“Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, ‘It is done!'” (Revelation 16:17 NKJV)
We’ve heard this phrase before, “It is finished.” But this time, it’s not the victorious cry from Calvary. It’s a declaration from heaven’s throne: the final bowl of judgment has been poured out. This is not the end of redemption, but the end of rebellion.
A Great Chapter
Revelation 16 is often called the “Great” chapter—for good reason. Eleven times, the Greek word megas (great) appears: great heat, great river, great earthquake, great hail. The wrath of God is poured out in full upon a world that has utterly rejected His grace.
This is not an allegory or metaphor. These are literal events, foretold in Scripture and consistent with God’s pattern of judgment. Just as Egypt suffered under plagues, the earth will reel under the final seven bowls.
Those who worshipped the Beast will be marked—first by his seal, then by God’s judgment: painful sores, bloody seas, darkened kingdoms, and searing heat. Yet despite the suffering, we are told repeatedly, they did not repent. Instead, they blasphemed the very God who gave them breath.
It’s sobering.
But what about us—today?
If these judgments show us anything, it’s that now is the time to turn to Christ. The message is urgent: Repent and believe the gospel. These events may still be future, but the hardening of hearts begins now. If we ignore God’s voice today, we may reject Him tomorrow.
Let’s not forget: judgment is not God’s desire—it’s His justice. He desires that all would come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). That’s why He shakes the earth. That’s why He warns. That’s why Jesus still says, “Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches…” (Revelation 16:15).
Application
Ask yourself: What do I worship? Where does my mind go when I wake up? Do I prioritize news feeds or the Word of God? What controls my schedule—my comfort, or Christ? Let God’s truth direct your calendar, your checkbook, and your choices.
Jesus is coming. And whether by rapture or by death, we will meet Him face to face. May we be found clothed in His righteousness, not naked in our own works, guilt, or shame. Let us serve Him acceptably—with reverence and godly fear (Hebrews 12:28).
Because His Kingdom cannot be shaken. And if we are in Him, neither can we.
PD