy-v.4.
• All nations shall come-v.4.
  And worship before Thee-v.4.
• Thy judgments are made known-v.4.

REV 15:1-15:8: SPECIAL VERSE ARRANGEMENT
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It might be suggested that after studying verses 1-8 normally, one might try reading them in the following order: 2,3,4,5,7,1,6,8, as is presented here.

15:2. AND I SAW AS IT WERE (or what looked like) A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED (or mixed) WITH FIRE: AND (standing beside the sea) THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY (or been victorious, or defeating)

(1) OVER THE BEAST, AND (2) OVER HIS IMAGE, AND, (3) OVER HIS MARK, AND (4) OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD (or harps given them by God-NIV).

15:3. AND THEY SING THE SONG OF MOSES THE SERVANT OF GOD, AND THE SONG OF THE LAMB, SAYING, GREAT AND MARVELLOUS (or wonderful) ARE THY WORKS (or the things You have done-JNT¹⁷¹), LORD GOD ALMIGHTY (or Adonai, God of heaven's armies-JNT¹⁷²); JUST AND TRUE ARE THY WAYS, THOU KING OF SAINTS (or nations, or ages).

15:4. WHO SHALL NOT FEAR THEE, O LORD (Adonai), AND GLORIFY THY NAME? FOR THOU ONLY ART HOLY: FOR ALL NATIONS SHALL COME AND WORSHIP BEFORE THEE. All nations shall worship before the Lord during the Millennium. FOR THY JUDGMENTS (or righteous deeds) ARE MADE MANIFEST (or revealed).

15:5. AND AFTER THAT I LOOKED, AND, BEHOLD, THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary) OF THE TABERNACLE OF THE TESTIMONY IN HEAVEN (or the Tent of Witness in heaven-JNT,¹⁷³ or the temple of the tabernacle of testimony-NASB) WAS OPENED.

15:7. AND ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) GAVE UNTO THE SEVEN ANGELS SEVEN GOLDEN VIALS (or bowls) FULL (or filled) OF THE WRATH (or fury) OF GOD, WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. Again, we are reminded that God lives for ever and ever.

15:1. AND I SAW ANOTHER SIGN IN HEAVEN, GREAT AND MARVELLOUS (or wonderful), SEVEN ANGELS HAVING THE SEVEN LAST (or final) PLAGUES; FOR IN (or with) THEM IS FILLED UP (or finished, or is completed) THE WRATH OF GOD.

15:6. AND THE SEVEN ANGELS CAME OUT OF THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary), HAVING THE SEVEN PLAGUES, CLOTHED (or dressed) IN PURE (or clean) AND WHITE (or bright, or shining) LINEN, AND HAVING THEIR BREASTS (or chests) GIRDED WITH GOLDEN GIRDLES (or sashes).

15:8. AND THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary) WAS FILLED WITH SMOKE FROM THE GLORY OF GOD, AND FROM HIS POWER; AND NO MAN WAS ABLE TO ENTER INTO THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary), TILL THE SEVEN PLAGUES OF THE SEVEN ANGELS WERE FULFILLED (or completed).

Two places are referred to in these passages. One is the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony. Apparently, in the temple are seven angels, four beasts, seven vials containing seven plagues, smoke, the glory of God, and God’s power. This is covered in verses 1,5-8.

The other place is the sea of glass mixed with fire. Here, the saints that had gotten the victory are shown. They have the harps of God. This is covered in verses 2-4.

16:1. AND I HEARD A GREAT (or loud) VOICE OUT OF THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary) SAYING TO THE SEVEN ANGELS, GO YOUR WAYS, AND POUR OUT THE VIALS OF THE WRATH (or fury) OF GOD UPON THE EARTH. T2.

16:1. AND I HEARD A GREAT (or loud)

VOICE OUT OF THE TEMPLE (or sanctuary). This shows the command or authority to begin to release the seven vials comes from God. The command is given with a great or loud voice,

SAYING TO THE SEVEN ANGELS, GO YOUR WAYS, AND POUR OUT THE VIALS OF THE WRATH (or fury)
OF GOD UPON THE EARTH.

16:2. AND THE FIRST WENT, AND POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE EARTH (or land); AND THERE FELL A NOISOME AND GRIEVOUS SORE (or disgusting and painful sores, or loathsome and malignant sore) UPON THE MEN (or all the people) WHICH HAD THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND UPON THEM WHICH WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE. Vial 1. Ref Rev 11:6; 16:11; Ex 9:8-11. T2.

THE SECOND VIAL THE SEA BLOOD EVERY LIVING SOUL IN THE SEA DIED
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16:2. AND THE FIRST (angel)

WENT, AND POURED OUT HIS VIAL (or bowl)
UPON THE EARTH (or land);

AND THERE FELL A NOISOME AND GRIEVOUS SORE (or disgusting and painful sores) UPON THE MEN (or all the people)
WHICH HAD THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND UPON THEM WHICH WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE. There is no question that the vials come during the second part of the Tribulation, as the people already have received the mark of the beast. The word "last," in Rev 15:1, would indicate that the vials are poured out in the latter part of the second part of the Tribulation. They seem to occur in rapid succession.

The sores do not fall upon the saints, but only upon the unrepentant throughout the world. The two witnesses will probably speak or command these plagues as the angels pour them out. It is written, THESE HAVE POWER...TO SMITE THE EARTH WITH ALL PLAGUES, AS OFTEN AS THEY WILL-Rev 11:6. As the plagues come forth, men will blaspheme THE GOD OF HEAVEN BECAUSE OF THEIR PAINS AND THEIR SORES, AND (they) REPENTED NOT OF THEIR DEEDS-Rev 16:11.

Some of these plagues appear to be the same as Moses brought against Pharaoh. It is written, AND THE LORD SAID UNTO MOSES AND UNTO AARON, TAKE TO YOU HANDFULS OF ASHES OF THE FURNACE, AND LET MOSES SPRINKLE IT TOWARD THE HEAVEN IN THE SIGHT OF PHARAOH. AND IT SHALL BECOME SMALL DUST IN ALL THE LAND OF EGYPT, AND SHALL BE A BOIL BREAKING FORTH WITH BLAINS UPON MAN, AND UPON BEAST, THROUGHOUT ALL THE LAND OF EGYPT. AND THEY TOOK ASHES OF THE FURNACE, AND STOOD BEFORE PHARAOH; AND MOSES SPRINKLED IT UP TOWARD HEAVEN; AND IT BECAME A BOIL BREAKING FORTH WITH BLAINS UPON MAN, AND UPON BEAST. AND THE MAGICIANS COULD NOT STAND BEFORE MOSES BECAUSE OF THE BOILS; FOR THE BOIL WAS UPON THE MAGICIANS, AND UPON ALL THE EGYPTIANS-Ex 9:8-11.

The type of sore that is poured out appears to be as follows: an ulcer, evil and wicked or an ulcerated sore, bad and evil. It is described by various translations as follows: loathsome and malignant-NASB, ugly and painful-NIV, foul and loathsome-NKJV.

16:3. AND THE SECOND ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON (or into) THE SEA; AND IT BECAME AS THE BLOOD OF A DEAD MAN: AND EVERY LIVING SOUL (or thing) DIED IN THE SEA. Vial 2. Ref Rev 11:6. T2.

THE THIRD VIAL THE RIVERS AND FOUNTAINS BECAME BLOOD
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16:3. AND THE SECOND ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON (or into)

THE SEA; AND IT BECAME AS THE BLOOD OF A DEAD MAN. This indicates that the sea will become as blood and will not be able to support life. It will become deadly or poisonous.

AND EVERY LIVING SOUL (or thing)
DIED IN THE SEA. Again, it appears that the two witnesses may speak or command this miracle as the angel pours his vial into the sea; as it is written, THESE (the two witnesses)...HAVE POWER OVER WATERS TO TURN THEM TO BLOOD-Rev 11:6. Famines are abounding as birth pangs of a woman. Now all life in the sea dies.

It is unclear if this judgment will be worldwide, or just in the vicinity of the Middle East or the Mediterranean Sea. The words "upon the sea" indicate one sea. The sea becomes as the blood of a dead man.

16:4. AND THE THIRD ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON (or into) THE RIVERS AND FOUNTAINS (or springs) OF WATERS; AND THEY BECAME BLOOD (or they turned to blood). Vial 3. Ref Rev 11:10; Ex 7:19-21,24. T2.

16:4. In the second vial, the sea became as the blood of a dead man, and then

THE THIRD ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON (or into)
THE RIVERS AND FOUNTAINS (or springs) OF WATERS; AND THEY BECAME BLOOD (or they turned to blood). Their food supply has been affected. Now their drinking water is also affected.

Again, it is unclear if this is only in Israel, the Middle East, or throughout the whole world. Nevertheless, when the two witnesses are killed, the people of the earth SHALL REJOICE OVER THEM, AND MAKE MERRY...BECAUSE THESE TWO PROPHETS TORMENTED THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH-Rev 11:10. It does appear that some of the plagues these two witnesses bring, or even most, could be worldwide, except where specified.

This, again, is similar to something that Moses did against Pharaoh. It is written, AND THE LORD SPAKE...TAKE THY ROD, AND STRETCH OUT THINE HAND UPON THE WATERS OF EGYPT, UPON THEIR STREAMS, UPON THEIR RIVERS, AND UPON THEIR PONDS, AND UPON ALL THEIR POOLS OF WATER, THAT THEY MAY BECOME BLOOD; AND THAT THERE MAY BE BLOOD THROUGHOUT ALL THE LAND OF EGYPT, BOTH IN VESSELS OF WOOD, AND IN VESSELS OF STONE. AND MOSES AND AARON DID SO, AS THE LORD COMMANDED...AND ALL THE WATERS THAT WERE IN THE RIVER WERE TURNED TO BLOOD. AND THE FISH THAT WAS IN THE RIVER DIED; AND THE RIVER STANK, AND THE EGYPTIANS COULD NOT DRINK OF THE WATER OF THE RIVER; AND THERE WAS BLOOD THROUGHOUT ALL THE LAND OF EGYPT. AND ALL THE EGYPTIANS DIGGED ROUND ABOUT THE RIVER FOR WATER TO DRINK; FOR THEY COULD NOT DRINK OF THE WATER OF THE RIVER-Ex 7:19-21,24.

16:5. AND I HEARD THE ANGEL OF THE WATERS SAY, THOU ART RIGHTEOUS (or just), O LORD (the Holy One), WHICH ART (or is), AND WAST (or was, or were), AND SHALT BE, BECAUSE THOU HAST (so) JUDGED THUS. Ref Rev 11:17. H, T2.

16:5. AND I HEARD THE ANGEL OF THE WATERS SAY, THOU ART RIGHTEOUS (or just),

O LORD (the Holy One),
WHICH ART (or is),
AND WAST (or was, or were),
AND SHALT BE, BECAUSE THOU HAST (so) JUDGED THUS.

Two angels seem to be mentioned-ref verses 5 and 7. The first is the angel of the waters.

The voice of the second comes out of the altar.

The first says, "Thou art righteous...because Thou hast judged thus."

The second says, "True and righteous are Thy judgments."

Again, the first says, "O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be."

In Rev 11:17, the twenty-four elders said, "O Lord...which art, and wast, and art to come."

16:6. FOR THEY HAVE SHED THE BLOOD OF SAINTS (or Your people) AND PROPHETS, AND THOU HAST GIVEN THEM BLOOD TO DRINK; FOR THEY ARE WORTHY (or they deserve it!). H, T2.

16:6. The angel continues to state why the judgment of turning the sea, the rivers, and the fountains to blood is righteous. He said,

FOR THEY HAVE SHED THE BLOOD OF SAINTS (or Your people)
AND PROPHETS, AND THOU HAST GIVEN THEM BLOOD TO DRINK; FOR THEY ARE WORTHY (or they deserve it!).

During the Tribulation, the blood of multitudes of Christians will be shed. Thus, God judges that it is a righteous thing to give them blood to drink. What they did to the saints has proven that they deserve such a judgment.

16:7. AND I HEARD ANOTHER OUT OF THE ALTAR SAY, EVEN SO, LORD GOD ALMIGHTY (or Adonai, God of heaven's armies-JNT¹⁷⁴), TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS (or just) ARE THY JUDGMENTS. H, T2.

THE FOURTH VIAL UPON THE SUN MEN SCORCHED WITH FIRE AND HEAT

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16:7. AND I HEARD ANOTHER OUT OF THE ALTAR SAY, EVEN SO, LORD GOD ALMIGHTY (or Adonai, God of heaven's armies-JNT¹⁷⁴),

TRUE AND RIGHTEOUS (or just)
ARE THY JUDGMENTS.

These verses are showing that God has given the angels control over the elements of nature as well as other things.

16:8. AND THE FOURTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE SUN; AND POWER WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM (the sun) (or it was permitted) TO SCORCH (or burn) MEN WITH FIRE. Vial 4. T2.

16:8. AND THE FOURTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE SUN; AND POWER WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM (the sun) (or it was permitted)

TO SCORCH (or burn)
MEN WITH FIRE.

16:9. AND MEN WERE SCORCHED (or burned) WITH GREAT (or intense) HEAT, AND BLASPHEMED (or yet they cursed) THE NAME OF GOD, WHICH HATH POWER (or authority, or control) OVER THESE PLAGUES: AND THEY REPENTED NOT (or they refused to repent) TO GIVE HIM GLORY. Ref Rev 16:11,21; 13:6. T2.

THE FIFTH VIAL DARKNESS
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16:9. AND MEN WERE SCORCHED (or burned)

WITH GREAT (or intense)
HEAT. The fourth vial involves the sun. Something will happen to the sun, which will intensify its heat. As a result, people will be scorched with fire and burned with intense heat.

AND the people BLASPHEMED (or yet they cursed)
THE NAME OF GOD, WHICH HATH POWER (or authority, or control)
OVER THESE PLAGUES: AND THEY REPENTED NOT (or they refused to repent)

TO GIVE HIM GLORY. In this late hour of the Tribulation, it may be said that God had a twofold purpose: one was to judge and punish the people of the earth for their rebellion against Him, and the other was that they might yet repent. Nevertheless, most would not repent, as their sins had blinded them to the truth. They had taken the mark and worshiped the image. Not only did they refuse to repent, they cursed the name of God. Three times, in this chapter, the people are shown to be cursing or blaspheming God. This appears in verses 9, 11, and 21.

The Antichrist was also blaspheming God. It is written, HE OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD-Rev 13:6.

At this point in time, it appears that atheism has disappeared. Most people believe that Satan is the true God and the Antichrist is the real Christ. Nearly all Christians have now been put to death, except those whom God has ordained to escape and eventually go into the Millennium.

16:10. AND THE FIFTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL (or bowl) UPON THE SEAT (or throne) OF THE BEAST; AND HIS KINGDOM WAS FULL OF (or plunged into) DARKNESS; AND THEY GNAWED THEIR TONGUES FOR (or from the) PAIN (in agony). Vial 5. Ref Ex 10:21-23. T2.

16:10. AND THE FIFTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL (or bowl)

UPON THE SEAT (or throne)
OF THE BEAST (or Antichrist). The fifth plague is directed against the seat of the beast. The seat of the Antichrist, at this time, shall be in the temple at Jerusalem.

AND HIS KINGDOM WAS FULL OF (or plunged into)
DARKNESS. The kingdom of the Antichrist is not clearly defined. He will rule over the world, but, more specifically, will be in the temple in Jerusalem during the second part of the Tribulation. His seat, before that, appears to be Rome. It also seems, at this time, the earth will be divided up into ten parts. Thus, it is difficult to know just how widespread this darkness shall be. Some may say, Rome; others, Jerusalem; and some, Israel or a particular area of the Middle East.

Moses brought this same plague in Egypt. It is written, AND THE LORD SAID UNTO MOSES, STRETCH OUT THINE HAND TOWARD HEAVEN, THAT THERE MAY BE DARKNESS OVER THE LAND OF EGYPT, EVEN DARKNESS WHICH MAY BE FELT. AND MOSES STRETCHED FORTH HIS HAND TOWARD HEAVEN; AND THERE WAS A THICK DARKNESS IN ALL THE LAND OF EGYPT THREE DAYS: THEY SAW NOT ONE ANOTHER, NEITHER ROSE ANY FROM HIS PLACE FOR THREE DAYS: BUT ALL THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL HAD LIGHT IN THEIR DWELLINGS-Ex 10:21-23.

In the kingdom of the Antichrist,
THEY GNAWED THEIR TONGUES FOR (or from the)
PAIN (in agony).

16:11. AND (yet they) BLASPHEMED (or cursed) THE GOD OF HEAVEN BECAUSE OF THEIR PAINS AND THEIR SORES, AND REPENTED NOT OF THEIR DEEDS (or did not turn from their sinful deeds-JNT¹⁷⁵) (or refused to repent of what they had done-NIV). Ref Rev 16:2. T2.

THE SIXTH VIAL
EUPHRATES DRIED UP
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16:11. AND (yet they)

BLASPHEMED (or cursed)
THE GOD OF HEAVEN BECAUSE OF THEIR PAINS AND THEIR SORES. People will be in total darkness. It may be a darkness so thick that even light cannot penetrate it. In the midst of this darkness, the people will be in torment. They will still have the noisome and grievous sores from the first vial-ref Rev 16:2. It appears that the darkness will further aggravate the pain of their sores. They will bite their tongues from the great pain that they are suffering. And yet, for all this, the people

REPENTED NOT OF THEIR DEEDS (or did not turn from their sinful deeds-JNT¹⁷⁵) (or refused to repent of what they had done-NIV). The length of time that this darkness shall last is not specified. In the days of Moses, it lasted three days. The fact that they still have the sores is a further indication that these last seven plagues all occur in short succession.

It appears that the first five plagues may be brought forth by the two witnesses as the vials are poured out. These include: 1-sores, 2-sea as blood, 3-rivers and fountains to blood, 4-men scorched with heat, and 5-darkness.

16:12. AND THE SIXTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE GREAT RIVER EUPHRATES; AND THE WATER THEREOF WAS DRIED UP (in order), THAT THE WAY OF THE KINGS OF (or from) THE EAST MIGHT BE PREPARED (or to prepare the way for the kings from the East-NIV). Vial 6. Ref Rev 9:14,16; 11:6; 16:8; Joel 1:10-12,18,20. ET.

THE THREE
UNCLEAN SPIRITS THE TRINITY OF SATAN
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16:12. AND THE SIXTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL (or bowl)

UPON THE GREAT RIVER EUPHRATES; AND THE WATER THEREOF WAS DRIED UP. Rev 11:6 had shown that the two witnesses HAVE POWER TO SHUT HEAVEN, THAT IT RAIN NOT IN THE DAYS OF THEIR PROPHECY. The days of their prophecy are 1260. It appears that, for nearly 42 months, the rain has been shut off. Hence, the great river Euphrates has finally dried up.

It is also written, THE NEW WINE IS DRIED UP...THE HARVEST OF THE FIELD IS PERISHED...THE VINE IS DRIED UP...EVEN ALL THE TREES OF THE FIELD, ARE WITHERED. THE HERDS OF CATTLE ARE PERPLEXED, BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO PASTURE. THE RIVERS OF WATERS ARE DRIED UP, AND THE FIRE HATH DEVOURED THE PASTURES-Joel 1:10-12,18,20. The fourth angel had poured out his vial upon the sun and the result was that men were scorched WITH FIRE-Rev 16:8.

Why has the river Euphrates dried up? It is written, (in order)

THAT THE WAY OF THE KINGS OF (or from)
THE EAST MIGHT BE PREPARED (or to prepare the way for the kings from the East-NIV)-ref Rev 9:14. A two hundred million man army appears to have been advancing toward Israel from the east-ref Rev 9:16. They arrive at the great river Euphrates. Because there has been no rain for a long period of time, the river has finally dried up. Thus, "the way of the kings of the east" is now prepared. They can cross the river. The Tribulation is almost over. The Battle of Armageddon is very close.

It is reported that the Euphrates River is approximately 1700 to 1800 miles long, ranging up to about two-thirds of a mile wide.

16:13. AND I SAW THREE UNCLEAN SPIRITS (that looked) LIKE FROGS COME OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE DRAGON, AND OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE BEAST, AND OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE FALSE PROPHET. TE.

16:13. AND I SAW THREE UNCLEAN SPIRITS (that looked)

LIKE FROGS. A frog is a slimy, foul-smelling creature of the swamps and of the night. They can jump rapidly and for long distances. These unclean spirits,

COME OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE DRAGON, AND OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE BEAST, AND OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE FALSE PROPHET. One of the functions of the mouth is communication. It is also a place of both exit and entrance for the body.

Here is the trinity of Satan:
The dragon is a counterfeit of God the Father.
The Antichrist is a counterfeit of Jesus Christ.
The false prophet is a counterfeit of the Holy Spirit.

16:14. FOR THEY ARE THE SPIRITS OF DEVILS (or demonic spirits), WORKING (or performing) MIRACLES (or miraculous signs), WHICH GO FORTH UNTO THE KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE (inhabited) WORLD, TO GATHER (or assemble) THEM TO THE BATTLE OF THAT (war of the) GREAT DAY OF GOD ALMIGHTY. Ref Rev 12:9; 19:19; Zech 14:2,3. TE.

BLESSED IS HE THAT WATCHETH
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16:14. FOR THEY ARE THE SPIRITS OF DEVILS (or demonic spirits). The spirits that came out of the "mouth" of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet are the unclean spirits of devils. These spirits are

WORKING (or performing)
MIRACLES (or miraculous signs). These three spirits can work miracles. It may be noted, the magicians of Egypt were able to duplicate some of the things that Moses and Aaron did, such as, their rods becoming serpents, the waters turning to blood, and bringing forth frogs; however, the rest they could not do. It has already been noted that the Antichrist seemingly had a fatal wound, but it was healed; also, fire was called down from heaven. It can be assumed that these spirits of devils will perform many other miracles. Further, it is written, SATAN, WHICH DECEIVETH THE WHOLE WORLD-Rev 12:9.

These three spirits shall
GO FORTH UNTO THE KINGS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE WHOLE (inhabited)
WORLD, TO GATHER (or assemble)
THEM TO THE BATTLE OF THAT (war of the)
GREAT DAY OF GOD ALMIGHTY (which is the Battle of Armageddon).

As many other verses are studied in relation to these, the three spirits of devils, apparently, use false pretenses to assemble the armies of the world to fight against Jesus. They do not seem to know they are coming to fight against the return of Jesus. Rather, they appear to be fighting against each other. The kings of the east cross the dried up Euphrates River. One-third of mankind is killed. It is written, FOR I WILL GATHER ALL NATIONS AGAINST JERUSALEM TO BATTLE; AND THE CITY SHALL BE TAKEN, AND THE HOUSES RIFLED, AND THE WOMEN RAVISHED; AND HALF OF THE CITY SHALL GO FORTH INTO CAPTIVITY, AND THE RESIDUE OF THE PEOPLE SHALL NOT BE CUT OFF FROM THE CITY. THEN SHALL THE LORD GO FORTH, AND FIGHT AGAINST THOSE NATIONS, AS WHEN HE FOUGHT IN THE DAY OF BATTLE-Zech 14:2,3.

For then it is written, AND I SAW THE BEAST, AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH, AND THEIR ARMIES, GATHERED TOGETHER TO MAKE WAR AGAINST HIM THAT SAT ON THE HORSE (which is Jesus), AND AGAINST HIS ARMY-Rev 19:19.

Few people can comprehend how much influence the demonic realm can have on our thinking and emotions. From the time of Adam and Eve to this current time, Satan has been deceiving people. 
This is all part of spiritual warfare.

16:15. BEHOLD (or look), I COME AS A THIEF. BLESSED IS HE THAT WATCHETH (or stays awake, or alert), AND KEEPETH HIS GARMENTS (clean) (or keeps his clothes with him-NIV), LEST HE WALK NAKED, AND THEY SEE HIS SHAME (or be shamefully exposed, or be publicly put to shame!-JNT¹⁷⁶). TE, A.

HE GATHERED THEM
TO ARMAGEDDON
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16:15. BEHOLD (or look),

I (Jesus)
COME AS A THIEF. Jesus comes as a thief to those that are not watching (the unrepentant), even those that are naked (not wearing the clothing of righteousness through Jesus Christ). Jesus coming as a thief is a message to them.

However, the next message is to the saints that have survived the Tribulation.

BLESSED IS HE THAT WATCHETH (or stays awake, or alert). Those that repent during the Tribulation will be able to watch and understand the time that Jesus will return, as they compare the Scriptures with the events that are happening. As they go through this horrible time, they should be able to understand through God's Word what events still lie ahead.

Blessed is he that
KEEPETH HIS GARMENTS (clean) (or keeps his clothes with him-NIV),

LEST HE WALK NAKED, AND THEY SEE HIS SHAME (or be shamefully exposed, or be publicly put to shame!-JNT¹⁷⁶). Armageddon is at hand. The return of Jesus is at hand. The person that is watching for Jesus' return—who does not turn from following Jesus, does not turn back to sin, does not turn from being faithful, even to the point of being killed—is blessed. By doing these things he is keeping his clothes. His clothing is Jesus. Should he turn from Jesus, then he is no longer clothed with righteousness. If a person is no longer clothed with the righteousness of Jesus, then he is naked, and others can see his shame, as he is exposed.

16:16. AND HE (or they) GATHERED THEM (the kings) TOGETHER INTO A PLACE CALLED IN THE HEBREW TONGUE ARMAGEDDON (or Har Megiddo). Zeph 3:8; Joel 3:14. A, JHA.

THE SEVENTH VIAL
"IT IS DONE"
(ARMAGEDDON)
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16:16. AND HE (or they)

GATHERED THEM (the kings)
TOGETHER INTO A PLACE CALLED IN THE HEBREW TONGUE ARMAGEDDON (or Har Megiddo). The kings and armies of the world are gathered together to the Valley of Megiddo. It is written, THEREFORE WAIT YE UPON ME, SAITH THE LORD, UNTIL THE DAY THAT I RISE UP TO THE PREY: FOR MY DETERMINATION IS TO GATHER THE NATIONS, THAT I MAY ASSEMBLE THE KINGDOMS, TO POUR UPON THEM MINE INDIGNATION, EVEN ALL MY FIERCE ANGER: FOR ALL THE EARTH SHALL BE DEVOURED WITH THE FIRE OF MY JEALOUSY-Zeph 3:8. MULTITUDES, MULTITUDES IN THE VALLEY OF DECISION: FOR THE DAY OF THE LORD IS NEAR IN THE VALLEY OF DECISION-Joel 3:14.

Megiddo, today, is a large, flat top hill or mound of ruins from ancient times (also called a "tel"). It sits on the edge of a vast plain, known as Esdraelon or Jezreel Valley. Here, in this fertile farmland of northern Israel and extending to include the Jordan Valley, the great armies of the world are expected to assemble for war. This area covers nearly 200 miles in length-ref Rev 14:20.

16:17. AND THE SEVENTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL (or bowl) INTO THE AIR; AND THERE CAME A GREAT (or loud) VOICE OUT OF THE TEMPLE OF HEAVEN, FROM THE THRONE, SAYING, IT IS DONE. Ref Isa 24:1,6,19,20; 10:19; Nah 1:5; Jere 25:32,33; Mt 24:22. A.

16:17. AND THE SEVENTH ANGEL POURED OUT HIS VIAL (or bowl)

INTO THE AIR; AND THERE CAME A GREAT (or loud)
VOICE OUT OF THE TEMPLE OF HEAVEN, FROM THE THRONE, SAYING, IT IS DONE. The seventh and final vial is poured out into the air. An announcement is made with a loud voice from the temple in heaven—saying, "IT IS DONE."

The Battle of Armageddon is exploding. Few people really comprehend the magnitude of this
one-day war. Most people on the earth will be killed-ref Isa 24:6; 10:19. THE EARTH IS BURNED-Nah 1:5. The earth will move out of its place-ref Isa 24:19. The earth or ground will turn upside down-ref Isa 24:1. The earth will move back and forth like a drunkard-ref Isa 24:20. A GREAT WHIRLWIND SHALL BE RAISED UP FROM THE COASTS OF THE EARTH-Jere 25:32. THE SLAIN...SHALL BE...FROM ONE END OF THE EARTH...UNTO THE OTHER-Jere 25:33. Jesus Christ returns-ref Zech 14:5. If He had not returned exactly when He does, there should be no flesh left alive on the earth-ref Mt 24:22.

The military might of the world is gathered to fight against Jesus. The supernatural might of the devil, the Antichrist, and the false prophet shall be used, but to no avail; they shall be defeated.

16:18. AND THERE WERE VOICES (or rumblings), AND (peals of) THUN-DERS, AND (flashes of) LIGHTNINGS; AND THERE WAS A GREAT (or massive) EARTHQUAKE, SUCH AS WAS NOT (or has never occurred) SINCE MEN WERE UPON THE EARTH, SO MIGHTY (or violent, or tremendous) AN EARTH-QUAKE, AND SO GREAT. Ref Isa 2:19. A, JHA.

16:18. AND THERE WERE VOICES (or rumblings),

AND (peals of)
THUNDERS, AND (flashes of)
LIGHTNINGS; AND THERE WAS A GREAT (or massive)
EARTHQUAKE, SUCH AS WAS NOT (or has never occurred)

SINCE MEN WERE UPON THE EARTH, SO MIGHTY (or violent, or tremendous)
AN EARTHQUAKE, AND SO GREAT. The intensity of this earthquake is such that the word "great" is used twice. In addition to this, the word "mighty" is also used.

The following verses convey clearly that this earthquake is worldwide. There will be no place to run, hide, or escape.
It is written, THE LORD...HE ARISETH TO SHAKE TERRIBLY THE EARTH-Isa 2:19. The earth will be shaken.

16:19. AND THE GREAT CITY WAS DIVIDED (or split) INTO THREE PARTS, AND THE CITIES OF THE NATIONS FELL (or collapsed): AND GREAT BABYLON CAME IN REMEMBRANCE BEFORE GOD (or God remembered Babylon the Great-NIV), TO GIVE UNTO HER (or made her drink) THE CUP OF THE WINE OF THE FIERCENESS OF HIS WRATH (or raging fury). Ref Rev 11:8; 14:8; 21:10. A, JHA.

16:19. AND THE GREAT CITY (which is believed to be Jerusalem)

WAS DIVIDED (or split)
INTO THREE PARTS, AND THE CITIES OF THE NATIONS FELL (or collapsed). Consider, the great cities and little towns throughout the earth, crumbling and becoming rubble. AND GREAT BABYLON CAME IN REMEMBRANCE BEFORE GOD (or God remembered Babylon the Great-NIV),

TO GIVE UNTO HER (or made her drink)
THE CUP OF THE WINE OF THE FIERCENESS OF HIS WRATH (or raging fury). (The destruction of Babylon should be covered in more detail, under Rev 18:2.) Babylon’s destruction may occur at this time.

The term "great city" is used in the Revelation to designate "Jerusalem" in 11:8.
It is also used for "Babylon or Rome" in 14:8; 17:18; 18:10,16,18,19, and 21.
It is used to portray "New Jerusalem" in 21:10.

Some believe that the "great city" mentioned here is referring to Babylon or Rome and not Jerusalem. However, in view of Rev chapters 17 and 18, this would seem to be incorrect. In addition, it appears that the complete destruction of Babylon (Rome) takes place prior to this. Babylon merely came into remembrance before God at this time. 

It is written, THE TEN HORNS...SHALL HATE THE WHORE...AND BURN HER WITH FIRE-Rev 17:16. An angel cried, BABYLON...IS FALLEN, IS FALLEN...SHE SHALL BE UTTERLY BURNED WITH FIRE: FOR STRONG IS THE LORD GOD WHO JUDGETH HER. FOR IN ONE HOUR IS THY JUDGMENT COME-Rev 18:2,8,10. There appears to be no evidence, from these verses, that this event takes place at the time of Armageddon, but rather prior.

16:20. AND EVERY ISLAND FLED AWAY, AND THE MOUNTAINS WERE NOT (or could not be) FOUND. A, JHA.

16:20. AND EVERY ISLAND FLED AWAY. Apparently, the islands of the world will sink into the sea.

AND THE MOUNTAINS WERE NOT (or could not be)
FOUND. Consider, the mountains of the world being shaken so violently that they can no longer be found. Where mountains once stood, there may now be plateaus. Consider the Himalayan Mountains in Asia, the Alps in Europe, the Rocky Mountains in North America, the Andes in South America, and the tall mountains in Africa will no longer exist.

16:21. AND THERE FELL UPON MEN (or people) A GREAT HAIL (or huge hailstones) OUT OF HEAVEN (or the sky), EVERY STONE ABOUT THE WEIGHT OF A TALENT (or seventy, or a hundred pounds each): AND MEN BLASPHEMED (or cursed) GOD BECAUSE OF THE PLAGUE OF THE HAIL; FOR (or because) THE PLAGUE THEREOF WAS EX-CEEDING GREAT (or terrible). A, JHA.

THE WHORE, THE
WOMAN, AND THE BEAST THE GREAT WHORE
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16:21. AND THERE FELL UPON MEN (or people)

A GREAT HAIL (or huge hailstones)
OUT OF HEAVEN (or the sky),

EVERY STONE ABOUT THE WEIGHT OF A TALENT (or seventy, or a hundred pounds each):

AND MEN BLASPHEMED (or cursed) GOD BECAUSE OF THE (terrible) PLAGUE OF THE HAIL; FOR (or because)
THE PLAGUE THEREOF WAS EXCEEDING GREAT (or terrible). People continue to curse God, because of the things that are coming upon them. Many may die even as they are cursing.

A brief chronological listing of events:

• A voice out of the temple said, "It is done."

• There were voices.

• There were thunders.

• There were lightnings.

• There was the greatest earthquake, since man has existed.

• The great city was divided into three parts.

• The cities of the nations collapsed.

• Babylon came into remembrance.

• Every island fled away.

• The mountains of the world could no longer be found.

• And if anything was left standing after this, huge hailstones, weighing about 70 to 100
  pounds, may flatten it.

COMMENTARY REGARDING REV 17:1-19:5
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Rev 17:1 - 19:5 consists of several items on the same subject. Most should not be difficult to understand; however, it is a challenge to convey the different items under the various subjects, as many pertain to other subjects as well. 

This may be the most difficult chapter in the Revelation to explain on paper.

There are certain main topics (or headings) that need to be understood, in advance, to aid one in their study. Some of these should be listed next.

1. The "great whore" is the Roman Catholic Church. During at least the first part of the Tribulation, the entire world apparently becomes allied with this church, except those that repent and follow Jesus.

2. The "woman" is the city of Rome.

3. The "beast" may refer to the Antichrist or to the empire of the Antichrist, which includes ten kings. (Note commentary under part 1851-5A-6, Rev 13:1.)

The index pertaining to the Antichrist. (Note part 1852-5A-6, the EEC. Note part 1853-5A-6, "Similarities Between the Real Christ and the Antichrist." Note part 1854-1863-5A-6, "The Antichrist: Information About Him, What He Does, and His Empire.")

4. Misc. The woman (the city of Rome) and the great whore (the Roman Catholic Church) are depicted as being allied together or closely united, even as one. The city of Rome has on its forehead the name denoting the church. In the hand of the woman (which is the city) is the golden cup full of abominations.

5. Babylon, as used in Rev 17:5; 18:2,10,21, may refer to the "great whore" or to the "woman."

FROM REV 17:1 TO 19:5, SOME OF THE FOLLOWING ARE COVERED
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• Another angel-18:1

• Another voice-18:4

• The great whore-17:1

• John-ref 17:3

• The woman-17:3,4,6,7
  She persecuted-many verses
  The woman's final judgment-many verses
  A mighty angel-18:21
  Kings-18:9,10
  Merchants-18:11,15-17
  Those of the sea-18:17-19

• The beast-17:7
  Ten horns-17:7

• Seven kings-17:10

• The people-ref 17:8

• The Lamb-17:14

• The saints-ref 17:14

• The apostles-18:20

• The prophets-18:20

• Heaven-18:20

• A great voice of much people-19:1

• The four and twenty elders-19:4

• The four beasts-19:4

• God-19:4

• A voice…out of the throne-19:5

17:1. AND THERE CAME ONE OF THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN VIALS (or bowls), AND TALKED WITH ME, SAYING UNTO ME, COME HITHER; I WILL SHOW UNTO THEE THE JUDGMENT (or punishment) OF THE GREAT WHORE (or prostitute) THAT SITTETH UPON MANY WATERS. Ref Rev 17:15,16; 2:22; 19:3. T2.

17:1. AND THERE CAME ONE OF THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN VIALS (or bowls),

AND TALKED WITH ME, SAYING UNTO ME, COME HITHER. John is instructed to come. Then he is told,
I WILL SHOW UNTO THEE THE JUDGMENT (or punishment)
OF THE GREAT WHORE (or prostitute). Rev 19:3 says, HER SMOKE ROSE UP FOR EVER AND EVER.

The "great whore" is the wicked, religious system (false church) during the Tribulation. This religious system is portrayed as a woman or bride: the followers of Jesus are also portrayed as a woman. Jesus is the Bridegroom. The saints are the bride-ref Rev 19:7-9.

This great whore is shown to be an unfaithful woman. She has become a whore and prostituted herself with another, mainly the devil. She has left the true teachings of Christ and turned aside to many false doctrines. She is not only portrayed as a whore, but a "great" whore

THAT SITTETH UPON (or by)
MANY WATERS. As has already been pointed out, the great whore is the Roman Catholic Church. At some point during the Tribulation, she will be judged and destroyed. She will be burnt with fire-ref Rev 17:16.

The many waters ARE PEOPLES, AND MULTITUDES, AND NATIONS, AND TONGUES-Rev 17:15. The Roman Catholic Church encompasses many peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages. This shows it has tremendous influence upon people.

The message of Jesus to the church of Thyatira was clear. Those that do not repent of this deceptive, intoxicating teaching of the Roman Catholic Church will most certainly be CAST… INTO GREAT TRIBULATION-Rev 2:22. The Roman Catholic Church itself will not repent, but will continue her false teachings. Once the true church is removed in the Rapture, she will even experience revival and flourish for a time. The people of the world will flock to this false religion.

17:2. WITH WHOM THE KINGS OF THE EARTH HAVE COMMITTED FORNICATION (or adultery, or went whoring with her), AND THE INHABITANTS (or people) OF THE EARTH HAVE BEEN MADE DRUNK (or were intoxicated) WITH THE WINE OF HER FORNICATION (or adulteries, or whoring). Ref Rev 19:2. P, LD, T.

THE WOMAN
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17:2. (And) WITH WHOM THE KINGS OF THE EARTH HAVE COMMITTED FORNICATION (or adultery, or went whoring with her). The kings of the earth have allied themselves with this "great whore." They have committed spiritual fornication with her. They have rejected Jesus Christ.

AND (also)
THE INHABITANTS (or people)
OF THE EARTH HAVE BEEN MADE DRUNK (or were intoxicated)
WITH THE WINE OF HER FORNICATION (or adulteries, or whoring). Not only have the kings of the earth rejected Jesus in favor of the "great whore," the inhabitants of the earth have done the same. They have become drunk or intoxicated with her enticing, sinful, pleasurable, and deceitful teachings and ways. They have become intoxicated with sin. As a man can be enticed by a beautiful whore that offers him pleasure through fornication, so the "great whore" entices people. They become as a drunkard, fully intoxicated with wicked spiritual fornication. The whole earth becomes corrupted by this whore-ref Rev 19:2.

Consider a person who begins to drink. As he drinks more and more, he becomes numb to reality and truth. So it is with those who drink of the deceptions of this "great whore." Their minds are taken captive with the whore's deceptive doctrines.

17:3. SO HE CARRIED ME AWAY IN THE SPIRIT INTO THE WILDERNESS (or desert): AND I SAW A WOMAN SIT UPON A SCARLET COLOURED BEAST, FULL OF NAMES OF BLASPHEMY, (and) HAVING SEVEN HEADS AND TEN HORNS. Ref Rev 12:3; 13:1; 17:9,12. T.

17:3. SO HE CARRIED ME AWAY IN THE SPIRIT INTO THE WILDERNESS (or desert):

AND I SAW A WOMAN. The woman represents a great city-ref Rev 17:18. That great city is clearly shown to be "Rome." John saw this woman (or city)

SIT UPON A SCARLET COLOURED BEAST. The "beast" has two meanings. The "beast" by itself is another name for the Antichrist. However, the term "beast" is also used to describe the empire of the Antichrist, which includes ten kings. During the second part of the Tribulation, the Antichrist will rule the entire world for 1260 days. The woman (city of Rome) is shown sitting upon the "beast." It is

FULL OF NAMES OF BLASPHEMY. The city is full of cursing and blasphemy against God.

As the Scriptures continue, the city of Rome, the Roman Catholic Church, the Antichrist, and his empire, are all portrayed as being united or part of each other, during the first part of the Tribulation.

The beast is shown as
HAVING SEVEN HEADS.

Note in the following verses that the red dragon and the beast have seven heads.

A GREAT (or enormous) RED DRAGON, HAVING SEVEN HEADS-Rev 12:3.

A BEAST RISE (or come) UP OUT OF THE SEA, HAVING SEVEN HEADS-Rev 13:1.

AND HERE IS THE MIND WHICH HATH WISDOM (or this calls for a mind with wisdom). THE SEVEN HEADS ARE SEVEN MOUNTAINS (or hills), ON WHICH THE WOMAN (or city) SITTETH-Rev 17:9. It is a well-known fact that the city of Rome sits on seven hills.

AND THERE ARE SEVEN KINGS: FIVE ARE FALLEN, AND ONE IS (living now), AND THE OTHER IS NOT YET COME-Rev 17:10.

The seven heads are seven mountains, and there are seven kings.

The beast (which is the Antichrist and his empire) is pictured with

TEN HORNS. The ten horns represent TEN KINGS-Rev 17:12. These ten kings are believed to come from the EEC. Which ten kings, nations, or divisions are being portrayed here is not clear at this time.

17:4. AND THE WOMAN WAS ARRAYED (or dressed) IN PURPLE AND SCARLET COLOR, AND DECKED (or glittered) WITH GOLD AND PRECIOUS STONES AND PEARLS, HAVING A GOLDEN CUP IN HER HAND FULL OF ABOMINATIONS (or abominable things) AND FILTHINESS (or obscene and filthy things) OF HER FORNICATION (or adulteries, or produced by her whoring). P, LD, T.

MYSTERY, BABYLON
THE GREAT
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17:4. AND THE WOMAN WAS ARRAYED (or dressed)

IN PURPLE AND SCARLET COLOR, AND DECKED (or glittered)
WITH GOLD AND PRECIOUS STONES AND PEARLS. The Scriptures are relating a rich and beautiful city. Again, clearly, Rome is being depicted.

The city is shown as
HAVING A GOLDEN CUP IN HER HAND. In verse 5, the Bible shows that the city and the religious whore are as one. The city of Rome is, indeed, one with the Vatican. The golden cup should be well-known to all Roman Catholics. Here the golden cup is shown being held in the hand of the city, another vivid example of the city of Rome with the Roman Catholic Church.

Consider a golden cup. On the outside, it is beautiful and glamorous. It seems to illustrate something pure and elegant. The outside of the cup seems to reflect godliness and spirituality. However, this golden cup of the Catholic Church, which is being held in the hand of the city of Rome, is not beautiful on the inside. It is full of death and poison. It is

FULL OF ABOMINATIONS (or abominable things)
AND FILTHINESS (or obscene and filthy things)
OF HER FORNICATION (or adulteries, or produced by her whoring). The inside of the beautiful, golden cup is filth. There is fornication and spiritual whoredom against Jesus Christ. The outward beauty is really a deception that covers or conceals the filthiness within.

The world accepts the golden cup as beautiful and true, in Rev 17:1; however, God shows it is full of abominations, obscenities, and filthy things.