He
also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is prepared unmixed in the cup of his anger. He will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb. The smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever. They have no rest day and night, those who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.
Revelation 14:10-11
Revelation 14 [9.] Another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a great voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives a mark on his forehead, or on his hand, he also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is prepared unmixed in the cup of his anger. He will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb. The smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever. They have no rest day and night, those who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name. Here is the patience of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”
Meaning:
These verses depict the ultimate fate of those who choose to worship the beast and receive his mark, aligning themselves with the forces of evil in opposition to God. The imagery used here is striking and serves to underscore the severity of the judgment that awaits the unrepentant.
The phrase "drink of the wine of the wrath of God" symbolizes the full measure of God's righteous anger and judgment poured out upon the wicked. This imagery of a cup filled with the undiluted wrath of God highlights the severity and intensity of the punishment that will be inflicted.
The torment described in Revelation 14:10-11 is depicted as involving fire and sulfur, reminiscent of the destruction wrought upon Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19:24. This imagery conveys the idea of unquenchable fire and eternal punishment, emphasizing the severity and permanence of the judgment.
The presence of the holy angels and the Lamb (Jesus Christ) underscores the solemnity and righteousness of the judgment. This is not a matter of arbitrary punishment but of divine justice administered in accordance with God's perfect holiness and righteousness.
The phrase "the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever" emphasizes the eternal nature of the punishment. This is not a temporary or fleeting judgment but one that endures for all eternity. The unrepentant will experience torment without end, with no relief or respite from their suffering.
Revelation 14:10-11 serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of divine judgment and the consequences of rejecting God's offer of salvation. It underscores the seriousness of sin and the importance of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
But amidst the warning of judgment, there is also an invitation to turn to God in repentance and receive His offer of salvation. As 2 Peter 3:9 tells us, "The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but is patient with us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance". God's desire is for all to turn to Him in repentance and receive His gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, Revelation 14:10-11 serves as a solemn warning of the consequences of rejecting God and aligning oneself with the forces of evil. It calls us to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who turn to Him in faith. May we heed this warning and choose the path of righteousness and life.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible