Revelation 16:5
And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be, because thou hast judged thus.
Revelation 16:5 (KJV)
Context
The book of Revelation is a prophetic work written by the Apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. Chapter 16 describes the pouring out of the seven bowls of God’s wrath, commonly called the seven last plagues. This verse falls within the third bowl judgment, where the rivers and springs of water are turned to blood.
Meaning
In verse 5 John hears the voice of the angel of the waters. This angel announces God’s righteousness, affirming that the judgment poured out upon the waters is an expression of that righteousness. The angel’s title reflects the Jewish concept of angels presiding over elements, with each element committed to a particular angel’s jurisdiction.
The angel proclaims that God is righteous because He is, was, and shall be forever. This declaration emphasizes the eternal nature of God, whose perfect character, moral uprightness, and consistent adherence to justice define His righteousness. The KJV rendering, “which art, and wast, and shalt be,” emphasizes God’s eternal nature, while many other translations render the phrase as “who is and who was,” focusing on His eternal existence.
Biblical connections
The immediate context in verse 6 explains the basis for this judgment: because the wicked “have shed the blood of saints and prophets,” God has given them “blood to drink” as their just due. This is a case of divine retribution—the punishment fits the crime. The following verse records the altar responding, “Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments,” reinforcing the theme of God’s righteous judgment. The judgment on the waters echoes the first plague of Egypt, where the Nile was turned to blood, demonstrating a direct connection to God’s earlier acts of judgment against oppressors.
Application
This verse reminds believers that God is both righteous and just in His judgments. Even when the surrounding events are not fully understood, Christians can trust in His perfect wisdom and have confidence that He will bring justice according to His righteous standards. The judgments in Revelation serve as a call to repentance and faith. They warn people to turn away from sin and turn toward God, offering an opportunity to seek forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a manner that reflects God’s righteousness. Pursuing holiness, love, and justice allows us to bear witness to God’s righteous character in a world marred by sin.
Reflection
Revelation 16:5 highlights the righteousness of God in His judgments, reminding us of His eternal nature and perfect justice. It calls us to trust in His righteousness, to repent, and to live lives that reflect His holy character.
