Revelation 15:3 — “and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: ‘Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes what the faithful people, who stood strong against evil, are now doing in heaven. After being called “victorious” in the previous verse, they begin to sing. Their song is a mix of two powerful themes—one tied to the Old Testament and the other to the New.
First, it’s called “the song of Moses.” That refers to the song sung by the people of Israel in Exodus 15 after God rescued them from slavery in Egypt and destroyed Pharaoh’s army in the Red Sea. It was a song of deliverance, a joyful cry of victory after a long and bitter struggle.
Second, it’s the “song of the Lamb,” which points to Jesus Christ, who gave His life to save people from sin and death. The Lamb represents His sacrificial death and victory over sin, Satan, and the grave.
The song celebrates God’s greatness, justice, and truth. It praises Him as “Lord God Almighty” and “King of the nations.” It’s not a casual song—it’s a declaration that God is right in everything He does. His power is unmatched, and His rule is over every nation, tribe, and person.
Historical Context
For the early Christians, many of whom were suffering under the rule of the Roman Empire, this verse would have been incredibly meaningful. They were often outcasts, treated unfairly, and sometimes even killed for their faith. But here they are shown as victorious worshipers, not victims.
The reference to Moses would have reminded Jewish believers of God’s past faithfulness to deliver His people. The inclusion of the Lamb, Jesus, tied their present hope to God’s ultimate rescue plan through Christ.
This song in heaven gives voice to generations of believers who trusted God through pain, persecution, and trials. It echoes the past but looks forward to a future where God’s rule is fully revealed.
Theological Implications
This verse speaks to the character of God. He is not only powerful—He is good, just, and true. His actions are not random or harsh. They are always right, even when we don’t fully understand them.
The blending of Moses and the Lamb shows that God’s plan has always been one story. The Old Testament and New Testament are not separate paths—they lead to the same God and the same Savior. Redemption through Moses was physical and temporary. Redemption through Jesus is eternal.
This verse also teaches us that worship is not based on our comfort but on God’s greatness. These people have just come through terrible trials, but they’re singing—not because life was easy, but because God was faithful.
Literary Analysis
Revelation is filled with songs and praise, and this is one of the most powerful. The lyrics are short, but they pack deep meaning. The structure of the song follows a pattern seen throughout Scripture: God’s works are praised first (“great and marvelous”), then His ways (“just and true”), and finally, His reign is acknowledged (“King of the nations”).
This verse uses titles for God that build intensity: “Lord God Almighty” shows His unmatched strength, and “King of the nations” declares His global authority. These phrases remind the reader that no empire, ruler, or system stands higher than God.
The poetic language also ties heaven and earth together. God’s people aren’t just safe—they’re satisfied. Their song is part of a worship scene that carries through the rest of Revelation.
Cross-References
- Exodus 15:1-2 — “I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea…”
(The original song of Moses after deliverance from Egypt.) - Psalm 145:17 — “The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.”
(Echoes the line “just and true are your ways.”) - Revelation 5:9 — “You are worthy to take the scroll… because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.”
(The Lamb’s worthiness as Savior and King.) - Deuteronomy 32:4 — “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just…”
(Similar words used in Moses’ final song.)
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that no matter what happens here on earth, God is still worthy of worship. If you’re going through hard times or feeling like the world is upside down, this verse calls you to focus on what is still true: God is great, His ways are right, and He is King over everything.
It also shows us that worship is not just something we do in church on Sundays. It’s a response to who God is and what He has done. And one day, we will sing this song in person—face to face with God.
If you’ve been discouraged, remember: every trial has an end. And at that end, there’s a song waiting for you.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
It might seem strange to connect God’s power and judgment to His love, but this verse does just that. His justice is part of His love. A loving God must deal with evil. A good King cannot let injustice continue forever.
But notice what the worshipers sing: “Great and marvelous are your deeds.” They see God’s actions not as scary or cruel, but beautiful and right. Why? Because His justice comes from His love for truth, goodness, and righteousness.
God’s love isn’t just soft and kind—it’s strong and righteous. That kind of love brings deep comfort, especially when we’re surrounded by brokenness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the Lamb in the song. He is the reason these people are in heaven, able to sing with joy and peace. Without Jesus, they could never have overcome the beast, stood faithful, or entered the presence of God.
This song celebrates not only what God did in the past through Moses, but what Jesus has done for all time. He is the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29), and He is the one who will return as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16).
- John 1:29 — “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
- Philippians 2:10-11 — “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord…”
The song of the Lamb is the song of salvation through Christ.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the song includes both Moses and the Lamb?
- How does this verse help shape your understanding of God’s justice?
- In what ways can you worship God even in hard times?
- What would it look like for you to sing this kind of song in your own life?
- How does this verse inspire your trust in God’s plan from beginning to end?