Revelation 9:21 – “Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts.”

Extended Explanation

This verse continues the sad and sobering truth found in Revelation 9:20. After experiencing terrible plagues and witnessing the death of a third of humanity, the survivors still refused to turn back to God. Verse 20 focused on idolatry and false worship. Now, verse 21 lists specific sins that people continued to cling to: murder, magic arts, sexual immorality, and theft.

This list represents both personal and social sin. Murder is the ultimate act of violence against another person. Magic arts (also translated from the Greek word pharmakeia) refers not only to sorcery but also to the use of potions or occult practices, which often involved demonic influence. Sexual immorality refers to all sexual behavior outside of God’s design. Theft speaks to greed, injustice, and a disregard for others.

Despite God’s clear warnings and terrifying judgments, people held tightly to these sins. That shows how hardened the human heart can become when it refuses to submit to God.

Historical Context

In John’s time, all the sins listed in this verse were common and, in many places, culturally accepted or even celebrated. Roman society was known for its violence—murders in arenas, political assassinations, and mob killings. Magic and occult practices were widespread, and temples to false gods often included sexual rituals. Theft and corruption were rampant in government, business, and daily life.

John’s readers—especially those living in pagan cities—would have seen these sins firsthand. Many believers had come out of this lifestyle when they turned to Christ. So when they heard this verse, it would have reminded them of what they were saved from—and of the danger of going back to those old ways.

Theological Implications

This verse reveals that sin is not just a behavior problem—it’s a heart problem. Even when people see God’s power and judgment, they can still choose rebellion. It also shows that judgment alone doesn’t produce repentance. Only the work of the Holy Spirit and the grace of God can soften a hard heart.

It also highlights that God sees specific sins, not just general disobedience. He doesn’t overlook or excuse violence, sexual sin, occult practices, or theft. These things matter to Him because they harm people and destroy what is good.

Lastly, the verse shows that even in judgment, God desires repentance. The fact that He lists these sins so clearly means He’s calling people to turn from them. His judgment is not the end goal—repentance and restoration are.

Literary Analysis

This verse is direct and unfiltered. The sentence structure is simple and forceful:

• “Nor did they repent…” – Continues the tone of refusal from the previous verse.

• “…of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts.” – A pointed list of ongoing rebellion.

There’s no sugarcoating here. The plain listing of sins shows their seriousness and their grip on the human heart. It’s meant to wake the reader up.

Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 20:13-15 – “You shall not murder… commit adultery… steal.” God’s moral law is clear and timeless.

• Galatians 5:19-21 – Lists similar sins, including sexual immorality, witchcraft, and jealousy, warning that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

• Romans 1:28-32 – Describes people who persist in wickedness even though they know God’s judgment.

• 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 – Paul says that those who live in sin will not inherit God’s kingdom, but reminds believers: “That is what some of you were. But you were washed…”

• Acts 3:19 – “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out…”

These passages show that repentance is possible, and that God is always ready to forgive those who turn to Him.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a clear warning: it is possible to witness God’s power and still choose sin. For today’s Christian, it reminds us to never take sin lightly. We must not let our hearts grow numb to what God calls wrong.

It also challenges us to pray for those who are lost—not just that they’ll experience hardship, but that their hearts will soften. Only God can bring true repentance.

And it reminds believers to stay on guard. The sins listed here are still alive and active in the world today. Christians are called to walk in holiness—not perfection, but obedience through the strength God provides.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Some might wonder: how can a loving God allow such judgment? The better question is: how can people keep rejecting such a patient and loving God?

This verse shows that God’s love includes truth. He names sins. He calls people to repent. He gives chance after chance. Even after massive destruction, He still gives space for repentance.

God’s love is not passive—it’s active. He doesn’t look away from sin because He loves people too much to leave them in it. He wants hearts to turn, lives to change, and people to be saved. That’s why He warns. That’s why He waits.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus came to save sinners—not just in general, but from these exact sins. 1 John 3:8 says Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil. Matthew 1:21 says He came to save His people from their sins.

The sins listed in this verse—murder, sorcery, immorality, theft—are not beyond forgiveness. At the cross, Jesus paid the price for all of them. And through His resurrection, He offers a new life to anyone who repents and believes in Him.

Romans 5:8 says, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” That means even those in the middle of these sins can be rescued by Jesus. There’s no sin too great, and no heart too hard, for the power of His grace.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think people can experience God’s judgment and still refuse to repent?

2. Which of the sins listed in this verse are most common in our culture today?

3. How does this verse challenge the way we think about sin in our own lives?

4. What does it mean to truly repent—and how can we help others come to repentance?

5. How does knowing Jesus paid for all sin affect how you read this verse?