New Testament
Revelation 6:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For the great day of his wrath has come, and who shall be able to stand?
Compare translations
For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
What Revelation 6:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 6:17, the text speaks of a significant moment when God's anger and judgment are fully revealed. This 'great day of his wrath' signifies a time of reckoning for humanity, where the consequences of sin and rebellion against God are laid bare. The question, 'who shall be able to stand?' highlights the fear and uncertainty that accompanies divine judgment. It suggests that in the face of God's power and holiness, no one can withstand His wrath without His mercy. This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the day of judgment, as it will come unexpectedly and will be a time of great turmoil for those unprepared. Ultimately, it calls believers to reflect on their relationship with God and to seek His grace to stand firm in faith during challenging times.
How to apply Revelation 6:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our lives and our relationship with God. It reminds us of the importance of repentance and seeking His mercy. As we face challenges, we should strive to stand firm in our faith, trusting in God's grace to sustain us through difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Revelation 6:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Revelation 6:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 6:17 mean?
Revelation 6:17 refers to a time when God's judgment is fully revealed, emphasizing the seriousness of sin and the consequences that follow. It poses the question of who can withstand God's wrath, highlighting the need for His mercy.
What is the significance of 'the great day of his wrath' in Revelation 6:17?
The phrase 'the great day of his wrath' signifies a moment of divine judgment when God's anger against sin is fully expressed. It serves as a warning about the seriousness of human accountability and the urgency of repentance.
What does 'who shall be able to stand?' mean in Revelation 6:17?
The question 'who shall be able to stand?' reflects the fear and uncertainty during God's judgment. It suggests that without God's mercy, no one can withstand His wrath, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared.
How does Revelation 6:17 relate to repentance?
Revelation 6:17 highlights the need for repentance by illustrating the consequences of sin during God's judgment. It serves as a reminder that seeking God's mercy is essential to withstand His wrath.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.