Like a Thief

Revelation 16 is an intense vision of judgement. It is understood and known as part of a distinct vision running from Rev. 15:5 – 16:21 due to the language markers John uses for designation. Rev 16 is challenging! However, if you are tracking in your walk with God and your recovery, a deep look in the symbolic language John uses in this chapter can be encouraging.

The judgement language outlines the all–encompassing presence of God in creation, and comfort can be found in the message of the Second Coming of Christ in this chapter. John offers a hopeful quote of Jesus in Rev 16:15—encouraging believers to be vigilant for Christ’s final appearance as he returns “like a thief”—language John uses to draw attention to a return that is “unexpected” (G. K. Beale).

Revelation 16:15 (CSB)

15 “Look, I am coming like a thief. Blessed is the one who is alert and remains clothed so that he may not go around naked and people see his shame.”

God is close—he is transcendent in all creation—it is affirmed by John in the way he informs that God’s judgement relates to all of reality as we know it. The close, and immediate presence of God in all creation is explained in the way of the bowl(s) are “poured out” on—the earth (v. 2), the seas (v. 3), the rivers and springs (v. 4), the sun (v. 8), the throne of the beast (v. 10), the great river Euphrates (v. 12), and even the air (v. 17). Immediately following the seventh bowl the description of the cosmic storm—with lightening, rumblings, and peals of thunder (v. 18)—depicts the Second coming of Christ and the opening of the eschaton.

Yes, the language is tough, but in a way that is captivating and hopeful. God is close to you in the challenges you face in your walk with Christ, recovery, and life. Go in faith with the same One who will return and who will hold us—all of us—accountable, God.