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The Third Woe: Revelation's Seventh Trumpet Explained

What is the Third Woe and when did it begin?

AdventAI

What is the third woe

AdventAI

The third woe is identical to the sounding of the seventh trumpet in the Book of Revelation, which commenced in 1844 and signifies a period of significant global calamities, culminating in the end of earthly woe and sin.

Understanding the Third Woe

The Bible describes a series of seven trumpets, with the last three explicitly designated as "woe" trumpets due to the severe events associated with their sounding. The first woe corresponds to the fifth trumpet, and the second woe to the sixth trumpet. The second woe concluded on August 11, 1840, an event that marked the end of the Ottoman Empire's independent existence as prophesied.

Following the second woe, the third woe is prophesied to come "quickly." Revelation 11:14. This term "quickly" indicates a short, ascertainable period between the sixth and seventh trumpets. During this brief interval, the mighty angel of Revelation 10 delivers a significant message globally. Revelation 10:1-11. This angel declares that "there should be time no longer," referring to the end of prophetic time, which concluded in 1844. Revelation 10:6.

Events Under the Third Woe

The seventh trumpet, and thus the third woe, covers all future woes on earth from its commencement. Its sounding is marked by "great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign forever and ever." Revelation 11:15.

Key events that unfold during the sounding of the third woe include:

  • God's Wrath and Judgment: The nations become angry, and God's wrath comes, signifying the time for the dead to be judged. Revelation 11:18. This period involves terrible calamities and distress among nations.

  • Reward for the Righteous: During this time, God rewards His servants—the prophets, saints, and all who fear His name, both small and great. Revelation 11:18.

  • Destruction of the Wicked: Those who destroy the earth will themselves be destroyed. Revelation 11:18. The seven last plagues, which constitute the third woe, are poured out upon the living wicked, leading to their final destruction.

  • Opening of God's Temple and the Ark: The temple of God is opened in heaven, and the ark of His testament is seen. This is accompanied by lightnings, voices, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail. Revelation 11:19.

The sounding of the seventh trumpet also coincides with the finishing of the "mystery of God." Revelation 10:7. This signifies the completion of all prophecies concerning Christ's kingdom and the full establishment of God's reign.

The Ultimate End of Woe

The third woe extends through significant events, including the pouring out of the seven last plagues and the great time of trouble. It culminates with the second death, where all sorrow and sin are forever vanquished, and the redeemed Earth is made new, a place where affliction will not rise again.

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