Revelation 16:7 — And I heard the altar respond: “Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse gives us a rare moment in the middle of judgment where a voice comes not from a person or an angel—but from the altar itself. The altar responds in agreement with what has just been said in verse 6 about God’s justice. It echoes and confirms: Yes, Lord God Almighty, your judgments are true and just.
In the Old Testament and earlier parts of Revelation, the altar is often connected with the prayers and cries of God’s faithful people, especially those who were martyred (see Revelation 6:9). Now, that same altar, which once held their cries for justice, responds in praise and affirmation. It’s as if the altar itself is a witness, and it now testifies that God has finally acted righteously and rightly.
This verse assures us that God’s judgments are not overreactions. They are the right response from a holy and all-powerful God. The very place where cries for justice were lifted now becomes a place of praise because justice is being served.
Historical Context
In the early church, many believers had suffered or even died for their faith under Roman rule. They had watched evil flourish while the innocent were mistreated. Revelation was written to give them hope and perspective—that God had not forgotten them and would eventually bring justice.
The idea of the altar speaking is deeply symbolic. The altar in the Old Testament was where sacrifices were made and blood was poured out. In Revelation, it also becomes the place where the voices of martyrs cry out for God to act. Now, that same altar “responds,” affirming that God’s timing and actions are right.
For those first-century believers, this verse would have reassured them that their suffering had not been in vain—and that God would bring everything into the light in His perfect way.
Theological Implications
This verse reinforces the truth that God’s judgments are both true and just. That means His actions are both accurate and morally right. God doesn’t act out of error or vengeance, but out of perfect understanding and holiness.
The fact that the altar “responds” points to a deeper truth: all of creation and heaven itself agrees with God’s judgment. There is no dispute in heaven about whether God is right—there is only worship.
The verse also highlights that God’s justice is something to be praised, not feared—at least for those who belong to Him. It’s a reason to worship, because it means that evil will not last forever and wrongs will not go unpunished.
Literary Analysis
The language of this verse is short, yet loaded with meaning. The words “Yes, Lord God Almighty” are a direct affirmation. This kind of phrasing appears in worship settings throughout Scripture, showing complete agreement and submission to God’s authority.
“True and just are your judgments” is a pair of terms that appear repeatedly in the Bible to describe God’s actions. “True” points to factual, perfect knowledge. “Just” points to fairness, righteousness, and moral integrity. Together, they describe a God who not only knows what is right but always does what is right.
Also, the use of the altar as a “speaker” is a literary device meant to underline the weight of what’s being said. It represents the cries of God’s people now being answered by God’s justice.
Cross-References
- Revelation 6:9-10 – The souls under the altar cry out, “How long… until you judge… and avenge our blood?”
- 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… the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.”
- Romans 2:2 – “Now we know that God’s judgment… is based on truth.”
These verses show a consistent biblical theme: God’s judgments are never in error, and His timing is always perfect.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse encourages us to trust God’s judgment, even when we don’t see justice happening in the world. We live in a time when truth is often twisted, and justice can seem out of reach. But this verse reminds us that in the end, God will judge rightly—and heaven itself will agree.
It also teaches us to worship God not only for His kindness, but for His fairness. His justice should give us peace, knowing that He sees what’s been done and will act in the right way at the right time.
This verse also helps us let go of the need to seek revenge or fix every wrong ourselves. God will take care of it—better than we ever could.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love and justice are not separate. In fact, they go hand in hand. A loving God must also be a just God. If He ignored evil, He wouldn’t be truly loving or good.
This verse, placed right in the middle of judgment, confirms that God’s actions are both firm and loving. He’s not lashing out—He’s acting in line with who He is: holy, patient, faithful, and just.
The altar’s praise is a reminder that justice is not something to dread when we belong to God. It’s something we can celebrate because it shows how much He values truth, righteousness, and the lives of His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the one through whom God’s justice and mercy come together. At the cross, Jesus took on the judgment that we deserved so that we could be forgiven (Isaiah 53:5, Romans 5:9). Because of Him, we don’t have to fear the final judgment.
He is also the one described in Revelation as the “Faithful and True” who “judges with justice” (Revelation 19:11). Jesus will return to carry out the justice that the altar praises in this verse.
Through Christ, we are not only saved from judgment but also made righteous, so that we can join in the praise and worship of the God whose judgments are always true.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why is it important to believe that God’s judgments are true and just?
- How does this verse comfort you when you see injustice in the world?
- In what ways can you learn to trust God’s timing in bringing about justice?
- How does Jesus help us face judgment without fear?
- What would it look like to worship God more deeply for His justice as well as His mercy?