If people in hell were given a second chance, they’d change their minds, right? Wrong. In The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis, “tourists” from hell are allowed to visit the outskirts of heaven. There, each is met by a friend who tries to convince them to stay, a choice which would require repentance. Nearly all of them reject this opportunity and return to hell.
The hardhearted rebelliousness of sinners is highlighted in Revelation 16, where the final seven bowls of judgment are poured out (v. 1). The first brings nasty sores to all those wearing the mark of the beast (v. 2). The second turns the oceans’ waters to blood (v. 3). All sea life dies. The third does the same to all freshwater rivers and springs (vv. 4–7). This is poetic justice: Given their sinful actions, people deserve to drink blood.
The fourth bowl judgment is environmental disaster, as the sun scorches the earth (vv. 8–9). In the fifth bowl, the very “throne of the beast” is targeted (vv. 10-11). Darkness descends. In the sixth bowl, the Euphrates River dries up and the false trinity gathers its forces, via deceiving demonic spirits, for Armageddon (vv. 12–16).
Verse 15 is a message to believing readers from Christ Himself. We’re exhorted to “stay awake” and be ready. He will return “like a thief,” unexpectedly (1 Thess. 5:2). Jesus gave His followers the same message (Matt. 24:36–44; 25:1–13) and wrote the same to the church at Sardis earlier in the book (Rev. 3:2–3).
With the seventh bowl, the words “It is done!” are pronounced. Natural devastation follows—including an earthquake and hailstones—as well as spiritual devastation, the fall of Babylon. Of course, the survivors will repent now? No. They continue to curse God.
Go Deeper
Why is evil irrational? Throughout all of Scripture, we see that sin hurts the sinner. Why can the wicked not see the harm they bring on themselves?
Pray with Us
Our hearts are grieved for those who turn away from You, Lord. We know sin separates us from You. Open the eyes of the unbelieving so they may find eternal hope in Your love!
You are just in these judgments, O Holy One.Revelation 16:5
DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION 