New Testament
Revelation 9:20
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Yet the rest of humanity — those who survived these plagues — still didn't repent of what they had made with their own hands. They continued to worship devils and idols crafted from gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood — things that can't see, hear, or walk.
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And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:
What Revelation 9:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 9:20, we see a stark picture of humanity's stubbornness in the face of divine judgment. Despite experiencing severe plagues, those who survived did not turn away from their sinful practices. Instead, they continued to worship false gods and idols made from materials like gold, silver, and wood—objects that are lifeless and powerless. This passage highlights the futility of idol worship, as these idols cannot see, hear, or act. The refusal to repent signifies a deep-rooted rebellion against God, illustrating how people can cling to their creations rather than acknowledging the Creator. This serves as a warning about the dangers of idolatry and the importance of genuine repentance, urging us to examine what we prioritize in our lives and to turn towards God rather than our own creations.
How to apply Revelation 9:20 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on what we might be worshiping in our lives. Are there things we prioritize over our relationship with God? It encourages us to repent and turn away from anything that distracts us from true worship and devotion to God.
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Keep studying Revelation 9:20
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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 9:20 teach about idolatry?
Revelation 9:20 highlights the futility of idol worship by illustrating how those who survived the plagues continued to worship lifeless idols made of gold, silver, and wood. This passage emphasizes that these idols cannot see, hear, or act, showcasing the emptiness of placing faith in created objects rather than the Creator. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of focusing our worship on God alone.
Why didn't the survivors repent in Revelation 9:20?
The survivors in Revelation 9:20 did not repent despite the severe plagues because of their stubbornness and rebellion against God. This refusal to turn away from their sinful practices and idol worship illustrates a deep-rooted resistance to divine judgment. It serves as a warning about the human tendency to cling to false beliefs and creations rather than acknowledging God's authority and seeking genuine repentance.
How can we apply Revelation 9:20 to our lives today?
Revelation 9:20 encourages us to examine what we prioritize in our lives. It challenges us to identify any idols—whether material possessions, relationships, or ambitions—that distract us from our relationship with God. By recognizing these distractions, we can take steps to repent and refocus our worship on God, ensuring that we do not fall into the same stubbornness as those described in the verse.
What are the consequences of ignoring God's warnings in Revelation 9:20?
Ignoring God's warnings, as seen in Revelation 9:20, can lead to spiritual blindness and a hardened heart. The refusal to repent despite experiencing divine judgment can result in continued separation from God and a life devoid of true purpose and fulfillment. This passage serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to heed God's calls for repentance and to avoid the pitfalls of idolatry and false worship.
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