Bible Commentaries

Seven last plagues; those which would accomplish the wrath of God against the beast, and result in his final and utter overthrow. Whether these seven plagues are a more detailed account of the harvest and vintage described in the preceding chapter, or follow after them as additional judgments, can be known only by their fulfilment.

Sea of glass mingled with fire; a smooth, transparent pavement, clear as crystal, variegated with fiery colors. Chap Revelation 4:6. Another glorious vision of the redeemed in heaven is granted to the apostle, to show that during all this period of abounding wickedness, God was still gathering home his faithful servants to the rest and blessedness of his presence.

The song of Moses-and-of the Lamb; praising and adoring God for his deliverance of his people from Egyptian bondage by Moses, and from the bondage of sin by Christ, and for his victories over all their foes.

The salvation of the righteous and the destruction of the wicked are both from God. One is a display of his grace, the other of his justice; and in both he is glorious, blessed, and worthy of everlasting confidence, affection, and praise.

The tabernacle of the testimony; the holy of holies, the peculiar dwelling place of God.

Came out of the temple; expressive of their being commissioned and sent of God.

One of the four beasts gave; we seem to have here an intimation that these seven last plagues proceed from the all-comprehending providence of God. Compare Ezekiel 10:2; Ezekiel 10:6-7.

Smoke; the symbol of God’s presence, as a holy and jealous God prepared to execute vengeance on the wicked. 1 Kings 8:10; Isaiah 6:4.

No man was able to enter; because of the smoke: alluding to the cloud which covered the tabernacle, and filled the temple when they were dedicated. Exodus 40:34-35; 1 Kings 8:10-11. Though God often waits long upon the wicked and his judgments seem to linger, in due time they will come; and continuance in sin against all warnings and entreaties will bring inevitable and overwhelming destruction.