Faithful on Fridays Blog

The Sixth Trumpet

Here in the midst of the judgments upon earth keep in mind they’re written for us: His Church. From Chapter One His voice is calling out to hear what He’s saying. As this angel trumpeted the voice of the Spirit spoke to John from the Altar of Incense. Remember this altar? It represents our burning prayers. As believers stand in His righteousness, holy and blameless, we continue interceding for people to come to repentance. God’s intent wasn’t for people for pay for their sin; He would do it. However, if a heart is intent on rebellion against Him there is no alternative.

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:15

Those words of Jesus never rang truer than in this sixth judgment. 

The Spirit of Christ commanded a release of four demon-angels held captive at the Euphrates River. In the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:14) we find this great river whose name means ‘breakthrough of everything that’s good’. There’s a flaming-sword-wielding angel stationed there guarding the Tree of Life (Gen. 3:24) where four demons have been bound for aeons. The time has arrived to release them to go and advance God’s Plan for His Bride: Back to the Garden (Rev. 22:1-5).

An innumerable army of ruthless and relentless warriors are described in this judgment with metaphors of fire, smoke, and sulfur from their mouths to wound. They’ve arrived with one purpose: to kill a portion of unredeemed mankind. It seems heartless to act in this manner since we call God a good, good Father but He’s only a Father to those who have repented and been forgiven receiving salvation from punishment. 

We’re told that the right time had transpired for these demon-angels, even the hour, day, and month of the year; even Jesus didn’t know these details until now, only the Father (Mark 13:32). 

What’s the point of yet another partial destruction of mankind alive on the earth? It’s simple: God’s patience has its limits. He’s not ready to complete His plan but these are warnings; there’s a point when He’s had enough. When you read 2 Peter 3 through the lens of Revelation it’s clear: Judgment Day is coming.

The Lord isn’t really being slow about His promise, as some people think. No, He is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 2 Peter 3:9 NLT

I’m reminded of the words of the hymn In Christ Alone, the third verse:

No guilt in life, no fear in death—This is the pow’r of Christ in me;

From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny.

No pow’r of hell, no scheme of man, Can ever pluck me from His hand;

Till He returns or calls me home—Here in the power of Christ, I stand.