Revelation 16:8-9

8             Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, causing it to scorch everyone with fire.

9             Everyone was burned by this blast of heat, and cursed the name of God, who had control over all these plagues. They did not repent of their sins and turn to God and give him glory.

We know that John’s audience is understanding that these judgments are coming from God because they cursed him for sending them. They still refused to recognize God’s authority and repent of their sins. Remember, these judgments are something that all people are going to feel. Those who are protected by God’s salvation will not be harmed by the judgments, but they will feel them. Those who have not received God’s salvation, and still refuse to repent of their sinful behavior, will feel the full effect and consequences of their judgment.

Christians shouldn’t be surprised at the hostility and hardness of heart of those who refuse to submit to God and his justice. Ever when God’s power has been fully and completely revealed, many will still refuse to repent. Don’t wait until “just the right time” before creating a relationship with God. These judgments are getting severe, and the world we know today is falling apart at the seams and it may be hard to truly recover. Therefore, we should want to make sure that we can make sure we are taken care of for eternity. When this earthly life passes, we should ensure that we are spending our eternal life in a place that is pleasant and safe. That’s the goal of all Christians. That’s the goal in sharing the Gospel as well. Sometimes we can get over the top by doing this to offer salvation. The pushiness of Christians can cause non-Christians to be uncomfortable, upset, and permanently separated from all believers. We need to make sure we share the Gospel with love and compassion, not being pushy, but just enough to plant the seed of God in their minds so that God can do his work. This will help ensure that we reach as many people as possible.

Next Part: The End is Poured Out – Part 5