Revelation 16:5 — Then I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: “You are just in these judgments, O Holy One, you who are and who were;”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
After the third bowl of judgment turns the rivers and springs to blood, this verse shifts the focus for a moment. Instead of another act of judgment, we hear a declaration from an angel—specifically the angel “in charge of the waters.” This angel praises God, declaring that His judgments are just and right. The angel calls God “the Holy One” and recognizes Him as eternal—“you who are and who were.”
This is a moment of worship in the middle of judgment. It reminds us that what God is doing is not cruel or unfair. His actions are righteous. The angel doesn’t question God; he confirms that God’s judgment is not only deserved but praiseworthy.
This moment affirms the character of God in the face of terrible events. Even while the world is being judged, heaven proclaims that God is still holy, just, and worthy of worship.
Historical Context
The early Christians who received the book of Revelation lived in a time when evil often seemed to win. They saw the Roman Empire prosper while Christians were persecuted. It could have been easy to wonder if God was really in control or if He truly cared about justice.
This verse would have reassured them that God’s judgments—even when severe—are not random or unjust. The angel’s statement confirms that heaven sees God’s justice clearly, even when earth struggles to understand.
The reference to God as “you who are and who were” echoes earlier language in Revelation (like Revelation 1:4), pointing to God’s eternal nature. He is not bound by time or circumstance. His justice flows from who He is—unchanging and perfect.
Theological Implications
This verse helps us see the heart of God’s judgments. They are not fueled by revenge or malice. They come from His holiness and His commitment to justice. God does not judge out of frustration, but because He is holy and cannot ignore sin.
It also shows that God is always worthy of worship—even when He is judging the world. His justice is not something to hide from but something to praise. This is a powerful reminder that worship and justice go hand in hand in God’s kingdom.
It also reveals that God is not just reacting—He is ruling. His actions are deliberate, righteous, and based on His eternal character.
Literary Analysis
This verse shifts the rhythm of the chapter. After the first three bowl judgments, there’s a pause. Instead of continuing the sequence, we hear a heavenly voice affirming God’s justice. This pause is important—it invites the reader to reflect on the meaning behind the judgments.
The angel speaks in a tone of reverence. The words “just,” “Holy One,” and the phrase “you who are and who were” are packed with meaning. They point to God’s identity, not just His actions. The structure is poetic and liturgical—almost like a prayer or song of praise.
This kind of interlude is common in Revelation. Amidst dramatic events, we often hear voices from heaven giving insight into what’s happening and reminding us of who God is.
Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 32:4 – “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just.”
- Psalm 19:9 – “The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.”
- Revelation 15:3 – “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations.”
- Revelation 1:4 – “Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come…”
These passages reinforce that God’s justice is not something new—it’s part of His unchanging character.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a solid reminder that God’s judgments can be trusted. Even when life feels unfair or when we see evil going unchecked, we can be sure that God sees everything and will one day set it all right.
It also encourages us to trust in God’s character more than our feelings. When we don’t understand what He’s doing, we can still believe He is good, holy, and just. That faith helps us stay grounded in truth, especially in difficult times.
This verse also teaches us to worship God not just for His kindness, but also for His justice. Both are part of who He is. He’s not just a comforter—He’s also a righteous Judge.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Some people struggle to see love in judgment, but this verse shows that they’re not opposed. God’s love doesn’t mean He looks the other way when evil happens. His justice is part of His love—because love always seeks what is good and right.
When the angel praises God’s justice, it reminds us that true love is never passive. A loving God must also be a just God. He will not let sin, abuse, or rebellion go unanswered forever.
And this verse is also proof that even in judgment, God’s character remains consistent. He doesn’t stop being holy, loving, or worthy of praise.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the clearest picture of both God’s justice and His mercy. On the cross, Jesus bore the judgment we deserved. Romans 3:25 says God “presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement… to demonstrate his righteousness.”
Because of Jesus, God’s justice was satisfied, and mercy was offered to us. This means that while we see judgment in Revelation, those who belong to Christ do not need to fear it.
Also, Revelation repeatedly shows Jesus as the eternal one—He is the one “who is and who was and who is to come” (Revelation 1:8). This verse, though speaking of God, echoes that same truth about Jesus: He is eternal, holy, and perfectly just.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does this verse teach you about God’s character?
- How do you respond to the idea that God’s judgments are completely just?
- Why is it important to worship God for both His mercy and His justice?
- In what ways do you struggle to trust God’s justice in today’s world?
- How does the cross of Jesus help you understand God’s justice and love together?