July 28, 2022
Then the third angel poured out his bowl on the rivers and springs of water, and they became blood. Revelation 16:4
By the third plague, the transition into the dragon’s death decree has come into full swing. This decree is enforced by the second beast of Revelation 13 (also known as the false prophet) in a show of solidarity with the first beast (see 16:13). The rivers and springs of water are the fresh, drinkable waters of the earth. The bloodthirstiness of the earth’s inhabitants is in full view by this point. God’s faithful people are the targets, for they have not aligned themselves with the “one-world” plan. By God’s grace and the power of His Spirit they remain faithful to Him.
And I heard the angel of the waters saying: “You are righteous, O Lord, The One who is and who was and who is to be, Because You have judged these things. For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, And You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.” And I heard another from the altar saying, “Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgements.” 16:5-7
Yes, many of God’s witnesses who have spoken and lived out His truth to the world are viewed by the rest of the world as pests; annoyances that need to be silenced. Many of God’s people will indeed be put to death. Jesus said that whatever you have done to others—good or bad—you have done to Him (Matthew 25:40,45). Satan is behind the killing of God’s people, but those who do the killing have rejected Jesus and the covering He offers through His precious blood (see Hebrews 10:29). In rejecting Christ, they have rejected the living water. So, the third plague changes all the fresh drinking water to blood to accompany the bloodthirstiness of the earth’s inhabitants.
Currently, everyone living still has the opportunity to enter into true worship of the Savior who also identifies Himself as the Creator. This means resigning all forms of false worship. The last-day invitation is stated thus:
“Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgement has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” Revelation 14:7
As for the upright who are alive during the last plagues: Bread will be given him. His water will be sure. Isaiah 33:16b