Revelation 6:10
Verse
Context
The Fifth Seal: The Martyrs
9And when the Lamb opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony they had upheld.10And they cried out in a loud voice, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You avenge our blood and judge those who dwell upon the earth?”
Sermons
CompilationsJohn Rhys Watkins
Ian Paisley
Horatius BonarHoratius Bonar
Thomas BrooksHoratius BonarSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And they cried with a loud voice - That is, their blood, like that of Abel, cried for vengeance; for we are not to suppose that there was any thing like a vindictive spirit in those happy and holy souls who had shed their blood for the testimony of Jesus. We sometimes say Blood cries for blood; that is, in the order of Divine justice, every murderer, and every murdering persecutor, shall be punished. O Lord - Ὁ Δεσποτης· Sovereign Lord, supreme Ruler; one having and exercising unlimited and uncontrolled authority. Holy - In thy own nature, hating iniquity; And true - In all thy promises and threatenings; Dost thou not judge - The persecutors; And avenge our blood - Inflict signal punishment; On them that dwell on the earth? - Probably meaning the persecuting Jews; they dwelt επι της γης, upon that land, a form of speech by which Judea is often signified in the New Testament.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
How long--Greek, "Until when?" As in the parable the woman (symbol of the Church) cries day and night to the unjust judge for justice against her adversary who is always oppressing her (compare below, Rev 12:10); so the elect (not only on earth, but under Christ's covering, and in His presence in Paradise) cry day and night to God, who will assuredly, in His own time, avenge His and their cause, "though He bear long with them." These passages need not be restricted to some particular martyrdoms, but have been, and are receiving, and shall receive partial fulfilments, until their last exhaustive fulfilment before Christ's coming. So as to the other events foretold here. The glory even of those in Paradise will only be complete when Christ's and the Church's foes are cast out, and the earth will become Christ's kingdom at His coming to raise the sleeping saints. Lord--Greek, "Master"; implying that He has them and their foes and all His creatures as absolutely at His disposal, as a master has his slaves; hence, in Rev 6:11, "fellow servants," or fellow slaves follows. holy--Greek, "the Holy one." avenge--"exact vengeance for our blood." on--Greek, "from them." that dwell on the earth--the ungodly, of earth, earthly, as distinguished from the Church, whose home and heart are even now in heavenly places.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And they cried with a loud voice,.... With great ardour and fervency, being very pressing and importunate; and which shows that they were awake, and not asleep, and that the soul does not sleep with the body in the grave, or is after the death of that in a state of insensibility and inactivity, as some imagine: saying, how long, O Lord, holy and true; the person they address is either the Lamb in the midst of the throne, with whom they were, and under the shelter of whom they were safe and happy; or God the Father, who sat upon the throne, whom they call "holy", because being so in his nature, and as appears in all his works, he could not but hate, and so revenge the evil that was done to them by their cruel persecutors; and whereas he is "true" to all his threatenings, as well as his promises, and faithful to every word of his, they doubted not but he would judge and avenge them of their enemies; but they seem desirous to know how long it would be first: saying, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? the men of the world, idolatrous persons, earthly princes, who had shed their blood; and which they desire not out of any sinful or malicious affection, but that the holiness and justice of God might appear, and also his truth and faithfulness in his promises to them, and threatenings to his enemies; and that God in all things might be glorified, and his church and people on earth might be supported and delivered; see Job 24:12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:10 The martyrs shouted to the Sovereign Lord because they trusted in his power to redress their grievances. • how long: Is God slow to act? Will justice be done? God does act decisively (see 6:12-14); his wrath (6:16-17) must be understood in terms of justice, fairness, and righteousness (see Exod 34:5-7; Neh 9:17; Pss 103:8; 145:8; Joel 2:13; Jon 4:2; Rom 2:6-11). • avenge our blood: This cry for God’s justice follows the pattern of imprecatory (vengeance) psalms (see Pss 6:3; 74:10; 79:5; 80:4; 137:1-9). It also reflects the covenant curses of Deut 28:53-57; 32:35 (quoted in Rom 12:19).
Revelation 6:10
The Fifth Seal: The Martyrs
9And when the Lamb opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony they had upheld.10And they cried out in a loud voice, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You avenge our blood and judge those who dwell upon the earth?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
My Sorrows (Compilation)
By Compilations1.5K10:59CompilationISA 60:1MAL 4:5MAT 5:4MAT 10:30LUK 18:1REV 6:10REV 21:4In this sermon, the preacher expresses a concern about the current state of the religious scene, where there is a lack of desire for correction and reproof. The preacher criticizes the focus on man-made inventions and ministries, such as how-to conferences, instead of seeking Jesus above all else. The sermon emphasizes the need for a revival where young people are convicted and fall on their faces before God. The preacher also speaks about the coming of the Lord, describing both His vengeance upon those who reject Him and His glory upon the righteous.
The Mark of the Beast
By John Rhys Watkins1.4K33:47Mark Of The BeastGAL 1:61TH 2:32TH 2:3REV 6:10REV 13:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of the mark of the beast and the presence of the Antichrist within the church. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and recognizing the number of the beast, which is 666. The preacher warns that the fascination and obsession with the Antichrist within the church should be met with revulsion and caution. He highlights the need for the church to learn from its mistakes and be aware of Satan's deceptive tactics, as seen in the Garden of Eden. The sermon also emphasizes the significance of the blood of Jesus Christ and its role in salvation.
The French Reformer John Calvin
By Ian Paisley1.2K31:20MAT 6:33JHN 1:132CO 6:17HEB 10:12HEB 12:2REV 3:20REV 6:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life and teachings of John Calvin, a reformer who sought to spread the gospel of Christ. Calvin initially believed he could reform the Roman church, but upon careful study, he realized it was filled with apostasy and idolatry. He then gave four reasons why he had to separate from the Roman church. The preacher also highlights Calvin's emphasis on the doctrine of election, where God takes the initiative in saving sinners. Additionally, Calvin endured persecution and remained steadfast in his faith.
Rev. 6:10. How Long?
By Horatius Bonar0God's Patience and Long-sufferingThe Cry for JusticeEXO 10:3PSA 6:3PSA 13:1PSA 35:17PSA 79:5JER 4:14HAB 1:2MAT 24:32PE 3:12REV 6:10Horatius Bonar explores the profound question 'How long?' as expressed in Revelation 6:10, emphasizing its significance in human experience and divine communication. He categorizes the cry into three main dialogues: from man to man, from man to God, and from God to man, illustrating the deep yearning for justice and understanding in a world filled with suffering and evil. Bonar highlights the themes of complaint, submission, inquiry, and expectation in the human cry, while also reflecting on God's long-suffering, admonition, and earnestness in His call to humanity. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a reminder of the hope and faith that believers hold onto as they await God's ultimate justice and redemption.
Rev. 6:10-11. the Recompense of Martyrdom
By Horatius Bonar0MartyrdomHope in SufferingREV 6:10Horatius Bonar preaches on Revelation 6:10-11, emphasizing the cry of the martyrs for justice and the assurance of their honor and rest in Christ. He explains that while earthly rulers may persecute the Church, they are ultimately accountable to Christ, who is the true Judge and King. The martyrs, depicted as receiving white robes, symbolize the honor and eternal joy that await those who suffer for their faith. Bonar encourages believers to hold onto the hope of future glory and to live in a manner worthy of their calling, despite the trials they may face. The sermon calls for a recognition of Christ's supremacy over all nations and the importance of perseverance in faith.
Those Who Strike at God's Eyes
By Thomas Brooks0PersecutionDivine ProtectionPSA 17:8ZEC 2:8MAT 25:40JHN 15:20ACT 9:4ROM 12:192TH 1:6HEB 13:31PE 5:7REV 6:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound connection between God and His people, illustrating that those who harm God's followers are, in essence, striking at God Himself. He draws from Zechariah 2:8 to highlight the sacredness of God's people, likening them to the apple of His eye, which is fiercely protected. Brooks warns persecutors that their actions against believers will not go unpunished, as God is deeply aware of their suffering and will respond with justice. He reminds us that Christ, in His glorified state, continues to bear the griefs of His saints, reinforcing the intimate bond between Him and His followers. The sermon serves as a stern warning to those who afflict God's people, urging them to reconsider their actions.
The Blood of Sprinkling, and the Blood of Abel
By Horatius Bonar0The Blood of ChristRedemption and ForgivenessGEN 4:10LUK 23:34ROM 5:20ROM 8:1EPH 2:13COL 1:20HEB 9:14HEB 12:241PE 1:18REV 6:10Horatius Bonar emphasizes the profound contrast between the blood of Abel and the blood of Christ, illustrating how Abel's blood cries out for vengeance while Christ's blood speaks of love, grace, and forgiveness. He explains that the blood of sprinkling signifies a new covenant that brings peace, blessing, and nearness to God, contrasting the curse and separation brought by Abel's blood. Bonar highlights that Christ's blood offers comfort and restoration, purging the conscience and granting eternal life, while also warning against the rejection of this divine testimony. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to embrace the transformative power of Christ's blood, which assures them of their salvation and relationship with God.
Unbroken Fellowship Essential
By C.H. Spurgeon0LUK 2:29ACT 4:241TI 6:12TI 2:21TIT 2:91PE 2:182PE 2:1JUD 1:4REV 6:10The preacher delves into the meaning of 'Despotes' in the Bible, emphasizing its representation of ownership and authority, both in the secular and spiritual realms. While the term may evoke negative connotations in English, its Biblical usage portrays God's absolute control and rulership over all things. Believers are called to submit to God as their Master, reflecting a heart of reverence and obedience in all aspects of life, even in challenging circumstances. The sermon highlights the importance of believers living out the Gospel through respectful submission to earthly authorities, ultimately honoring God as the true Master of their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And they cried with a loud voice - That is, their blood, like that of Abel, cried for vengeance; for we are not to suppose that there was any thing like a vindictive spirit in those happy and holy souls who had shed their blood for the testimony of Jesus. We sometimes say Blood cries for blood; that is, in the order of Divine justice, every murderer, and every murdering persecutor, shall be punished. O Lord - Ὁ Δεσποτης· Sovereign Lord, supreme Ruler; one having and exercising unlimited and uncontrolled authority. Holy - In thy own nature, hating iniquity; And true - In all thy promises and threatenings; Dost thou not judge - The persecutors; And avenge our blood - Inflict signal punishment; On them that dwell on the earth? - Probably meaning the persecuting Jews; they dwelt επι της γης, upon that land, a form of speech by which Judea is often signified in the New Testament.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
How long--Greek, "Until when?" As in the parable the woman (symbol of the Church) cries day and night to the unjust judge for justice against her adversary who is always oppressing her (compare below, Rev 12:10); so the elect (not only on earth, but under Christ's covering, and in His presence in Paradise) cry day and night to God, who will assuredly, in His own time, avenge His and their cause, "though He bear long with them." These passages need not be restricted to some particular martyrdoms, but have been, and are receiving, and shall receive partial fulfilments, until their last exhaustive fulfilment before Christ's coming. So as to the other events foretold here. The glory even of those in Paradise will only be complete when Christ's and the Church's foes are cast out, and the earth will become Christ's kingdom at His coming to raise the sleeping saints. Lord--Greek, "Master"; implying that He has them and their foes and all His creatures as absolutely at His disposal, as a master has his slaves; hence, in Rev 6:11, "fellow servants," or fellow slaves follows. holy--Greek, "the Holy one." avenge--"exact vengeance for our blood." on--Greek, "from them." that dwell on the earth--the ungodly, of earth, earthly, as distinguished from the Church, whose home and heart are even now in heavenly places.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And they cried with a loud voice,.... With great ardour and fervency, being very pressing and importunate; and which shows that they were awake, and not asleep, and that the soul does not sleep with the body in the grave, or is after the death of that in a state of insensibility and inactivity, as some imagine: saying, how long, O Lord, holy and true; the person they address is either the Lamb in the midst of the throne, with whom they were, and under the shelter of whom they were safe and happy; or God the Father, who sat upon the throne, whom they call "holy", because being so in his nature, and as appears in all his works, he could not but hate, and so revenge the evil that was done to them by their cruel persecutors; and whereas he is "true" to all his threatenings, as well as his promises, and faithful to every word of his, they doubted not but he would judge and avenge them of their enemies; but they seem desirous to know how long it would be first: saying, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? the men of the world, idolatrous persons, earthly princes, who had shed their blood; and which they desire not out of any sinful or malicious affection, but that the holiness and justice of God might appear, and also his truth and faithfulness in his promises to them, and threatenings to his enemies; and that God in all things might be glorified, and his church and people on earth might be supported and delivered; see Job 24:12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:10 The martyrs shouted to the Sovereign Lord because they trusted in his power to redress their grievances. • how long: Is God slow to act? Will justice be done? God does act decisively (see 6:12-14); his wrath (6:16-17) must be understood in terms of justice, fairness, and righteousness (see Exod 34:5-7; Neh 9:17; Pss 103:8; 145:8; Joel 2:13; Jon 4:2; Rom 2:6-11). • avenge our blood: This cry for God’s justice follows the pattern of imprecatory (vengeance) psalms (see Pss 6:3; 74:10; 79:5; 80:4; 137:1-9). It also reflects the covenant curses of Deut 28:53-57; 32:35 (quoted in Rom 12:19).