A third of mankind was killed by the three plagues of fire, smoke, and sulfur that proceeded from their mouths. A third of mankind was killedThis phrase indicates a significant portion of the world's population being affected, emphasizing the severity of the judgment. The fraction "a third" is symbolic of a partial but substantial judgment, reflecting God's restraint in not allowing total destruction. This echoes earlier judgments in Revelation, such as the trumpet judgments, where a third of various elements are affected (Revelation 8:7-12). It serves as a warning and a call to repentance, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for divine justice. by the three plagues of fire, smoke, and sulfur that proceeded from their mouths Persons / Places / Events 1. The Four AngelsThese are the angels bound at the great river Euphrates, released to kill a third of mankind. Their release is part of the sixth trumpet judgment. 2. The Euphrates River A significant geographical location in biblical prophecy, often associated with boundaries and judgment. 3. The Plagues Fire, smoke, and sulfur are the three plagues mentioned, symbolizing divine judgment and reminiscent of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. 4. Mankind Refers to the people on earth who are subject to these judgments, highlighting the severity and scope of the end-times events. 5. The Sixth Trumpet Part of the series of judgments in Revelation, the sixth trumpet heralds a significant escalation in the intensity of God's wrath. Teaching Points The Reality of Divine JudgmentGod's judgment is real and severe, as depicted in Revelation. Believers are called to live in a way that reflects the seriousness of God's holiness and justice. The Call to Repentance The plagues serve as a warning and a call to repentance. Christians should be diligent in sharing the gospel, urging others to turn to Christ before it's too late. The Sovereignty of God The events in Revelation demonstrate God's ultimate control over history. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is sovereign and His plans will prevail. The Urgency of the Gospel The impending judgment highlights the urgency of evangelism. Christians should be motivated to spread the message of salvation with urgency and compassion. Hope in Christ Despite the terrifying imagery, Revelation ultimately points to the hope found in Christ. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, knowing that their future is secure in Him. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the imagery of fire, smoke, and sulfur in Revelation 9:18 relate to other biblical accounts of judgment, and what can we learn from these parallels?2. In what ways does the release of the four angels at the Euphrates River demonstrate God's control over the timing and execution of His judgments? 3. How can the severity of the plagues in Revelation 9:18 motivate us to share the gospel with urgency and compassion? 4. What does the concept of a third of mankind being killed teach us about the nature of God's judgment and mercy? 5. How can the themes of judgment and hope in Revelation 9:18 encourage believers to live faithfully in anticipation of Christ's return? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 19The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah with fire and sulfur parallels the plagues in Revelation, emphasizing God's judgment on sin. Exodus 9 The plagues of Egypt serve as a precursor to the plagues in Revelation, illustrating God's power and judgment. 2 Peter 3 Discusses the coming judgment and destruction by fire, connecting to the themes of divine retribution in Revelation. Luke 17 Jesus references the days of Lot and the sudden destruction that came upon Sodom, drawing a parallel to the unexpected nature of end-times judgment.
People Abaddon, Apollyon, JohnPlaces Euphrates River, PatmosTopics Brimstone, Burning, Death, Destroyed, Evils, Fire, Goes, Issued, Issuing, Killed, Mankind, Mouth, Mouths, Plagues, Proceeded, Proceeding, Smell, Smoke, Sulfur, Sulphur, ThirdDictionary of Bible Themes Revelation 9:18Library Another Part of My Smoke' which You Frequently Laugh at is My Pretence31. Another part of my smoke' which you frequently laugh at is my pretence, as you say, to know what I do not know, and the parade I make of great teachers to deceive the common and ignorant people. You, of course, are a man not of smoke but of flame, or rather of lightning; you fulminate when you speak; you cannot contain the flames which have been conceived within your mouth, and like Barchochebas, the leader of the revolt of the Jews, who used to hold in his mouth a lighted straw and blow it out … Various—Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. The Comforts Belonging to Mourners Jesus Heals Two Gergesene Demoniacs. Thyatira Triumph Over Death and the Grave The Eternity of God Links Revelation 9:18 NIVRevelation 9:18 NLT Revelation 9:18 ESV Revelation 9:18 NASB Revelation 9:18 KJV Revelation 9:18 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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