Revelation 11:14

Revelation 11:14 KJV marks a pivotal moment in the prophetic visions given to John, signaling the conclusion of one phase of divine judgment and the imminent arrival of another. This verse acts as a dramatic interlude, drawing attention to the unfolding sequence of apocalyptic events in the Book of Revelation.

Context of the Woes

The "woes" in Revelation are specific, intensifying judgments pronounced upon the earth's inhabitants. They are directly tied to the sounding of certain trumpets:

• The first woe followed the fifth trumpet, unleashing demonic locusts (Revelation 9:1-12).
• The second woe was associated with the sixth trumpet, involving a vast army that killed a third of mankind (Revelation 9:13-21).

Immediately preceding this verse, the narrative details the ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension of the two witnesses (Revelation 11:3-13). Their ascension, accompanied by a great earthquake, signifies the definitive end of the second woe, clearing the stage for the final, most comprehensive judgment. The phrase "the second woe is past" confirms that the events described in Revelation 9:13-21 and the subsequent events of the two witnesses' vindication have concluded.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Sovereignty and Control: This verse underscores that God is meticulously orchestrating the end-time events. The transition from one woe to the next is not random but part of a pre-determined plan, demonstrating His ultimate authority over human history and judgment.
• Escalation of Judgment: The sequence of woes indicates a progressive intensification of God's wrath against a rebellious world. Each successive woe is more severe than the last, culminating in the final judgments brought by the third woe.
• Imminence of Climax: The phrase "behold, the third woe cometh quickly" emphasizes the urgency and swiftness of the impending final judgment. While "quickly" (Greek: tachy) doesn't necessarily mean immediately, it conveys that once the third woe begins, its unfolding will be rapid and decisive. This prepares the reader for the monumental events of the seventh trumpet, which immediately follows this verse.

Linguistic Insights

• The word "woe" (Greek: ouai) is an exclamation of lament, distress, or a pronouncement of judgment. It signifies profound suffering and calamity. Its repetition emphasizes the severity and deliberateness of God's punitive actions.
• "Behold" (Greek: idou) is often used in prophetic literature to draw immediate attention to a significant, impending event, highlighting its importance and certainty.
• "Quickly" (Greek: tachy) suggests a swiftness of execution once initiated, rather than an immediate onset. It implies that there will be no delay once the time for the third woe arrives.

Practical Application and Reflection

For believers today, Revelation 11:14 serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice and His ultimate triumph. It highlights the seriousness of sin and the certainty of judgment for those who reject Him. While the specifics of these prophecies are debated, the overarching message calls for:

• Urgency of Repentance: The swift progression of judgments should compel individuals to consider their standing before God and seek repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
• Hope Amidst Tribulation: For those who trust in Christ, these judgments are not a cause for despair but a confirmation of God's sovereign plan leading to the establishment of His eternal kingdom. The third woe, the seventh trumpet, actually heralds the declaration that "The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ."
• Watchfulness: The "cometh quickly" aspect encourages spiritual readiness and faithfulness, knowing that God's timeline is unfolding precisely as foretold.