6:9.    AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)

HAD OPENED THE FIFTH SEAL, I SAW UNDER THE ALTAR THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE SLAIN (or had been put to death-JNT¹³²). Some believe these may be Jews that were martyred.

FOR (proclaiming)
THE WORD OF GOD, AND FOR THE TESTIMONY (or bearing witness)

WHICH THEY HELD. During the Tribulation, many will be killed for proclaiming God's Word and for the testimony of Jesus.

6:10.    AND THEY CRIED (or called) WITH A LOUD VOICE, SAYING, HOW LONG, O LORD, HOLY AND TRUE, DOST THOU NOT JUDGE (or until You judge) AND AVENGE OUR BLOOD ON THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH (or on the inhabitants of the earth-NIV)? T1 or T2.

6:10.    AND THEY CRIED (or called)

WITH A LOUD VOICE, SAYING, HOW LONG, O LORD, HOLY AND TRUE, DOST THOU NOT JUDGE (or until You judge)

AND AVENGE OUR BLOOD ON THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH (or on the inhabitants of the earth-NIV)? These people that have been killed for the Word of God are crying out for God to avenge them. They are asking how long it will be. God answers them in the next verse, by telling them that they should rest for a little season. In other words, the Tribulation is not yet over.

6:11.    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 (or a little longer), UNTIL THEIR FELLOWSERVANTS ALSO AND THEIR BRETHREN, THAT SHOULD BE KILLED AS THEY WERE (or had been), SHOULD BE FULFILLED (or completed). Ref Rev 12:11; 7:4; 13:15; 20:4; Mt 24:9,10; Lk 21:16; Mk 13:12; Rev 15:2-4. T1 or T2.

6:11.    AND WHITE ROBES (which represent the righteousness of the saints)

WERE GIVEN UNTO EVERY ONE OF THEM; AND IT WAS SAID UNTO THEM, THAT THEY SHOULD REST YET FOR A LITTLE SEASON (or a little longer),

UNTIL THEIR FELLOWSERVANTS ALSO AND THEIR BRETHREN, THAT SHOULD BE KILLED AS THEY WERE (or as they had been)

SHOULD BE FULFILLED (or completed). The Scriptures tell of the saints being martyred; they are beheaded after the image of the beast comes forth, during the second part of the Tribulation. Two groups are shown here. The first group are under the altar, saying, "How long?" The second will be killed shortly. These LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH-Rev 12:11; ref Rev 15:2-4.

During the Tribulation, many will come to Jesus as a result of 144,000 male, virgin Jews that come forth to evangelize-ref Rev 7:4. However, many that maintain their testimony of Jesus, when caught, will be slaughtered.

THEN SHALL THEY DELIVER YOU UP TO BE AFFLICTED, AND SHALL KILL YOU: AND YE SHALL BE HATED OF ALL NATIONS FOR MY NAME'S SAKE-Mt 24:9. Hate will abound, and people will betray one another-ref Mt 24:10. This begins in the first part of the Tribulation.

AND YE SHALL BE BETRAYED BOTH BY PARENTS, AND BRETHREN, AND KINSFOLKS, AND FRIENDS; AND SOME OF YOU SHALL THEY CAUSE TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Lk 21:16.

NOW THE BROTHER SHALL BETRAY THE BROTHER TO DEATH, AND THE FATHER THE SON; AND CHILDREN SHALL RISE UP AGAINST THEIR PARENTS, AND SHALL CAUSE THEM TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Mk 13:12. These verses appear to cover the first part of the Tribulation. During the second part, it will be much worse, as birth pains of a woman.

It is written, THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED-Rev 13:15. This is part two of the Tribulation. It appears to be initiated shortly after the midst of the Tribulation.

AND I SAW THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE BEHEADED FOR THE WITNESS OF JESUS, AND FOR THE WORD OF GOD, AND WHICH HAD NOT WORSHIPED THE BEAST, NEITHER HIS IMAGE, NEITHER HAD RECEIVED HIS MARK UPON THEIR FOREHEADS, OR IN THEIR HANDS-Rev 20:4. This is part two of the Tribulation (called the "Great Tribulation"). During this time, those refusing to worship the image will be beheaded, if caught. Christians will have to flee for their lives.

The exact timing of the fifth seal is difficult to determine. It may happen during the second part of the Tribulation, which is when true Christians will be beheaded if they do not worship the image. The reason for this is the statement, KILLED AS THEY WERE. Death by decapitation may be initiated at the time the image of the beast comes forth, which is the second part of the Tribulation. Many, however, believe the first group, mentioned in the fifth seal, are killed during the first part of the Tribulation. If this is true, then it would seem that decapitation will also be used during the first part of the Tribulation.

The statement, REST YET FOR A LITTLE SEASON UNTIL THEIR FELLOWSERVANTS...SHOULD BE KILLED-Rev 6:11, shows the two groups. The second group appears in Rev 20:4. As already stated, some believe both groups are killed during the "Great Tribulation"; others believe the first group are killed during part one, and the second group are killed during part two of the Tribulation.

It is interesting to note the resemblance between the first five seals and Mt 24.

The martyrdom, in Mt 24:9, begins in the first part of the Tribulation before the abomination of desolation.

THE TIMING OF THE SEVEN SEALS,
SEVEN TRUMPETS, AND SEVEN VIALS
1798-5A-5

    Jesus is about to return; Armageddon is about to explode.

    Regarding the seven seals, the seven trumpets, and the seven vials of the Revelation, the following information is given.

    All Bible scholars seem to agree that the second seal follows the first, and the third follows the second, etc. The same holds true for the trumpets and vials. All seem to agree that the seven vials are during the second part of the Tribulation, culminating with the Battle of Armageddon.

    However, there are two opinions pertaining to when some of the seals and trumpets occur. These differences in opinion can affect the understanding of what seal six and seven may represent, as well as some of the trumpets.

    It is generally accepted by most scholars (but not all) that the first trumpet is introduced by the seventh seal. Thus, the seven trumpets follow the seventh seal, and the seven vials follow the seventh trumpet. This is also what is taught in many Bible schools. It is generally acknowledged by most Bible scholars that the first seal (the Antichrist coming forth) occurs just prior to the Tribulation; he must first come forth before he can confirm the covenant, in Dan 9:27, which begins the Tribulation.

(The Seven Seals)
1799A-5A-5

    There have been certain Bible scholars that have carefully examined the precise wording of the seals, the trumpets, and the vials. They have concluded that this opinion, regarding the seventh seal introducing the first trumpet, is incorrect. Instead, some believe that the next six seals cover the entire spectrum of the Tribulation and the Battle of Armageddon.

    Note, the Battle of Armageddon takes place immediately after the Tribulation.

(The Seven Trumpets)
1799B-5A-5

    The seven trumpets are believed to begin during the first part of the Tribulation. The first four trumpets help to explain in much greater detail seal two, three, and four, which are the great war, the famine, and the death of one-quarter of the world's population. The trumpets also extend throughout the Tribulation and culminate during Armageddon. The seventh trumpet follows immediately after the seventh seal. Both are part of Armageddon.

(The Seven Vials or Bowls)
1799C-5A-5

    The first vial is poured out during the second part of the Tribulation. Therefore, it cannot be introduced by the seventh trumpet, if the seventh trumpet is part of Armageddon. The seven vials appear to cover the latter part of the second half of the Tribulation, also culminating during the Battle of Armageddon. At the approximate time of this battle, the seventh seal occurs first, followed by the seventh trumpet; the seventh vial comes last.

    After extensive research, comparing the Word with the Word, and prayerfully considering the arguments for both positions, and some others as well, this author takes the minority view that, indeed, the seventh seal, seventh trumpet, and seventh vial are all part of Armageddon. This author concludes that the second position is the correct one.

Position one: majority view

Position two: minority view

6:12.    AND I BEHELD WHEN HE HAD OPENED (or broke) THE SIXTH SEAL, AND, LO, THERE WAS A GREAT EARTHQUAKE; AND THE SUN BE-CAME BLACK AS SACKCLOTH OF HAIR (or made of goat hair), AND THE (full) MOON BECAME AS BLOOD (red). Seal 6. Ref Acts 2:20; Joel 2:31. ET.

(Note, the seventh seal is Rev 8:1.)

6:12.    AND I BEHELD WHEN HE HAD OPENED (or broke)

THE SIXTH SEAL. The first four horsemen came forth rapidly, but the fifth seal came later. Now the sixth seal is opened.

AND, LO, THERE WAS

(1)    A GREAT EARTHQUAKE; AND
(2)    THE SUN BECAME BLACK AS SACKCLOTH OF HAIR (or made of goat hair),
AND
(3)    THE (full) MOON BECAME AS BLOOD (red).

Acts 2:20 is clearly describing the approach of the Battle of Armageddon. Now, note the words of Acts 2:20, THE SUN SHALL BE TURNED INTO DARKNESS, AND THE MOON INTO BLOOD, BEFORE THAT GREAT AND NOTABLE DAY OF THE LORD COME.

Next note the words, in Rev 6:12-THE SUN BECAME BLACK AS SACKCLOTH OF HAIR, AND THE MOON BECAME AS BLOOD. Clearly, both verses are referring to the same time period.

Joel 2:31 is also describing the approach of Armageddon. Note the words, THE SUN SHALL BE TURNED INTO DARKNESS, AND THE MOON INTO BLOOD, BEFORE THE GREAT AND THE TERRIBLE DAY OF THE LORD COME. Again, the wording is nearly identical. There is little question that the sixth seal is, indeed, describing the moments leading up to Armageddon. This is further confirmed even more in the next few verses.

6:13.    AND THE STARS OF HEAVEN FELL UNTO THE EARTH, EVEN AS A FIG TREE CASTETH (or drops) HER UNTIMELY FIGS, WHEN SHE IS SHAKEN OF A MIGHTY (or strong) WIND. Ref Isa 34:4. ET.

6:13.    AND (4)    THE STARS (or angels)

OF HEAVEN FELL UNTO THE EARTH, EVEN AS A FIG TREE CASTETH (or drops)
HER UNTIMELY FIGS, WHEN SHE IS SHAKEN OF A MIGHTY (or strong)
WIND.

Clearly, Isa 34:4 is also describing the sixth seal-the approach of Armageddon. AND ALL THEIR HOST SHALL FALL DOWN, AS THE LEAF FALLETH OFF FROM THE VINE, AND AS A FALLING FIG FROM THE FIG TREE-Isa 34:4. Again, note the similar wording.

6:14.    AND THE HEAVEN (or sky) DEPARTED (or receded) AS A SCROLL WHEN IT IS ROLLED TOGETHER (or rolled up); AND EVERY MOUNTAIN AND ISLAND WERE MOVED OUT OF (or from) THEIR PLACES. Ref Isa 34:4. ET.

6:14.    AND (5)    THE HEAVEN (or sky)

DEPARTED (or receded)
AS A SCROLL WHEN IT IS ROLLED TOGETHER (or rolled up);

AND
(6)    EVERY MOUNTAIN AND ISLAND WERE MOVED OUT OF (or from)
THEIR PLACES. As Armageddon approaches, there is a catastrophic earthquake, and the heavens roll together as a scroll, and every mountain and island are moved.

Once again, compare the words in Rev 6:13,14 with Isa 34:4. It is very evident that both refer to the same time period-the approach of Armageddon. AND THE HEAVENS (or sky) SHALL BE ROLLED TOGETHER AS A SCROLL-Isa 34:4.

As we continue with these verses, remember, they are describing the time just before Jesus returns at Armageddon. Up to this point, people were confident that the one occupying the temple in Jerusalem (the Antichrist) was God. They had taken his mark and worshiped the image of the beast. The two prophets of God had just risen from the dead and ascended into heaven. The people are terrified, and some may now realize they have chosen the Antichrist over the true Christ. Some are so fearful of what is about to come that they will have heart attacks and fall over dead.

6:15.    AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH, AND THE GREAT MEN (or princes), AND THE RICH MEN, AND THE CHIEF CAPTAINS (or generals), AND THE MIGHTY MEN, AND EVERY BONDMAN (or slave), AND EVERY FREE MAN, HID THEMSELVES IN THE DENS (or caves) AND IN THE ROCKS OF THE MOUNTAINS. ET.

6:15.    AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH. These reigned over men, but now all their earthly authority will do them no good.

AND THE GREAT MEN (or princes),
AND THE RICH MEN, all their money will do them no good at this time,

(7)    AND THE CHIEF CAPTAINS (or generals), all their authority over the military will do them no good at this time,

AND THE MIGHTY MEN, AND EVERY BONDMAN (or slave),
AND EVERY FREE MAN, HID THEMSELVES IN THE DENS (or caves)

AND IN THE ROCKS OF THE MOUNTAINS. Here are the most powerful men on earth as well as the slaves-fearful, terrified, and trying to hide.

6:16.    AND SAID (or called) TO THE MOUNTAINS AND ROCKS, FALL ON US, AND HIDE US FROM THE FACE OF HIM THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE, AND FROM THE WRATH (or fury) OF THE LAMB. ET.

6:16.    (8)    They SAID (or called)

TO THE MOUNTAINS AND ROCKS, FALL ON US, AND HIDE US FROM THE FACE OF HIM THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE (God the Father),

AND FROM THE WRATH (or fury)
OF THE LAMB (which is Jesus). Jesus came the first time as the Lamb of God, to give His life a ransom for many. His forgiveness and mercy have been available to all that would open the door of their heart and receive it by faith. Now, however, He returns as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. He comes with wrath and fury against those that refused His forgiveness and mercy. The two prophets of God had been telling people what was going to happen, but they were not believed. As a result of their resurrection, the people who see it now appear to understand and are terrified. As already stated, the items (numbered 1 to 8) represent the eight events surrounding the sixth seal.

6:17.    FOR THE GREAT DAY OF HIS (or their) WRATH IS COME; AND WHO SHALL BE ABLE TO STAND? Ref Isa 2:10,19,21. ET.

ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND SEALED
1801-5A-5

6:17.    THE GREAT DAY OF HIS (or their)

WRATH IS COME; AND WHO SHALL BE ABLE TO STAND? That great day, which is covered by numerous verses, is the Battle of Armageddon. They know that Jesus is about to return and Armageddon is about to explode. They know that their future is sealed-hell and the lake of fire await them. Once they took the mark and worshiped the image, there was no forgiveness, no repenting, no hope.

As it is written, referring to the period just before Armageddon, ENTER INTO THE ROCK, AND HIDE THEE IN THE DUST, FOR FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FOR THE GLORY OF HIS MAJESTY. AND THEY SHALL GO INTO THE HOLES OF THE ROCKS, AND INTO THE CAVES OF THE EARTH, FOR FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FOR THE GLORY OF HIS MAJESTY, WHEN HE ARISETH TO SHAKE TERRIBLY THE EARTH. TO GO INTO THE CLEFTS OF THE ROCKS, AND INTO THE TOPS OF THE RAGGED ROCKS, FOR FEAR OF THE LORD, AND FOR THE GLORY OF HIS MAJESTY, WHEN HE ARISETH TO SHAKE TERRIBLY THE EARTH-Isa 2:10,19,21. Note, these verses are in perfect harmony with Rev 6:15-17. As Jesus returns, He shall shake terribly the earth, which is also illustrated in other verses.

As we have seen in Rev 6 and other verses, there is little doubt that seal six represents the time period just prior to Jesus returning at Armageddon.

The seventh seal does not come forth until Rev 8:1. This plainly shows that not all of the Revelation is written in chronological order; other events, out of sequence, are often interjected.

7:1.    AND AFTER THESE THINGS I SAW FOUR ANGELS STANDING ON (or at) 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 (or to prevent any wind from blowing-NIV). T1.

7:1.    AND AFTER THESE THINGS I SAW. This does not say that the next items happened after the seals, but, rather, John saw them after the first six seals. John saw

FOUR ANGELS STANDING ON (or at)
THE FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH, representing all four directions,

HOLDING THE FOUR WINDS OF THE EARTH. No specific information is given about these angels, other than they are controlling the wind.

THAT THE WIND SHOULD NOT BLOW ON THE EARTH, NOR ON THE SEA, NOR ON ANY TREE (or to prevent any wind from blowing-NIV). Prior to the servants of God being sealed in or on their foreheads, all wind on the planet shall cease.

7:2.    AND I SAW ANOTHER ANGEL ASCENDING (or coming up) FROM THE EAST, HAVING THE SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD: AND HE CRIED (or shouted) WITH A LOUD VOICE TO THE FOUR ANGELS, TO WHOM IT WAS GIVEN TO HURT THE EARTH AND THE SEA. T1.

7:2.    AND I SAW ANOTHER ANGEL ASCENDING (or coming up)

FROM THE EAST, HAVING THE SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD: (this is covered below)

AND HE CRIED (or shouted)
WITH A LOUD VOICE TO THE FOUR ANGELS, TO WHOM IT WAS GIVEN TO HURT THE EARTH AND THE SEA,

7:3.    SAYING, HURT NOT THE EARTH (or land), NEITHER THE SEA, NOR THE TREES, TILL WE HAVE SEALED THE SERVANTS OF OUR GOD IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS. Ref Mt 24:14; Rev 9:4. T1.

7:3.    SAYING, HURT NOT THE EARTH (or land),

NEITHER THE SEA, NOR THE TREES, TILL WE (note, plural)
HAVE SEALED THE SERVANTS OF OUR GOD IN (or on)

THEIR FOREHEADS. The fifth angel is not identified. Some believe it could be Jesus. The Scriptures indicate that, once the servants of God are sealed, great hurt or damage will come forth from the four winds of the earth. Evidently, a great catastrophe will occur affecting the land, sea, and trees. This would suggest that this sealing of God's servants may come just prior to the Russian invasion of Israel and that they will be protected from what is about to come. God's wrath is about to be unleashed; however, it has been foreordained that certain servants of God will be protected. It is presumed that these become saved at this point. Nevertheless, this is not made clear. God (by His foreknowledge of knowing who will be saved) will protect future saints, even though they have not yet given their life to Jesus. He has specific works ordained for them to do at some later date. The kind of seal that will be used, or if they will even be aware of the seal, is not specified. Obviously, it is to protect them and may be necessary for the work that they are called of God to do. The seal may also be a sign of ownership. Many believe it is the seal of the Holy Spirit with no visible evidence; however, it is visible to the spiritual realm.

What shall they preach? THIS GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM SHALL BE PREACHED IN ALL THE WORLD FOR A WITNESS UNTO ALL NATIONS; AND THEN SHALL THE END COME-Mt 24:14. This is shown to be during the first part of the Tribulation, in Mt 24.

7:4.    AND I HEARD THE NUMBER OF THEM WHICH WERE SEALED: AND THERE WERE SEALED AN HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND (144,000) OF ALL THE TRIBES OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL. T1.

7:4.    AND I HEARD THE NUMBER OF THEM WHICH WERE SEALED: AND THERE WERE SEALED AN HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND (144,000) OF ALL THE TRIBES OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL. These that are sealed are Jews. In both the Old and New Testaments, the terms Jew and Israel are used interchangeably in reference to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

7:5.    OF THE TRIBE OF JUDA (Judah, Y'hudah) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF REUBEN (Re'uven) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF GAD WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. T1.

7:6.    OF THE TRIBE OF ASER (Asher) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF NEP-THALIM (Naphtali, Naftali) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF MANASSES (Manasseh, M'nasheh) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. T1.

7:7.    OF THE TRIBE OF SIMEON (Shim'on) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF LEVI (L'vi) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOU-SAND. OF THE TRIBE OF ISSACHAR (Yissass'khar) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. T1.

7:8.    OF THE TRIBE OF ZABULON (Zebulun, Z'vulun) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF JOSEPH (Yosef) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. OF THE TRIBE OF BENJAMIN (Binyamin) WERE SEALED TWELVE THOUSAND. Ref Rev 14:4,5; Mt 24:14; Gen 49:17. T1.

A GREAT MULTITUDE
BEFORE THE THRONE
1802-5A-5

7:5-8.    Twelve thousand were sealed out of each of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel. These tribes included:

1.    JUDA

2.    REUBEN

3.    GAD

4.    ASER

5.    NEPTHALIM

6.    MANASSES

7.    SIMEON

8.    LEVI

9.    ISSACHAR

10.  ZABULON

11.  JOSEPH

12.  BENJAMIN

Obviously missing is the tribe of Dan. Some speculate that the Antichrist will come from this tribe. As a result, during the Tribulation, Dan is omitted; no one from this tribe is sealed-ref Gen 49:17. During the Millennium, however, the tribe of Dan will be included among the children of Israel. Ephraim, the second born son of Joseph, is also missing. The names of Joseph and Levi were used in place of those omitted. It is recorded that Jeroboam set up two calves of gold. 1 Ki 12:29-AND HE SET THE ONE IN BETHEL, AND THE OTHER PUT HE IN DAN. The tribes of Ephraim and Dan allowed him to do so. Some believe this is why none of the 144,000 come from these two tribes.

These Jews are virgins, thus single. There is no lie in their mouth at all-ref Rev 14:4,5. They will go forth to preach the Gospel of the kingdom-ref Mt 24:14. 

This group has no connection with the 144,000 male, virgin Jews.

7:9.    AFTER THIS I BEHELD, AND, LO, A GREAT MULTITUDE (or a huge crowd), WHICH NO MAN COULD NUMBER (or too large for anyone to count-JNT¹³³), OF ALL NATIONS, AND KINDREDS (or tribe), AND PEOPLE, AND TONGUES (or language), STOOD BEFORE (or in front of) THE THRONE, AND BEFORE (or in front of) THE LAMB, CLOTHED WITH (or dressed, or wearing) WHITE ROBES, AND PALMS (or palm branches) IN THEIR HANDS. T2, H.

7:9.    AFTER THIS I BEHELD, AND, LO, A GREAT MULTITUDE (or a huge crowd),

WHICH NO MAN COULD NUMBER (or too large for anyone to count-JNT¹³³),

OF ALL NATIONS, AND KINDREDS (or tribes),
AND PEOPLE, AND TONGUES (or languages),

STOOD BEFORE (or in front of)
THE THRONE, AND BEFORE (or in front of)
THE LAMB (which is Jesus),

CLOTHED WITH (or dressed, or wearing)
WHITE ROBES, AND PALMS (or palm branches)
IN THEIR HANDS. The palm branches may represent victory.

During the second part of the Tribulation (the Great Tribulation), a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language on earth, now stand before the throne and before Jesus, clothed with the garments of righteousness (the white robes). They may have been saved through the preaching of the 144,000 and then possibly martyred by having their head cut off. (Note, Rev 14:1-5.)

7:10.    AND CRIED (or shouted) WITH A LOUD VOICE, SAYING, SALVATION (or victory) (belongs) TO OUR GOD WHICH SITTETH UPON THE THRONE, AND UNTO THE LAMB. T2, H.

7:10.    They CRIED (or shouted)

WITH A LOUD VOICE, SAYING, SALVATION (or victory) (belongs)
TO OUR GOD (or is by our God)

WHICH SITTETH UPON THE THRONE, AND UNTO THE LAMB. Both the Father and the Lamb (Jesus) are being exalted by this multitude.

7:11.    AND ALL THE ANGELS STOOD ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE, AND ABOUT THE ELDERS AND THE FOUR BEASTS, AND FELL (down) BEFORE THE THRONE ON THEIR FACES, AND WORSHIPED GOD. Ref Rev 12:11; 6:9,11. T2, H.

7:11.    AND ALL THE ANGELS STOOD ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE, AND ABOUT THE ELDERS AND THE FOUR BEASTS, AND FELL (down)

BEFORE THE THRONE ON THEIR FACES, AND WORSHIPED GOD. It appears their martyrdom has resulted in glorious victory, as this great multitude

OVERCAME HIM (the adversary)
BY THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB (Jesus),

AND BY THE WORD OF THEIR TESTIMONY; AND THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH-Rev 12:11. Thus, it has now turned into a great time of worshiping God.

The fifth seal might be remembered, I SAW...THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE SLAIN FOR THE WORD OF GOD...AND IT WAS SAID UNTO THEM, THAT THEY SHOULD REST...UNTIL THEIR FELLOWSERVANTS ALSO AND THEIR BRETHREN, THAT SHOULD BE KILLED AS THEY WERE, SHOULD BE FULFILLED-Rev 6:9,11. The fifth seal had made reference to those that would be slain later on in the Tribulation. This may be the group that would be slain later.

Note, in Rev 7:9, it is written, A GREAT MULTITUDE. Then, in v.11, this multitude is apparently referred to as angels.

7:12.    SAYING, AMEN: BLESSING (or praise), AND GLORY, AND WISDOM, AND THANKSGIVING (or thanks), AND HONOR, AND POWER, AND MIGHT (or strength), BE UNTO (or belong to) OUR GOD FOR EVER AND EVER. AMEN. T2, H.

7:12.    SAYING, AMEN: BLESSING (or praise),

AND GLORY, AND WISDOM, AND THANKSGIVING (or thanks),
AND HONOR, AND POWER, AND MIGHT (or strength),

BE UNTO (or belong to)
OUR GOD FOR EVER AND EVER. AMEN.

(Note part 5A-2, "The Revelation Worship.") Again, this great multitude now seems full of joy as they give praise and honor to God.

7:13.    AND ONE OF THE ELDERS ANSWERED (or asked me), SAYING UNTO ME, WHAT ARE THESE WHICH ARE ARRAYED IN WHITE ROBES? AND WHENCE CAME THEY (or who are they, and where did they come from-NIV)? T2, H.

7:13.    AND ONE OF THE ELDERS ANSWERED (or asked me),

SAYING UNTO ME, WHAT ARE THESE WHICH ARE ARRAYED IN WHITE ROBES? AND WHENCE CAME THEY (or who are they, and where did they come from-NIV)?

7:14.    AND I SAID UNTO HIM, SIR, THOU KNOWEST (or you know). AND HE SAID TO ME, THESE ARE THEY WHICH CAME OUT OF (the) GREAT TRIBULATION (or Great Persecution), AND (they) HAVE WASHED THEIR ROBES, AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB. Ref Rev 14:13; 20:4; T2, H.

7:14.    AND I SAID UNTO HIM, SIR, THOU KNOWEST (or you know).

AND HE SAID TO ME, THESE ARE THEY WHICH CAME OUT OF (the)
GREAT TRIBULATION (or Great Persecution),

AND (they)
HAVE WASHED THEIR ROBES, AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB (which is Jesus). These people were not raptured, as they did not believe; or, at best, they were lukewarm (or nominal, or "so called") Christians. During the Tribulation, the Holy Spirit opened up their understanding, and they believed God's Word. They took a stand for Jesus. When the time came that they were to take the mark of the beast, they did not do it. When they were to worship the image of the beast, they did not. Because of their unwavering faith in Jesus, they were apparently martyred and came out of the Great Tribulation (the second part)-ref Mt 24:21. Their robes were washed and became spotless through the blood of Jesus.

As it is written, BLESSED ARE THE DEAD WHICH DIE IN THE LORD FROM HENCEFORTH: YEA, SAITH THE SPIRIT, THAT THEY MAY REST FROM THEIR LABOURS; AND THEIR WORKS DO FOLLOW THEM-Rev 14:13. (And) I SAW THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE BEHEADED FOR THE WITNESS OF JESUS, AND FOR THE WORD OF GOD, AND WHICH HAD NOT WORSHIPED THE BEAST, NEITHER HIS IMAGE, NEITHER HAD RECEIVED HIS MARK UPON THEIR FOREHEADS, OR IN THEIR HANDS-Rev 20:4. The verse ends by showing what they shall be doing during the Millennium, AND THEY LIVED AND REIGNED WITH CHRIST A THOUSAND YEARS.

7:15.    THEREFORE ARE THEY BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD, AND SERVE HIM DAY AND NIGHT IN HIS TEMPLE: AND HE THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE SHALL DWELL AMONG THEM (or spread His tent over them-NIV). Ref Rev 4:8; 12:10; 14:13; 6:11; Jn 1:51 H, T2, FE.

7:15.    This multitude remained faithful and came out of the Great Tribulation,

THEREFORE ARE THEY BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD, AND SERVE HIM DAY AND NIGHT IN HIS TEMPLE: AND HE THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE SHALL DWELL AMONG THEM (or spread His tent over them-NIV).

The term day and night is not used, regarding New Jerusalem, as there shall be no night there-ref Rev 21:25; however, it is used twice regarding before the throne in heaven-ref Rev 4:8; 12:10.

7:16.    THEY SHALL HUNGER NO MORE (or never again will they hunger-NIV), NEITHER THIRST ANY MORE; NEITHER SHALL THE SUN LIGHT ON THEM (or beat down on them), NOR (will) ANY (burning or scorching) HEAT. FE.

7:16.    THEY SHALL HUNGER NO MORE (or never again will they hunger-NIV),

NEITHER THIRST ANY MORE; NEITHER SHALL THE SUN LIGHT ON THEM (or beat down on them),

NOR (will)
ANY (burning or scorching)
HEAT.

7:17.    FOR THE LAMB WHICH IS IN (or at) THE MIDST (or center) OF THE THRONE (will be their shepherd; He-NIV) SHALL FEED THEM, AND SHALL LEAD THEM UNTO (springs of) LIVING FOUNTAINS OF WATERS: AND GOD SHALL WIPE AWAY ALL TEARS FROM THEIR EYES. Ref 2 Tim 2:12.

THE SEVENTH SEAL
SILENCE IN HEAVEN
1804-5A-5

7:17.    FOR THE LAMB (which is Jesus)

WHICH IS IN (or at)
THE MIDST (or center) OF THE THRONE (will be their shepherd; He-NIV)

SHALL FEED THEM, AND SHALL LEAD THEM UNTO (springs of)

LIVING FOUNTAINS OF WATERS: AND GOD SHALL WIPE AWAY ALL TEARS FROM THEIR EYES.

This great multitude of saints are now comforted and full of joy. Nevertheless, for the sake of Jesus, their suffering and persecution was great during the Tribulation. As it is written, IF WE SUFFER, WE SHALL ALSO REIGN WITH HIM-2 Tim 2:12.

WHERE ARE THE VERSES ON "THE GREAT MULTITUDE" TAKING PLACE, AND WHEN?
1803-5A-5

There are two viewpoints regarding these verses on the "great multitude." Some say that the scene before the throne of God takes place on the earth during the Millennium. They maintain that these saints were saved during the Tribulation and survived. They would have been judged at the judgment of the nations and then entered the Millennium.

The other position is that the entire scene takes place before the heavenly throne. These are martyred saints that came out of the Great Tribulation. Both positions appear to have some validity in the Scriptures. Example, it is never mentioned that the saints are martyred. Nothing is mentioned about them being killed for the Word of God. Also, Rev 7:15 could be referring to the earthly temple during the Millennium.

We need to examine each verse and see if, by God's mercy, we may have the answer. Rev 7:9 refers to a great multitude that no man can number. They are standing before the throne and the Lamb. No mention is made of how they got there, if they were martyred, or what throne it is.

Rev 7:10 uses these words, GOD WHICH SITTETH UPON THE THRONE, AND UNTO THE LAMB. Both the Father and the Son seem to be present; therefore, it has to be the heavenly throne. If only the Son is present, it would indicate the millennial throne.

Rev 7:11 speaks of the four living beings and the twenty-four elders. Nowhere else in the Bible are these pictured around the throne of Jesus, on earth, during the Millennium. Nevertheless, it is possible that these twenty-four elders may be with Jesus in His millennial temple, as they may represent the church. Regarding the four living creatures around the throne of God in heaven, the Bible does not specify whether or not they will follow Jesus to the earth during the millennial reign.

Rev 7:12 shows praise being given and then the words, OUR GOD. Just one is mentioned. Thus far, the evidence seems to lean toward this being in heaven; however, the possibility of the millennial throne has not been completely ruled out.

Rev 7:13 asks the question, "Who are they?"

Rev 7:14 gives the answer, THEY WHICH CAME OUT OF GREAT TRIBULATION. No mention is made of being martyred. The verse indicates they came "out" of the Great Tribulation, rather than through it. Nevertheless, they may have gone through it and survived.

Rev 7:15-THEREFORE ARE THEY BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD, AND SERVE HIM DAY AND NIGHT IN HIS TEMPLE: AND HE THAT SITTETH ON THE THRONE SHALL DWELL AMONG THEM (or spread His tent over them-NIV). The question is, where is this throne? Some have said that it has to be on earth, because of the words, DAY AND NIGHT. Yet these words are used regarding the heavenly throne, in Rev 4:8 and 12:10. They are not used regarding New Jerusalem; however, New Jerusalem is not an issue here. Thus, this argument would not seem to apply.

The question, (1) could this countless multitude of saints, who survived the Tribulation, be before the earthly throne of Jesus in the temple during the Millennium? Consider, could millions of people fit inside the temple, on earth, to serve Jesus day and night in Jerusalem? The answer appears to be no. (2) Will the saints that survive the Great Tribulation and appear at the judgment of the nations be marrying and repopulating the earth during the Millennium? or will they be before the throne of God day and night serving Him? The answer is, they will be repopulating the earth. (3) Will they be given white robes at the judgment of the nations? There is no record that such robes are given at this judgment, unless they are symbolic. The answers to each of these questions indicate it is not possible that this temple and throne are on earth. On the other hand, will these saints be before the throne of God in heaven, serving Him day and night? or will they be resting from their labors, worshiping Him and observing God's judgments taking place? Rev 6:11 and 14:13 refer to rest.

Rev 7:16 says, NEITHER SHALL THE SUN LIGHT ON THEM. If v.16 is deemed a millennial verse, the following needs to be considered. During the Millennium, God's Word says, THE LIGHT OF THE SUN SHALL BE SEVENFOLD, AS THE LIGHT OF SEVEN DAYS-Isa 30:26. (4) Again, this verse suggests that the temple and throne, referred to in Rev 7, cannot be on earth. The (5) HEAT mentioned, in v.16, also implies this is not the millennial throne and temple.

Both verse 16 and 17, almost seem as if they could have shifted to another time period, such as New Jerusalem, yet they may be in heaven, also.

After carefully considering each item, it seems there is little question that this is a heavenly scene of martyred saints. This leaves us with the question, why doesn't the Bible say these were martyred? The answer is unclear. It appears to be one of many things that the Lord has chosen not to reveal at this time.

It seems that two thrones are mentioned in these verses, which should help us understand the confusion. The heavenly throne is covered in Rev 7:9-14, but then John is given a view of the earthly temple and throne during the Millennium. The martyred saints that were before the heavenly throne are now pictured before the earthly throne of Jesus, in Rev 7:15, serving Him day and night in their new bodies. It is written, Jn 1:51-AND HE SAITH UNTO HIM, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, HEREAFTER YE SHALL SEE HEAVEN OPEN, AND THE ANGELS OF GOD ASCENDING AND DESCENDING UPON THE SON OF MAN.

The conclusion. There would seem to be no question that Rev 7:9-14 takes place in heaven during the Great Tribulation and the great multitude are martyred saints. Rev 7:15 may take place on earth, during the Millennium, with the martyred saints serving Him day and night. Verses 16 and 17 appear to cover eternity.

8:1.    AND WHEN HE HAD OPENED (or broke) THE SEVENTH SEAL, THERE WAS SILENCE IN HEAVEN ABOUT THE SPACE OF (or what seemed like) HALF AN HOUR. Seal 7.

(Note, the sixth seal began at Rev 6:12.) H, A.

THE SEVEN TRUMPETS GIVEN
1805-5A-5

8:1.    AND WHEN HE HAD OPENED (or broke)

THE SEVENTH SEAL (Jesus breaks the seventh seal),

THERE WAS SILENCE IN HEAVEN ABOUT THE SPACE OF (or what seemed like)

HALF AN HOUR. There is much controversy about the seventh seal. Some say it is "silence in heaven." Others say the seventh seal is the introduction of the seven trumpets. They maintain that the seven trumpets follow the seven seals, and the seven vials (or bowls) follow the seven trumpets. (Note, this topic has already been covered under the heading of "The Timing of the Seven Seals, Seven Trumpets, and Seven Vials," in part 1798-5A-5.) This author takes the position that the seventh seal is "silence in heaven." The seventh seal follows the sixth seal, which is at the end of the Tribulation. The seventh seal is approximately at the beginning of the Battle of Armageddon. There is silence. The great and terrible day of the Lord is at hand.

With the opening or breaking of the seventh seal, the contents of the full scroll can now be revealed.

8:2.    AND I SAW THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH STOOD BEFORE GOD; AND TO THEM WERE GIVEN SEVEN TRUMPETS (or shofars). Ref Rev 1:20; 8:6; 15:1,6,7,8; 16:1; 17:1; 21:9. H, T1.

THE PRAYERS OF THE SAINTS
1806-5A-5

8:2.    John next relates that he

SAW THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH STOOD BEFORE GOD. These seven angels are not identified. The words SEVEN ANGELS are also mentioned in Rev 1:20; 8:6; 15:1,6,7,8; 16:1; 17:1; and 21:9. John sees that

TO THEM WERE GIVEN SEVEN TRUMPETS (or shofars). John did not say that the giving of the seven trumpets was part of or followed the seventh seal. Rather, he is relating events as he saw them, but not necessarily in the order that they occurred. Some do not follow the previous event.

8:3.    AND ANOTHER ANGEL CAME AND STOOD AT THE ALTAR, HAVING A GOLDEN CENSER (or gold incense-bowl); AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM MUCH INCENSE, THAT HE SHOULD OFFER IT WITH (or add to) THE PRAYERS OF ALL SAINTS UPON THE GOLDEN ALTAR WHICH WAS BEFORE THE THRONE. Ref Jn 15:16; 1 Ki 7:50; 2 Chr 4:22; Rev 5:8. H, T1.

8:3.    AND ANOTHER ANGEL CAME (an eighth one). Some have identified this angel as being Jesus, since only He can offer the prayers of the saints before the Father. It is written, THAT WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK OF THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE MAY GIVE IT YOU-Jn 15:16.

John saw the angel who STOOD AT THE ALTAR, HAVING A GOLDEN CENSER (or gold incense-bowl)-ref 1 Ki 7:50; 2 Chr 4:22. Rev 8:3,5 are the only references to a censer in the Revelation.

AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM (the angel)
MUCH INCENSE, THAT HE SHOULD OFFER IT WITH (or add to)

THE PRAYERS OF ALL SAINTS. The prayers of saints are also described, in Rev 5:8, as odors (or pieces of incense) in golden vials. John sees the incense and prayers of the saints

UPON THE GOLDEN ALTAR WHICH WAS BEFORE THE THRONE.

8:4.    AND THE SMOKE OF THE INCENSE, WHICH CAME WITH THE PRAYERS OF THE SAINTS, ASCENDED UP BEFORE GOD OUT OF THE ANGEL'S HAND. Ref incense-Ps 141:2. H, T1.

8:4.    AND THE SMOKE OF THE INCENSE, WHICH CAME WITH THE PRAYERS OF THE SAINTS, ASCENDED UP BEFORE GOD OUT OF THE ANGEL'S HAND. Some believe that these prayers are calling for God's intervention or for His return. The golden altar, the much incense, and the golden censer reminds us of worship in the Old Testament. There was the offering of incense upon the altar of incense in both the tabernacle and the temple. The coals were held by the censer, and the incense was poured upon the coals from a separate vessel once the altar was reached. The smoke could be reminiscent of prayers ascending up before God.

8:5.    AND THE ANGEL TOOK THE CENSER (or incense-bowl), AND FILLED IT WITH FIRE OF (or from) THE ALTAR, AND CAST (or hurled) IT (down) INTO (or on) THE EARTH: AND THERE WERE (or came) VOICES (or rumblings), AND THUNDERINGS, AND LIGHTNINGS, AND AN EARTHQUAKE. T1.

THE FIRST TRUMPET
ONE-THIRD OF THE TREES AND
ALL GREEN GRASS BURNT UP
1807-5A-5

8:5.    AND THE ANGEL TOOK THE CENSER (or incense-bowl),

AND FILLED IT WITH FIRE OF (or from)
THE ALTAR. Fire is also mentioned in trumpet one and two. Fire may represent the anger of the Lord toward the multitudes that have refused the forgiveness Jesus offered. The angel

CAST (or hurled)
IT (down)
INTO (or on)
THE EARTH: AND THERE WERE (or came)

VOICES (or rumblings), AND THUNDERINGS, AND LIGHTNINGS, AND AN EARTHQUAKE. Similar wording is used, in Rev 11:19, during the seventh trumpet. As a result of the fire from the altar being hurled to the earth, voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake will take place. This may slightly precede the first trumpet.

The first four trumpets explain, in much greater detail, seal two (the red horse), which is the Russian invasion of Israel, and the aftereffects, which are seal three (the black horse-famine) and seal four (the pale horse-death).

Here, in verses 3-5, the prayers of the saints appear to be placed after the introduction of the seven trumpets, but before the first one sounded. Should this be the correct timing, then these prayers could be slightly after the prayers of Rev 5:8. This could place them around the time of seal two, near the beginning of the Tribulation. Some might say that the sounding of the trumpets are the result of the prayers of the saints.

8:6.    AND THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN TRUMPETS (or shofars) PREPARED THEMSELVES TO SOUND (them). T1.

8:6.    AND THE SEVEN ANGELS WHICH HAD THE SEVEN TRUMPETS (or shofars)

PREPARED THEMSELVES TO SOUND (them).

As the following items are studied, they need to be viewed from John's perspective. How would John describe jet airplanes? How would he describe a tank? How would he describe a nuclear attack with missiles raining down upon the earth?

Seal two was the red horse, representing war. Hence, a worldwide famine followed, which was seal three. One-fourth of the world's population died, which was seal four (death). The trumpets help us to understand these things in more detail.

Until the nuclear age began, the first four trumpet judgments would appear to have been impossible to understand. But now, with the introduction of such weapons as deadly gas, missiles, lasers, the atom bomb, the hydrogen bomb, the neutron bomb, and others, these verses come to life with new meaning.

8:7.    THE FIRST ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THERE FOLLOWED (or came) HAIL AND FIRE MINGLED (or mixed) WITH BLOOD, AND THEY WERE CAST (or hurled down) UPON THE EARTH (and a third of the earth was burned up-NASB): AND THE THIRD PART OF TREES WAS BURNT UP, AND ALL GREEN GRASS WAS BURNT UP. Trumpet 1. Ref Ezek 38:22; 39:24; Rev 6:3,4. T1.

THE SECOND TRUMPET
ONE-THIRD OF THE SEA BECAME BLOOD
ONE-THIRD OF THE SEA CREATURES DIED,
ONE-THIRD OF THE SHIPS WERE DESTROYED
1809A-5A-5

8:7.    THE FIRST ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet),

AND THERE FOLLOWED (or came)
HAIL, which may be hailstones or missiles raining down upon the earth.

AND FIRE MINGLED (or mixed)
WITH BLOOD. The hail and fire may well represent a nuclear exchange between Russia and the United States. The blood may represent the masses of dead bodies. This nuclear exchange may arise from the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel. We may be reminded of the great fireball and heat that results from a nuclear explosion and the multitude of fires that would occur. Blood would be a result. Hail and fire are also mentioned in Ex 9:23.

The hail and fire mixed with blood
WERE CAST (or hurled down)
UPON THE EARTH (and a third of the earth was burned up-NASB)

AND THE THIRD PART OF TREES WAS BURNT UP. As the result of such an exchange, one-third of all trees on planet Earth were burnt up or destroyed. This may also denote that one-third of the world will be directly involved in the war. If one would consider all the nations involved in this conflict, as listed in Ezekiel chapter 38, and add in the United States, it would appear to be exactly one-third of the land surface of the earth. This, in itself, is an incredible prophecy.

The verse continues,

AND ALL GREEN GRASS WAS BURNT UP. In the aftermath of such a nuclear exchange and the resulting radioactive fallout, all green grass was burnt up or destroyed over the entire earth. Consider, what it would be like, if all farm crops worldwide were destroyed. There would be a famine and starvation, such as the world could not imagine. Places like Africa, China, and India would see countless people starve. The entire world would be hard hit. Food prices would soar. It would take a day's wages to buy a day's worth of food. There is also a similarity between this verse and Ezek 38:22. Ref Rev 6:3,4-the red horse, war.

(Nuclear Weapons Today)
1808-5A-5

Few people today understand the power of the nuclear weapons that exist. Consider the nuclear bombs that were dropped in World War II. They were rated at about 20 kilotons (or 20 thousand tons) of TNT. Some of today's bombs are rated at about 50 megaton (or 50 million tons) of TNT. This is approximately 2500 times more powerful. Imagine, a single bomb now being equal to 2500 World War II nuclear bombs! One missile can carry many nuclear bombs at a time; each individual bomb can be pinpointed to a distinct target as it descends to the earth. Both Russia and the United States have enough of these weapons left that each one could destroy all life on the earth several times. Can we comprehend what will happen, when the United States and Russia unleash this destructive force against each other in, what may be called, World War III?

When such a bomb explodes, immediately there is a flash of light so intense that a person's eyes can immediately be destroyed. The heat of the blast is so intense that a person can be instantly fried like an egg. The resulting blast is such that virtually nothing will be left standing within a certain range, depending on the size of the bomb. This is followed by the reverse blast coming back in toward the center.

Then there is the unseen radioactivity. This is the silent killer. Within a certain range of the explosion, nothing will live. As the cloud from the bomb rises high into the atmosphere, it is full of radioactive fallout that rains down upon the earth as the winds carry the cloud this way or that. This can continue for a long period of time, resulting in radioactive poisoning of crops, bodies of water, or any living thing in its path. It may be said, the crops will be burnt up. Entire areas of land can be so poisoned from radioactivity, that no one can safely dwell or plant crops there for many years to come.

The first four trumpets appear to be showing us the results of such a nuclear exchange.

We can surmise that both Russia and the United States may nearly destroy each other. For this reason, there appears to be an absence of Scripture concerning the United States during most of the Tribulation. 

As already covered, trumpets one through four appear to be dealing with the war and aftereffects of the war of Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39. This is the combined Russian-Arab invasion of Israel.

8:8.    AND THE SECOND ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND AS IT WERE (or what looked like) A GREAT (or huge) MOUNTAIN BURNING WITH FIRE (or all ablaze) WAS CAST (or hurled) INTO THE SEA: AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SEA BECAME (or turned into) BLOOD. Trumpet 2.

8:8.    AND THE SECOND ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar, or trumpet). John then saw,

AS IT WERE (or what looked like)
A GREAT (or huge)
MOUNTAIN BURNING WITH FIRE (or all ablaze)

WAS CAST (or hurled)
INTO THE SEA. It is not clear if the word sea represents the Mediterranean Sea or the oceans of the world. A satellite or missile coming through the atmosphere might fit the description of what John saw. Some speculate it is a comet or asteroid. Others believe it could be a massive mountain falling into the sea as a result of a huge volcanic eruption. Because of this huge object being hurled into the sea, three things are described.

(1)    AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SEA BECAME (or turned into) BLOOD;

8:9.    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. Ref Rev 6:3,4. T1.

THE THIRD TRUMPET
THE STAR CALLED WORMWOOD
ONE-THIRD OF THE RIVERS AND FOUNTAINS BECAME BITTER
MANY DIED
1810-5A-5

8:9.    (2)    AND THE THIRD PART OF THE CREATURES WHICH WERE IN THE SEA, AND HAD LIFE, DIED;

(3)    AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SHIPS WERE DESTROYED. From this, it appears that not only will the war involve one-third of the land surface of the world, but also one-third of the seas or oceans. One-third of the world's ships might number more than fifteen thousand (15,000).

Again, we need to try to understand what John saw, in the context of what he would have understood in his day. John saw a large object that appeared to be burning. It was cast into the sea. This apparently came from above the sea, possibly from the sky. As a result of this huge, burning object being hurled into the sea, one-third of the sea became blood, one-third of the sea creatures died, and one-third of the ships were destroyed. In view of today's technology, this could be some kind of huge military weapon or accumulation of weapons, such as missiles armed with nuclear devices entering the atmosphere. The purpose may have been to destroy ships. This could have been part of the vast Russian armada seeking to destroy U.S. vessels, including submarines, and the United States responding by destroying Russia's ships. The end result appears to be that one-third of the world's ships were destroyed as well as one-third of the sea life-the sea became blood.

(Military Surveillance)
1809B-5A-5

Both Russia and the United States have surveillance and listening devices in the oceans to detect and track enemy vessels, including ships and submarines. Often they track many military vessels. They sometimes follow each other. Satellites with extra sensitive cameras and other devices are also taking pictures from space of things both on land and sea; they can photograph very small objects on the earth from hundreds of miles in space.

8:10.    AND THE THIRD ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THERE FELL A GREAT STAR FROM HEAVEN (or sky), BURNING AS IT WERE A LAMP (or a torch), AND IT FELL (from the sky, or heaven) UPON THE THIRD PART OF THE RIVERS, AND UPON THE FOUNTAINS (or springs) OF WATERS. Trumpet 3. Ref Rev 6:3,4. T1.

8:10.    AND THE THIRD ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet),

AND THERE FELL A GREAT STAR FROM HEAVEN (or sky),

BURNING AS IT WERE A LAMP (or a torch). A missile or other military device, entering the atmosphere, could resemble a "great star burning as a lamp" or possibly a giant shooting star. John noted that IT FELL (from the sky or heaven)

UPON THE THIRD PART OF THE RIVERS, AND UPON THE FOUNTAINS (or springs)
OF WATERS.

8:11.    AND THE NAME OF THE STAR IS CALLED WORMWOOD (or bitterness): AND THE THIRD PART OF THE WATERS BECAME WORMWOOD (or bitter); AND MANY MEN (or people) DIED OF THE WATERS, BECAUSE THEY WERE MADE BITTER. Ref Rev 6:7,8. T1.

THE FOURTH TRUMPET
ONE-THIRD OF THE SUN, MOON, AND STARS BECAME DARKENED
1811-5A-5

8:11.    AND THE NAME OF THE STAR IS CALLED WORMWOOD (or bitterness): AND THE THIRD PART OF THE WATERS BECAME WORMWOOD (or bitter); AND MANY MEN (or people) DIED OF THE WATERS, BECAUSE THEY WERE MADE BITTER.

Again, some object or group of objects are seen by John falling from the sky. As a result one-third of the rivers and springs of waters become deadly or poisoned. Some believe this is some kind of military weapon (or possibly combination of weapons) coming down from the sky or even radioactive fallout from nuclear explosions.

Wormwood ("apsinthos" in Greek) is mentioned twice in the New Testament and seven times in the Old Testament. This word has been highly researched by Bible scholars.

One problem in understanding is that the technology we have today would have been unknown to John. Therefore, no word existed in his language to convey what these things were. In the case of the name wormwood, as it is used in this instance, many believe it is referring to radioactivity. Should this object cause the rivers and springs to become radioactive, then they would be deadly to people that drink them; indeed, many would die from the waters, as they had become poisoned.

Again, these things help to explain, in more detail, the war of Ezekiel 38 and 39 or what we call World War III. Russia and certain Arab nations attack Israel with a great military armada. God, however, will destroy five-sixths of the military force, and they shall fall upon the mountains of Israel.

It also appears that a nuclear exchange will take place between Russia and the United States. The next verse may give us the actual length of time that this devastating exchange will last. As a result of this war, one-fourth of the world's population will die-ref Rev 6:7,8.

8:12.    AND THE FOURTH ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet), AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SUN WAS SMITTEN (or struck), 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 (or was without light) FOR A THIRD PART OF IT, AND THE NIGHT LIKEWISE (or in the same way). Trumpet 4. Ref Rev 6:7,8. T1.

WOE, WOE, WOE,
BY REASON OF  THE NEXT THREE TRUMPETS
1813-5A-5

8:12.    AND THE FOURTH ANGEL SOUNDED (his shofar or trumpet),

AND THE THIRD PART OF THE SUN WAS SMITTEN (or struck),

AND THE THIRD PART OF THE MOON, AND THE THIRD PART OF THE STARS. The terms "sun, moon, and stars" would indicate all over the world. For when the sun is shining on one side of the world, on the opposite side the stars should be shining and possibly the moon. The term "one-third" is explained next.

SO AS THE THIRD PART OF THEM WAS DARKENED, AND THE DAY SHONE NOT (or was without light)

FOR A THIRD PART OF IT, AND THE NIGHT LIKEWISE (or in the same way). This is showing that one-third of the day and one-third of the night were darkened. Consider, the day is approximately twelve hours long; the night is approximately twelve hours long. One-third of the day equals four hours. One-third of the night equals four hours. Put them together and they equal eight hours. Therefore, we conclude that the nuclear exchange between Russia and the United States will last eight hours. As a result of those eight hours, seal four (which is death) will claim over one billion lives-ref Rev 6:7,8. Death will claim one-fourth of the world's population. The nuclear explosions, lasting for eight hours, will create a dense cloud cover that may cause the sun, moon, and stars to all be darkened for eight hours.

SUMMARY OF THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS
1812-5A-5

(What transpired)

• Hail mixed with blood cast upon the earth (trumpet 1)

• Fire mixed with blood cast upon the earth (trumpet 1)

• What looked like a great mountain burning with fire cast into the sea (trumpet 2)

• Great star (Wormwood), burning as a lamp, fell upon the third part of rivers and fountains
  of waters (trumpet 3)

(The results)

• One-third of the trees burnt up (trumpet 1)

• All green grass burnt up (trumpet 1)

• One-third of the sea became blood (trumpet 2)

• One-third of the sea creatures died (trumpet 2)

• One-third of the ships were destroyed (trumpet 2)

• One-third of the rivers became wormwood (trumpet 3)

• One-third of the fountains became wormwood (trumpet 3)

• One-third of the sun smitten (trumpet 4)

• One-third of the moon smitten (trumpet 4)

• One-third of the stars smitten (trumpet 4)

• One-third of the day shone not (trumpet 4)

• One-third of the night shone not (trumpet 4)

• Many men died (trumpet 3)

8:13.    AND I BEHELD (or watched), AND HEARD AN ANGEL (or an eagle) FLYING THROUGH THE MIDST OF HEAVEN (or in midair), SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WOE, WOE, WOE, TO THE INHABITERS (or people) OF THE EARTH BY REASON OF (or because of) THE OTHER VOICES OF THE TRUM-PET (or trumpet blasts) OF THE THREE ANGELS, WHICH ARE YET TO SOUND (their shofars or trumpet)! T2.

8:13.    AND I BEHELD (or watched),

AND HEARD AN ANGEL (or an eagle)
FLYING THROUGH THE MIDST OF HEAVEN (or in midair). Note, the eagle may denote swiftness. The angel was

SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WOE, WOE, WOE, TO THE INHABITERS (or people)
OF THE EARTH. The angel was warning of three "woes" that were yet to come. These woes were

BY REASON OF (or because of)
THE OTHER VOICES OF THE TRUMPET (or trumpet blasts)
OF THE THREE ANGELS, WHICH ARE YET TO SOUND (their shofars or trumpet)!

The first four trumpets were confined to the first part of the Tribulation. They appear to give details about the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel and the devastating results upon the earth.

The last three trumpets (five, six, and seven) occur at a later time than the first four. These are each referred to as a woe. They are even worse than those that preceded them. These last three trumpets seem to come after the midst of the Tribulation. Trumpet five appears to be during the second part of the Tribulation. Trumpet six is nearing the end of the Tribulation. Trumpet seven is the Battle of Armageddon.

AND THERE WAS WAR IN HEAVEN: MICHAEL AND HIS ANGELS FOUGHT AGAINST THE DRAGON; AND THE DRAGON FOUGHT AND HIS ANGELS, AND PREVAILED NOT; NEITHER WAS THEIR PLACE FOUND ANY MORE IN HEAVEN. AND THE GREAT DRAGON WAS CAST OUT, THAT OLD SERPENT, CALLED THE DEVIL, AND SATAN, WHICH DECEIVETH THE WHOLE WORLD: HE WAS CAST OUT INTO THE EARTH, AND HIS ANGELS WERE CAST OUT WITH HIM. THEREFORE REJOICE, YE HEAVENS, AND YE THAT DWELL IN THEM. WOE TO THE INHABITERS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE SEA! FOR THE DEVIL IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU, HAVING GREAT WRATH, BECAUSE HE KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME-Rev 12:7-9,12.

Satan is cast down at approximately the midst of the Tribulation. It appears that the fifth trumpet will follow shortly after this event.