Revelation 2 The Church in Ephesus

Verse 1.. Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

We found in Revelation 1:20 that the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven golden candlesticks are the seven churches.

Verse 2.. I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: Verse 3.. And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast labored, and hast not fainted.

These guys had it going on! Works, labor, patience. They hated evil. They had a spirit of discernment. False teachers were identified and found to be liars. For the Lord's name they labored. They have not fainted. What more could you ask for? What a dynamic ministry. But wait. 

Verse 4.. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

Apparently the Lord is more interested in our relationship with Him than our works. He is not near as concerned about our establishing a mighty ministry as He is about our fellowship with Himself. We become sidetracked with ministry and doing works. Jesus says I just want to walk with you and talk with you. Enjoy time with you.

Verse 5.. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

Remember the first works. Remember how your relationship with Him was the most important thing in your life. Remember, repent, and return.

Verse 6.. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. Verse 7.. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

They did hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans. This was a good thing. Nicolaitans comes from the combined Greek words nika (he conquers) and loan (people). So conquering or lording it over the common people. Hierarchy in the church. This is exactly the thing that the disciples were arguing over. Luke 9:46 Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.  And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him, 48 And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.

So we are to be childlike around one another. If one would desire to be great then become a servant. 

Remember the conditions of the blessing back in Revelation 1:3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. If we overcome. If we hear the words and keep the things which are written therein then Jesus will give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

We've heard about this tree before. Genesis 2:9 And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. After Adam fell, this tree was no longer available to partake of. Genesis 2:22 And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: 23 Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. 24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life. 

We will one day be able to again enjoy the fruit from this tree of life. The Lord promises it here in verse 7.  This fruit which really improves our quality of life. We really begin to have access to it when we repent and turn and trust in Jesus Christ. He truly does give us life and that abundantly.

Now these churches all exist concurrently. In other words one can receive this teaching today. The conditions in any one of these seven churches can be seen in the church today. There is also an historical prospective which is very interesting. The first church or Ephusus may be referring to the period of time during the ministry the apostles or the first century.

The church of Smyrna could be referring to the second and third century church which experienced tremendous persecution. It was estimated that six million Christians were martyred during this period of time. Look at the Lords encouraging words to this church.

Verse 8.. And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; Verse 9.. I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Verse 10.. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of Life. Verse 11.. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

Now this is an interesting statement. He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. This would naturally imply that he who doesn't overcome would be hurt by the second death. Jesus is talking to believers here. What is the second death. Revelation 20:13 says  And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. Verse 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. Verse 15 whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. And again in Revelation 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Is there a place in hell for believers who don't overcome? Why the warning if it wasn't so. It would probably be a special place though. A place where the torment would not be as bad. But a place where there is no fellowship with the Lord. That would be hell indeed!

Verse 12.. And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is; and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 

Verse 15.. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Verse 16.. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. Verse 17.. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him  white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it. The white stone was a stone of acceptance. The black stone was a stone of rejection, black-balled. I will give them a white stone. I will receive him. I will accept him and give him a name, which no man knows except him who receives it.

Now we see the development of the state church under Constantine.  We see a church trying to dwell in the world. A church trying to join with the worldly system. A church state system. An effort to legislate religious issues. We see idols coming into the church. Representations of Jesus and Mary and of the Apostles and Saints and Moses and so forth. The introduction of the arts and statues within the churches. External beauty and art. But we must worship internally. Jesus said in John 4:24 God is spirit, and the people who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. This church also holds to the doctrine of the Nicloaitans which was previously discussed.

Now we have a continuation and development of this church state institution.

Verse 18.. And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; Verse 19.. I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Verse 20.. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thous sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. Verse 21.. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Verse 22.. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. 

So here is the first mention of a church having to go into the tribulation period. The implication is that repentance would have spared them the suffering of the great tribulation.

Verse 23.. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. Verse 24.. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. Verse 25.. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. 

Verse 26.. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: Verse 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron: as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. Verse 28 And I will give him the morning star. Verse 29..He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Revelation 3 The Church in Sardis

Revelation 3:1 And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of  God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Verse 2.. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. The seven spirits being the fullness of the Holy Spirit. 

Verse 3.. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Verse 4.. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. Verse 5.. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. Verse 6.. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

This church looks a lot like the Protestant Reformation.  To get a picture of dead Protestantism, we can take a look at Europe. We see a post-Christian era. Dark, no life, dead. The Protestant Reformation wasn't complete. Many pagan practices that originated in Babylonian religious systems were adopted. The celebration of Saturnalia for example. This was a huge celebration of drunkenness, feasting and the exchanging of gifts during the winter solstice. This occurred around December 25th. In an effort to convert the pagans, the early church changed the name of the holiday to Christmas. This didn't seem to stop the party though. Today people are still given to drink, feasting and gift giving. I doubt that most folks even think about Jesus while they are fighting the crowds and lines of people trying to do last minute Christmas shopping.

But not all is lost. There are a few which have not defiled their garments. So be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die.

Verse 7.. And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hat the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Verse 9.. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. 

(PC) No rebuke for this church. They have a little strength which is enough. An open door allows them the go forth and bear fruit. Their ministry is effective and life giving. If the Lord opens the door, no man can close it. If the Lord has set you on your course, you don't have to fear when any man comes against you!

This is not a super church, these are not super saints. There is a doctrine known as the manifested sons of God that advocates the super sainthood. One of these days we are going to go into the phone booth and change our clothes and we are going to come out with super power and we are going to just point at the Russians and they will just shrivel and die. And all of the enemies of God we are just going to subdue when we are manifested finally as the sons of God before the world. Balderdash. You have a little strength.

We are not very strong. You know it is true that God is doing a wonderful work here and it is exciting to see what God is doing, but we have hardly touched the tri state area. There are so many out there who need Jesus Christ. We can't really sit back and say, "Look, how many we have got coming here." There are so many more to be reached. We have a little strength. Thank God we have a little strength. Thank God that He has set before us the open door.

Verse 10.. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. So this church won't be going into the tribulation period. They will be kept from that hour, that time which shall come upon all the world. This is the church that I want to be in!

Verse 11.. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Verse 12..  Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. Verse 13.. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

These verses speak of permanency. Secured and established. Overcoming the world (with His help) enables us to reap these wonderful benefits.

Verse 14.. And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; Verse 15.. I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold of hot. Verse 16.. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Verse 17.. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: What a difference between how we think of ourselves and how the Lord thinks of us! Verse 18.. I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

(PC) A lukewarm condition. Indifference to what is happening in the church. Probably accepting all sorts of teachings and doctrines. Trusting in their increase and numbers. Rich in their own eyes. The final apostate condition of the church, the church of Laodicea represented by those ministers that are pro-abortion and pro-pornography and pro homosexual and pro every other evil that comes down the pike, who dress in clerical robes and claim to be ministers of Jesus Christ but are really of the synagogue of Satan.

Actually the church has put Christ on the outside. You read the polls and it is frightening to find out how many ministers do not really believe in the deity of Jesus Christ, do not believe in the virgin birth, do not believe that there is an actual heaven or hell. The percentages are falling. It is sad. You wonder why they are ministers. You might as well establish another religion on Mother Goose rhymes or something, or Aesops Fables. Why espouse a book that you can't trust or is not true? In Thessalonians Paul said that the wicked one won't be revealed until there is a falling away. 2 Thess. 2:3

The Laodiceans are trusting in their riches and are missing the mark. This brings to mind the story of Jesus and the rich ruler. Luke 18:18 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? Verse 19.. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God. Verse 20.. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor thy father and thy mother. Verse 21.. And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.Verse 22.. Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. Verse 23.. And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich. Verse 24.. And when Jesus say that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! Verse 25.. For it is easier for a camel to go through  a needle's eye, that for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Verse 19.. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Verse 20.. Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. Verse 21.. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. Verse 22.. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Eating with someone signified becoming one with that person. Jesus was always wanting to eat supper with people. He wants to become one with you. I always like to say that relationship is the currency of the kingdom. Gold and silver will not hold their value in the kingdom. As a matter of fact, they will be used as pavement which we will see later on in Revelation. But right standing; relationship with the Lord holds much value. Drawing closer and closer to Him will translate into riches in the kingdom to come. It will also enable peace and blessed recreation in your life in this world. Just open the door and He will come in and become one with you. He will eat supper with you!

Revelation 4 The Heavenly Scene

Revelation 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Back in revelation 1:19 John was instructed by Jesus to write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the  things which shall be hereafter; 

He saw the glory and the power and the majesty of Christ. The things which are or the things of the church seen in chapters 2 and 3. Now, the things which shall be hereafter. Hereafter what? After the things of the church. The time of the church is passed. The church is forcefully removed from the earth. 

Paul said in 1 Thess 4:13-17, "I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. Verse 14.. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. Verse 15.. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. Verse 16.. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Verse 17.. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

We also know that this event will happen at the same time the Antichrist is revealed. 2 Thess 2:7.. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. Verse 8.. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: So the Holy Spirit who is keeping that Wicked from appearing will be taken out of the way and the church will taken with Him. 

We are now introduced to the heavenly scene. Revelation 4:2.. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne. Verse 3.. And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

Verse 4.. And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. Verse 5.. And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

Some commentators believe that these elders refer to angels or heavenly beings. I believe they are representatives of the church. There is no instance in the bible where the word elder refers to an angel. It is always a person and a representative of the people. The seven lamps being the fullness of the Holy Spirit there before the throne.

Verse 6.. And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. Verse 7.. And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.  In Ezekiel 28 we see a parallel description of the creatures. He names them cherubim.

Verse 8.. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. Verse 9.. And when those beasts give glory and honor and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, Verse 10.. The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Verse 11.. Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

Now it is interesting that these elders cast their crowns before the throne. When we look at the use of the word crowns in the bible we find. Phil 4:1.. Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, 1 Thess 2:19.. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? 2 Tim 4:8..  Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. James 1:12.. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 1 Peter 5:4.. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. Rev 2:10.. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. Rev 3:11.. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.  

How fitting that these elders should cast their crowns before the Lord! It is because of him that the crowns are made possible!  

Revelation 5 The Book Sealed with Seven Seals

Revelation 5:1.. And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. Verse 2.. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? Verse 3.. And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. Verse 4.. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.

So, the title deed to the earth. Sealed with seven seals. God created the earth. When God created man he gave him the earth. Adam turned the earth over to Satan when he disobeyed God and obeyed the suggestion of Satan. Jesus came to redeem the world back to God. The thought of the earth continuing in it's current state was just too much for John to bear. But wait!

Verse 5.. And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

Verse 6.. And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. Verse 7.. And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. Verse 8.. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which re the prayers of saints.

Verse 9.. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 

Who are they that are singing this song? They are the ones who are the subject of the verse. Those redeemed to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; These are not angels singing. This is not their song. This is the church singing. We are there with the Lord in heaven before the first seal of the scroll is even opened. The Lord has snatched us away to be with himself before the tribulation period begins. The tribulation period begins with the opening of the first seal of the scroll.

Verse 10.. And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. Verse 11.. And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times then thousand, and thousands of thousands; 

Now in verse 12, everyone joins in the chorus for all can sing this part. Verse 12.. Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing. 

Verse 13..  And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lame for ever and ever. Verse 14.. And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshiped him that liveth for ever and ever.

"And every creature" see Romans 8:19-25
Verse 19.. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. Verse 20.. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected [the same] in hope, Verse 21.. Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. Verse 22.. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. Verse 23.. And not only [they], but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, [to wit], the redemption of our body. Verse 24.. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? Verse 25.. But if we hope for that we see not, [then] do we with patience wait for [it].

See also Romans 1:18.. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
Verse 19.. Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed [it] unto them. Verse 20.. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

Revelation 6 Horses of the Apocalypse

Verse 1.. And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four living creatures saying, Come and see. Verse 2.. And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

When the first seal is opened, it begins... The White Horse of Revelation is revealed and events are set into motion. Chapters 4 and 5 revealed the throne room scene. In Revelation 5:9 we see those gathered before the throne of God singing a new song. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals of it: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and language, and people, and nation; This is the song of the Church. This could very well be the raptured church of 1Th 4:16.. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 1Th 4:17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

This "new song" is sung by those redeemed to God by the blood of the Lamb (Jesus Christ). This singing and rejoicing pictures a pre-tribulation rapture because it starts before the first seal is opened. The opening of the first seal sets in motion the missing 70th week of Daniel's 70 week prophecy.

The stage is set. The Church has been lifted off of the earth along with the Holy Spirit. Now the Antichrist is revealed. 2Th 2:3.. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 2Th 2:7.. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. Once the Holy Spirit and the Church are "taken out of the way", the "man of sin" will be revealed.

Now in Revelation 6:2, he appears. Riding a white horse, the cheap imitator or counterfeit. Going forth to conquer. It is his time. The Great Tribulation has begun! Wherein the white horse is a person, the following red, black, and pale horses are conditions that come upon the earth and will follow the appearance of the white horse.

The Bible has a lot to say about Antichrist. In Revelation 6 we see him riding a white horse. He's the imitator, or counterfeit of the Lord Himself who also comes riding a white horse in chapter 19. We see Antichrist in chapter 13. He is one of the heads of the beast which comes out of the sea. "And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast." The beast is a world system of government empowered by the people or "the sea" We learn about Antichrist in 1st John. "And every spirit that confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of Antichrist, of which you have heard that it should come; and even now already is in the world." 2nd Thessalonians this "man of sin" will be revealed in his time.

He is a liar and a deceiver. 1 John 2:22 "Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son." 2 John 1:7 "For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

So we have a picture of Antichrist. Antichrist is a spirit that is upon the earth. Antichrist is also an individual who appears during the end days. He is the head of a world governmental system. He is a deceiver and a liar. He promises one thing but delivers another. We see him going forth gloriously to conquer and dominate. He will be hard to resist. Even the religious community will endorse his personage. Rev 13:11-16. So, as he goes forth, so does unparalleled war, famine, and death which are pictured in the red, black and pale horses.

Verse 3.. And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature say, Come and see. Verse 4.. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
Verse 5.. And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on it had a pair of balances in his hand. 

Verse 6.. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see you hurt not the oil and the wine. A measure of wheat is about a quart of wheat and a penny is a day's wage for a laboring man. And what are laborers getting today? About 100 dollars? So 100 dollars for a quart of wheat. Oil and wine will have much value. More so than money. 

Verse 7.. And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say, Come and see. Verse 8.. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and by the beasts of the earth.

Daniel 2 and Ezekiel 38 refer to the final Beast Empire. . The total land mass of this empire is equal to about a fourth part of the earth. Just exactly how these countries will align to form the final beast empire is hard to tell. The middle east and Russia would certainly cover a fourth part of the earth. Beasts of the earth in verse 8 are better translated "beast."

To better understand Antichrist's method and plan, we need to compare with Christ's method and plan.

Antichrist's method is compulsion... Christ's is voluntary conversion.
Antichrist practices force... Jesus preached faith.
Antichrist says to the masses "Convert of die!... Jesus said "Believe and live!"
Antichrist is swift to shed blood... Jesus shed His own blood for the salvation of many.
Antichrist is the taker of life... Jesus is the giver of life.
Antichrist's goal is to conquer the world... Christ's goal was to conquer sin's penalty and power by substitutionary atonement!

By mid-tribulation, the Beast will make war with the saints and overcome them. His authority during that time will encompass the entire earth. Revelation 13:7. 

These four horses give us a pre-mid picture of conditions on the earth as the Antichrist strives for dominance and control. 

Verse 9.. And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: Verse 10.. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 

Verse 11.. And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they [were], should be fulfilled. These are tribulation saints martyred for their faith.

These could also picture the thousands of Christians being slaughtered even at this hour. 2015 was the worst year for Christian persecution on record. A new horrifying report details the unimaginable extent of Christian persecution. It confirms that at least 7,000 Christians were slaughtered in 2015 alone.

Even worse, in the last several years between 1 and 1.8 million Christians have been forced to flee or die in Iraq and Syria. In Iraq, less than 20% of its Christian population remains. ISIS - the Islamic State - is waging a genocide against our brothers and sisters in Christ like the world has never seen.

The persecuted ones are petitioning the Lord. How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? Those that are currently dwelling on the earth are the ones who perpetrated the evil. This group of martyrs could be created during the tribulation period or just before the tribulation period.

Verse 12.. And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; Verse 13.. And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casts its unripe figs, when it is shaken by a mighty wind. Verse 14.. And the heavens departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places 

Verse 15.. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the generals, and the mighty men, and every slave, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; Verse 16.. And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: Verse 17.. For the great day of his wrath has come; and who shall be able to stand?

With the opening of the sixth seal, Rev. 6:12, cataclysmic events come into view. There is an earthquake so great and worldwide that mountains and islands are moved out of their places. This event is possibly the same as described in Ezekiel 38:19 & 20. We know that it is possible for an earthquake to shake the whole world because the 2004 Indian ocean earth quake had the longest duration of faulting ever observed. It caused the entire planet to vibrate and triggered other earthquakes as far away as Alaska. 

The sun is darkened and as a result, the moon also fails to give it's light. The stars fall to the earth (vs. 13) and the heavens depart as a scroll when it is rolled together. (vs 14) It's almost as if some gigantic object passes between the earth and the sun creating unprecedented cosmic disturbances. Pieces of debris would rain down on the earth giving the illusion of the entire heaven of stars falling.

In verses 15-16 all those that are upon the earth attempt to flee and hide from the wrath of God and the Lamb. They know that the great day of His wrath has come (vs 17). Perhaps the very throne of God becomes visible from the earth and their is no mistaking who is in charge.

We find out in the next chapter that the earth is not hurt until Israel is sealed and the tribulation saints appear before the throne.

Revelation 7 Israel is Sealed

Verse 7:1.. And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. This could explain the reason for the lack of resources which accompanies the four horses of the previous chapter. The black horse represents a shortage of basic necessities that are required to support life. Death follows; represented by the pale horse. No wind blowing around the earth would kill the natural watering cycle. There would be evaporation but no distribution mechanism to move the moisture onto land. The two prophets of chapter 11 could also have a hand in this.

Verse 2.. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Verse 3.. Saying, hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads. These servants of God are Jews from all the tribes of Israel. There are different groups that would like to believe that they are the 144,000 but the text is very clear. They can be no other group of people. These are from the tribes of Israel. These are also called the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. "First fruits" would indicate that there are many more to come. Rev. 14:4.

Notice also that the earth is not hurt until the servants of God are sealed on their foreheads. We've seen some damage in chapter 6 but nothing compares to what is to come!

Verse 4.. And I heard the number of them who were sealed: and there were sealed a hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. 

Verse 5.. Of the tribe of Judah were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. Verse 6.. Of the tribe of Asher were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Naphtali were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasseh were sealed twelve thousand. Verse 7.. Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. Verse 8.. Of the tribe of Zebulun were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand.

The tribe of Joseph probably refers to Ephraim. Joseph's two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, were claimed by his father Jacob. So there are actually thirteen tribes. Dan is omitted. Dan was the first of the tribes to go into idolatry. God has not sealed them from things that will happen during the great tribulation period.

So the wrath of God which comes into view in verse 12 of chapter six is stayed until these 144,000 are sealed on their foreheads. God will provide and care for them for 3 1/2 years. Rev. 12:6, while He visits death and destruction upon the earth, the beast, Antichrist and all those who receive his mark. Rev. 14:9, 10.

Verse 9.. And after this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and tribes, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; Verse 10.. And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God who sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. Verse 11.. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four living creatures, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshiped God, Verse 12.. Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be unto our God forever and ever. Amen.

Verse 13.. And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, Who are these who are arrayed in white robes? and from where did they come? Verse 14.. And I said unto him, Sir, you know. And he said to me, these are they who come out of the great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

So a multitude which no man could number. That's a lot of people. This is a picture of all those who come to trust in Jesus during the great tribulation . Tribulation saints, a different group from the church. Where the promise to the church is to rule and reign, Rev. 5:10, these folks are blessed with the task of service. (See verse 15.) Revelation 20:4 reveals that they will also have a part in ruling and reigning.

Some would say that this group of people is the Church. Forcefully taken (raptured) from the earth just before the first trumpet sounds. This would indicate that rapture happens during the tribulation period. If this is the case then the Church will witness the establishing of the 7 year peace agreement. (Dan. 9:27) The Church will also witness the rebuilding of the temple and the ministry of the 2 prophets (Rev. 11:1-6). It will see the rise and reign of Antichrist. All those that dwell on the earth will know that the hour of rapture has arrived.

But what did Jesus say? Matthew 24:36-44. Verse 44.. "Therefore be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect!" And Luke 21:35 "For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth." They won't be expecting it!

In 2 Thess 2:7 Paul says "For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. This verse indicates that the Holy Spirit and the Church are "taken out of the way or raptured" before the man of sin (Antichrist) is revealed and before the 7 year peace agreement is established.

Jesus said that at the time of rapture things on the earth will be somewhat normal. People will not be aware of any impending danger. (Matt. 24:36-44) People are well aware that the great day of God's wrath has come prior to these tribulation saints appearing at the throne and before the Lamb. Rev. 6:17.

If the rapture happens just before the first trumpet sounds and verse 9 is a picture of the raptured church, then we know exactly when it will happen. Jesus said that know one knows the day or the hour. It will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. They won't be expecting it. It's a big secret. 

In Rev. 10:4 John was about to write what the seven thunders had uttered but was commanded to "Seal up the things which the seven thunders uttered, and do not write them." Some things we just don't know and that's the way God wants it.

Scripture doesn't point to a mid-tribulation rapture. Scripture does instruct us to live like it could happen at any second. Matt. 24:44.

Verse 15.. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sits on the throne shall dwell among them. Verse 16.. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun strike them, nor any heat. Verse 17.. For the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. 

So coming out of the great tribulation and suffering the plagues of scorching heat, lack of fresh water, scarcity of food and resources, persecution of the Antichrist and the beast, these tribulation saints are now comforted by the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne.

Revelation 8 The Seventh Seal

Verse 1.. And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. This is unprecedented. A unique time. Since the beginning of creation, all the heavenly host has not ceased to praise the Creator. Now, silence for half an hour. What event has caused this? It is the calm before the storm so to speak. The seventh seal reveals the seven trumpets. The awesome wrath of God is about to be poured out upon the earth.

Verse 2.. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets. Verse 3.. And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. Verse 4.. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand. 

Verse 5.. And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire of th altar, and cast it into the earth: and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake.

Back in chapter 5 we saw the four and twenty elders falling down before the Lamb. They had golden vials full of odours, which were the prayers of the saints. The first seal was about to be opened. The prayers of the saints throughout the ages were about to be answered. Thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Now we have prayers from a different group of saints. In chapter 6 verse 9.. the fifth seal reveals those that were slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held. And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? The time has come as the first angel begins to sound.

Verse 6.. And the seven angels which had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.

Verse 7.. The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. The earth being extremely dry from drought could easily be burnt up. 

Verse 8.. And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood; This sounds like a meteor.

Verse 9.. And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed. A massive area impacted by this meteor. 

Verse 10.. An the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; Verse 11.. And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter. 

Verse 12.. And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.

So the seas and the fresh waters are polluted. A third part of them. What ever has struck the earth probably has ejected millions of tons of debris into the atmosphere causing the sun, moon, and stars to be darkened. The rotation of the earth may have been impacted. A faster rotation would result in shorter days and nights.

Verse 13.. And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!

Revelation 9 The Bottomless Pit

Verse 1.. And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. Verse 2.. And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.

So an angel is sent from heaven to earth with a key to the bottomless pit. "Fallen" here doesn't necessarily mean that the angel is evil. Only that he has been dispatched down to earth on a divine mission. He had a key to the bottomless pit. The term "bottomless" is a transliteration of abussos or abyss. 

The definition of abyss is "a bottomless gulf or chasm, a profound depth or void, the depths of the sea." Bottomless also gives the impression of "unending". So according to verse 2, there is a bottomless pit down inside the earth. If one was stuck there, you could picture one continually falling as the earth turned. You would never reach the bottom. As the earth turned, you would continue to fall.

Jesus often referred to Gehenna or The Valley of Hinnom. The english translation would be "hell."  This is a valley s/sw of Jerusalem. In Jesus' time it was used as a dumping ground. Smoldering smoke and stench would fill the air around the dump. In ancient days, children were offered to the fire god Molech in this place. 

These ancient people would give themselves to all manor of sexual indulgence and then conveniently dispose of the precious little one that was produced in the fires of Molech. In that time, it was acceptable social behaviour. The child was viewed as a choice, not a life. This place was later to be called "the valley of slaughter."

So the bottomless pit is opened and smoke comes out. It is compared to the smoke of a great furnace. There is so much smoke that the sun and the air are darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.

Verse 3.. And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. Verse 4.. And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads. Verse 5.. And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment [was] as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man. Verse 6.. And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.

Verse 7.. And the shapes of the locusts [were] like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads [were] as it were crowns like gold, and their faces [were] as the faces of men. Verse 8.. And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as [the teeth] of lions. Verse 9.. And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings [was] as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle. Verse 10.. And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power [was] to hurt men five months. Verse 11.. And they had a king over them, [which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon. 

Verse 12.. One woe is past; [and], behold, there come two woes more hereafter. 

Out of the smoke come locust-like creatures. They are under authority to do only what has been commanded. They are not to hurt the grass of the earth or any green thing or any tree; but only those men who have not the seal of God in their foreheads. They will torment men for five months. During this time men will seek death and will not be able to find it. They shall desire to die and death will flee from them. Can you imagine so much pain and torment that you literally want to die in order to be free from it. But death is not possible during this time. For five months it will be impossible to die! How do we escape these things that will come upon the earth?

Now comes a detailed description of these hideous creatures with stings in their tails and power to hurt men for five months. I don't think that even Hollywood could come up with something like this. Locusts with crowns like gold, faces of men, hair like women, teeth like lions, breastplates of iron, wings that sound like chariots of many horses running to battle. They have a commander in chief. His name is Abaddon in Hebrew and Apollyon in the Greek which means destroyer. Some would speculate that these are images of modern instruments of war. Helicopters with tails armed with nuclear weapons capable of inflicting five months of radioactive torment before death. Or what if it is a description of a nightmare bacteria which has become resistant to modern antibiotics?

The name "destroyer" is interesting. We find him at work elsewhere in scripture. In Hebrews 11:28 the destroyer was responsible for the death of the first born in Egypt just prior to the Exodus.  Ex. 12:23  This destroyer is an angelic being committed to the task of destroying God's enemies. In verse 20 it says that men did not repent from worshiping demons. So if the destroyer is demonic in nature, he is destroying those that are worshipping him. Jesus said in Matthew 12:26 "And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?" It doesn't make sense that Satan would be destroying his own kingdom.

Verse 13.. And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before God, Verse 14.. Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river Euphrates.

Verse 15.. And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. Verse 16.. And the number of the army of the horsemen [were] two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the number of them. Verse 17.. And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses [were] as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone.

Verse 18.. By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. Verse 19.. For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: for their tails [were] like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt.

Verse 20.. And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: Verse 21.. Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.

Destruction and not repentance is in view here. Those that are left upon the earth will not repent.  The time of repentance is over. The time of resisting the beast and his mark is over. Those folks have all been slaughtered. Rev 7:14 and Rev 20:4. The directive here is to destroy and torment those that do not have the seal of God in their foreheads. (See verse 4).

Revelation 10 The Seven Thunders

Verse 1.. And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow [was] upon his head, and his face [was] as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire: Verse 2.. And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and [his] left [foot] on the earth, Verse 3.. And cried with a loud voice, as [when] a lion roareth: and when he had cried, seven thunders uttered their voices. Verse 4.. And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not.

In Revelation 10:1 John has a vision of a strong angel. He gives a description. This description is reminiscent  of the Lord Himself. After all, Jesus is perfectly able to take on any form that He chooses. Remember in the garden after He resurrected? Mary didn't know who He was until he revealed it to her. Or the two disciples that were traveling on the road? They walked and talked with him all day until supper time when He broke bread with them at which point their eyes were opened to His true identity.

Look at the description of this strong angel. He is clothed with a cloud. In Revelation 1:7 we see Him coming in the clouds. The rainbow is the covenant of God which is about the throne of God and is now about the head. His face was as it were the sun. In Matthew we have the same description of Christ. He was transfigured before them and His face shone like the sun. His feet are like pillars of fire. In Revelation 1:15 His feet are like burnished brass having been fired in a furnace.

In verse two he had a scroll in his hand. Remember the scroll back in Revelation 5:1? No one in Heaven or earth was worthy to loose it's seals except for the Lamb. Now the scroll is open. The contents are revealed. John is instructed to devour the contents. It is quite delicious. Sweet as honey. Jesus is taking possession of the earth and what a glorious time it is. But what the earth has to suffer during this transition time is quite bitter. 

Rev. 10:9 And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little scroll. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make your stomach bitter, but it shall be in your mouth sweet as honey.

In verse 3, the Lord cried with a loud voice as when a lion roars. When He had cried, seven thunders uttered their voices. John was about to write when a voice from heaven said "seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered and write them not." So, we're not to know what the seven thunders uttered. Some things aren't revealed to us. The Lord, in His wisdom, chooses not to show us all things. It's better that way. For instance, if we knew exactly when the Lord would return, we  might not spend a lifetime following and serving Him. We might be tempted to wait until the last minute and to not be watchful. "Therefore watch; for you do not know what hour your Lord comes." Matthew 24:42.

Verse 5.. And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, He swears by him that lives for ever, that there shall be no more time  Verse 6.. And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: Verse 7.. But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

So the Lord, at this time, is taking possession of the earth. Time is up. That which we have been waiting for is happening. Jesus Christ is coming to the earth to claim that which He purchased.

Verse 8.. And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go [and] take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth. John is commanded to take and eat the book

Verse 9.. And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take [it], and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey. Verse 10.. And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter. 

Verse 11.. And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings.