Thursday, 15 April 2021
Then another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. Revelation 14:17
Like in verse 15, John sees another angel coming “out of the temple which is in heaven.” As before, it is most likely another vision of Christ in His mediatorial role; being God’s true High Priest. The previous angel came from the temple, to direct the One like the Son of Man to harvest the earth. This is the wheat as noted from Jesus’ parables. Now, another angel (possibly another manifestation of the Lord) will direct a different type of harvest.
For now, and like in verse 14, this angel has “a sharp sickle.” The first harvest was symbolic of those who are the grain. In that harvest, the wheat is separated from the chaff, and the good stalks are separated from the tares. The next harvest will be emblematic of another type of judgment.
Life application: The book of Jude reveals that there will be many following the Lord in what this harvest signifies –
“Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men also, saying, ‘Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, 15 to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.’” Jude 1:14, 15
The sickle in the hand of this angel is a clear indication that there will be a great harvest of God’s wrath. The consequences of this harvest will be astonishing. That will be seen in the verses ahead. Times of great trial and woe are coming upon the earth for those who fail to make the right choice now. Be sure to be spared of this time of trial by putting your faith in Christ before it comes. He is the One God has designated to save His people. Great is the Lord God who redeems us. He is JESUS.
Heavenly Father, as Your word is written, we have every assurance that it will come about exactly as the details state. Help us to spread the word of peace concerning Jesus and to be faithful witnesses of His work now. When the rapture occurs, it will be too late. Our work will be finished. Give us hearts for the lost now. Amen.