Revelation 16:12-16

The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, to prepare the way for the kings from the east.  And I saw, coming out of the mouth of the dragon and out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits like frogs.  For they are demonic spirits, performing signs, who go abroad to the kings of the whole world, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty.  (“Behold, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake, keeping his garments on, that he may not go about naked and be seen exposed!”)  And they assembled them at the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.

Since the fall, humanity has been at war with one another.  Cain killed his brother and the killing has not stopped since that day.  These wars have ebbed and flowed throughout history, but they have never stopped.  This bowl judgments is God preparing the way and then releasing man and Satan to their own devices.

PREPARATION FOR ARMAGEDDON: In comparison with the other bowl judgments, this one may seem rather “tame”.  The drying up of the Euphrates River does not seem to be that big of deal especially since it is all blood anyway. However, it is simply a means to facilitate the gathering of massive armies that are preparing for the battle of Armageddon.  This will literally be the “war to end all wars”.  God’s protective hand has been refraining the evil of man and Satan throughout history.  In this judgment He is simply removing that retention of sin and evil and facilitating its growth.

INSTIGATION OF ARMAGEDDON: Satan is at work in the world.  His influence is constant but also subdued by our sovereign Lord.  During the tribulation Satan’s influence will be more prevalent especially once he is expelled from heaven.  In this instance as part of this sixth bowl, he sends out three “frog demons” one each from the mouth of the dragon, beast, and false prophet.  These unclean spirits do miraculous signs and are able to convince the kings of the world to gather for war at Armageddon.   

REVELATION AT ARMAGEDDON: Satan and evil men believe they are gaining a victory and will somehow come out as rulers of the world.  Little do they realize that the King of kings and Lord of lords is truly in control.  He is preparing for His return to the earth to establish His kingdom.  It is important to be found ready and waiting in all holiness and reverence to the Lord.  The faithless and rebellious are about to be exposed at the revelation of Jesus where He will vanquish every foe and put down the rebellion of Satan and men.

APPLICATION: Thank God for His current restrain of evil in the world.  Worship the Lord as the sovereign of the universe.  Recognize the danger of evil in the world as well as in the hearts of man.  Proclaim Christ, who is the only One able to be victorious over evil on every front.

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