Revelation 16:1-7

The first three vials of God's wrath Revelation 16:1-7: This voice that speaks has to be the voice of God because no one else could enter the Temple because of the smoke. The message to "the seven angels" was “Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth."

It is to be observed that these vials of God's wrath affect the non-believers. The first vial brought terrible ulcers upon those that worshipped the beast and received his mark. The stinking ulcers that are all over the earth are hurting those that refuse true worship. These sinful things also hinder all kinds of legitimate endeavors. It is no wonder that God's wrath is poured out on such evils!

The second vial likewise pictures the corruption brought on by sin. The beast from the sea (the civil persecuting power of Rome) will face certain destruction. The text says, "Every living soul died in the sea." This speaks of the souls of the wicked.

The reason for God's "true and righteous judgment" being poured out unmixed upon these people is stated in the words, "For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets." The great cities of the earth are in trouble as never before because God has been left out! The Roman Empire will now face the consequences of persecuting God's people.