Chapter 16v1-9

v1: Why is G-d’s wrath poured out on the world?: Romans 1v18 and 32, Romans 2v5-11 and Romans 6v23

• Earth means the whole world. G-d has sealed Israel through this time. Like in Egypt, the plagues fell upon the Egyptians, but G-d protected His people (Ex 8v22-23). 
• G-d’s covenant people, through a New Covenant relationship based upon the work of Messiah Yeshua (1 Thess 5v9), are not appointed for the wrath of G-d. This is happening to the people who have completely rejected G-d.  

v3: There are two types of blood: The blood of Messiah that redeems, and the blood of death – which is unclean and doesn’t justify. It pollutes. Water is seen as the source of life. G-d is showing that He is removing the source of life. The opportunity to repent is at an end. 

v4: This blood will have the stench of death upon it. It is blood that brings impurity. 

v6: G-d is punishing those who persecuted the believers and the prophets throughout the ages. This verse draws a connection between prophets and believers. Wise believers are those who understand prophetic revelation (when these things happen, the wise believer will not be confused, bewildered or have a crises of faith. They are prepared for what is to come).

v7: G-d sets before everyone blessing and curse (Deuteronomy 28) Revelation 16 reveals to us the outcome of the curse. What is the origin of the curse? It comes out of the law. The law has two components – It can be used to bless, or it can be used to curse. It depends on the response of the people. Do we approach the Word of G-d in faith or with a rebellious spirit? 

v8: G-d ‘turns up the heat’ so to speak. 

v9:These people do not want to reflect or submit to the character (name) of G-d. G-d revealed Himself to these people in a powerful, undeniable way, but they have no humility, no repentance, no pleas for mercy or forgiveness. They continue to blaspheme and refuse to give Him glory.

v10:Darkness, according to Levitical tradition, is seen as one of the most fearful plagues. It was called a “thick” darkness – those who were sitting down could not stand up, those who were standing could not sit down. The plague of darkness destroyed the authority of this empire. This was a painful darkness. 

v11:Despite their pain and sore these people still display an unrepentant spirit. Even after the defeat of the effects and influence of this empire, people are still not willing to turn from sin or confess their unrighteousness. Everyone who goes to eternal damnation will be those who were unwilling to repent of their sins.