Revelation 16:2
So the first went and poured out his bowl upon the earth, and a foul and loathsome sore came upon the men who had the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image.
Beloved, why does the last book of the Bible depict such horrific scenes as the one in our text today? One reason is that it is simply the bitter truth. The truth does not always sound pleasant.
The Word of God says iniquity is purged through mercy and truth (Pro 16:6). As long as our Gospel skirts around the truth, our people will remain in their iniquity. As long as we sugar-coat the truth, we mislead God’s children.
The Bible also teaches that we are set free by knowing the truth (John 8:32). Only the truth about the last days will liberate us from end-time deception and challenges.
Thus, it is prudent for us to know that there are seven angels with bowls of the wrath of God, ready to pour them upon all idolators. You and I must not think we are exempt because the real Beast has not yet manifested. In fact, many today are already receiving the “mark of the Beast” in a sense. They do so by compromising godly values for worldly convenience. God forbid!
It is unpleasant reading, but effective spiritual medication. Like a good doctor, the Lord often prescribes bitter medicine for His “patients”. His goal is not to hurt but to cure. His aim is not to entertain us but to heal the sickness of our souls. Beloved, let us drink this divine medicine without hesitation. Let us read and study these difficult passages for our own good. That’s exactly what the doctor ordered, just what we need.
Pastor Josh