Organizing the Judgments
To gain a better perspective of
the three sets of judgments [i.e. seals, trumpets, and bowls], I have created
the following chart for your visual aid. This chart is meant to act as a guide
for those who wish to see a brief synopsis of the twenty-one judgments. It also
helps us distinguish them from one another and see how they not only differ
from one another, but progressively grow worse with the passing of each one.
Different Interpretations
While there are many godly
Christians who view these judgments somewhat differently than I am proposing,
the main point of their existence is to display God’s wrath on sinful mankind.
This much is clear. The main debate, however, within Christian circles is
whether these judgments are sequential or parallel.
Sequential or Parallel?
I believe that John lists out
three sets of seven judgments in sequential order. Basically, I think that the
twenty-one judgments will happen one right after the other. Whereas there are
many men and women who see these judgments as merely paralleling one another.
Thus, they would argue that there are only seven judgments that John describes
in three distinct ways.
However, I would like to
challenge that assumption with having us observe the chart. For your
convenience, I have listed the Bible references at the end of this post. You
will notice in the chart that each column includes a heading at the top. The
first column includes the specific number we are referring to and the next
three columns consist of the following sets of judgments. Then you will find Compare & Contrast followed by the Final Verdict.
The main reason why I see these
judgments as sequential and not as
parallel is due to the fact that, upon comparison, many either have no
similarities or are in plain contradiction with one another [as is emphatically
the case in judgments four and five]. Even those that do seem to be similar do
not prove that they are paralleling one another. This just shows that the same
God is bringing them about. Also, if you think about it, there are only so many
ways wrath can be displayed.
Historic or Future?
Another way these plagues are
debated is whether or not they are historical or yet future. Did these take
place in 70 A.D. during the Roman conquest of Jerusalem or are they still
awaiting a future fulfillment? I believe they are still to come because
I think that maintaining both a chronological and futuristic reading of this
book makes the most sense.
In chapters fifteen and sixteen
we will look again at their sequential nature and gain a clearer understanding
of their chronological order. There are certain words that the apostle chose to
use which are key to understanding them in light of the context of the whole
book. However, no matter the case, these judgments are a terrible reality to
any and all who are held hostage to them. Therefore, repent and be saved from
God’s wrath which is coming upon the whole world.
I hope you will find this chart
beneficial as we continue our study through the book of Revelation.
Biblical References
1.
The Seal Judgments (6:1-17; 8:1-5).
2.
The Trumpet Judgments (8:6 - 9:21; 11:15-19).
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