THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES: How Jesus Christ Reveals, Purifies, Delivers, and Establishes His Kingdom
By Carl Timothy Wray
Carl Timothy Wray is the founder of The Finished Work of Christ ministry and the author of hundreds of Bible studies dedicated to revealing Jesus Christ through the full counsel of God. His teaching traces the unified message of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, demonstrating that every symbol, prophecy, and promise ultimately reveals the person, purpose, and finished work of Jesus Christ. In The Seven Last Plagues, Wray examines Revelation 15 and 16 through the lens of God’s eternal purpose, showing how the seven bowls reveal Christ’s progressive work of exposing the old creation, purifying His people, delivering them from spiritual Babylon, and establishing His everlasting Kingdom.
THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES is a Christ-centered study of Revelation 15 and 16 that reveals the spiritual purpose of God’s seven bowls of judgment. Rather than focusing on fear or end-time speculation, this book follows the full counsel of Scripture to show how Jesus Christ progressively reveals, purifies, delivers, and establishes His Kingdom. Tracing themes from Genesis through Revelation, this study explores God’s purpose in judgment, the fall of Mystery Babylon, the transition from the old creation to the new creation, and the ultimate triumph of Christ’s eternal Kingdom.
Introduction
The Revelation of Jesus Christ Through the Seven Last Plagues
The Book of Revelation is not merely a record of future events. It is, above all, the Revelation of Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:1). Every vision, every symbol, every trumpet, every seal, and every bowl ultimately reveals His person, His work, and His eternal purpose.
Among the most misunderstood visions in Revelation are the Seven Last Plagues recorded in chapters fifteen and sixteen. For centuries these bowls have often been viewed only as catastrophic judgments poured out upon the world. Yet the Scriptures reveal a far greater purpose. These judgments are presented as the completion of God’s righteous dealings, through which Jesus Christ exposes the works of the old creation, purifies His people, delivers them from spiritual bondage, and establishes His Kingdom according to the counsel of His Father’s will.
Throughout the Bible, God’s judgments never stand apart from His redemptive purpose. From the Exodus out of Egypt to the prophetic visions of Isaiah, from the teachings of Christ to the writings of the apostles, the Lord consistently reveals Himself by exposing darkness, separating truth from error, and leading His people into greater measures of life, light, and liberty.
This study approaches the Seven Last Plagues through the full counsel of God. Each chapter traces the biblical thread from Genesis to Revelation, allowing Scripture to interpret Scripture while keeping Jesus Christ at the center of every symbol. The goal is not merely to understand prophetic imagery but to behold the progressive revelation of Christ as He fulfills His Father’s eternal purpose.
The Seven Last Plagues do not simply announce the end of an age. They reveal the triumph of Jesus Christ over everything that opposes the Kingdom of God. They proclaim the progressive overthrow of the old creation and the glorious establishment of the new creation, until God’s purpose is fulfilled and His Kingdom stands in fullness.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Revelation of Jesus Christ Through the Seven Last Plagues
Chapter One
THE PURPOSE OF THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES
Chapter Two
THE TEMPLE OPENED IN HEAVEN
Chapter Three
THE FIRST BOWL: Jesus Christ Reveals the Corruption of the Earth
Chapter Four
THE SECOND BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Sea
Chapter Five
THE THIRD BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Rivers and Fountains
Chapter Six
THE FOURTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Sun
Chapter Seven
THE FIFTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Darkens the Throne of the Beast
Chapter Eight
THE SIXTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Prepares the Way for His Kingdom
Chapter Nine
THE SEVENTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Declares, “It Is Done”
Chapter Ten
THE FULL COUNSEL OF GOD: The Seven Last Plagues Revealed from Genesis to Revelation
Conclusion
Jesus Christ Reveals, Purifies, Delivers, and Establishes His Kingdom
CHAPTER ONE
THE PURPOSE OF THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES
The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture
Revelation 1:1
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass…”
Teaching
Before we study the seven last plagues, we must establish what the Book of Revelation is revealing. It is not primarily the revelation of judgments, disasters, or future events. It is the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Every seal, every trumpet, every bowl, and every vision reveals another aspect of His person, His authority, and His kingdom. If we lose sight of Jesus Christ, we will misunderstand every symbol that follows.
The Wrath of God Brought to Completion
Scripture
Revelation 15:1
“And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.”
Teaching
The seven last plagues reveal the completion of God’s righteous work. The emphasis is not upon endless judgment but upon fulfillment. God brings His purpose to its appointed end. The bowls demonstrate that Jesus Christ is removing everything that opposes His kingdom until His work is complete.
God Reveals Before He Removes
Scripture
Amos 3:7
“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.”
Teaching
Throughout Scripture, God reveals His purpose before He completes His work. He uncovers what is hidden before He removes it. The seven last plagues continue this divine pattern by exposing every realm of corruption before the full establishment of God’s kingdom.
The Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken
Scripture
Hebrews 12:27–28
“And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken… that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.”
Teaching
God’s judgments always serve His eternal purpose. He removes what is temporary so that what is eternal may remain. The seven last plagues reveal Jesus Christ shaking every corruptible kingdom until His everlasting kingdom stands without mixture.
The Goal of the Seven Last Plagues
Scripture
Revelation 11:15
“The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.”
Teaching
The goal of the seven last plagues is not destruction for its own sake. Their purpose is to reveal Jesus Christ, expose corruption, purify His creation, deliver His people, and establish the everlasting Kingdom of God.
CHAPTER TWO
THE TEMPLE OPENED IN HEAVEN
The Temple Was Opened
Scripture
Revelation 15:5–6
“And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened: And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.”
Teaching
Before the first bowl is poured out, John sees the temple opened in heaven. This establishes the divine source of everything that follows. The seven last plagues do not originate in the will of man or in the power of darkness. They proceed from the presence of God according to His eternal purpose.
The temple is called “the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony.” Throughout Scripture, God’s testimony reveals His character, His covenant, and His purpose. The bowls therefore proceed from the testimony of God and reveal His righteousness through Jesus Christ.
Everything Begins at the Throne
Scripture
Isaiah 6:1
“I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.”
Teaching
The prophets consistently saw that God’s works proceed from His throne. Isaiah first saw the Lord before receiving his commission. Likewise, John first sees the heavenly temple before witnessing the outpouring of the bowls.
The Revelation of Jesus Christ continually directs our attention upward before it reveals what happens upon the earth. Heaven governs earth. God’s kingdom establishes the pattern before His purposes are manifested in creation.
The Angels Receive Their Commission
Scripture
Revelation 15:7
“And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.”
Teaching
The bowls are not taken by the angels; they are given to them. This demonstrates divine order and authority. Every messenger serves under the government of God, carrying out His will rather than acting independently.
The golden bowls signify that God’s work is holy, righteous, and perfectly ordered. Nothing in this vision suggests confusion or chance. Every action proceeds according to the counsel of God.
No Man Was Able to Enter the Temple
Scripture
Revelation 15:8
“And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.”
Teaching
The glory of God fills the temple before the bowls are poured out. Throughout Scripture, God’s glory fills the tabernacle and the temple as a sign of His manifest presence.
The declaration that no one could enter the temple until the seven plagues were fulfilled emphasizes that God’s work would be completed according to His own purpose. His counsel cannot be interrupted or altered. What He has determined, He faithfully brings to completion.
The Temple Reveals God’s Government
Scripture
Psalm 11:4
“The Lord is in his holy temple, the Lord’s throne is in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.”
Teaching
The heavenly temple reveals that Jesus Christ reigns from the throne of God. Every judgment, every act of purification, and every revelation proceeds under His sovereign authority.
The seven last plagues are therefore not random calamities but the orderly administration of God’s kingdom. Before the earth experiences the bowls, heaven reveals their source. Before corruption is exposed, the throne is established. Before the kingdoms of this world are shaken, the government of God is seen standing forever.
The opened temple reminds us that the Revelation of Jesus Christ begins in heaven and ends with God’s kingdom openly manifested. Everything that follows in the seven bowls flows from His righteous government and serves His eternal purpose.
CHAPTER THREE
THE FIRST BOWL: Jesus Christ Reveals the Corruption of the Earth
The First Bowl Is Poured Upon the Earth
Scripture
Revelation 16:1–2
“And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth. And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which worshipped his image.”
Teaching
The first bowl begins with a command from the temple. The voice proceeds from the presence of God, showing that what follows is carried out according to His purpose. The bowl is poured upon the earth, directing our attention to the first realm addressed in this vision.
The plague does not fall upon all people indiscriminately. John specifically identifies those who had the mark of the beast and worshipped his image. The vision distinguishes between allegiance to the beast and allegiance to God. Before the following bowls unfold, the Revelation identifies the realm where corruption has taken root.
The Earth Reveals the Condition of Man
Scripture
Genesis 2:7
“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.”
Teaching
Throughout Scripture, the earth often serves as the place from which mankind was formed and upon which human life is manifested. The first bowl being poured upon the earth reminds the reader that God’s revelation reaches the realm where humanity lives and where His purposes are worked out.
The bowl exposes corruption rather than creating it. What is hidden is brought into the light. The grievous sore reveals an inward condition that has become outwardly manifest.
God Reveals What Is Hidden
Scripture
Luke 8:17
“For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.”
Teaching
One of God’s consistent ways throughout Scripture is to reveal before He removes. The first bowl follows this pattern. Corruption that has remained hidden is exposed.
The sore is not presented as merely a physical affliction. Within the vision, it serves as a sign that allegiance to the beast produces corruption. The Revelation uncovers what has already existed beneath the surface.
The Mark of the Beast Revealed
Scripture
Revelation 13:16–17
“And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads…”
Teaching
The first bowl specifically identifies those who bear the mark of the beast. The vision continues the contrast established earlier in Revelation between those who belong to the Lamb and those who follow the beast.
The mark identifies allegiance. The bowl reveals the fruit of that allegiance. What has been embraced inwardly is now openly manifested. Jesus Christ exposes every false kingdom before establishing His own.
Jesus Christ Reveals Before He Purifies
Scripture
John 3:20–21
“For every one that doeth evil hateth the light… But he that doeth truth cometh to the light…”
Teaching
The ministry of Jesus consistently brings hidden things into the light. His light exposes darkness, not to leave creation in corruption, but to reveal the truth and accomplish God’s purpose.
The first bowl therefore begins the progressive revelation of the seven last plagues. Jesus Christ first exposes corruption upon the earth before the remaining bowls continue His work of revealing, judging, purifying, and establishing His Kingdom.
The first bowl teaches that God’s work begins with revelation. Before corruption can be removed, it must be exposed. Before the Kingdom is openly established, everything contrary to that Kingdom must be brought into the light.
CHAPTER FOUR
THE SECOND BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Sea
The Second Bowl Is Poured Upon the Sea
Scripture
Revelation 16:3
“And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea.”
Teaching
After the first bowl is poured upon the earth, the second bowl is poured upon the sea. The Revelation moves from one realm to another, demonstrating that the work of Jesus Christ is progressive and complete. Nothing escapes His authority.
The sea becomes “as the blood of a dead man.” Life is no longer found there. The vision reveals that everything sustained by this realm is brought under divine judgment. Jesus Christ exposes every source of corruption until His Kingdom alone remains.
The Sea Represents the Nations
Scripture
Isaiah 17:12–13
“Woe to the multitude of many people, which make a noise like the noise of the seas… The nations shall rush like the rushing of many waters…”
Teaching
Throughout the Scriptures, the sea is frequently used as a picture of the restless multitudes of the nations. Its waves continually rise and fall, illustrating instability, conflict, and the constant movement of the kingdoms of this world.
The second bowl reveals that Jesus Christ possesses authority not only over individuals but also over nations, kingdoms, and every earthly administration. No kingdom stands outside His sovereign rule.
The Waters Reveal Peoples, Multitudes, Nations, and Tongues
Scripture
Revelation 17:15
“The waters which thou sawest… are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.”
Teaching
The Book of Revelation interprets one of its own symbols. The waters represent peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues. The sea therefore points beyond the natural creation to the corporate realm of humanity.
The second bowl demonstrates that Jesus Christ judges every system built apart from the righteousness of God. Human governments, cultures, and kingdoms cannot produce the everlasting life found only in Christ.
The Sea Gives Up Its Dead
Scripture
Revelation 20:13
“And the sea gave up the dead which were in it…”
Teaching
Later in Revelation, the sea gives up its dead before the final judgment. Nothing remains hidden before God. Every realm must ultimately answer to Jesus Christ.
The second bowl anticipates that reality by revealing that the sea cannot preserve life apart from God. The kingdoms of this world are temporary, but the Kingdom of Christ is everlasting.
Jesus Christ Rules Over Every Nation
Scripture
Psalm 22:27–28
“All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the Lord… For the kingdom is the Lord’s: and he is the governor among the nations.”
Teaching
The purpose of the second bowl is not merely to announce judgment upon the sea. It reveals that Jesus Christ alone is the rightful ruler of the nations. Every kingdom established by man will ultimately yield to the Kingdom of God.
The sea may appear powerful, restless, and immeasurable, yet it remains under the authority of its Creator. The second bowl reminds us that no multitude, no empire, and no earthly power can prevent the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
As the seven last plagues continue, Jesus Christ progressively reveals His authority over every realm of creation until every competing kingdom gives way to the everlasting Kingdom of God.
CHAPTER FIVE
THE THIRD BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Rivers and Fountains
The Third Bowl Is Poured Upon the Rivers and Fountains
Scripture
Revelation 16:4–7
*”And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.
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.
For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy.
And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments.”*
Teaching
The third bowl shifts from the sea to the rivers and fountains of waters. The Revelation moves from the great body of water to its individual sources. The progression is significant. Jesus Christ not only judges what is seen outwardly but also reveals the sources from which it flows.
The rivers and fountains become blood, revealing that corruption has reached the very springs that nourish and sustain. The vision teaches that before God’s Kingdom is fully established, He exposes the source of corruption as well as its outward manifestation.
Out of the Heart Flow the Issues of Life
Scripture
Proverbs 4:23
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”
Teaching
Throughout Scripture, the source is as important as the fruit. A river can rise no higher than its fountain. Likewise, the condition of the heart determines what proceeds from it.
The third bowl reminds us that Jesus Christ deals with the source before complete restoration is accomplished. His purpose is not merely to change outward behavior but to reveal and transform what produces it.
Rivers of Living Water
Scripture
John 7:37–39
*”If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”*
Teaching
Jesus spoke of rivers flowing from those who receive the Holy Spirit. Here in Revelation, the rivers are no longer life-giving but have become blood. The contrast is intentional.
Only Jesus Christ can produce living water. Every source apart from Him ultimately reveals death rather than life. The third bowl exposes every fountain that cannot sustain the life of God’s Kingdom.
The Lord Is Righteous in His Judgments
Scripture
Revelation 16:5–7
“Thou art righteous, O Lord… because thou hast judged thus… true and righteous are thy judgments.”
Teaching
Twice within this passage heaven declares that God’s judgments are righteous. The emphasis is not on severity but on justice. Everything Jesus Christ does proceeds from perfect righteousness.
The Revelation continually reminds us that God judges according to truth. His purpose is never arbitrary. His judgments reveal His holiness, uphold His righteousness, and advance His eternal purpose.
Jesus Christ Reveals the Source Before Establishing His Kingdom
Scripture
Matthew 7:17–20
“Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit… Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”
Teaching
Jesus taught that fruit always reveals its source. A corrupt tree cannot produce good fruit, and a good tree cannot continually produce corrupt fruit.
The third bowl follows this same principle. Jesus Christ reveals the fountains before He completes the work of establishing His Kingdom. He exposes the source of corruption so that the source of life may be clearly seen.
The rivers and fountains point us to a spiritual principle found throughout the Scriptures: God is concerned not only with what flows through His creation but also with the fountain from which it flows. The Kingdom of God is established upon a pure source, and Jesus Christ alone is that source of everlasting life.
CHAPTER SIX
THE FOURTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Sun
The Fourth Bowl Is Poured Upon the Sun
Scripture
Revelation 16:8–9
*”And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire.
And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory.”*
Teaching
The fourth bowl is poured upon the sun. Throughout the Scriptures, the sun is a symbol of light, rule, authority, and manifestation. It governs the day and gives light to the earth. In this vision, the very sphere that gives light becomes the object of judgment.
The Revelation teaches that Jesus Christ possesses authority over every governing light. Nothing that exercises influence or authority exists outside His sovereign rule.
God Appointed the Greater Light to Rule the Day
Scripture
Genesis 1:16
“And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also.”
Teaching
From the beginning, the sun was appointed to rule the day. It was created by God and remains subject to Him. The Creator always possesses authority over His creation.
The fourth bowl reminds us that every authority is accountable to God. Whether natural or symbolic, no governing light stands independent of Jesus Christ.
The Lord God Is Our Sun
Scripture
Psalm 84:11
“For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.”
Teaching
The Scriptures ultimately point beyond the natural sun to the Lord Himself. He is the true source of light, grace, protection, and life.
Whenever created light is exalted above its Creator, corruption follows. The fourth bowl reminds us that Jesus Christ alone is the true Light, and every lesser light must remain subject to Him.
The Light Has Come Into the World
Scripture
John 3:19–21
“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.”
Teaching
Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. His coming exposes what is hidden and reveals the true condition of every heart.
The response described in Revelation mirrors the response many gave during Christ’s earthly ministry. Rather than turning to the Light, many resisted it. Revelation declares that those scorched by the fourth bowl “repented not to give him glory.” The vision reveals that the issue is not merely suffering but the condition of the heart toward God.
The Sun of Righteousness Shall Arise
Scripture
Malachi 4:2
“But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings…”
Teaching
The prophets looked beyond the natural sun to the coming of the Messiah. Jesus Christ is the true Sun of Righteousness, bringing healing, life, and the revelation of God.
The fourth bowl therefore contrasts two realities. The judgment upon the sun reveals the insufficiency of every created light, while Jesus Christ remains the everlasting Light that no judgment can diminish.
As the seven last plagues continue, the Revelation progressively directs our eyes away from created things and toward the Son of God. He alone possesses all authority in heaven and in earth. He alone gives the light that overcomes darkness. He alone establishes a Kingdom that shall never pass away.
CHAPTER SEVEN
THE FIFTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Darkens the Throne of the Beast
The Fifth Bowl Is Poured Upon the Throne of the Beast
Scripture
Revelation 16:10–11
*”And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,
And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds.”*
Teaching
The fifth bowl marks a significant transition in the Revelation. The previous bowls were poured upon the earth, the sea, the rivers and fountains, and the sun. Now the judgment falls directly upon the throne of the beast.
The throne represents government, authority, dominion, and rule. Jesus Christ now reveals that every kingdom established in opposition to God must ultimately lose its power. The kingdom of the beast is filled with darkness because it cannot produce the light of the Kingdom of God.
The Beast Receives His Throne
Scripture
Revelation 13:2
“And the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.”
Teaching
Earlier in the Revelation, the beast receives his power, throne, and authority from the dragon. His kingdom is not self-originating but derives its authority from another source.
The fifth bowl exposes the limitation of that kingdom. What was given by the dragon cannot withstand the authority of Jesus Christ. The throne that once appeared powerful is revealed to be temporary, while the throne of God remains forever.
The Kingdom of Darkness Cannot Stand
Scripture
Colossians 1:12–13
“Giving thanks unto the Father… who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.”
Teaching
Paul describes two kingdoms: the power of darkness and the kingdom of God’s dear Son. The work of Jesus Christ is to deliver His people from one kingdom and establish them in another.
The fifth bowl reveals the progressive overthrow of the kingdom of darkness. As Christ advances His Kingdom, the authority of the beast is exposed, weakened, and ultimately removed.
The Light Shines in Darkness
Scripture
John 1:4–5
*”In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.”*
Teaching
Darkness is not merely the absence of natural light; throughout Scripture it also symbolizes spiritual blindness, deception, and separation from God. Jesus Christ entered the world as the true Light, revealing the Father and overcoming the darkness.
The fifth bowl demonstrates that the beast’s kingdom cannot produce light. Its throne is filled with darkness because it is separated from the life that is found only in Christ.
The Kingdom of Our Lord Shall Stand Forever
Scripture
Daniel 2:44
“And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed… but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.”
Teaching
Daniel foresaw the establishment of an everlasting Kingdom that would replace every earthly kingdom. Revelation shows that same purpose reaching its fulfillment through Jesus Christ.
The fifth bowl is not simply about the fall of one throne; it reveals the certainty that every kingdom opposed to God’s righteous rule will pass away. The throne of the beast is darkened because its authority is temporary. The throne of Jesus Christ endures forever.
As the seven last plagues continue, the contrast becomes increasingly clear. The kingdom of darkness declines while the Kingdom of God advances. Jesus Christ reveals the weakness of every false throne so that His everlasting Kingdom may be openly established.
CHAPTER EIGHT
THE SIXTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Prepares the Way for His Kingdom
The Sixth Bowl Is Poured Upon the Great River Euphrates
Scripture
Revelation 16:12
“And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared.”
Teaching
The sixth bowl introduces another major transition in the Revelation. The bowl is poured upon the great river Euphrates, and its waters are dried up. The purpose of this act is immediately given: “that the way of the kings from the east might be prepared.”
Throughout Scripture, God prepares the way before He establishes His purpose. Obstacles are removed before His promises are manifested. The drying up of the Euphrates reveals that nothing can prevent the advancement of God’s Kingdom when His appointed time has come.
Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord
Scripture
Isaiah 40:3
“The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”
Teaching
The prophets consistently declared that God prepares a way before revealing His glory. Isaiah announced the preparation of the Lord’s way, and John the Baptist fulfilled that pattern by preparing the way for the first coming of Christ.
The sixth bowl continues this principle. Before the full manifestation of God’s Kingdom, the way is prepared according to His eternal purpose.
Three Unclean Spirits Like Frogs
Scripture
Revelation 16:13–14
*”And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.
For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world…”*
Teaching
As God prepares the way for His Kingdom, the Revelation also exposes the final efforts of deception. The dragon, the beast, and the false prophet are revealed working together through unclean spirits.
Before truth is fully manifested, deception is fully exposed. Jesus Christ reveals both the Kingdom of God and the counterfeit kingdom so that the distinction between truth and error is made plain.
Behold, I Come as a Thief
Scripture
Revelation 16:15
“Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.”
Teaching
In the midst of the sixth bowl, Jesus Himself speaks. His words call His people to watchfulness and readiness.
The emphasis is not upon fear but upon faithfulness. Those who keep their garments remain prepared for the revelation of His Kingdom. Throughout the Book of Revelation, overcoming believers are encouraged to remain steadfast as God’s purpose unfolds.
The Gathering to Armageddon
Scripture
Revelation 16:16
“And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.”
Teaching
The gathering at Armageddon represents the climax of the conflict between the kingdoms of this world and the Kingdom of God. Throughout Scripture, the Lord brings every opposing power to its appointed end.
The preparation described in the sixth bowl is therefore twofold. God prepares the way for the revelation of His Kingdom while simultaneously exposing and gathering every opposing kingdom for its final defeat.
The sixth bowl reminds us that Jesus Christ governs history according to the Father’s eternal purpose. He removes every obstacle, exposes every deception, and prepares the way for the open manifestation of His righteous Kingdom. What God has promised, He faithfully brings to pass in His appointed time.
CHAPTER NINE
THE SEVENTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Declares, “It Is Done”
The Seventh Bowl Is Poured Into the Air
Scripture
Revelation 16:17
“And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.”
Teaching
The seventh bowl brings the series of the seven last plagues to its appointed completion. Unlike the previous bowls, which were poured upon the earth, the sea, the rivers, the sun, the throne of the beast, and the Euphrates, the seventh bowl is poured into the air.
Then a great voice proceeds from the temple and from the throne, declaring, “It is done.” The declaration comes from the throne of God, revealing that His purpose has reached its appointed fulfillment. The One who began His work has faithfully brought it to completion.
The Voice From the Throne
Scripture
Revelation 21:5–6
“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new… And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.”
Teaching
The declaration, “It is done,” appears again as the new creation is revealed. The same Lord who completes His judgments also completes His work of restoration.
Throughout the Revelation, the throne is the place from which God’s purpose proceeds. What is declared from the throne cannot fail. Jesus Christ brings every part of the Father’s eternal counsel to its perfect completion.
Every Kingdom Shall Become His Kingdom
Scripture
Revelation 11:15
“The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.”
Teaching
The seven bowls move steadily toward this great declaration. They reveal the progressive overthrow of every kingdom that opposes the reign of Jesus Christ.
The seventh bowl announces that God’s purpose has prevailed. The Kingdom of Christ stands, not because earthly kingdoms surrendered willingly, but because the Lord faithfully accomplished His eternal purpose.
The Mystery of God Finished
Scripture
Revelation 10:7
“But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel… the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.”
Teaching
The Book of Revelation consistently moves toward completion. God’s mystery is finished. His judgments reach their appointed end. His Kingdom is openly revealed.
The words “It is done” declare that nothing remains unfinished in the work God determined to accomplish. Jesus Christ fulfills every promise according to the Father’s will.
Jesus Christ Finishes What the Father Gave Him to Do
Scripture
John 17:4
“I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.”
Teaching
Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus revealed the heart of the Father by completing the work entrusted to Him. The Revelation of Jesus Christ shows that same faithfulness carried through to the consummation of God’s purpose.
The seventh bowl is therefore not merely the conclusion of a series of judgments. It is the revelation that Jesus Christ brings every aspect of God’s eternal purpose to its appointed fulfillment.
The voice from the throne declares, “It is done.” Corruption has been exposed. False kingdoms have been judged. The way has been prepared. The authority of God has been revealed.
The final bowl proclaims the certainty of Christ’s victory. What God purposed before the foundation of the world, He faithfully brings to completion through His Son. The Revelation of Jesus Christ ends, not in uncertainty, but in the triumphant declaration that God’s work is complete and His Kingdom stands forever.
CHAPTER TEN
THE FULL COUNSEL OF GOD: The Seven Last Plagues Revealed from Genesis to Revelation
The Revelation of Jesus Christ Is the Full Counsel of God
Scripture
Acts 20:27
“For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.”
Teaching
The seven last plagues cannot be understood by reading Revelation alone. Every symbol in the Revelation of Jesus Christ is rooted in the full counsel of God. The Scriptures testify with one voice from Genesis to Revelation, revealing God’s eternal purpose through His Son.
The bowls are not isolated judgments. They reveal the consistent ways of God throughout every generation. The same Lord who judged Egypt, spoke through the prophets, fulfilled the Law in Christ, and revealed His purpose through the apostles is the Lord who pours out the seven bowls in Revelation.
God Declares the End from the Beginning
Scripture
Isaiah 46:9–10
“I am God, and there is none else… declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done…”
Teaching
God’s purpose has never changed. From the beginning He has declared the end. The Revelation does not present a new plan but unveils the fulfillment of the purpose established before the foundation of the world.
The seven last plagues therefore reveal the completion of a work that God has been unfolding throughout the entire biblical record.
God’s Judgments Reveal His Righteousness
Scripture
Psalm 19:9
“The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.”
Teaching
Throughout Scripture, the judgments of God reveal His righteousness. Whether in the days of Noah, Egypt, Babylon, or the Revelation of Jesus Christ, His judgments expose corruption, vindicate truth, and advance His redemptive purpose.
The seven last plagues continue this same pattern. They reveal the righteousness of God as Jesus Christ removes everything contrary to His Kingdom.
Jesus Christ Fulfills the Scriptures
Scripture
Luke 24:27
“And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.”
Teaching
Jesus taught that all the Scriptures testify of Him. Moses, the Prophets, the Psalms, the Gospels, the Epistles, and the Revelation all reveal His person and His work.
The seven last plagues must therefore be interpreted through Jesus Christ. They are not merely prophetic events; they are part of the revelation of the Son of God throughout the whole counsel of Scripture.
The Kingdom of God Is the End of the Revelation
Scripture
1 Corinthians 15:24–28
“Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father… that God may be all in all.”
Teaching
The final goal of the seven last plagues is not destruction but the establishment of God’s Kingdom. Every bowl moves the Revelation toward the fulfillment of the Father’s eternal purpose.
Jesus Christ reveals corruption, judges unrighteousness, overcomes every opposing kingdom, and establishes the everlasting reign of God. The Revelation ends where God’s purpose has always been leading—from Genesis to Revelation, from promise to fulfillment, from shadow to substance.
The seven last plagues therefore testify to the full counsel of God. They reveal one unchanging purpose, one unchanging Lord, and one everlasting Kingdom. The Scriptures speak with one voice: Jesus Christ is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He faithfully accomplishes all that the Father has purposed, until every enemy is subdued and God is all in all.
CONCLUSION
Jesus Christ Reveals, Purifies, Delivers, and Establishes His Kingdom
The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture
Revelation 1:1
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass…”
Teaching
The seven last plagues are not merely the conclusion of the Book of Revelation; they are part of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Every bowl, every judgment, and every symbol points beyond itself to the person and work of the Son of God. The purpose of this book has been to keep our eyes upon Christ rather than upon the symbols alone.
Jesus Christ Is Faithful to Complete His Work
Scripture
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Teaching
From the first bowl to the seventh, the Revelation declares that Jesus Christ faithfully completes the work the Father has given Him. Nothing is left unfinished. Every opposing power is exposed. Every false kingdom is brought to its appointed end. Every purpose of God moves toward its fulfillment.
The declaration, “It is done,” assures us that God always finishes what He begins.
The Kingdom of God Shall Stand Forever
Scripture
Daniel 2:44
“And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed… and it shall stand for ever.”
Teaching
The kingdoms of this world rise and fall, but the Kingdom of God is everlasting. The seven last plagues reveal the certainty that every kingdom built upon corruption will give way to the righteous reign of Jesus Christ.
The purpose of God’s judgments is not simply to remove what is passing away, but to establish that which can never be shaken.
God Shall Be All in All
Scripture
1 Corinthians 15:24–28
“…Then cometh the end… that God may be all in all.”
Teaching
The full counsel of God reveals one unchanging purpose from Genesis to Revelation. God is bringing all things together in Jesus Christ. The seven last plagues are part of that divine work. They reveal His righteousness, expose corruption, overthrow every opposing kingdom, and prepare creation for the full manifestation of His eternal purpose.
The Revelation ends with victory because Jesus Christ is victorious. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He is the Lamb upon the throne, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords.
As we have seen throughout this study, the seven last plagues reveal far more than judgments. They reveal the character of God, the faithfulness of Jesus Christ, and the certainty of His Kingdom. They testify that God’s purpose cannot fail, His promises cannot be broken, and His Kingdom shall never end.
To Him be glory, dominion, wisdom, power, and honor forever. Amen.
Chapter One
THE PURPOSE OF THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES
- Revelation 1:1
- Revelation 15:1
- Amos 3:7
- Hebrews 12:27–28
- Revelation 11:15
Chapter Two
THE TEMPLE OPENED IN HEAVEN
- Revelation 15:5–8
- Isaiah 6:1–8
- Psalm 11:4
- Hebrews 8:1–5
- Hebrews 9:23–24
- Revelation 4:1–11
Chapter Three
THE FIRST BOWL: Jesus Christ Reveals the Corruption of the Earth
- Revelation 16:1–2
- Genesis 2:7
- Luke 8:17
- Revelation 13:16–18
- John 3:19–21
Chapter Four
THE SECOND BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Sea
- Revelation 16:3
- Isaiah 17:12–13
- Revelation 17:15
- Revelation 20:13
- Psalm 22:27–28
Chapter Five
THE THIRD BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Rivers and Fountains
- Revelation 16:4–7
- Proverbs 4:23
- John 7:37–39
- Matthew 7:17–20
- Revelation 22:1–2
Chapter Six
THE FOURTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Judges the Sun
- Revelation 16:8–9
- Genesis 1:16
- Psalm 84:11
- John 3:19–21
- Malachi 4:2
- John 8:12
Chapter Seven
THE FIFTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Darkens the Throne of the Beast
- Revelation 16:10–11
- Revelation 13:2
- Colossians 1:12–13
- John 1:4–5
- Daniel 2:44
- Revelation 11:15
Chapter Eight
THE SIXTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Prepares the Way for His Kingdom
- Revelation 16:12–16
- Isaiah 40:3
- Revelation 16:13–16
- Revelation 16:15
- Revelation 19:11–21
- Isaiah 11:15–16
Chapter Nine
THE SEVENTH BOWL: Jesus Christ Declares, “It Is Done”
- Revelation 16:17–21
- Revelation 21:5–6
- Revelation 11:15
- Revelation 10:7
- John 17:4
- John 19:30
Chapter Ten
THE FULL COUNSEL OF GOD: The Seven Last Plagues Revealed from Genesis to Revelation
- Acts 20:27
- Isaiah 46:9–10
- Psalm 19:9
- Luke 24:27
- 1 Corinthians 15:24–28
- Ephesians 1:9–10
Conclusion
Jesus Christ Reveals, Purifies, Delivers, and Establishes His Kingdom
- Revelation 1:1
- Philippians 1:6
- Daniel 2:44
- 1 Corinthians 15:24–28
- Revelation 21:5–6
- Revelation 22:13
