Verses 21-23
21-23. In these verses the view is also apocalyptic, but the visitation is of punishment to the host of the high ones… on high. Rather more than possibly, this means, fallen angels, acting as guardians to evil powers on earth. The scene is too much lifted from earth to merely mean men, wicked men, distinguished for high position and pride. Alluding to the practice of conquerors with their captives, these are imprisoned reserved for judgment.
Shall they be visited But probably for inevitable punishment. Whether wicked angels or wicked men are intended here, the same principle applies: wickedness cannot go unpunished. The vision is of scenes in the heavens antecedent to the day of Messiah’s glory and power. In the presence of such a day all previous light is dim. The apocalyptist of the Old Testament sees here all providential government condensed into one fact, namely: Jehovah enthroned in a new Jerusalem, the Messianic day, with his people surrounding him, before the light and glory of which the white moon turns red, and the glowing sun becomes pale, each being as an unperceived lamp at noonday.
The contest of ages has revealed God’s majesty, justice, and mercy; his Church planted on Zion is jubilant, and a new glory covers her.
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