Revelation 16:9
French (La Bible expliquée)
Et les hommes furent brûlés par une chaleur terrible; ils insultèrent le nom du Dieu qui détient de tels fléaux en son pouvoir, mais ils refusèrent de changer de comportement pour lui rendre gloire. Comme l'avait fait le Pharaon du temps de Moïse (Ex 9.7 34), les victimes de ces fléaux persistent dans leurs insultes contre Dieu. Le trône de la bête est celui de Rome, capitale de l'empire considéré comme hostile au Christ et à son Église. L'Euphrate était une importante frontière stratégique face aux Parthes, terreur de l'Empire romain à cette époque. Ses eaux, qui tarissent comme celles de la mer des Roseaux (Ex 14.21) et du Jourdain (Jos 3.17), permettent le déclenchement des hostilités. La promesse du v. 15 reprend un thème traditionnel des évangiles: le jour du Seigneur viendra sans que l'on s'y attende. Il est donc très important de rester habillé, comme prêt à partir, à l'image, une fois de plus, des Hébreux qui attendaient leur libération (Ex 12.11). Harmaguédon désigne la montagne de Méguiddo, théâtre de nombreux combats tout au long de l'histoire d'Israël (Jug 5.19).
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes people being punished with intense heat during the end times but instead of repenting, they continue to speak against God and refuse to give Him glory.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a really hot day where it feels like your skin is burning. Instead of thanking whoever made the weather for cooling down, some people keep saying mean things about them and don't apologize or change their behavior. That's what this verse talks about but in a much bigger way.
Historical Background
Revelation was written by John around AD 95 to encourage Christians facing persecution under Roman rule. The audience was mainly the seven churches of Asia Minor, who were suffering for their faith.
Living It Out Today
Imagine you're in a difficult situation where it feels like everything is against you, yet instead of turning to God and recognizing His power, some people blame Him or refuse to acknowledge His role. This scenario highlights how people can react stubbornly even when faced with significant challenges.
Topics
judgmentrepentanceperseveranceblasphemyGod's powerplagues
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do the people in this verse not give glory to God even though they are suffering?
The verse shows that despite facing severe consequences, some individuals stubbornly refuse to acknowledge or honor God's power and authority. This reflects a hardened heart against divine intervention.
What does 'repented not' mean in this context?
'Repented not' means the people did not change their behavior or thoughts towards God, even though they were experiencing great suffering because of their actions.
How can we avoid the fate described in Revelation 16:9?
The verse suggests that acknowledging and glorifying God's power during trials is crucial. By doing so, one shows humility and a willingness to change behavior for a better relationship with God.
What does this verse teach us about the nature of people facing extreme suffering?
It teaches that extreme situations do not necessarily lead to repentance or faith; some may react with anger or stubbornness, refusing to acknowledge their need for divine help and forgiveness.