Revelation 19:17
And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;
Revelation 19:17 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Revelation describes a powerful and dramatic scene in which an angel is seen standing in the sun, symbolizing divine authority and power. The angel cries out loudly to all the birds flying in the sky, calling them to gather for a great banquet known as the "supper of the great God." This imagery of a heavenly supper highlights the coming judgment of God upon the earth. The birds are called to feast on the flesh of those who have been slain in battle, representing the final defeat of evil and the victory of God's righteousness. The invitation extended to the birds emphasizes the certainty and severity of God's judgment on those who have rebelled against Him. It serves as a reminder of the inevitable consequences awaiting those who choose to reject God's authority and live in defiance of His will. Ultimately, this verse urges believers to heed the call of God and turn to Him in repentance, so as to avoid the impending judgment that will come upon the unrighteous.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of the verse where an angel is seen standing in the sun and calling all the birds to gather for the supper of the great God is that it signifies the imminent judgment of God. The angel standing in the sun represents a position of power and authority, symbolizing divine judgment. The invitation to the birds to come and feast on the flesh of those who have been judged can be interpreted as a symbolic representation of the ultimate defeat and destruction of evil forces. This verse serves as a warning to those who do not heed God's word and continue in their sinful ways, as they will ultimately face divine judgment and be consumed by the wrath of God. Word studies on phrases like "supper of the great God" can shed light on the significance of the event as a culmination of God's plan and a gathering of all creation to witness His final victory over evil. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the ultimate triumph of good over evil according to the divine plan.
Revelation 19:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in mid heaven, Come [and] be gathered together unto the great supper of God;
World English Bible
I saw an angel standing in the sun. He cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in the sky, “Come! Be gathered together to the great supper of God,
Douay-Rheims
And I saw an angel standing in the sun: and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that did fly through the midst of heaven: Come, gather yourselves together to the great supper of God:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And I sawe an Angel stand in the sunne, who cryed with a loude voyce, saying to all the foules that did flie by the middes of heauen, Come, and gather your selues together vnto the supper of ye great God,