In the next sermon of our series, we were brought through Revelation 8:2-9:21 to hear how the sovereign God mercifully warns people to repent and punishes those who persist in rebellion against Him. John’s second cycle of visions begins with seven angels holding seven trumpets. Before any trumpet is blown, John sees the prayers of persecuted believers rising as incense before the Almighty God who hears and acts. The first four trumpets sound God’s warning in creation’s chaos. We see parallels to Exodus and Genesis - where God deliberately punishes those who reject Him while sparing His own people. When the fifth trumpet sounds, we see God’s warning in painful suffering as locusts bring destruction upon those without His seal. The symbolism of locusts and their ruler show Satan to be the source of unbelievers’ torment - the lies that lead to false hope, suffering, and ultimately destruction. The sixth trumpet sounds God’s warning in widespread death, as a deadly army is released to carry out God’s judgement on unbelievers for their ungodliness and unbelief. Though we see hearts hardened despite God’s warnings, let us continue to pray, for we have a God who listens and responds. Let us boldly pray to persevere despite opposition, trusting that the sovereign Lord will act justly. Even in the chaos, we can be certain that God is absolutely in control and victorious. And let us bring the gospel to suffering unbelievers, for there is still time for repentance before the seventh trumpet sounds.
