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that day there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the rest were terrified, and gave glory to the God of heaven.
Revelation 11:13
Revelation 11 [10.] Those who dwell on the earth rejoice over them, and they will be glad. They will give gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth. After the three and a half days, the breath of life from God entered into them, and they stood on their feet. Great fear fell on those who saw them. I heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here!” They went up into heaven in the cloud, and their enemies saw them. In that day there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the rest were terrified, and gave glory to the God of heaven. The second woe is past. Behold, the third woe comes quickly.
Meaning:
- Great Earthquake:
The verse begins with the description of a significant earthquake. Throughout the Bible, earthquakes often symbolize divine intervention or judgment. Here, the earthquake signifies a powerful act of God, possibly as a response to the death and resurrection of the two witnesses. It is a dramatic manifestation of God's power and sovereignty (Revelation 6:12; Revelation 16:18).
- Tenth of the City Fell:
The earthquake results in the collapse of a tenth of the city, leading to destruction and loss of life. The city likely refers to Jerusalem, symbolizing a portion of humanity experiencing judgment or calamity. The precise identification of the city is debated among scholars, but the imagery underscores the severity of the earthquake's impact (Revelation 11:2).
- Seven Thousand Killed:
The earthquake's devastation includes the death of seven thousand people. This number may have symbolic significance, representing a significant portion of the population or serving as a reminder of God's judgment and mercy. The loss of life underscores the seriousness of the event and serves as a warning of the consequences of rebellion against God (Romans 6:23).
- Response of the Survivors:
Despite the tragedy and loss, the survivors of the earthquake respond in a remarkable way—they are terrified and give glory to the God of heaven. This response reflects a recognition of God's power and sovereignty in the midst of calamity. It suggests a turning point for some individuals, as they acknowledge God's authority and supremacy (Psalm 29:1-2).
- Repentance and Worship:
The survivors' reaction to the earthquake illustrates the potential for repentance and worship even in the midst of judgment. Their fear and acknowledgment of God's glory indicate a shift in perspective and attitude, leading them to recognize the need for humility and submission before the Creator (Revelation 14:7).
Cross References:
Revelation 6:12: "I saw when he opened the sixth seal, and there was a great earthquake. The sun became black as sackcloth made of hair, and the whole moon became as blood." This verse describes another instance of a great earthquake in the Book of Revelation, signaling divine judgment and the beginning of the end times.
Revelation 16:18: "There were lightnings, sounds, and thunders; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since there were men on the earth, so great an earthquake, so mighty." This verse describes a great earthquake as part of the series of judgments poured out during the pouring out of the seventh bowl of God's wrath.
In summary, Revelation 11:13 portrays a dramatic and consequential event—a great earthquake that results in death and destruction, yet prompts a response of fear and worship among the survivors. It underscores the reality of divine judgment, the sovereignty of God, and the potential for repentance and worship even in the midst of calamity. As we reflect on this verse, may we be reminded of the importance of acknowledging God's power and glory in all circumstances.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible