Revelation 11:15

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the seventh {G1442} angel {G32} sounded {G4537}; and {G2532} there were {G1096} great {G3173} voices {G5456} in {G1722} heaven {G3772}, saying {G3004}, The kingdoms {G932} of this world {G2889} are become {G1096} the kingdoms of our {G2257} Lord {G2962}, and {G2532} of his {G846} Christ {G5547}; and {G2532} he shall reign {G936} for {G1519} ever {G165} and ever {G165}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The seventh angel sounded his shofar; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying,

“The kingdom of the world
has become the Kingdom
of our Lord and his Messiah,
and he will rule forever and ever!”

Berean Standard Bible

Then the seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and loud voices called out in heaven: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.”

American Standard Version

And the seventh angel sounded; and there followed great voices in heaven, and they said, The kingdom of the world is becomethe kingdomof our Lord, and of his Christ: and he shall reign for ever and ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 11:15 marks a climactic moment in John's apocalyptic vision, as the sounding of the seventh trumpet heralds a definitive shift in cosmic authority. It announces a triumphant heavenly declaration that the kingdoms of this world, long under human and spiritual rebellion, have now irrevocably become the rightful possession and dominion of God our Lord and His Anointed One, Jesus Christ, who is declared to reign eternally without end. This verse serves as a powerful theological affirmation of God's ultimate sovereignty and the assured victory of His redemptive plan over all earthly opposition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed as the culmination of the trumpet judgments, which began in [Revelation 8](/revelation/8 "Revelation 8 - The First Six Trumpets"). The first six trumpets brought escalating judgments upon the earth, affecting creation, humanity, and demonic forces. Specifically, the seventh trumpet follows the dramatic interlude involving the two witnesses, their martyrdom, resurrection, and ascension, and the subsequent earthquake that concludes the second woe ([Revelation 11:14](/revelation/11-14 "Revelation 11:14 - End of the Second Woe")). Unlike the previous trumpets, which primarily described destructive judgments, the seventh trumpet's sounding is met with a declaration of God's established reign, signaling the transition from judgment to the full realization of His kingdom. It sets the stage for the final series of judgments (the bowl judgments) and the ultimate consummation of God's purposes.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** John wrote Revelation during a time of intense Roman imperial power, likely under the reign of Emperor Domitian, who demanded worship as "Lord and God." The early Christians faced persecution for refusing to acknowledge Caesar's divinity, clinging instead to the exclusive Lordship of Jesus Christ. In this context, the declaration that "the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ" would have been a profoundly subversive and encouraging message. It directly challenged the prevailing political and religious claims of the Roman Empire, asserting that ultimate authority did not reside in earthly rulers or their gods, but in the one true God and His Messiah, Jesus. This message provided hope and steadfastness for believers enduring suffering, reminding them that their true allegiance was to an eternal, triumphant King.
* **Key Themes:** Revelation 11:15 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Revelation and biblical theology. The most prominent is **Divine Sovereignty and Triumph**, asserting that despite the chaos, evil, and apparent dominion of worldly powers, God remains ultimately in control and His plan will prevail. This declaration is a triumphant announcement that God's ultimate reign is at hand, signifying the overthrow of all opposition. Closely related is the theme of **Christ's Eternal Reign**, explicitly stating that the kingdoms "are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ." This highlights the co-regency of God the Father and Jesus Christ, emphasizing that Christ's reign will be everlasting, fulfilling numerous Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah's kingdom, such as in [Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - The Son of Man's Everlasting Dominion") and [Psalm 2:6-8](/psalms/2-6-8 "Psalm 2:6-8 - God's Anointed King"). Finally, it underscores the **Culmination of Prophecy**, marking a major turning point in the eschatological narrative, transitioning from a period of escalating judgments to the final establishment of God's kingdom. It assures believers that God's plan is unfolding precisely as prophesied and will culminate in His ultimate victory and the establishment of the [new heaven and new earth](/revelation/21 "Revelation 21 - The New Heaven and New Earth").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **become (Greek, _gínomai'_):** This verb signifies a dynamic process of coming into being or a definitive transformation. Here, in the aorist tense, it emphasizes a completed action with lasting results. The kingdoms of this world do not merely *begin* to be God's, but they *have definitively become* His, indicating an irreversible transfer of ownership and authority. It speaks to a new state of being, a decisive change in cosmic governance.
* **kingdoms (Greek, _basileía'_):** Derived from the word for "king," this term refers to royalty, rule, or a realm. In this context, it denotes the earthly political, social, and spiritual systems and structures that have historically operated independently of, and often in opposition to, God's will. The plural "kingdoms" acknowledges the diverse manifestations of human power and rebellion, all of which are now subsumed under the singular, supreme authority of God and His Christ.
* **ever and ever (Greek, _eis tous aiōnas tōn aiōnon'_):** This is a powerful double plural, literally "unto the ages of the ages." The term _aiṓn_ denotes an age or a period of time, but in this construct, it expresses the strongest possible emphasis on eternity, perpetuity, and endlessness. It signifies a reign that transcends all temporal boundaries, a dominion that is absolute, unceasing, and without any conceivable end, reinforcing the ultimate and permanent nature of Christ's sovereignty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the seventh angel sounded;":** This clause marks the final and most significant trumpet blast, signaling the culmination of the divine judgments and the transition to the ultimate phase of God's redemptive plan. Unlike previous trumpets that initiated specific woes, this sounding initiates a declaration of triumph.
* **"and there were great voices in heaven, saying,":** The immediate response to the trumpet is a chorus of powerful, authoritative voices emanating from heaven. These "great voices" likely represent the angelic hosts, the twenty-four elders, and possibly the redeemed saints, all joining in a unified proclamation of God's victory and reign. Their declaration is not a prayer or a plea, but an announcement of accomplished fact.
* **"The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ;":** This is the core declaration. It asserts a definitive, irreversible transfer of dominion. "The kingdoms of this world" (referring to all earthly powers and systems, often characterized by rebellion against God) are now declared to belong to "our Lord" (God the Father, the ultimate sovereign) and "his Christ" (Jesus, the Messiah, the Anointed King). This signifies the end of human and satanic usurpation and the restoration of rightful divine rule.
* **"and he shall reign for ever and ever.":** This final clause emphatically declares the eternal nature of Christ's reign. The singular "he" refers to Christ, whose dominion is not temporary or limited, but absolute and unending. This affirms the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's everlasting kingdom, establishing a reign of righteousness and peace that will never be overthrown.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 11:15 is rich in **Symbolism**. The "seventh angel" and his "sounding" are symbolic of the culmination of God's predetermined plan and the finality of His judgments and declarations. The "great voices in heaven" symbolize the unified acclamation of the heavenly host, representing divine approval and cosmic jubilation at the establishment of God's sovereignty. The "kingdoms of this world" are a symbolic representation of all human political, economic, and social systems that operate apart from God, while "our Lord, and of his Christ" symbolizes the singular, unified, and ultimate divine authority. The phrase "for ever and ever" employs **Hyperbole** and **Repetition** to emphasize the absolute and unending nature of Christ's reign, transcending all temporal limitations. The entire verse functions as a **Proclamation**, a formal and authoritative declaration of an accomplished reality, rather than a mere statement or prophecy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 11:15 stands as a pivotal theological statement, affirming the ultimate triumph of God's sovereign plan over all opposing forces. It declares the decisive moment when all earthly authority, which has long been in rebellion or under the sway of the "prince of this world," is definitively brought under the rightful, eternal dominion of the Triune God and His Messiah. This declaration is a cosmic victory cry, assuring believers that the seemingly chaotic and often oppressive realities of human history are ultimately subservient to God's overarching purpose. It underscores the biblical narrative's trajectory from creation to consummation, where God's original intent for His reign is fully realized through Christ. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that while evil may appear to flourish for a time, its ultimate defeat is certain, and God's kingdom will stand forever.

* [Psalm 103:19](/psalms/103-19 "Psalm 103:19 - The Lord's Established Throne")
* [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Receives Dominion")
* [Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 11:15 offers profound spiritual nourishment and practical guidance for believers navigating a world often characterized by turmoil, injustice, and the apparent dominance of ungodly powers. This verse calls us to lift our gaze beyond the temporal and to anchor our hope in the eternal reality of Christ's coming kingdom. It encourages us to live with an eschatological perspective, understanding that every earthly system, no matter how formidable, is transient and ultimately subject to the sovereign will of God. This truth should inspire unwavering confidence in God's ultimate justice and His unwavering commitment to His people. In a world that often feels out of control, this declaration provides immense peace, reminding us that the true King is on His throne, and His reign will never end. Therefore, our allegiance, our efforts, and our hope should be directed towards His kingdom, living out its values even now.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the declaration that "the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ" impact your perspective on current global events or political systems?**
* **In what ways can you live more fully as a citizen of Christ's eternal kingdom, rather than being primarily defined by the "kingdoms of this world"?**
* **How does the promise of Christ's eternal reign ("he shall reign for ever and ever") provide you with hope and comfort in times of personal or collective struggle?**

### FAQ

**Does Revelation 11:15 mean that all earthly kingdoms immediately cease to exist when the seventh trumpet sounds?**

Answer: Not immediately in a physical, visible sense. Revelation 11:15 is a *declaration* from heaven, a prophetic pronouncement of a definitive transfer of ultimate authority and ownership. It signifies that from God's heavenly perspective, the rightful dominion over all earthly kingdoms has now been irrevocably claimed by Him and His Christ. While the full, visible manifestation of this reign, including the complete overthrow of all opposing powers, will unfold through subsequent events described in Revelation (e.g., the bowl judgments, the battle of Armageddon, the binding of Satan, and the Great White Throne Judgment), this verse marks the decisive turning point where the outcome is sealed. It's a declaration of victory before the final battles are fought, establishing the theological truth that God's kingdom has arrived in power and will soon be consummated on earth, as seen in [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Return as King").

**What is the significance of "great voices in heaven" making this declaration?**

Answer: The "great voices" represent a powerful, unified, and authoritative heavenly chorus – likely angels, the twenty-four elders, and perhaps the multitude of redeemed saints. Their collective proclamation emphasizes the universal significance and divine certainty of this event. It's not a whispered hope or a private revelation, but a loud, public, cosmic announcement, signifying that all of heaven acknowledges and rejoices in the transfer of dominion. This heavenly acclamation validates the divine decree and underscores the absolute truth of the declaration, reinforcing the idea that this is a pivotal moment in God's eternal plan, acknowledged by all of creation, as described in [Revelation 5:11-14](/revelation/5-11-14 "Revelation 5:11-14 - Heavenly Worship of the Lamb").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 11:15 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is explicitly named as the co-recipient of this eternal dominion. While the Old Testament prophets foretold a coming Messiah who would establish an everlasting kingdom ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Child Born to Rule")), this verse in Revelation declares the decisive moment of its ultimate realization. Jesus inaugurated His kingdom at His first coming, proclaiming its nearness ([Mark 1:15](/mark/1-15 "Mark 1:15 - Jesus Proclaims the Kingdom")) and demonstrating its power over sin, sickness, and death. His resurrection and ascension to the right hand of the Father marked His enthronement as King of kings and Lord of lords, where He now reigns with all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus"); [Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20-22 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ's Supremacy")). Revelation 11:15 looks forward to the consummation of this inaugurated kingdom, when Christ will return in glory to fully establish His reign on earth, vanquishing all opposition and bringing about a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Triumphant Return"); [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Creation")). Thus, this verse is a triumphant declaration of Christ's ultimate and eternal sovereignty, affirming that the Lamb who was slain is indeed the Lion of the tribe of Judah, worthy to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise, and to reign forever and ever ([Revelation 5:5-13](/revelation/5-5-13 "Revelation 5:5-13 - The Lamb is Worthy")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:14

And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.

Daniel 7:27

And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.

Revelation 12:10

And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

Revelation 10:7

But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

Zechariah 14:9

And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.

Revelation 19:1

¶ And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God:

Luke 1:33

And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.