Journal Rev 16 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: [Seven bowls, full of the Wrath of God, given to seven angels to pour out, one after another. The following is after the third bowl…]
“And I heard the angel in charge of the waters say, ‘Just are you, O Holy One, who is and who was, for you brought these judgments. For they (the inhabitants of the earth, wearing the mark of the beast and worshipping its image) have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and you have given them blood to drink.
It is what they deserve!’
And I heard the altar saying, ‘Yes, Lord God the Almighty—true and just are your judgments!’” Rev 16:5-7
Observation: What is the difference between now and the coming judgment? Does God execute wrath like this today?
Application: I retreat to the tried-and-true theological position of…”I don’t know. It is a mystery…”
However, while there may be some who would assert that God executes wrath on the ungodly today, I think that the New Covenant covers more of Grace and Mercy on and for our world.
The difference, I think, is God showing his Power over creation, afflictions, etc., to draw attention to his Glory and to his Mercy. In the case of Revelation 16, this is just down and out judgmental Wrath. Note: this paragraph is unsatisfactory to me, but I think directionally accurate.
At the time of the mark of the Beast and of worshippers of the Beast, is there room for repentance and of drawing in humble adoration of the Son? I don’t think so (according to the Scriptures). So, what is a Beast worshipper to do?
They hide from the Wrath of the Lamb.
Prayer: Father, is there a practical word, a lesson to be wrestled from Rev 16? Yep.
Repent now, don’t wait until later.
AMEN.
Ricky Two Shoes