Commentary on Revelation 11:18

Verse: "The nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth." (Revelation 11:18)

Introduction

This verse in Revelation encapsulates a profound moment in the unfolding eschatological narrative of the New Testament. It reflects a climactic point where divine judgment is pronounced against the nations while simultaneously affirming the reward for the faithful. The insights drawn from various public domain commentaries provide a cohesive perspective on its theological implications.

Contextual Analysis

Revelation is a book rich with symbolism and prophetic imagery. The backdrop of this verse is significant as it sits within the larger narrative of the seventh trumpet's proclamation, signaling divine intervention and the establishment of God's kingdom. As noted by Matthew Henry, this moment is framed within a climatic series of events signaling the culmination of God's plans for humanity and creation—an invitation for both judgment and salvation.

The Anger of the Nations

The phrase "the nations were angry" highlights the rebellious nature of humanity. Albert Barnes notes that this anger symbolizes the world's opposition to God, particularly in the face of His undeniable authority and sovereign judgments. This response is characteristic of the unrepentant and reflects a resistance to divine governance.

The Coming of God's Wrath

Henry emphasizes that "thy wrath is come," a powerful declaration acknowledging that God's judgment is both deserved and inevitable. This portion reveals God's righteousness in addressing the spiritual and moral decay prevalent in the world. God's wrath is not arbitrary; it is a response to injustice, idolatries, and the systemic corruption of creation.

The Judgment of the Dead

The transition to "the time of the dead, that they should be judged" opens a significant theological discourse on eschatology and resurrection. Adam Clarke elaborates on this by interpreting the phrase as a reference to the final judgment where all will be held accountable for their actions. This includes a notion of resurrection to confront divine justice—a comforting assurance for believers and a sobering invitation for the wicked.

The Reward for Faithful Servants

The verse continues with a declaration of reward: "that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints." Here, a distinction is made between the righteous and the unrighteous, highlighting God's favor upon those who have faithfully served Him. Barnes expounds on this by emphasizing that the promised rewards denote not only eternal life but also an acknowledgment of faithful service and steadfastness amidst adversity.

The Fear of God's Name

The inclusivity of "them that fear thy name, small and great" acknowledges the egalitarian nature of God's judgment. As Matthew Henry points out, it indicates that all believers—regardless of their earthly status—are equally valued in the economy of God's kingdom, providing both comfort and assurance regarding their standing before God.

Destruction of the Earth’s Destroyers

Finally, the closing phrase, "and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth," addresses the consequences of unrestrained human activity that has brought harm to creation. Clarke notes that this serves as a stark warning against exploitation and environmental degradation, emphasizing that God’s justice will ultimately prevail against those who refuse to steward creation responsibly. It brings to fore a holistic view of redemption that involves both humanity and the natural world.

Theological Implications

• Divine Sovereignty: The passage reiterates that God is sovereign over all the earth and its inhabitants, a theme consistently reinforced throughout biblical prophecy.
• Human Responsibility: It underscores the responsibility of humanity in light of divine judgment—a call to stewardship not just of oneself but of the world and creation.
• Hope for the Faithful: This scripture offers a hopeful assurance for believers amid tribulation, emphasizing that God's justice and reward will ultimately prevail.
• Eschatological Awareness: It reinforces the need for an eschatological perspective—understanding the present in light of the ultimate reality of God’s kingdom.

Conclusion

Revelation 11:18 serves as a defining moment within the narrative of final judgment and reward. In drawing together the commentaries of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke, we gain a multifaceted understanding of the text's implications on both a personal and corporate level within God's redemptive history. This scripture not only admonishes believers towards faithfulness but also serves as a poignant reminder of the ultimate accountability that humanity holds before a holy and sovereign God.