2. The Temple of the tabernacle opened in heaven. 15:5-16:1
V.5 d) Scene of the open temple - After these things
I. When the people of God worshipped Him during the dedication of the temple of Solomon the temple was filled with the glory of the Lord.
2.Chron. Ch.5 and 7
II. After the praise of the tribulation saints, the focus shifts to the temple in heaven - A new vision is given.
III. There is a temple and an ark in heaven, Moses only made copies of it on the earth. Heb.8:5
IV. The tabernacle of the testimony on the earth contained 10 commandments; God is about to judge according to His moral standard.
V.6 e) Seven plagues - Appearance of the 7 angels.
I. The seven angels that have the 7 plagues comes out of the temple, wearing white linen and on their chests golden bands,
they appear to be angelic priests before God.
II. Perhaps they bring the answer of the prayers of the saint for God’ s righteous judgments throughout the ages.
V.7 f) Seven golden bowls - Assignment of the 7 angels
I. The priests used bowls in their ministry before God. Lev.16:12-13; 1.Kings 7:50; 2.Kings 12:13; 25:15 II. Inside the bowls of the Old Testament vessels were incense, which speak of prayer. III. The wrath of God is in the bowls, perhaps to clarify that His judgments are an answer to prayer. 5:8
IV. The bowls is not 95 % full but completely filled, God has been storing up His wrath and during this period it will be poured out on the world.
V.8 g) Smoke fills the temple - Atmosphere in the temple.
I. The judgments of God are called His unusual act in Scripture. Isaiah 28:21
II. God do not like to judge, all judgments are grievous to Him, perhaps therefore He fills the temple with smoke so that no one can enter,
He wants to be alone until the 7 judgments are complete.
Ex.19:18; 40:34; Ezek.10:4; Isaiah 6:4; 2.Chron.5:14; 7:1-3; 1.Kings 8:10-11
V.1 h) Seven angels commanded -
The former judgments in Revelation were severe, but now they will increase for the full wrath of God will be poured out on the earth.