Revelation 16:9

And the people were scorched by intense heat, and they cursed the name of God, who had authority over these plagues; yet they did not repent and give Him glory.

Study Bible

And the people were scorched by intense heat
This phrase describes a judgment involving extreme heat, likely from the sun, as part of the fourth bowl of God's wrath. This judgment echoes the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 9:22-26) and serves as a reminder of God's power over creation. The intense heat can be seen as a literal event or symbolic of spiritual fervor and trial. In the context of Revelation, it signifies the severity of God's judgment during the end times, aligning with prophetic imagery found in Isaiah 24:6 and Malachi 4:1, where the earth is burned and the wicked are consumed.

and they cursed the name of God
Despite the clear divine origin of the plagues, the people's response is one of blasphemy rather than repentance. This reaction highlights the hardness of human hearts and the fulfillment of prophecies about end-time rebellion against God (2 Timothy 3:1-5). Cursing God's name is a direct violation of the commandment in Exodus 20:7, showing a deep-seated defiance and rejection of God's authority.

who had authority over these plagues
This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and control over the events unfolding in Revelation. It reflects the biblical theme that God is the ultimate authority over all creation and history (Psalm 103:19). The plagues are not random acts of nature but are divinely orchestrated judgments, similar to those in Egypt, demonstrating God's power and justice (Exodus 7-12).

Yet they did not repent and give Him glory
Despite the severity of the judgments, the people refuse to repent, illustrating the depth of human sinfulness and resistance to God. This refusal to repent is a recurring theme in Revelation (Revelation 9:20-21) and serves as a warning of the consequences of hardening one's heart against God. The call to give God glory is a call to recognize His rightful place as Creator and Judge, as seen in passages like Romans 1:21 and Philippians 2:10-11, where all are ultimately called to acknowledge God's glory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. People
The verse refers to those who are experiencing the plagues. These individuals are characterized by their response to the divine judgment.

2. God
The Almighty, who has authority over the plagues. His sovereignty and power are emphasized in this passage.

3. Plagues
These are divine judgments sent upon the earth, specifically intense heat in this context, as part of the end-times events described in Revelation.

4. Intense Heat
A specific plague that causes suffering, symbolizing God's wrath and judgment.

5. Repentance
The expected response to divine judgment, which the people fail to exhibit, highlighting their hardened hearts.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God has ultimate authority over creation and the events of the end times. Believers are called to trust in His sovereign plan.

The Hardness of Human Hearts
Despite clear signs of divine intervention, people can still choose to reject God. This serves as a warning to remain open to God's call.

The Call to Repentance
The refusal to repent highlights the importance of turning to God in humility. Believers should regularly examine their hearts and seek repentance.

The Reality of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is real and serves as a call to live righteously. Christians should be motivated to share the gospel, knowing the urgency of the times.

Giving Glory to God
In all circumstances, believers are called to glorify God. This includes recognizing His authority and responding in worship and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of the people in Revelation 16:9 reflect the condition of the human heart, and what can we learn from this about our own spiritual state?

2. In what ways do the plagues in Revelation parallel the plagues in Egypt, and what does this teach us about God's consistent character throughout the Bible?

3. How can we ensure that we are living lives of repentance and giving glory to God in our daily actions?

4. What are some practical ways we can share the urgency of the gospel message with others, in light of the reality of divine judgment?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over the events in Revelation provide comfort and assurance to believers today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 9:24
The plagues in Egypt serve as a precursor to the plagues in Revelation, showing God's power and the call for repentance.

Romans 1:21
This verse discusses humanity's failure to honor God, similar to the people's response in Revelation 16:9.

2 Peter 3:9
God's desire for repentance is echoed here, contrasting with the people's refusal to repent in Revelation.

Matthew 24:29
Jesus speaks of cosmic disturbances in the end times, which align with the plagues described in Revelation.