New Testament
Revelation 19:17
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Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and he shouted to all the birds flying in the sky, 'Come, gather together for the supper of the great God!'
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And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;
What Revelation 19:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 19:17, an angel is depicted standing in the sun, a powerful symbol of authority and light. The angel calls out to the birds in the sky, inviting them to gather for a significant event referred to as the 'supper of the great God.' This imagery suggests a divine judgment where the birds will feast on the remains of those defeated in battle against God. The 'supper' symbolizes the ultimate victory of God over evil, showcasing His power and sovereignty. This scene emphasizes the seriousness of God's judgment and the finality of His decisions. The gathering of birds serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of rebellion against God, illustrating the fate that awaits those who oppose Him. The angel's loud proclamation signifies the urgency and importance of this event, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative of Revelation, where God's justice is fully realized and His glory is revealed to all creation.
How to apply Revelation 19:17 to your life
This verse reminds us of the seriousness of our choices and the ultimate authority of God. It encourages us to reflect on our lives and align ourselves with God's will, understanding that there are consequences for opposing Him. Living righteously is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
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Keep studying Revelation 19:17
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Revelation
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 19:17 mean?
Revelation 19:17 describes an angel calling birds to gather for a feast, symbolizing divine judgment. It signifies God's ultimate victory over evil and the consequences for those who oppose Him.
What is the significance of the 'supper of the great God' in Revelation 19:17?
The 'supper of the great God' represents a moment of judgment where defeated enemies of God are symbolically consumed by birds. It highlights God's sovereignty and the finality of His decisions.
Who is the angel in Revelation 19:17?
The angel in Revelation 19:17 symbolizes authority and serves as a messenger of God's judgment. His position standing in the sun emphasizes the power and clarity of the message he delivers.
What do the birds represent in Revelation 19:17?
In Revelation 19:17, the birds represent the agents of divine judgment, feasting on the remains of those defeated in battle against God. They symbolize the consequences of rebellion against God's authority.
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