Revelation 15 – The Prelude to the Final Judgments

Overview

Revelation 15 is the shortest chapter in the book of Revelation, yet it carries tremendous theological weight. It serves as a prelude to the seven bowl judgments that will be poured out in chapter 16. John sees another “great and marvelous” sign in heaven: seven angels with the seven last plagues, which are described as the completion of God’s wrath.

Before the judgment is unleashed, there is a heavenly scene of worship. Those who have overcome the beast sing the song of Moses and the Lamb, praising God’s righteousness and justice. The chapter culminates in a vision of the heavenly tabernacle (the temple of the tent of testimony) being opened, and the seven angels emerging from it, clothed in pure, radiant garments. They are given bowls filled with the wrath of God by one of the four living creatures. The temple is filled with smoke from God’s glory, and no one can enter until the plagues are finished.

This chapter reveals the righteous character of God’s judgment, preparing the reader for the climactic outpouring of divine wrath in Revelation 16. It emphasizes God’s holiness, justice, and glory, and affirms His sovereign right to judge evil while vindicating the faithful.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context

Revelation was written during the reign of Emperor Domitian (c. A.D. 81–96), a time of increased persecution against Christians in the Roman Empire.
The imagery in Revelation 15 reflects Old Testament worship, especially the Exodus deliverance, Levitical priesthood, and the tabernacle in the wilderness (Exodus 15, Leviticus 16, Exodus 40).
The chapter presents a heavenly liturgy, with believers who have been victorious over the beast (possibly martyrs) standing by a sea of glass, reminiscent of the Red Sea victory.

Literary Context

Revelation 15 functions as a literary interlude between the trumpet judgments (Revelation 8-11) and the bowl judgments (Revelation 16).
It mirrors Old Testament prophetic and apocalyptic literature, using symbols, songs, and temple imagery to communicate spiritual truths.
The song of Moses and the Lamb connects the Old Covenant (deliverance from Egypt) with the New Covenant (deliverance through Christ), highlighting continuity in God’s redemptive plan.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. The Wrath and Justice of God

“With them God’s wrath is completed” (v.1) – This is a reminder that God’s wrath is not arbitrary; it is holy, just, and purposeful. It is the final phase of His judgment on sin and rebellion.
Evangelical doctrine affirms God’s righteousness (Romans 1:18) and His right to execute judgment on unrepentant humanity (John 3:36).

2. The Victory of the Saints

The image of believers standing on the sea of glass with harps symbolizes victory over persecution, deception, and idolatry.
These saints overcame the beast not by military power but through faithfulness, perseverance, and even martyrdom (cf. Revelation 12:11).
This reflects the biblical doctrine of endurance in the faith (Matthew 10:22, James 1:12).

3. The Song of Moses and the Lamb

A fusion of Old and New Testament worship, the song praises God for His greatness, justice, truth, and holiness.
The doctrine of worship is seen in how God is praised for His deeds and character, not merely for what He provides.
The lyrics emphasize God’s universal reign, with all nations eventually recognizing His sovereignty (cf. Philippians 2:10-11).

4. The Glory and Holiness of God

The heavenly temple filled with smoke from God’s glory recalls Isaiah 6:1-4 and Exodus 40:34–35, symbolizing God’s manifest presence and unapproachability during judgment.
The evangelical doctrine of God’s holiness is central here: He is set apart from sin and cannot be approached on human terms.

5. The Sovereign Plan of Redemption and Judgment

Revelation 15 assures readers that God’s purposes are unfolding exactly as He has ordained.
His sovereignty over history, nations, and final events reinforces a biblical worldview that trusts in the ultimate justice of God (Romans 8:28, Daniel 4:35).

Verse-by-Verse Analysis: Revelation 15 (NIV)

Verse 1 – “I saw in heaven another great and marvelous sign: seven angels with the seven last plagues—last, because with them God’s wrath is completed.”

Explanation: This is the third “sign” in Revelation (cf. 12:1, 12:3). It introduces the final phase of God’s judgment: the seven bowl plagues, symbolizing the consummation of divine wrath.
Doctrinal Insight: This underscores God’s perfect justice (Nahum 1:2-3). His wrath is not an uncontrolled rage but the settled, righteous response to sin.
Cross-Reference: Romans 1:18, “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven…”
Application: Christians are called to warn the lost and proclaim the gospel before this final wrath is poured out.

Verse 2 – “And I saw what looked like a sea of glass glowing with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious over the beast and its image and over the number of its name.”

Explanation: The sea of glass (cf. Rev 4:6) symbolizes God’s majesty and holiness. The fire suggests judgment. Those who overcame the beast are the faithful saints, perhaps martyrs.
Doctrinal Insight: Believers are overcomers through Christ (1 John 5:4-5). Their victory is spiritual and eternal.
Cross-Reference: Revelation 12:11 – “They triumphed… by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”
Application: Endurance in trials and rejection of idolatry is a hallmark of true faith.

Verse 3 – “And sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: ‘Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty…’”

Explanation: The Song of Moses (Exodus 15) celebrated deliverance from Egypt, while the Song of the Lamb celebrates deliverance from sin and the beast.
Doctrinal Insight: God’s redemptive acts are consistent across both covenants. He delivers His people and defeats His enemies.
Cross-Reference: Psalm 111:2-3, Exodus 15:1-18
Application: Worship is rooted in a clear understanding of who God is and what He has done.

Verse 4 – “Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy…”

Explanation: This verse declares God’s uniqueness and the inevitability of universal acknowledgment of His holiness and justice.
Doctrinal Insight: The fear of the Lord is foundational (Proverbs 9:10), and all nations will eventually bow (Philippians 2:10-11).
Cross-Reference: Isaiah 66:23, Psalm 86:9
Application: Our lives should reflect a reverent awe of God, bearing witness to His holiness.

Verse 5 – “After this I looked, and I saw in heaven the temple—that is, the tabernacle of the covenant law—and it was opened.”

Explanation: The heavenly temple represents God’s presence and authority. The opening signals that judgment is now proceeding from God’s presence.
Doctrinal Insight: God is both merciful and just. His temple houses both mercy (covenant) and judgment (law).
Cross-Reference: Hebrews 8:1-5; Exodus 40:34-35
Application: God’s judgment proceeds from His holiness and truth, not from caprice.

Verse 6 – “Out of the temple came the seven angels… dressed in clean, shining linen… golden sashes around their chests.”

Explanation: The angels are clothed like priests or royalty, symbolizing their purity and divine commission.
Doctrinal Insight: God’s agents are holy, and His judgments are administered with dignity and purpose.
Cross-Reference: Daniel 10:5; Revelation 1:13
Application: Ministry and judgment must reflect purity and reverence, not human agendas.

Verse 7 – “Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls filled with the wrath of God…”

Explanation: The golden bowls represent God’s full and final judgment, given by one of the four living creatures, symbolic of creation.
Doctrinal Insight: Judgment affects all creation and is part of the cosmic justice of God.
Cross-Reference: Revelation 5:8; Romans 2:5-6
Application: Believers are to warn of coming judgment and invite others to repentance.

Verse 8 – “And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from his power…”

Explanation: The smoke signals God’s manifest presence, echoing Sinai and Isaiah’s vision. No one could enter until the wrath was finished.
Doctrinal Insight: God’s glory and holiness are overwhelming. His presence precedes judgment.
Cross-Reference: Isaiah 6:1-4; Exodus 40:34-35
Application: The fear of God should produce awe, repentance, and worship, not complacency.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus as the Lamb

The song of Moses and the Lamb unites the Old Covenant and the New. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Exodus—He is the greater Moses who leads His people out of sin and death (John 1:29; Hebrews 3:1-6).
Christ is central to God’s redemptive plan, and all of Revelation points to His victory, judgment, and eternal reign.

2. Jesus and the Overcomers

The overcomers in v.2 gain victory through Jesus. This reflects the repeated theme that victory over Satan and the beast is by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11).

3. Jesus and the Justice of God

The wrath of God poured out in this chapter is just because of rejection of the Lamb. God’s justice magnifies the grace offered in Jesus.
Christ bore wrath for believers at the cross (Romans 5:9). Those who reject Him will face the wrath that remains (John 3:36).

Connection to God the Father

1. The Father as the Source of Glory and Judgment

The temple filled with smoke represents the Father’s unapproachable holiness (Exodus 40:34-35).
His glory fills heaven. The bowl judgments are a manifestation of the Father’s justice, proceeding from His righteous character.

2. The Father and the Tabernacle of the Testimony

The tent of testimony points to God’s covenant relationship with Israel and now with the Church.
The Father remains faithful to His Word. His judgments arise from the very throne of covenantal authority.

3. The Father’s Will in Redemptive History

The final outpouring of wrath shows the Father’s ultimate plan to eradicate evil and establish His kingdom righteousness on the earth.
Revelation 15 assures us that the Father is not passive; He is actively bringing history to its ordained conclusion.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Though Revelation 15 does not explicitly mention the Holy Spirit, His presence and ministry are implicitly evident throughout the chapter:

1. The Spirit as the Source of Prophetic Revelation

The entire book of Revelation is a Spirit-inspired vision given to John (Revelation 1:10; 4:2). The vivid images and divine songs are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:10-14).
The Spirit reveals the holiness of God, the certainty of His judgment, and the victory of the saints.

2. The Spirit and Worship

Those who overcame the beast are singing in Spirit-led worship, joining the “song of Moses and the Lamb.”
True worship (John 4:24) is in Spirit and in truth. The celebration in heaven is Spirit-filled, exalting God’s righteousness and justice.

3. The Spirit Strengthens the Overcomers

The saints who stood firm against the beast did so by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8; Galatians 5:16-25). Their victory was not through their strength but through Spirit-empowered faith and endurance.

4. The Spirit and the Temple Imagery

The temple imagery in verse 8 recalls the Holy Spirit’s work in consecrating sacred space. The glory filling the temple echoes how the Spirit manifested in the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34) and the temple (2 Chronicles 7:1-2).

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: Worship Before the Wrath: A Vision of Holiness and Victory

Text: Revelation 15

Big Idea: Before God pours out His final judgment, He gives a vision of worship, victory, and holiness—reminding us that His wrath is holy, His glory is unmatched, and His people are called to endure in faith.

I. Prelude to Wrath: God’s Judgment Is Just and Complete (v.1)

Key Point: God’s wrath is not random but measured and complete.
Cross-Reference: Romans 2:5; Nahum 1:3
Application: God will not let evil go unpunished—this truth should comfort the righteous and warn the rebellious.

II. Victory in Worship: The Overcomers Rejoice in God (vv.2–4)

Key Point: Even in the face of persecution, God’s people are victorious through Christ.
Example: A persecuted believer in North Korea quietly sings hymns in her heart, trusting Christ even in the dark.
Application: True victory is not survival but faithfulness to Jesus.

III. Heavenly Worship: The Song of Moses and the Lamb (vv.3–4)

Key Point: Worship unites the Old and New Covenant people of God.
Illustration: Just like soldiers sing battle songs to remember victories, believers worship to proclaim God’s faithfulness and holiness.
Application: Our worship must be theologically rich, rooted in the works and character of God.

IV. The Temple of Judgment: God’s Holiness Fills the Sanctuary (vv.5–8)

Key Point: God’s holiness is overwhelming—no one can stand in His presence without His grace.
Cross-Reference: Isaiah 6:1-4; Hebrews 12:29
Application: We must approach God with reverence, repentance, and awe.

Conclusion: The Worshipping Church in a World Awaiting Judgment

Before the final wrath is unleashed, God pauses for worship.
The Church today must stand firm, sing loudly, and proclaim boldly—for the time is short.

Call to Action

To the believer: Endure. Worship God in Spirit and truth. Stand on the sea of glass by remaining faithful to Christ.
To the unbeliever: Flee the coming wrath by turning to Jesus, the Lamb who bore God’s judgment for you (John 3:36).
To the church leader: Cultivate reverent worship and faithful proclamation of the gospel. Teach your people to fear God and glorify His name.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Personal Example – Enduring in Faith

A church elder once shared how he lost his job for refusing to compromise biblical ethics in his company. Though it was financially painful, he said, “Better to lose my paycheck than to dishonor Christ.” Like the saints in Revelation 15, he overcame not through ease but through endurance and integrity.

2. Modern-Day Analogy – Fire and Glory

When a building catches fire, the smoke fills every corner, driving people out and changing everything. In Revelation 15, the glory of God fills the temple with holy smoke, signaling the unstoppable force of His presence. Just as no one can ignore the smoke of a real fire, no one will ignore the glory and judgment of God when it comes.

3. Worship as Warfare

Like a national anthem before battle, the song of Moses and the Lamb is a declaration of allegiance. It reminds the Church: our worship is our warfare. We sing not to feel good, but to remember who wins.

Application for Today’s Christian

Revelation 15 is not just a prophetic vision for the future; it speaks directly to how believers live today. It calls Christians to faithful worship, courageous endurance, and reverent holiness.

1. Discipleship: Endure in Faithfulness

Key Insight: The saints in Revelation 15 stood firm against the beast and overcame. Christians today must resist worldly compromise and follow Christ, even at personal cost.
Practical Application:
- Stay grounded in the Word, especially when culture pressures you to conform.
- Practice spiritual disciplines—prayer, fasting, Scripture meditation—to cultivate endurance.
- Encourage one another regularly (Hebrews 10:24-25) to persevere together.

2. Stewardship: Honor God with Holy Worship

Key Insight: Worship is not a performance—it is a response to God’s majesty and justice. Stewarding our time, resources, and talents includes offering them in sincere, biblical worship.
Practical Application:
- Make Sunday worship a priority, not just a routine.
- Offer your work, money, and daily responsibilities as acts of worship (Romans 12:1).
- Support worship ministries that are theologically sound and Christ-centered.

3. Living Out the Faith: Live with Eternal Perspective

Key Insight: The glory and judgment of God remind believers that this world is temporary. We are to live soberly, urgently, and joyfully.
Practical Application:
- Share the gospel with urgency—God’s judgment is real, and His mercy is available now.
- Refuse to idolize comfort, wealth, or popularity. Live for God’s approval.
- Model courage in trials, showing others that faith in Christ gives strength over fear.

Connection to God’s Love

Although Revelation 15 introduces the final outpouring of God’s wrath, it also magnifies His love and care in several important ways:

1. Love Through Redemption

The song of Moses and the Lamb is a love song of deliverance. God lovingly rescued Israel from Pharaoh (Exodus 15), and now He rescues His people from the dominion of the beast.
His judgment against evil is part of His love for righteousness and for His people.

2. Love Through Justice

God’s wrath is not in contradiction to His love—it is an expression of it. To be truly loving, God must act against injustice, rebellion, and evil (Romans 12:19).
He is not indifferent to suffering; He will bring final justice for the persecuted and oppressed.

3. Love Through Glory

The vision of the heavenly temple filled with glory reminds us that God welcomes worshipers into His presence through the Lamb.
He is preparing a world without sin, where the redeemed will dwell with Him forever (Revelation 21:3-4).

God’s love is not sentimental—it is strong, holy, and sacrificial. He sent His Son so we might be spared from wrath and welcomed into eternal worship.

Broader Biblical Themes

Revelation 15 fits seamlessly within the larger story of Scripture. It reflects and fulfills key theological threads that run from Genesis to Revelation:

1. Creation and Holiness

God created the world for His glory (Isaiah 43:7). The sea of glass reminds us of the firmament in Genesis, separating the holy from the profane.
The smoke of glory evokes Eden’s lost presence—now restored in heavenly worship.

2. Redemption and Deliverance

Just as Moses led Israel through the Red Sea, so the Lamb leads His people through the tribulation into final victory.
The song of Moses and the Lamb links the Exodus (Old Covenant) and the Cross (New Covenant), showing continuity in God’s redemptive plan.

3. Covenant and Worship

The tabernacle of the testimony reflects God’s covenant presence (Exodus 25:8; Hebrews 9:1-5). Revelation shows that this covenant will culminate in final restoration.
Worship is central from start to finish—what was lost in Eden will be eternally restored (John 4:23; Revelation 21:22).

4. Judgment and Restoration

From the Flood (Genesis 6-9) to the exile (Isaiah, Jeremiah), judgment has always been part of God’s justice. But it is never without purpose—it always prepares the way for renewal.
Revelation 15 leads into the bowls of wrath, but these plagues clear the way for the new heavens and new earth (Revelation 21:1).

Reflection Questions

Use these questions for personal devotion, small group discussion, or sermon application. They are designed to prompt deeper engagement with the truths of Revelation 15 and to help Christians live out the message with clarity and conviction.

1. How does Revelation 15 shape your view of God’s justice and His coming judgment?

Do you see God’s wrath as holy and necessary?
In what ways have you been tempted to downplay this aspect of God’s character?

2. The saints in Revelation 15 overcame the beast through faithfulness. How are you being called to stand firm in your own life?

What “beasts” or pressures do you face in your context—cultural, spiritual, or personal?
How can you respond with endurance and courage through the strength of Christ?

3. What does the “song of Moses and the Lamb” teach you about worship?

How can your worship be more focused on God’s greatness, justice, and holiness?
Do the songs and prayers you engage in reflect deep, biblical truths?

4. Why is it significant that the temple in heaven was filled with smoke, and no one could enter?

What does this say about God’s glory and holiness?
How should this shape the way you approach God in prayer and worship?

5. Revelation 15 shows that God’s judgment is both planned and final. How does this encourage or challenge your evangelism and mission efforts?

Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus before it’s too late?
What steps can you take this week to share the gospel with love and urgency?

6. This chapter describes believers as victorious. In what areas of your life do you need to live in the victory of Christ more fully?

Are there patterns of fear, compromise, or silence that keep you from walking in freedom?
How can remembering your position in Christ (Romans 8:37) help you live boldly?

7. How does this chapter move your heart toward greater reverence and awe of God?

What adjustments can you make in your spiritual habits to reflect that reverence?
How does the holiness of God shape the way you think, speak, and act?

8. What does this passage reveal about God’s love through justice and redemption?

How does the cross of Christ help you understand the balance of wrath and mercy?
In what ways can you celebrate and share God’s love more faithfully in your daily life?