Revelation 15:4

KJV

Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for [thou] only [art] holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.

KJV (with Strong's)

Who {G5101} shall {G5399} not {G3364} fear {G5399} thee {G4571}, O Lord {G2962}, and {G2532} glorify {G1392} thy {G4675} name {G3686}? for {G3754} thou only {G3441} art holy {G3741}: for {G3754} all {G3956} nations {G1484} shall come {G2240} and {G2532} worship {G4352} before {G1799} thee {G4675}; for {G3754} thy {G4675} judgments {G1345} are made manifest {G5319}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Adonai, who will not fear and glorify your name?
because you alone are holy.
All nations will come and worship before you,
for your righteous deeds have been revealed.”

Berean Standard Bible

Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed.”

American Standard Version

Who shall not fear, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy; for all the nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy righteous acts have been made manifest.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 15:4 is a profound declaration from the "Song of Moses and the Lamb," sung by those victorious over the Beast, standing on the sea of glass. It is a rhetorical question that functions as a powerful affirmation of God's unique holiness, His supreme worthiness of fear and glorification, and the ultimate universal acknowledgment of His righteous judgments by all nations. This verse serves as a climactic hymn of praise and anticipation, setting the stage for the outpouring of God's final bowls of wrath, demonstrating that His justice and sovereignty will be fully revealed and recognized across the earth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 15:4 is an integral part of the "Song of Moses and the Lamb," sung by the victorious saints who have overcome the Beast, his image, and his mark, standing on the sea of glass mingled with fire ([Revelation 15:2](/revelation/15-2 "Revelation 15:2 - The Victors on the Sea of Glass")). This song, which begins in [Revelation 15:3](/revelation/15-3 "Revelation 15:3 - The Song of Moses and the Lamb"), serves as a prelude to the pouring out of the seven bowls of God's wrath, detailed in [Revelation 16](/revelation/16 "Revelation 16 - The Seven Bowls of Wrath"). The hymn celebrates God's righteous character and His just acts, providing a theological framework for the severe judgments that are about to be unleashed. It emphasizes that these judgments are not arbitrary but are a manifestation of God's holy and righteous nature, eliciting worship and fear from His redeemed people and ultimately from all creation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Revelation was written during a period of intense persecution of Christians under the Roman Empire, likely during the reign of Emperor Domitian. In this context, emperor worship was enforced, and refusing to participate could lead to severe consequences. The declaration "Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy" directly challenges the idolatrous claims of earthly rulers and pagan deities. The concept of "nations" (Greek: _ethne_) coming to worship God has deep roots in Old Testament prophecy, envisioning a future time when the Gentiles would turn from their idols to worship the one true God, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - The Mountain of the Lord's House") and [Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - All Nations Worshiping the King"). This vision would have offered immense hope and vindication to a persecuted community, assuring them that God's ultimate triumph over oppressive earthly powers was certain.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the Book of Revelation and broader biblical theology. It underscores **God's Absolute Holiness**, asserting that He alone possesses this intrinsic perfection, setting Him apart from all creation and false gods. This holiness is the foundation for the **Reverential Fear and Glorification** that is due to Him, a fear that is not terror but profound awe and worship. The prophecy that "all nations shall come and worship before thee" speaks to the **Universal Scope of God's Sovereignty and Worship**, a theme that culminates in the New Jerusalem where people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation will worship God and the Lamb ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation")). Finally, the verse highlights the **Manifestation of God's Judgments**, affirming that His righteous decrees and acts of justice are not hidden but openly displayed, vindicating His character and bringing about His perfect will on earth, as seen in the unfolding of the bowl judgments in [Revelation 16](/revelation/16 "Revelation 16 - The Seven Bowls of Wrath").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fear (Greek, _phobéō_):** From G5399, this word means to frighten, or passively, to be alarmed. By analogy, it means to be in awe of, i.e., revere. In this context, it signifies a profound, reverential awe and respect for God's power, authority, and majesty, rather than a servile terror. It is the proper, worshipful response of finite creation to the infinite Creator.
* **Holy (Greek, _hósios_):** From G3741, this term describes what is properly right by intrinsic or divine character. It distinguishes God's inherent moral perfection and purity from human statutes, formal consecration, or purity from defilement. When applied to God, it speaks of His unique, transcendent moral perfection and His distinctness from all that is created or sinful, forming the bedrock of His being and the basis for all true worship.
* **Judgments (Greek, _dikaíōma_):** From G1345, this word refers to an equitable deed, a statute, or a decision. In Revelation 15:4, it signifies God's righteous acts, just decrees, or ordinances. It specifically highlights God's righteous administration of justice, His vindication of His people, and the execution of His divine will, which are openly displayed for all to see and acknowledge.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name?"**: This is a powerful rhetorical question, implying that no one *should* fail to fear and glorify God. It underscores the absolute necessity and inevitability of acknowledging God's supremacy. The "fear" here is not terror but a profound, reverential awe and respect for His divine majesty and power. To "glorify His name" means to acknowledge His inherent glory, to give Him honor, praise, and adoration, recognizing and declaring His divine attributes and mighty acts.
* **"for thou only art holy:"**: This clause provides the foundational reason for the universal fear and glorification of God. His unique and absolute holiness – His moral perfection, purity, and distinctness from all creation – is the singular attribute that makes Him worthy of such ultimate reverence and worship. There is no other being who possesses this inherent, unblemished holiness.
* **"for all nations shall come and worship before thee;"**: This is a prophetic declaration of the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and the universal recognition of His sovereignty. Despite global rebellion and idolatry, a future time is foretold when every people, tribe, and tongue will bow before Him. This speaks to the eschatological reality where God's reign will be universally acknowledged, and His rightful place as the sole object of worship will be realized.
* **"for thy judgments are made manifest."**: This final clause provides the immediate cause for the nations' coming to worship. God's righteous decrees and acts of justice are not hidden but are openly displayed and revealed to the world. These judgments serve to prove His righteousness, vindicate His character, and bring about His perfect will, compelling even those who previously resisted Him to acknowledge His just and sovereign rule.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 15:4 employs several potent literary devices that amplify its theological message. The opening phrase, **Rhetorical Question** ("Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name?"), is not meant to elicit an answer but to make a strong affirmative statement, emphasizing the undeniable and universal obligation to revere and praise God. This is followed by a clear **Cause and Effect** structure, indicated by the repeated use of "for." The nations will come and worship "for" God alone is holy, and "for" His judgments are made manifest. This structure logically links God's inherent character (holiness) and His active demonstration of justice (manifest judgments) as the compelling reasons for universal worship. The phrase "thou only art holy" also exemplifies **Exclusivity** and **Divine Uniqueness**, highlighting God's singular nature and unparalleled attributes, setting Him apart from all other beings or deities. Furthermore, the mention of "all nations" coming to worship utilizes **Hyperbole** or **Universalism**, signifying a comprehensive and global acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, transcending all ethnic and geographical boundaries.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 15:4 stands as a majestic affirmation of God's absolute sovereignty, His intrinsic holiness, and the ultimate triumph of His righteous will. It encapsulates the core biblical truth that God's character is the foundation for all worship and that His justice will inevitably be revealed to all creation. This verse connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan, which culminates in the universal recognition of His authority and the establishment of His kingdom. It assures believers that despite present evil and rebellion, God remains on His throne, actively working out His purposes, and that every knee will ultimately bow before Him, acknowledging His supreme worthiness. The manifestation of His judgments, while terrifying to the unrighteous, is a testament to His perfect justice and faithfulness, bringing about the vindication of His name and His people.

* [Psalm 86:9](/psalm/86-9 "Psalm 86:9 - All Nations Shall Come and Worship")
* [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "Isaiah 6:3 - God's Holiness Proclaimed by Seraphim")
* [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 15:4 calls believers to a profound and transformative understanding of God's character and His ultimate victory. In a world often marked by injustice, chaos, and a pervasive disregard for divine authority, this verse serves as a powerful anchor of hope and a clarion call to worship. It reminds us that our worship is not merely an emotional response but a deep, reverential acknowledgment of God's inherent holiness and His unshakeable justice. When we truly grasp that "thou only art holy," our perspective shifts from focusing on earthly powers or personal struggles to fixing our gaze on the One who is supremely worthy of all praise. This understanding should inspire us to live lives that reflect His holiness, trusting that even when His judgments seem slow, they are indeed "made manifest" in His perfect timing. Furthermore, the vision of "all nations" coming to worship should ignite within us a passion for global missions, knowing that our efforts contribute to the ultimate fulfillment of this prophetic declaration. It encourages us to cultivate a reverential fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom, leading to humble submission, unwavering trust, and joyful obedience to His divine will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's unique holiness (that "thou only art holy") deepen your personal worship and reverence for Him?**
* **In what ways does the assurance that "all nations shall come and worship before thee" impact your prayer life or your involvement in global missions?**
* **How can the truth that "thy judgments are made manifest" bring you comfort or challenge in times when injustice seems to prevail in the world?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate a greater "fear of the Lord" – a deeper awe and respect for God's power and character – in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What does "fear thee, O Lord" mean in this context?**

Answer: In Revelation 15:4, "fear" (Greek: _phobéō_) does not imply terror or fright in the presence of God, but rather a profound, reverential awe, respect, and submission to His supreme power, majesty, and holiness. It is the appropriate response of finite creation to the infinite Creator, acknowledging His unique authority and worthiness of worship. This kind of fear leads to glorification and obedience, as seen throughout biblical wisdom literature (e.g., [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")).

**Why is God described as "only holy"?**

Answer: The phrase "thou only art holy" emphasizes God's unique and intrinsic moral perfection and purity. It signifies that holiness is an inherent attribute of His very being, distinguishing Him from all created beings, human rulers, or false gods. Unlike anything else, God is utterly set apart, without blemish or imperfection. This absolute holiness is the foundation for His righteous character and the ultimate reason He alone is worthy of universal worship and fear. It underscores His incomparable nature, as highlighted in passages like [1 Samuel 2:2](/1_samuel/2-2 "1 Samuel 2:2 - No One is Holy Like the Lord").

**What is the significance of "all nations shall come and worship before thee"?**

Answer: This statement is a powerful prophetic declaration of God's ultimate triumph and the universal recognition of His sovereignty. It foretells a future time when, despite global rebellion and idolatry, every people group, nation, and tribe will ultimately acknowledge God's supreme authority and render Him worship. This vision resonates with numerous Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Psalm 22:27](/psalm/22-27 "Psalm 22:27 - All the Ends of the Earth Shall Remember and Turn to the Lord")) and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament vision of a multitude from every nation standing before the throne ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Multitude from Every Nation")). It signifies the complete victory of God's kingdom over all earthly opposition.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 15:4, with its declaration of God's unique holiness, universal worship, and manifest judgments, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the perfect embodiment of God's holiness, being "the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory")). He is the one through whom the Father's holiness is fully revealed to humanity, for "the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). The universal worship prophesied in this verse is ultimately directed to both God the Father and God the Son, for it is through Christ that all nations are invited to come. The Great Commission in [Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission") commands believers to "make disciples of all nations," actively participating in the very fulfillment of this prophecy. Furthermore, the "judgments made manifest" are supremely revealed through Christ's redemptive work on the cross, where God's justice against sin was satisfied, and His mercy was poured out. While Christ is the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), He is also the one to whom "the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son" ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Judges Through the Son")). Thus, Revelation 15:4 points forward to the ultimate reign of Christ, where His holiness will be universally acknowledged, and His righteous judgments will bring about the full and final establishment of God's kingdom.

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

Psalms 86:9

All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name.

Malachi 1:11

For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name [shall be] great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense [shall be] offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name [shall be] great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.

Jeremiah 10:7

Who would not fear thee, O King of nations? for to thee doth it appertain: forasmuch as among all the wise [men] of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, [there is] none like unto thee.

Psalms 22:27

All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.

Revelation 11:15

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.

Revelation 14:7

Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Isaiah 66:22

For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain.