It is fitting that we hear the song of these anointe conquerors. Why? Because they have publicized ib earth's judgments contained in the bowls that were full of the anger of God. But the pouring out of these bowls involves more than mere humandsm as John goes on to show: "And after these things I sawm abd the sanctuary of the ten of the witness was opened in heavenm and the seven angels girded about their breasts with golden girdles. And one of the four living creatures gave the angels seven golden bowls that were full of the anger of God, who lives forever and ever." -REVELATION 15:5-7.
As respects the Israelite temple, which contained representatives of heaven things, only the high priest could enter the most Most Holy, here called "the sanctuary." (Hebrews 9:3, 7) It represents the place of Jehovah's presence in heaven. In heaven itself, however, not only does the High Priest Jesus Christ have the privilege of entering in before Jehovah but the angels do also. (Matthew 18:10; Hebrews 9:24-26) It is not surprising, then, that seven angels should be seen coming out from the sanctuary in heaven. They have a commission from Jehovah God himself: "Pour out the bowls of the anger of God. - REVELATION 16:1.
These angels are well qualified for this work. They are clothed with clean bright linen, showing that they are spiritually clean and holy righteousness in Jehovah's sight. Also, they wear golden girdles. Girdles are usually used when a person girds himself for a task to be accomplished. (Leviticus 8:7, 13; 1 Samuel 2:18; Luke 12:37; John 13:4, 5) So the angels are girding for carryig out an assignment. Moreover, their girdles are golden. In the ancient tabernacle, gold was used to represent divine, heavenly things. (Hebrews 9:4, 11, 12) That meanss these angels have a precious, divine commission of service to perform. Others too are involved in this great task. One of the four living creatures hand the actual bowls to them. Doubless, this was the first living creature, which resembled a lion, symnolizing the boldness and indomitable courage needed to proclaim Jehovah's judgments. - REVELATION 4:7.
Next time: Jehovah's Works -Great and Wonderful - The Angels With the Bowls
From the jw.org publications
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