What number verse is Revelation 11:14 in the Bible?

Revelation 11:14 is the 30,887th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Revelation 11:14 sits at position 30,887.

11:1311:13

Revelation 11:14

Q: Does "quickly" in this verse mean immediately?

While "quickly" (Greek: *tachý*) can sometimes imply immediacy, in prophetic contexts like Revelation 11:14, it more often conveys the idea of swiftness of execution *once initiated*, rather than an immediate onset from the moment of the prophecy. It suggests that when the time for the third woe arrives, its unfolding will be rapid, decisive, and without prolonged delay, bringing the sequence of judgments to a swift and conclusive end.

11:1511:15

Translation

King James Version

¶ The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

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KJV (with Strong's)

The second ^G1208 woe ^G3759 is past ^G565; and ^G2532, behold ^G2400, the third ^G5154 woe ^G3759 cometh ^G2064 quickly ^G5035.

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Complete Jewish Bible

The second woe has passed; see, the third woe is coming quickly

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Berean Standard Bible

The second woe has passed. Behold, the third woe is coming shortly.

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American Standard Version

The second Woe is past: behold, the third Woe cometh quickly.

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World English Bible Messianic

The second woe is past. Behold, the third woe comes quickly.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

The second woe is past, and beholde, the third woe will come anon.

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Young's Literal Translation

The second woe did go forth, lo, the third woe doth come quickly.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Revelation 11:14 serves as a dramatic interlude in John's apocalyptic vision, marking the definitive conclusion of the second phase of divine judgment and emphatically announcing the swift and certain arrival of the third and final woe. This pivotal verse underscores God's meticulous orchestration of end-time events, highlighting the escalating intensity of His wrath against a rebellious world and preparing the reader for the climactic declaration of His eternal kingdom.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse acts as a crucial transition point within the Book of Revelation, specifically following the detailed account of the two witnesses' ministry, martyrdom, resurrection, and ascension, culminating in a great earthquake (Revelation 11:3-13). The declaration "The second woe is past" confirms the completion of the judgments associated with the sixth trumpet (described in Revelation 9:13-21), as well as the immediate aftermath of the two witnesses' vindication. It serves as a brief but potent pause before the seventh trumpet sounds, which immediately follows in Revelation 11:15, ushering in the final phase of God's plan.
Historical & Cultural Context: The Book of Revelation was written by John during his exile on the island of Patmos, likely in the late first century AD, a period marked by Roman persecution of Christians under emperors like Domitian. The concept of "woes" (Greek: ouai) resonates deeply with Old Testament prophetic pronouncements of judgment and lament, familiar to John's Jewish-Christian audience. These pronouncements often accompanied divine interventions against rebellious nations or individuals, signifying profound suffering and calamity as a consequence of sin. The escalating nature of these judgments would have been understood within a cultural framework that recognized divine retribution as a just response to human wickedness and idolatry, particularly in a context where believers were suffering for their faith.
Key Themes: Revelation 11:14 powerfully reinforces several overarching themes found throughout the book. Firstly, it underscores Divine Sovereignty and Control, demonstrating that God is meticulously orchestrating the unfolding of history and judgment according to His predetermined plan. The transition from one woe to the next is not random but part of a precise divine timeline. Secondly, it emphasizes the Escalation of Judgment, illustrating a progressive intensification of God's wrath against a world that refuses to repent. Each successive woe is more severe than the last, culminating in the comprehensive judgments of the third woe, as foreshadowed by the announcement of the three woes in Revelation 8:13. Finally, the phrase "behold, the third woe cometh quickly" highlights the Imminence of Climax, conveying the urgency and swiftness of the impending final judgment, which immediately precedes the declaration of God's eternal reign in Revelation 11:15.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Woe (Greek, ouaí', G3759): This primary exclamation of grief signifies a pronouncement of severe distress, lament, or judgment. In Revelation, its repeated use emphasizes the profound suffering and calamity that accompany God's punitive actions, underscoring the deliberate and weighty nature of His divine judgments upon a rebellious world.
Past (Greek, apérchomai', G565): Derived from "to go off" or "to depart," this word indicates a definitive conclusion or completion. When applied to the "second woe," it signifies that the period of judgment associated with the sixth trumpet and the events surrounding the two witnesses has fully run its course, bringing a clear end to that specific phase of divine activity.
Behold (Greek, idoú', G2400): This imperative serves as a powerful interjection, drawing immediate and urgent attention to what follows. It functions to highlight the significance, certainty, and dramatic nature of the impending event, signaling to the reader that something momentous and unavoidable is about to occur.
Quickly (Greek, tachý', G5035): Meaning "shortly," "without delay," "soon," or "suddenly," this adverb suggests a swiftness of execution once an event is initiated, rather than an immediate onset. In the context of the third woe, it conveys that once this final phase of judgment begins, its unfolding will be rapid, decisive, and without prolonged interruption.

Verse Breakdown

"The second woe is past": This declarative statement confirms the cessation of the judgments associated with the sixth trumpet, which included the release of the four angels and the vast army that killed a third of mankind (Revelation 9:13-21), as well as the dramatic events surrounding the two witnesses. It marks a clear end to a specific period of divine wrath.
"and, behold": This conjunction and interjection create a dramatic pause and then emphatically redirect the reader's attention. "Behold" acts as a prophetic pointer, signaling that the next event is not only imminent but also of immense importance and certainty, demanding immediate consideration.
"the third woe cometh quickly": This announcement declares the swift and decisive arrival of the final and most comprehensive series of judgments. The use of "quickly" indicates that once this woe begins, its progression will be rapid and conclusive, preparing the reader for the momentous events that immediately follow with the sounding of the seventh trumpet.

Literary Devices

Revelation 11:14 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The verse functions as a Dramatic Interlude, providing a brief pause in the narrative flow between the conclusion of the second woe and the imminent commencement of the third. This pause heightens Anticipation and tension, preparing the reader for the climactic events to follow. The use of the exclamation "behold" (Greek: idou) is a form of Exclamation or Interjection, serving to draw immediate attention and emphasize the certainty and significance of the impending judgment. The very structure of the woes—a progression from one to the next—demonstrates Escalation, indicating an increasing intensity of divine judgment. Furthermore, the verse employs Foreshadowing, pointing directly to the ultimate and most severe judgments that are about to be unleashed, culminating in the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Revelation 11:14 stands as a stark reminder of God's unwavering justice and His ultimate sovereign control over all history. The progression of the woes underscores a profound theological truth: God is not indifferent to human sin and rebellion. His judgments are not arbitrary but are a righteous response to persistent unrepentance, escalating in severity to bring about His ultimate purposes. This verse emphasizes the certainty of prophetic fulfillment, assuring believers that God's plan is unfolding precisely as foretold, leading inexorably to the establishment of His kingdom. For those who refuse to acknowledge Him, it serves as a solemn warning of impending accountability.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Revelation 11:14, with its stark declaration of escalating judgment, calls believers to a profound sense of spiritual urgency and faithful endurance. While the specifics of apocalyptic prophecy can be complex, the overarching message is clear: God is sovereign, His justice is certain, and His redemptive plan is moving towards its glorious consummation. For those who have placed their faith in Christ, these pronouncements of judgment are not a source of fear, but a confirmation of God's ultimate triumph over evil and the certainty of His kingdom's arrival. This understanding should cultivate a deep trust in His divine timetable and an unwavering commitment to living righteously. It also compels us to live with a renewed sense of mission, recognizing the brevity of time and the eternal consequences of rejecting God's grace, motivating us to share the hope of the Gospel with those who are still lost.

Questions for Reflection

How does the certainty of God's escalating judgment shape my understanding of the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance?
What does the phrase "cometh quickly" imply for my personal spiritual readiness and my urgency in proclaiming the Gospel message?
In what ways can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereign plan, even amidst prophecies of tribulation and judgment?

FAQ

What is the significance of the "woes" in Revelation?

Answer: The "woes" in Revelation represent a series of intensifying divine judgments pronounced upon the earth's inhabitants. They are specific, escalating calamities that demonstrate God's righteous wrath against persistent human rebellion and idolatry. Each woe signifies a distinct phase of suffering and destruction, designed to call humanity to repentance, though often met with hardened hearts.

How does Revelation 11:14 relate to the trumpets?

Answer: The woes are directly tied to the sounding of the last three of the seven trumpets. The first woe is associated with the fifth trumpet, unleashing demonic locusts. The second woe is linked to the sixth trumpet, involving a vast army. Revelation 11:14 announces the imminent arrival of the third woe, which immediately precedes and is fulfilled by the sounding of the seventh trumpet, bringing about the culmination of God's judgments and the declaration of His kingdom.

Does "quickly" in this verse mean immediately?

Answer: While "quickly" (Greek: tachý) can sometimes imply immediacy, in prophetic contexts like Revelation 11:14, it more often conveys the idea of swiftness of execution once initiated, rather than an immediate onset from the moment of the prophecy. It suggests that when the time for the third woe arrives, its unfolding will be rapid, decisive, and without prolonged delay, bringing the sequence of judgments to a swift and conclusive end.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Revelation 11:14, while announcing a period of escalating divine judgment, ultimately points to the sovereign work of Jesus Christ. The "woes" are part of the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, leading to the establishment of His eternal kingdom, over which Christ reigns supreme. While the world experiences these judgments, believers find their refuge and hope in Christ, who bore the ultimate "woe" of divine judgment on the cross for their sins (Isaiah 53:5). He is the one to whom all judgment has been committed by the Father (John 5:22), and these escalating judgments ultimately pave the way for His glorious return as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:11-16). The "third woe" is not merely a final judgment but the precursor to the momentous declaration in Revelation 11:15, where the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, reigning forever and ever. Thus, even in judgment, Christ's sovereignty and ultimate triumph are magnified.

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Commentary on Revelation 11 verses 14–19

14 ¶ The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,

17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.

18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.

19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

We have here the sounding of the seventh and last trumpet, which is ushered in by the usual warning and demand of attention: The second woe is past, and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly. Then the seventh angel sounded. This had been suspended for some time, till the apostle had been made acquainted with some intervening occurrences of very great moment, and worthy of his notice and observation. But what he before expected he now heard - the seventh angel sounding. Here observe the effects and consequences of this trumpet, thus sounded.

I. Here were loud and joyful acclamations of the saints and angels in heaven. Observe, 1. The manner of their adorations: they rose from their seats, and fell upon their faces, and worshipped God; they did it with reverence and humility. 2. The matter of their adorations. (1.) They thankfully recognize the right of our God and Saviour to rule and reign over all the world: The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ, Rev 11:15. They were always so in title, both by creation and purchase. (2.) They thankfully observe his actual possession of them, and reign over them; they give him thanks because he had taken to him his great power, asserted his rights, exerted his power, and so turned title into possession. (3.) They rejoice that this his reign shall never end: He shall reign for ever and ever, till all enemies be put under his feet; none shall ever wrest the sceptre out of his hand.

II. Here were angry resentments in the world at these just appearances and actings of the power of God (Rev 11:18): The nations were angry; not only had been so, but were so still: their hearts rose up against God; they met his wrath with their own anger. It was a time when God was taking a just revenge upon the enemies of his people, recompensing tribulation to those who had troubled them. It was a time in which he was beginning to reward his people's faithful services and sufferings; and their enemies could not bear it, they fretted against God, and so increased their guilt and hastened their destruction.

III. Another consequence was the opening of the temple of God in heaven. By this may be meant that here is now a more free communication between heaven and earth, prayer and praises more freely and frequently ascending and graces and blessings plentifully descending. But it rather seems to intend the church of God on earth, a heavenly temple. It is an allusion to the various circumstances of things in the time of the first temple. Under idolatrous and wicked princes, it was shut up and neglected; but, under religious and reforming princes, it was opened and frequented. So, during the power of antichrist, the temple of God seemed to be shut up, and was so in a great degree; but now it was opened again. At this opening of it observe, 1. What was seen there: the ark of God's testament. This was in the holy of holies; in this ark the tables of the law were kept. As before Josiah's time the law of God had been lost, but was then found, so in the reign of antichrist God's law was laid aside, and made void by their traditions and decrees; the scriptures were locked up from the people, and they must not look into these divine oracles; now they are opened, now they are brought to the view of all. This was an unspeakable and invaluable privilege; and this, like the ark of the testament, was a token of the presence of God returned to his people, and his favour towards them in Jesus Christ the propitiation. 2. What was heard and felt there: Lightnings, voices, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail. The great blessing of the reformation was attended with very awful providences; and by terrible things in righteousness God would answer those prayers that were presented in his holy temple, now opened. All the great revolutions of the world are concerted in heaven, and are the answers of the prayers of the saints.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 14–19. Public domain.

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BedeAD 735

Commentary on Revelation

The second woe is past, and behold, the third woe comes quickly. This second woe pertains not to recapitulation but to the battle of the horses stirred by the trumpet of the sixth angel. For the eagle had predicted three woes from the voices of the three trumpets yet to come. But there, he did not say that the third would immediately follow, which pertains to the seventh angel and the end.

Alcuin of YorkAD 804

COMMENTARY ON REVELATION

The second woe is past: behold the third woe cometh quickly. This is the end of the double recapitulation, but the second woe does not belong to this recapitulation. Indeed it had been said earlier, after the battle with the locusts was finished, that one woe was past and two were to come; then, when all that pertained to the second woe had been told (with the loosing of the four angels etc.) the second woe was not mentioned again. The reason for this is that there followed the recapitulation starting from Christ's coming, and he did not want us to think, if The second woe is past had been said there, that the third woe referred to the recapitulation. Therefore the second woe does not refer to this passage, but to the one above: the recapitulation that broke the order being finished, the second woe is mentioned with reference to where the order was broken. As for what the third woe is, it is disclosed when it is said after that:

OecumeniusAD 990

Commentary on Revelation

Since all things are clearly evident and destined to occur perceptibly at that time, it is excessive to dwell on what has been acknowledged.

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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Cross-References

Revelation 8:13
And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!
Revelation 9:12
One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter.
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.
Revelation 16:1
¶ 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.
Revelation 16:21
And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.