Revelation 11:14 — “The second woe has passed; the third woe is coming soon.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This short verse serves as a transition between major events in the book of Revelation. It tells us that the “second woe” is now complete, and the “third woe” is just around the corner. These “woes” are not random misfortunes—they are part of God’s planned judgments poured out on the earth during the end times.
The “second woe” includes the events we’ve just seen: the sounding of the sixth trumpet, the rise of the beast, the killing and resurrection of the two witnesses, the earthquake, and the people finally giving glory to God. Now that this phase has passed, another judgment is approaching—the “third woe,” which will be tied to the seventh trumpet.
This verse may be brief, but it reminds us that everything is moving forward according to God’s timing. Each “woe” signals a deeper intensity of judgment and a growing urgency for the world to turn back to God before it’s too late.
Historical Context
In the time Revelation was written, the early Christians lived under pressure from a world that seemed powerful, unjust, and often hostile to the truth. Rome looked invincible, and the troubles that came upon the church felt like one crisis after another. John‘s readers would have recognized that “woes” were not just future predictions—they were also part of their present struggle.
The idea of “woes” also had Old Testament roots. Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel often used the word “woe” to describe coming judgment or sorrow for those who rebelled against God. These warnings were always serious, but they were also invitations to repent.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that God’s judgment is real, but it is also measured and ordered. He does not act out of random anger. Each woe has a place in the larger plan of justice and redemption. Nothing is out of control, even when things look frightening.
It also teaches that time is running out. The world is not going to go on forever the way it is. God is giving warnings and opportunities to respond, but there will come a time when the final judgment arrives. This builds urgency into the message: respond to God while there’s still time.
Literary Analysis
Though brief, this verse carries weight in the story. It is a marker in the structure of Revelation. The book unfolds in cycles—seals, trumpets, and bowls—and this verse brings us to the end of one major cycle (the sixth trumpet and second woe) and points ahead to the next one (the seventh trumpet and third woe).
The repetition of the word “woe” highlights the seriousness of what is happening. It’s a word of sorrow, warning, and divine justice all at once. The structure of this verse also creates suspense—it closes one dramatic scene and prepares us for something even greater that is coming next.
Biblical Cross-References
- Revelation 8:13 – An angel announces three coming woes tied to the last three trumpets.
- Revelation 9:12 – After the fifth trumpet, the first woe is declared finished.
- Revelation 10:7 – The mystery of God will be accomplished at the sounding of the seventh trumpet.
- Isaiah 5:20-24 – Woes are pronounced on those who call evil good and good evil.
- Ezekiel 30:2-3 – A day of woe is declared as God brings judgment on rebellious nations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse calls Christians to live with spiritual alertness. It’s easy to get comfortable or distracted by daily life, but God’s Word reminds us that time is moving forward toward a final day of judgment. We are not just waiting for something to happen—we’re living in the middle of a story that God is actively writing.
It also encourages us to share the message of truth with others. If the world is under judgment, and more is coming, we should be motivated by love to warn people and point them to the hope found in Jesus.
Even more, this verse reminds us that God is in control. Even when life feels chaotic, God’s plan is unfolding. The second woe passed. The third is coming. Nothing surprises Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His warnings. A loving parent doesn’t stay silent when danger is near. God tells us what is coming so that we can prepare, respond, and find safety in Him.
Even in the judgments, there is mercy—people were given time to repent, and some did (as we saw in Revelation 11:13). That’s grace. A loving God gives every opportunity for people to turn to Him before it’s too late.
He doesn’t rush into wrath. He sends signs, messengers, and calls to repentance over and over again. This verse shows that love includes truth and urgency.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus often spoke of coming judgment, but always with an invitation to turn and live. In Luke 13:3, He said, “Unless you repent, you too will all perish.” But He also said, “Come to me… and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Jesus is the One who took the ultimate “woe” upon Himself when He died for our sins. On the cross, He bore the wrath that we deserved. Through Him, we are not only warned—we are rescued.
This verse fits into that bigger picture: the world moves toward judgment, but Jesus is the door of escape. He is the way out, the One who gives us peace even when trouble comes.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does this verse tell me about how God manages time, history, and judgment?
- How should I respond when I realize that more judgment is coming?
- Do I live with a sense of urgency, knowing that time is short?
- How does this verse strengthen my trust that God is in control of world events?
- Who in my life needs to hear the truth while there’s still time?