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THE THIRD PART
OF THE REVELATION

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Rev 4:1 begins the third part of the Revelation—the "hereafter," according to the outline in Rev 1:19.

Chapters 4 and 5 depict a heavenly scene. Following chapter 5, the seven seals are broken and revealed. Then the seven trumpets and seven vials are introduced. In the midst of some of these, God’s Word also points out other items and occurrences.

4:1. AFTER THIS I LOOKED, AND, BEHOLD, A DOOR WAS OPENED (before me) IN HEAVEN: AND THE FIRST VOICE WHICH I HEARD WAS AS IT WERE OF A TRUMPET TALKING WITH ME; WHICH SAID, COME UP HITHER (or come up here), AND I WILL SHOW THEE THINGS WHICH MUST BE HEREAFTER (or must take place after these things-NASB). Ref Mt 25:10; Rev 1:10; 1 Cor 15:51,52; 1 Thes 4:16,17. P, Rap, BT.

GOD, HIS THRONE,
TWENTY-FOUR ELDERS,
THE SEVEN SPIRITS,
AND FOUR BEASTS
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4:1. AFTER THIS. These two words indicate that what is taking place, now, comes after the seven churches. With the last verse in chapter 3, the church age comes to an end. From here on, the church is never mentioned again as being present on the earth. Chapters 2 and 3 show the churches, but with the removal of the church, the heavenly scene appears. Then God is shown dealing with Israel and a rebellious world. With the removal of the church, the seventieth week of Daniel is about to break forth-ref Dan 9:27.

It may be said that the world wants to exist without God; however, after the Rapture, when it seems to have what it wants, crime, brutality, and hate will abound. The people of the world would, ultimately, destroy all life, if Jesus would not have returned when He does to put a stop to it at the Battle of Armageddon. With the church gone and Satan controlling things, the earth is expected to gradually turn into a nightmare of wars, murders, stealing, rapes, fornication, diseases, hunger, and earthquakes. The verse continues,

I LOOKED. John looks
AND, BEHOLD, A DOOR WAS OPENED (before me)

IN HEAVEN. John’s description of what happened to him, indicates, to some extent, what it may be like when the saints are raptured.

AND THE FIRST VOICE WHICH I HEARD WAS AS IT WERE OF A TRUMPET. John hears a voice, and the voice has the sound of a trumpet. When the Rapture comes, a trumpet will sound. The trumpet was

TALKING WITH ME; WHICH SAID, COME UP HITHER (or come up here). The voice commands John to come up to heaven.

AND I WILL SHOW THEE THINGS WHICH MUST BE HEREAFTER (or must take place after these things-NASB). John sees what will be after the seven churches. The Antichrist coming forth, the Tribulation, and the other events will come after the seven churches and the Rapture. This is further substantiated later on, as the saints are shown standing before the throne of God prior to the Antichrist coming forth.

Mt 25:10 refers to the Rapture. It is written, AND THEY THAT WERE READY WENT IN WITH HIM TO THE MARRIAGE: AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT. John sees a door opened in heaven. Mt 25:10 shows a door that was opened and then shut, after the saints are raptured.

In another verse, John also heard a voice like a trumpet (which was the Lord’s voice), and he WAS IN THE SPIRIT ON THE LORD’S DAY-Rev 1:10.

The following is a description of the Rapture. BEHOLD, I SHOW YOU A MYSTERY; WE SHALL NOT ALL SLEEP, BUT WE SHALL ALL BE CHANGED, IN A MOMENT, IN THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE, AT THE LAST TRUMP: FOR THE TRUMPET SHALL SOUND, AND THE DEAD SHALL BE RAISED INCORRUPTIBLE, AND WE SHALL BE CHANGED-1 Cor 15:51,52. 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: 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-1 Thes 4:16,17. 

John sees a door opened. He hears a voice like a trumpet, saying, "Come up hither."

During the Rapture, a door is opened. There is a trumpet. The saints can expect to hear a voice like a trumpet saying, "Come up hither." The translation of John provides information relating to the Rapture of the church. It also gives a time reference when it will take place in relation to other events that will occur.

Once the Rapture has happened, Satan (THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN-Rev 12:10) is never again portrayed as being before the throne of God, although he does not seem to be cast down until later in the Tribulation.

4:2. AND IMMEDIATELY I WAS IN THE SPIRIT: AND, BEHOLD, A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN (before me), AND ONE (or Someone) SAT ON THE THRONE. H.

4:2. As soon as John heard the voice, he was

IMMEDIATELY…IN THE SPIRIT. This may be a preview of how it will be when the Rapture takes place; however, we will receive our new spiritual body at the same time. John’s body, apparently, remained on the island of Patmos.

John is immediately translated to heaven; there he sees a fantastic sight.

AND, BEHOLD, A THRONE WAS SET IN HEAVEN (before me),
AND ONE (or Someone)
SAT ON THE THRONE.

4:3. AND HE THAT SAT (or the One sitting there) WAS TO LOOK UPON LIKE (or gleamed like) A JASPER AND A SARDINE STONE: AND THERE WAS A RAINBOW ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE, IN SIGHT LIKE UNTO (or resembling) AN EMERALD. Ref Ex 28:17,20; Rev 4:11; 5:7; Gen 9:8-17. H, BT.

4:3. John sees Someone sitting on the throne, which looked (or gleamed) like a

JASPER AND A SARDINE STONE. The jasper may have been a clear stone like a diamond. In some cases, this word is translated as "diamond." The sardine stone is often translated as "ruby." This would indicate a ruby red color. The first gemstone worn on the high priest’s breast was a SARDIUS, and the last was a JASPER-Ex 28:17,20. It has been suggested that righteousness and pureness as well as the blood are represented here. The One sitting upon the throne is the Father, in Rev 4:11 and 5:7.

John also sees
A RAINBOW ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE. This rainbow is pictured as looking
LIKE (or resembling)

AN EMERALD or a green color. In Gen 9:8-17, the rainbow was a sign of God’s covenant between He and Noah, his seed, and every living creature with Noah, that there would never again be any FLOOD TO DESTROY THE EARTH. It could be called a rainbow of mercy, for despite God’s great wrath, which is about to be poured out upon the earth, multitudes will still be born-again. There are numerous opinions as to the meaning of the green color.

4:4. AND ROUND ABOUT (or surrounding) THE THRONE WERE FOUR AND TWENTY SEATS (or thrones): AND UPON THE SEATS I SAW FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS SITTING, CLOTHED IN WHITE RAIMENT (or clothing); AND THEY HAD ON THEIR HEADS CROWNS OF GOLD. Ref Rev 19:8; 1:6; 1 Chr 24:1-19. H, BT.

4:4. AND ROUND ABOUT (or surrounding)

THE THRONE WERE FOUR AND TWENTY SEATS (or thrones). Surrounding the throne, John sees twenty-four other thrones. These are presumed to be of less splendor than the throne in the center. There are elders sitting upon the twenty-four thrones.

AND UPON THE SEATS I SAW FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS SITTING. Elders would suggest authority or overseers of the church. These elders were

CLOTHED IN WHITE RAIMENT (or clothing). It is written, the FINE LINEN, CLEAN AND WHITE...IS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF SAINTS-Rev 19:8. These appear to be redeemed saints. The Scriptures say that the redeemed shall be KINGS AND PRIESTS-Rev 1:6. There were twenty-four courses (or orders) of the priests-ref 1 Chr 24:1-19.

These twenty-four elders
HAD ON THEIR HEADS CROWNS OF GOLD. Crowns often represent authority. They are also given as rewards to the redeemed saints. This would seem to indicate that the elders had been judged and had received their rewards.

One can only imagine the majesty and splendor of this sight.

There are many varied opinions of who these elders might be. Since there seems to be so many different opinions, perhaps, the Holy Spirit has not chosen to reveal who they are at this time. Some think they may be the twelve sons of Jacob and the twelve apostles. Others think they may be twelve prophets from the Old Testament. If they included the twelve apostles, one might wonder why John did not recognize himself. Others think they might be certain angels; however, the description of the clothing and the mention of crowns would indicate otherwise. In addition, angels are never mentioned as being elders, having crowns, or sitting upon thrones.

4:5. AND OUT OF (or from) THE THRONE PROCEEDED LIGHTNINGS AND THUNDERINGS AND VOICES: AND THERE WERE SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE BURNING BEFORE THE THRONE, WHICH ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT^125.1) OF GOD. Ref Rev 8:5; 11:19; 16:18; 1:4; 3:1; Isa 11:2,3; Rev 5:6. H, BT.

4:5. John noted that

OUT OF (or from)
THE THRONE PROCEEDED LIGHTNINGS AND THUNDERINGS AND VOICES-ref Rev 8:5; 11:19; 16:18. These seem to indicate a throne of judgment. They may also represent power.

John also saw
THERE WERE SEVEN LAMPS OF FIRE BURNING BEFORE THE THRONE, WHICH ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT^125.1)

OF GOD-ref Rev 1:4; 3:1; Isa 11:2,3. These may represent the attributes of God. It is written, A LAMB...HAVING...SEVEN EYES WHICH ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit) OF GOD SENT FORTH INTO ALL THE EARTH-Rev 5:6. (Note Rev 1:4, for more information.)

4:6. AND BEFORE (or in front of) THE THRONE THERE WAS A SEA OF GLASS LIKE UNTO CRYSTAL (or what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal-NIV): AND IN THE MIDST OF THE THRONE, AND ROUND ABOUT (or in the center, around) THE THRONE, WERE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings) FULL OF EYES BEFORE AND BEHIND (or covered with eyes, in front and in back-NIV). Ref 2 Chr 4:2,6; Ezek 1:10; 10:14; Rev 15:2. H, BT.

4:6. AND BEFORE (or in front of)

THE THRONE THERE WAS A SEA OF GLASS LIKE UNTO CRYSTAL (or what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal-NIV). John is describing what he saw. This is sometimes compared to the circular sea in Solomon’s temple, which was used by the priests for washing-ref 2 Chr 4:2,6. Before the throne, however, it appears to be solid; no washing is needed. A sea of glass is also mentioned in Rev 15:2.

AND IN THE MIDST OF THE THRONE, AND ROUND ABOUT (or in the center, around)

THE THRONE, WERE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings). Note Ezek chapters 1 and 10, especially Ezek 1:10 and 10:14. Regarding the cherubims in Ezekiel, there are some similarities when compared with the four living beings round about the throne, but also some differences. These four living beings are not elders. They have no crowns and are not sitting upon a throne. They are referred to, by some, as cherubims. Cherub and cherubims are mentioned in Gen 3:24, and in many Old Testament verses, and in Heb 9:5. There may be different forms or orders of cherubims.

They were
FULL OF EYES BEFORE AND BEHIND (or covered with eyes, in front and in back-NIV). This may represent God’s omniscience and omnipresence. It may represent great intelligence.

4:7. AND THE FIRST BEAST (or living being) WAS LIKE A LION, AND THE SECOND BEAST (or living being) LIKE A CALF (or ox), AND THE THIRD BEAST (or living being) HAD A FACE AS A MAN, AND THE FOURTH BEAST (or living being) WAS LIKE A FLYING EAGLE. H, BT.

4:7. AND THE FIRST BEAST (or living being)
WAS LIKE A LION, which seems to represent power, majesty, and authority. Jesus is referred to as the Lion of the tribe of Judah.

AND THE SECOND BEAST (or living being)
LIKE A CALF (or ox), possibly, representing strength, faithfulness, patience, and endurance, or a perfect servant.

AND THE THIRD BEAST (or living being)
HAD A FACE AS A MAN, perhaps, indicating intelligence or a perfect man.

AND THE FOURTH BEAST (or living being)
WAS LIKE A FLYING EAGLE, which may indicate speed and sovereignty. The high flying eagle might represent the deity of Christ. There are many varied opinions of the significance of these four living creatures. Some believe that they may be guardians of the throne.

4:8. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) HAD EACH OF THEM SIX WINGS ABOUT HIM; AND THEY WERE FULL OF EYES WITHIN (or was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings-NIV): AND THEY REST NOT DAY AND NIGHT, SAYING, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, WHICH WAS, AND IS, AND IS TO COME. Ref Isa 6:2,3. H, BT.

4:8. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)

HAD EACH OF THEM SIX WINGS ABOUT HIM. The seraphims, of Isa 6:2, also had six wings. The four living beings (each)

WERE FULL OF EYES WITHIN (or was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings-NIV):

AND THEY REST NOT DAY AND NIGHT, SAYING, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. God is holy. He is perfect. All that He does is right. All His judgments are completely just. He is wisdom and majesty. Can any of us understand the true holiness of God? One purpose of these four living beings is to worship, exalt, and give praise and glory to the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. They also dispense and deliver information and perform certain tasks, as in Rev 15:7-one of them gives to the SEVEN ANGELS SEVEN GOLDEN VIALS FULL OF THE WRATH OF GOD. The verse continues,

WHICH WAS, AND IS, AND IS TO COME. God always was, He is, and always will be. Can we invision the magnitude and awesomeness of standing in the presence of God Himself and worshiping, and praising, and singing?

The seraphims, of Isa 6:3, also cried, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, IS THE LORD OF HOSTS: THE WHOLE EARTH IS FULL OF HIS GLORY.

4:9. AND WHEN THOSE BEASTS (or living beings) GIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND THANKS TO HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE, WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. H, BT.

4:9. AND WHEN THOSE BEASTS (or living beings)

GIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND THANKS.

They "give" glory-which means to praise, to give admiration, to worship.

They "give" honor-which is to exalt, to count most precious, to esteem to the highest degree.

They "give" thanks-which is to express gratitude, to acknowledge something very special, to be very grateful, and to worship.

Why do they do this? because He is worthy. They are glorifying God, and honoring God, and giving thanks to God.

TO HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE (which is God the Father),
WHO LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER,

4:10. 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 (or lay) THEIR CROWNS BEFORE THE THRONE, SAYING. H, BT.

4:10. THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FALL DOWN BEFORE HIM.

Note, when the living beings give glory, and honor, and thanks, the elders fall down and worship Him. They fall down before

HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE (which is God, the Father). They

WORSHIP HIM. Worship may be the highest form of acknowledgment there is. It is reserved for Deity. It is reserved for Almighty God. Each time the word "worship" is used, they fall down. They worship Him

THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER.

The twenty-four elders
CAST (or lay)
THEIR CROWNS BEFORE THE THRONE, as if to say, "We are nothing. God is everything. All that we are and all that we have is because of the holy, all-powerful, Almighty God that created everything." As they cast their crowns before the throne, they say,

4:11. THOU ART WORTHY, O LORD, TO RECEIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND POWER: FOR THOU HAST CREATED ALL THINGS, AND FOR THY PLEASURE (or by Your will) THEY ARE AND WERE CREATED (or they were created and came into being!- JNT¹²⁶). H, BT.

THE BOOK WITH
SEVEN SEALS
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4:11. THOU ART WORTHY, O LORD. The praise, the glory, the honor are all given to God, as He is worthy

TO RECEIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND POWER: FOR THOU HAST CREATED ALL THINGS. He is worthy, for He created all things. He is the Creator.

AND FOR THY PLEASURE (or by Your will, or desire)

THEY ARE AND WERE CREATED (or were and have been created) (and came into being! JNT¹²⁶). Interestingly, the KJV uniquely combines both the current tense "ARE" and the past tense "WERE" in this same verse. (Note the information on the "Revelation Worship," under part 5A, "The Introduction of the Revelation.")

5:1. AND I SAW IN THE RIGHT HAND OF HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE A BOOK (or scroll) WRITTEN WITHIN AND ON THE BACKSIDE (or with writing on both sides and-NIV), SEALED WITH SEVEN SEALS. H, BT.

AN ANGEL SAID
"WHO IS WORTHY?"
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5:1. John saw

IN THE RIGHT HAND OF HIM THAT SAT ON THE THRONE A BOOK (or scroll). A scroll is a rolled up parchment. It was in the right hand of God the Father. The scroll was

WRITTEN WITHIN AND ON THE BACKSIDE (or with writing on both sides-NIV). It is full— a complete scroll. There appears to be no name on the book. Each seal describes an event that will take place on the earth; these will unfold as each of the seals are broken.

The scroll was
SEALED WITH SEVEN SEALS. The number "seven" represents "completeness." Having been sealed, no man could therefore open it, except the One that was appointed to do so. The fact that it is sealed, also shows it is not possible for the things contained within to occur until the appointed time. It may be noted that the Father had it in His possession and had chosen not to bring it forth until the Rapture had taken place.

A seal is used to certify a document by placing on it an official stamp, often impressed in wax. It may also be used to detect any unauthorized opening of a document, as once the seal was removed, it could not be used again without being detected.

5:2. AND I SAW A STRONG (or mighty) ANGEL PROCLAIMING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WHO IS WORTHY TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll), AND TO LOOSE (or break) THE SEALS THEREOF? H, BT.

5:2. AND I SAW A STRONG (or mighty)

ANGEL. The angel is not identified. The angel was
PROCLAIMING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WHO IS WORTHY TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll),

AND TO LOOSE (or break)
THE SEALS THEREOF? The qualification to open the book and break the seals was worthiness. Two things are mentioned: 1) open the book, and 2) break the seals. Since worthiness was a requirement to open the scroll and to break the seals, perhaps, the scroll may have been a title deed of some sort. Some have proposed that the scroll begins with the breaking of the seven seals and that the contents of the scroll may include the rest of the Revelation.

5:3. AND NO MAN IN HEAVEN, NOR IN EARTH, NEITHER UNDER THE EARTH, WAS ABLE TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll), NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or even look inside). H, BT.

5:3. AND NO "MAN" IN HEAVEN, NOR IN EARTH, NEITHER UNDER THE EARTH, WAS ABLE TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll),

NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or even look inside). There needed to be found a "MAN" that was worthy to open the book. There needed to be found a "man" that was worthy, who could "redeem, buy back, or purchase" what had been lost as a result of Adam’s sin.

Lev 25:23-25 speaks of A REDEMPTION FOR THE LAND. Jesus is our Kinsman. He is our Redeemer. He, alone, has the right to open the book and break the seals. He, alone, has the right to the "title deed."

In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF DAVID, in Mt 1:1. This gives Him the right to the throne of David.

In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF ABRAHAM, in Mt 1:1. This gives Him the right to all of Israel.

In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF GOD, in Mt 4:3. This gives Him the right to everything. He is the Heir of all things.

In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF MAN, in Mt 8:20. This gives Him the right to all the earth.

5:4. AND I WEPT MUCH, BECAUSE NO MAN WAS FOUND WORTHY TO OPEN AND TO READ THE BOOK (or scroll), NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or look inside it). Ref Ro 3:23,10. H, BT.

THE LAMB TAKES
THE BOOK
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5:4. AND I WEPT MUCH. John cried and kept on crying. He cried

BECAUSE NO MAN WAS FOUND WORTHY. Again, note the one qualification to open the book was worthiness. The Scripture says that ALL HAVE SINNED-Ro 3:23. THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS-Ro 3:10. No one was found worthy

TO OPEN AND TO READ THE BOOK (or scroll),
NEITHER TO LOOK THEREON (or look inside it). Not only was no one worthy to open the book and break the seals, no one was worthy to even look thereon.

5:5. AND ONE OF THE ELDERS SAITH UNTO ME, WEEP NOT: BEHOLD, THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH, THE ROOT OF DAVID, HATH PREVAILED (or triumphed, or won the right) TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll), AND TO LOOSE (or open) THE SEVEN SEALS THEREOF. H, BT.

5:5. AND ONE OF THE ELDERS SAITH UNTO ME, WEEP NOT: BEHOLD, THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH. This is #22 in the list of the descriptions of Jesus. Jesus came from the tribe of Judah, the southern kingdom. Jesus is that LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH. Note Hos 5:14 and Gen 49:9-11. He is

THE ROOT OF DAVID. This is #23 in the list of the descriptions of Jesus. Jesus came from the lineage of David and will also sit upon the throne of David. Jesus

HATH PREVAILED (or triumphed, or won the right)
TO OPEN THE BOOK (or scroll),
AND TO LOOSE (or open)
THE SEVEN SEALS THEREOF. Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, and the Lamb of God. He gave His life for the church and overcame all things. Jesus won the right to open the scroll.

5:6. AND I BEHELD, AND, LO, IN THE MIDST (or center) OF THE THRONE AND OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings), AND IN THE MIDST (or circle) OF THE ELDERS, STOOD A LAMB AS IT HAD BEEN SLAIN (or slaughtered), HAVING SEVEN HORNS AND SEVEN EYES, WHICH ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT¹²⁷) OF GOD SENT FORTH INTO ALL THE EARTH. Ref Jn 1:29; Dan 7:24; 1 Ki 22:11; Zech 3:9; 4:10. H, BT.

5:6. AND I BEHELD, AND, LO, IN THE MIDST (or center)

OF THE THRONE AND OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or four living beings),
AND IN THE MIDST (or circle)
OF THE ELDERS. It should be noted that Jesus is in the "center" of the throne and in the "circle" of the elders (the redeemed).

STOOD A LAMB. Jesus is the LAMB OF GOD-Jn 1:29. Today, Jesus may be sitting, but in that day, He will be standing. Jesus

HAD BEEN SLAIN (or slaughtered). Jesus had been crucified, but now was alive. He rose from the dead. Jesus, the Lamb, is described as

HAVING SEVEN HORNS. This represents Deity, authority-ref Dan 7:24, and complete omnipotent power. Horns can also represent strength-ref 1 Ki 22:11.

He is also shown to have
SEVEN EYES. This means that His knowledge and wisdom are complete-ref Zech 3:9; 4:10. He sees and knows all things. These

ARE THE SEVEN SPIRITS (or sevenfold Spirit-JNT¹²⁷)
OF GOD. Jesus has been described as the Lamb, but He shall return as the Lion. The sevenfold Spirit of God is
SENT FORTH INTO ALL THE EARTH.

5:7. AND HE CAME AND TOOK THE BOOK (or scroll) OUT OF THE RIGHT HAND OF HIM THAT SAT UPON THE THRONE. Ref 1 Jn 5:7; Rev 19:13; Jn 17:22,23. H, BT.

5:7. AND

(1). HE (Jesus)
CAME AND TOOK THE BOOK (or scroll)
OUT OF THE RIGHT HAND OF

(2). HIM (God, the Father)
THAT SAT UPON THE THRONE. Only God could give it, only Jesus could receive it. As already mentioned, this appears to be some form of a title deed.

There are some who teach a false doctrine, saying that there are not three Persons of the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. In this verse, clearly, Jesus is seen as a separate Person from the Father. Jesus comes and takes the scroll out of the right hand of the Father, Who is sitting on the throne. In addition, the Spirit of God is also a separate Person, as He is sent forth into all the earth.

THE TRINITY
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It is written, FOR THERE ARE THREE THAT BEAR RECORD IN HEAVEN, THE FATHER, THE WORD, AND THE HOLY GHOST: AND THESE THREE ARE ONE-1 Jn 5:7. There are three separate Persons of the Trinity:

1. God the Father.

2. God the Son, which is Jesus. THE WORD is Jesus. It is written, HIS NAME (Jesus) IS CALLED THE WORD OF GOD-Rev 19:13. Also it is written, IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD (Jesus), AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS WITH GOD, AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS GOD. Note, Jesus is the Word, and He is God. AND THE WORD (Jesus) WAS MADE FLESH, AND DWELT AMONG US-Jn 1:1,14.

3. God the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit.

Again, it is written, GO YE THEREFORE, AND TEACH ALL NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF (1) THE FATHER, AND OF (2) THE SON, AND OF (3) THE HOLY GHOST-Mt 28:19. Once again, we have the Trinity.

One then might ask, what does it mean when the verse says that THESE THREE ARE ONE? This is answered in the following verses. AND THE GLORY WHICH THOU GAVEST ME I HAVE GIVEN THEM; THAT THEY MAY BE ONE, EVEN AS WE ARE ONE: I IN THEM, AND THOU IN ME, THAT THEY MAY BE MADE PERFECT IN ONE; AND THAT THE WORLD MAY KNOW THAT THOU HAST SENT ME, AND HAST LOVED THEM, AS THOU HAST LOVED ME-Jn 17:22,23. Note the words, THAT THEY MAY BE ONE (or united), EVEN AS WE ARE ONE. The true believers in Christ are one, in the same way Jesus and His Father are one. The body of Christ is one, made up of individuals, yet united by one Spirit. In the same way, Jesus and His Father are one, yet separate Persons. The verse continues, I IN THEM. We are to be one (or joined) in Christ, though we are separate persons, yet Jesus dwells in us. The verse continues, EVEN AS WE ARE ONE. In the same way that Jesus and we are one, yet separate persons, so the Father and Jesus are one, yet separate Persons. The following are some examples:

(This is further substantiated by many verses.)

THE (1) SPIRIT OF THE (2) LORD GOD IS UPON (3) ME;-Isa 61:1. Note, there are three separate Persons.

FROM THE BEGINNING; FROM THE TIME THAT IT WAS, THERE (1) AM I: AND NOW THE (2) LORD GOD, AND HIS (3) SPIRIT, HATH SENT (1) ME-Isa 48:16. Note, there are three separate Persons.

BEHOLD MY SERVANT, WHOM I UPHOLD; MINE ELECT, IN WHOM MY SOUL DELIGHTETH; I HAVE PUT (1) MY (2) SPIRIT UPON (3) HIM: HE SHALL BRING FORTH JUDGMENT TO THE GENTILES-Isa 42:1. Note, there are three separate Persons.

AND THERE SHALL COME FORTH A ROD OUT OF THE STEM OF JESSE, AND A BRANCH SHALL GROW OUT OF HIS ROOTS: AND THE (1) SPIRIT OF THE (2) LORD SHALL REST UPON (3) HIM-Isa 11:1,2. Again, the three separate Persons of the Trinity are revealed.

AND THE EARTH WAS WITHOUT FORM, AND VOID; AND DARKNESS WAS UPON THE FACE OF THE DEEP. AND THE (1) SPIRIT OF (2) GOD MOVED UPON THE FACE OF THE WATERS-Gen 1:2. Two Persons of the Trinity are noted here.

Because of the three Persons of the Trinity, we can now understand why God uses the word "Us" in the following verses.

Adam had sinned. THE LORD GOD SAID, BEHOLD, THE MAN IS BECOME AS ONE OF US (plural)-Gen 3:22. Us refers to more than one—the Trinity.

AND GOD SAID, LET US (more than one) MAKE MAN IN OUR (plural) IMAGE, AFTER OUR (plural) LIKENESS-Gen 1:26. Us refers to more than one—the Trinity.

There are many other verses that also show two or three Persons of the Trinity. Some of them are listed here: Job 26:13; 27:3; 33:4; 1 Cor 12:4-6; Ps 2:2,7,12; Isa 63:6-16; Ps 50:1; Zech 7:12.

Without question, the Bible shows that the Godhead is one and consists of three separate Persons—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

God’s Word has warned over and over that this is the age of deception. This is the age when many new doctrines have sprung up, and many more will likely follow before the Lord takes His few faithful ones home. Beware, that you do not get caught or entangled in one of Satan’s deceptions. The Scriptures show that "many will be deceived"-ref Mt 24:11.

5:8. AND WHEN HE HAD TAKEN THE BOOK (or scroll), THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) AND FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN BEFORE (or in front of) THE LAMB, HAVING EVERY ONE OF THEM HARPS, AND GOLDEN VIALS FULL OF ODOURS (or gold bowls filled with pieces of incense-JNT¹²⁸), WHICH ARE THE PRAYERS OF (the) SAINTS (or God’s people). Ref Rev 19:10. H, BT.

THE REDEEMED
ABOUT THE THRONE
1792-5A-5

5:8. AND WHEN HE (Jesus) HAD TAKEN THE BOOK (or scroll),

THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)
AND FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN BEFORE (or in front of)

THE LAMB. Jesus, the Lamb, is God; He is worthy of worship. We are not to fall down before other saints to worship-ref Rev 19:10. Worship is reserved for God alone. And

EVERY ONE OF THEM (having)
HARPS. Note that there will be musical instruments in heaven. In the Revelation, the harp and trumpet are mentioned.

AND GOLDEN VIALS FULL OF ODOURS (or gold bowls filled with pieces of incense-
JNT ¹²⁸),

WHICH ARE THE PRAYERS OF (the)
SAINTS (or God’s people). Whether the four living beings are also holding the bowls is uncertain. This seems to be the prayers of God’s people that had just been raptured. Some believe these are the prayers from throughout the ages. Others believe these prayers are being held up by the very people that made them. (Note Rev 8:3-5.)

5:9. AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG, SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY TO TAKE THE BOOK (or scroll), AND TO OPEN (or break) THE SEALS THEREOF: FOR THOU WAST SLAIN (or slaughtered), AND HAST REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased) US TO (or for) GOD BY THY BLOOD OUT OF EVERY KINDRED (or tribe), AND TONGUE (or language), AND PEOPLE, AND NATION. Ref Rev 4:1. H, BT.

5:9. AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG. The four living beings and the elders appear to be singing.

SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY TO TAKE THE BOOK (or scroll),

AND TO OPEN (or break)
THE SEALS THEREOF. In this passage, taking the scroll and breaking the seals is mentioned. Opening the scroll is not mentioned at this point.

FOR THOU WAST SLAIN (or slaughtered). Jesus is worthy, because He was slain and has redeemed (or purchased, or ransomed) us, the saints. As it is written,

AND HAST REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased)

US. Here are the saints, "us," pictured in front of the throne of God—BEFORE the first seal is ever opened. Here are the saints that have just been raptured, "us." We are redeemed

TO (or for)
GOD BY THY BLOOD. Angels are not ransomed by the blood of the Lamb—we, the saints are. Where do we, the saints, come from? We come

OUT OF EVERY KINDRED (or tribe),
AND TONGUE (or language),
AND PEOPLE, AND NATION. It is impossible for these to be angels, as angels do not come from every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. John heard the voice, COME UP HITHER-Rev 4:1, which is symbolic of the Rapture. The church age is over. Now John is relating what he saw. John saw "us." As it is written,

5:10. AND HAST MADE US UNTO OUR GOD KINGS (or a kingdom) AND PRIESTS (to serve our God): AND WE SHALL REIGN ON (or rule over) THE EARTH. Ref Rev 3:10. P, H, JHM, M.

5:10. AND HAST MADE US. This is the second time the word "us" is used in this passage. It means exactly what it says, "US."

Now, combine this with the words of Rev 3:10: BECAUSE THOU HAST KEPT (or did obey) THE WORD (or message, or command) OF MY PATIENCE (or to endure patiently), I ALSO WILL KEEP THEE FROM THE HOUR OF TEMPTATION (or trial) (that is, the Tribulation), WHICH SHALL COME UPON ALL THE WORLD, TO TRY (or test) THEM THAT DWELL (or live) UPON THE EARTH.

HERE IS CLEAR, UNMISTAKABLE PROOF
THAT THE SAINTS WILL NOT GO INTO
THE TRIBULATION. THEY SHALL BE RAPTURED AND SHALL BE BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD, PRIOR TO THE FIRST SEAL BEING OPENED. THUS IT IS WRITTEN, AND THUS IT SHALL BE.

The verse continues, AND HAS MADE US

UNTO OUR GOD KINGS (or a kingdom) AND PRIESTS (to serve our God). We are a kingdom unto God, and we shall be kings and priests:

AND WE SHALL REIGN ON (or rule over) THE EARTH. Some may say this verse does not mean exactly what it says.

The singing in the verse now turns to the future and shows that we (the saints) shall reign on the earth. This refers to the millennial reign of Jesus Christ, as we shall reign and rule with Jesus for one thousand years. Here, the word "we" is used—the saints. Here again, the saints, "we" are pictured before the throne of God prior to the first seal ever being opened. 

5:11. AND I BEHELD, AND I HEARD THE VOICE OF MANY ANGELS ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE (they encircled the throne) AND THE BEASTS (or living beings) AND THE ELDERS: AND THE NUMBER OF THEM WAS TEN THOUSAND TIMES TEN THOUSAND, AND THOUSANDS OF THOUSANDS. Ref Rev 22:8,9; Mt 22:30; Rev 19:10; Mt 7:14. H, BT.

5:11. AND I BEHELD, AND I HEARD THE VOICE OF MANY ANGELS. The voices now include the angels, which were

ROUND ABOUT THE THRONE (they encircled the throne)
AND THE BEASTS (or living beings)
AND THE ELDERS.

The question arises, are these angels? or are they the saints that are now called angels? The singing that has just been going on used such words as, "redeemed us, made us, and we shall." If these words were correctly translated, by the direction of the Holy Spirit, then the angels before the throne appear to be the saints. Consider, it is written, I JOHN...FELL DOWN TO WORSHIP BEFORE THE FEET OF THE ANGEL WHICH SHEWED ME THESE THINGS. THEN SAITH HE UNTO ME, SEE THOU DO IT NOT: FOR I AM THY FELLOWSERVANT, AND OF THY BRETHREN THE PROPHETS-Rev 22:8,9. This same John that used the word "angels," in Rev 5:11, thought this was also an angel, yet he was not. He was a saint that had been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. We might wonder how this can be. Note the words of Jesus. FOR IN THE RESURRECTION THEY NEITHER MARRY, NOR ARE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE, BUT ARE AS THE ANGELS OF GOD IN HEAVEN-Mt 22:30. The saints become as the angels.

John FELL AT HIS FEET TO WORSHIP what seemingly was an angel. AND HE SAID UNTO ME, SEE THOU DO IT NOT: I AM THY FELLOWSERVANT, AND OF THY BRETHREN THAT HAVE THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS-Rev 19:10. Again, note that once we (the saints) are in heaven, Jesus said we become AS THE ANGELS OF GOD; however, the true angels of God are not redeemed.

Considering the Scriptures and what was being said, apparently, the myriad of angels before the throne are the saints that were redeemed.

AND THE NUMBER OF THEM WAS TEN THOUSAND TIMES TEN THOUSAND, AND THOUSANDS OF THOUSANDS (or thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand-NIV). This totals one hundred million (100,000,000) and thousands of thousands. This seems like a very large number. "If" this represents the resurrected and raptured saints of all times, then the percentage of people that are redeemed, throughout all of history, is extremely small. Jesus did say, FEW THERE BE THAT FIND IT-Mt 7:14. Some might say that this simply represents an infinite number which no man can know.

5:12. SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WORTHY IS THE LAMB THAT WAS SLAIN (or slaughtered) TO RECEIVE POWER, AND RICHES (or wealth), AND WISDOM, AND STRENGTH, AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND BLESSING (or praise). H, BT.

5:12. The multitude of angels were

SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, WORTHY IS THE LAMB THAT WAS SLAIN (or slaughtered)

TO RECEIVE POWER, AND RICHES (or wealth),

AND WISDOM, AND STRENGTH, AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND BLESSING (or praise). (Note the heading on "The Revelation Worship," in part 5A-2.)

5:13. AND EVERY CREATURE (or created thing) 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 (or singing), BLESSING (or praise), AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND POWER, BE UNTO HIM THAT SITTETH UPON THE THRONE, AND UNTO THE LAMB FOR EVER AND EVER. H, BT.

5:13. AND EVERY CREATURE (or created thing)

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 (or singing). There are many varied opinions on the previous words in Rev 5:13. They are saying,

BLESSING (or praise),

AND HONOR, AND GLORY, AND POWER, BE UNTO HIM THAT SITTETH UPON THE THRONE, AND UNTO THE LAMB FOR EVER AND EVER.

5:14. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) SAID (or kept saying), AMEN. AND THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN AND WOR-SHIPED HIM THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER. H, BT.

THE FIRST SEAL OPENED
THE WHITE HORSE
THE ANTICHRIST
1793-5A-5

5:14. AND THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)

SAID (or kept saying),
AMEN. AND THE FOUR AND TWENTY ELDERS FELL DOWN AND WORSHIPED HIM THAT LIVETH FOR EVER AND EVER.

It should be noted that once we are in heaven, we shall be doing much worshiping and singing. We shall be giving thanks, and praise, and honor to both Jesus and the Father.

While the saints appear to be singing before the throne of God, the rebellious people of the earth, who would not commit themselves to Jesus, are about to undergo many great judgments. The wrath of God is about to be poured out upon the earth.

The seals appear to have been designed in such a way that, when one is broken, the scroll is allowed to unfold only until the next seal is reached. As each seal is broken, the actual words or contents of the scroll do not appear to be revealed. Instead, we are told of certain events that take place as each seal is broken.

With the opening of the first seal, God’s patience with those that would not repent seems to have run out. God’s approach in bringing men to repentance now changes. 

Next, the four horses of the Apocalypse are about to come forth.

6:1. AND I SAW (or watched) WHEN THE LAMB OPENED ONE OF THE SEALS (or broke the first of the seven seals-JNT¹²⁹), AND I HEARD, AS IT WERE THE NOISE (or voice) OF THUNDER, ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) SAYING (in a voice like thunder-NIV), COME AND SEE. Seal 1, BT.

6:1. AND I SAW (or watched)

WHEN THE LAMB (which is Jesus) OPENED ONE OF THE SEALS (or broke the first of the seven seals-JNT¹²⁹). Jesus breaks open the first seal. We see the first major event on the earth coming to pass after the Rapture. John

HEARD, AS IT WERE THE NOISE (or voice)
OF THUNDER, ONE OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)

SAYING (in a voice like thunder-NIV),
COME AND SEE. The first living creature was like a lion-ref Rev 4:7 NIV. John is told to come and see.

6:2. AND I SAW (or looked), AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE (in front of me): AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (or its rider) HAD A BOW; AND A CROWN WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM: AND HE WENT FORTH CONQUERING, AND TO CONQUER (or he rode out as a conqueror bent on conquest-NIV). Ref 2 Cor 11:14; Gen 3:15; Dan 7:8; 1 Jn 2:18,22; Dan 9:26. BT, T1.

(Other reference verses)-2 Thes 2:3,4,9; Rev 13:4; Dan 8:23-25; 9:27; 1 Thes 5:3; Ps 4:8.

THE SECOND SEAL
THE RED HORSE, WAR
1794-5A-5

6:2. AND I SAW (or looked),

AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE (in front of me). White often represents purity, peace, or victory. In this case, however, it represents a counterfeit of these things. John sees a white horse,

AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider). The white horse has a rider mounted. This rider is the Antichrist coming forth, immediately after the Rapture, as the first seal is opened. The white color symbolizes, in this case, the counterfeit Christ—the impostor, the Antichrist, the one that is impersonating the real Christ. It is written, SATAN...MASQUERADES AS AN ANGEL OF LIGHT-2 Cor 11:14 NIV. (Note, there are some that mistake this rider as Jesus coming forth.)

As Jesus is the actual Son of God the Father, so the Antichrist is the actual seed and son of Satan, THY SEED-ref Gen 3:15. He is mounted on a horse, indicating he is ready for battle. This is the "little horn" of Dan 7:8. He is also called the "beast," later in the Revelation. Note, the name "Antichrist" is used twice in the Bible, in 1 Jn 2:18 and 22. Many other names are also used for this man of sin. 

He HAD A BOW. It may be noted that, while he had a bow, no arrows were mentioned. He had a method of conquering, but not by war. Scriptures indicate that he conquers by peace. He conquers with words. This is a diplomat, of sorts, with supernatural intelligence, as his father is the devil.

AND A CROWN WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM. He does not have the crown in the beginning, but rather, it is given to him. He is given authority over something. It is believed that the crown represents authority over the European Economic Community. He becomes the leader of, what many call, the revived Roman Empire. Note, THE PEOPLE (of the Roman Empire are the people) OF THE PRINCE THAT SHALL COME (the Antichrist)-Dan 9:26.

AND HE WENT FORTH CONQUERING AND TO CONQUER (or he rode out as a conqueror bent on conquest-NIV). He goes forth on the horse, determined to conquer. His goal is to be God and rule the world.

Jesus had warned that IF ANOTHER SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME, HIM YE WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43. This is the one Jesus referred to. This man, undoubtedly, is alive somewhere on the earth, right now, but cannot come forth until the first seal is opened.

Jesus returns, after the Tribulation, on a white horse. That white horse is not to be confused with the one in Rev 6:2.

Although not mentioned in the Revelation, right after receiving his crown, he confirms a covenant with Israel and others for seven years. This event begins the Tribulation, which is shown in Daniel to be seven years in length.

Many verses are given in the Bible about this person. 
(Some of the many verses that relate to the coming of the Antichrist, which is seal one, are):

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 (the Antichrist) BE REVEALED, THE SON OF PERDITION; WHO OPPOSETH AND EXALTETH HIMSELF ABOVE ALL THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED...EVEN HIM, WHOSE COMING IS AFTER THE WORKING OF SATAN WITH ALL POWER AND SIGNS AND LYING WONDERS-2 Thes 2:3,4,9. THE DRAGON (Satan)...GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST (the Antichrist)-Rev 13:4.

AND IN THE LATTER TIME OF THEIR KINGDOM, WHEN THE TRANSGRESSORS ARE COME TO THE FULL (the Antichrist), A KING OF FIERCE COUNTENANCE, AND UNDERSTANDING DARK SENTENCES, SHALL STAND UP. AND HIS POWER SHALL BE MIGHTY, BUT NOT BY HIS OWN POWER: AND HE SHALL DESTROY WONDERFULLY, AND SHALL PROSPER...HE SHALL CAUSE CRAFT TO PROSPER...AND HE SHALL MAGNIFY HIMSELF IN HIS HEART, AND BY PEACE SHALL DESTROY MANY-Dan 8:23-25.

AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL CONFIRM THE COVENANT (or treaty, or agreement) WITH MANY (with Israel and others) FOR ONE WEEK-Dan 9:27. (These verses should be covered in more detail, under part 4G.)

As a result of this covenant (or treaty), in Daniel 9:27, which the Antichrist will confirm with Israel and others, Israel will say, "We dwell in PEACE AND SAFETY." However, when they do, THEN SUDDEN DESTRUCTION COMETH UPON THEM, AS TRAVAIL UPON A WOMAN WITH CHILD; AND THEY SHALL NOT ESCAPE-1 Thes 5:3. There is only One that can guarantee us peace and safety. It is written, I WILL BOTH LAY ME DOWN IN PEACE, AND SLEEP: FOR THOU, LORD, ONLY MAKEST ME DWELL IN SAFETY-Ps 4:8. Because of the treaty with the Antichrist, Israel thinks it is dwelling in safety; however, when the second seal is opened—there is war.

The book sealed with seven seals has been in the Father’s possession. This seems to imply that, from the beginning of time, it has been kept for this precise moment.

The first four seals are represented by horses. Horses can appear and move swiftly, covering much territory; likewise, the events that they symbolize seem to come forth rapidly.
Each horse is a specific color; this indicates what event will follow. The riders direct the horses.

Israel now expects there will be peace, because of the covenant (or treaty) with the Antichrist. As the second seal is broken, however, war comes unexpectedly—it happens quickly.

6:3. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE SECOND SEAL, I HEARD THE SECOND BEAST (or living being) SAY, COME AND SEE. Seal 2, T1.

6:3. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)

HAD OPENED (or broke)
THE SECOND SEAL, I HEARD THE SECOND BEAST (or living being)

SAY, COME AND SEE. (The second [living creature] was like an ox [or calf]-ref Rev 4:7 NIV, KJV.) The second seal is about to be broken: its events are about to take place.

6:4. AND THERE WENT OUT ANOTHER HORSE THAT WAS RED (a fiery red one): AND POWER WAS GIVEN TO HIM THAT SAT THEREON (its rider) TO TAKE PEACE FROM THE EARTH, AND THAT THEY SHOULD KILL ONE ANOTHER (or make men slay each other-NIV): AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A GREAT (or large) SWORD. Ref Ezek ch 38,39. T1.

THE THIRD SEAL THE BLACK HORSE, FAMINE
1795-5A-5

6:4. AND THERE WENT OUT ANOTHER HORSE. John sees another horse

THAT WAS RED (a fiery red one). Red may denote blood.

AND POWER WAS GIVEN TO HIM THAT SAT THEREON (its rider)

TO TAKE PEACE FROM THE EARTH. The second horse is red and represents war. Note, it says take peace from the earth. This war might be classified as World War III. As a result of the COVENANT between Israel and the Antichrist-ref Dan 9:27, Israel SHALL SAY, PEACE AND SAFETY-1 Thes 5:3. Israel will feel secure; however, THEN SUDDEN DESTRUCTION COMETH UPON THEM, AS TRAVAIL UPON A WOMAN WITH CHILD; AND THEY SHALL NOT ESCAPE-1 Thes 5:3. Instead of peace, there will be war. The verse continues,

AND THAT THEY SHOULD KILL ONE ANOTHER (or make men slay each other-NIV). People will be slaughtered in this war.

AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A GREAT (or large)
SWORD. The person or nation that is designated to cause this war will be given a great (or large) sword. This indicates a nation with great military power, capable of mass destruction.

The two nations in the world that have the military capability to fulfill this prophecy are the USA and Russia. The Bible does speak of a great war to come during the latter days. That war is described in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39.

It is the Russian-Arab invasion AGAINST...ISRAEL-Ezek 38:8. God brings them forth-ref Ezek 38:4, against Israel. Russia has many allies joined with them. It is A GREAT COMPANY...ALL OF THEM HANDLING SWORDS (or weapons)-Ezek 38:4. They COME FROM...THE NORTH...A GREAT COMPANY, AND A MIGHTY ARMY...AGAINST...ISRAEL…IT SHALL BE IN THE LATTER DAYS-Ezek 38:15,16. Apparently, some African nations are allied with Russia as part of the invasion from the south or southwest. Other verses indicate that forces will also invade from the west and from the Mediterranean Sea with many ships. They will COME LIKE A STORM-Ezek 38:9. There are MANY PEOPLE-Ezek 38:9. In addition, an airborne invasion seems to be described as A CLOUD TO COVER THE LAND-Ezek 38:9. The Scriptures indicate that this will be the greatest military force ever assembled in the history of the world.

The war should follow the signing of the covenant and Israel, saying, "peace and safety." It is expected to occur at the beginning of the Tribulation. Do not confuse this war with the Battle of Armageddon that takes place after the Tribulation when Jesus returns.

6:5. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE THIRD SEAL, I HEARD THE THIRD BEAST (or living being) SAY, COME AND SEE. AND I BEHELD, AND LO A BLACK HORSE (before me); AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider) HAD A PAIR OF BALANCES (or scales) IN HIS HAND. Seal 3, T1.

6:5. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)

HAD OPENED (or broke)
THE THIRD SEAL, I HEARD THE THIRD BEAST (or living being)

SAY (the third [living creature] had a face like a man-ref Rev 4:7 NIV). He said,
COME AND SEE. AND I BEHELD, AND LO A BLACK HORSE (before me);

AND HE THAT SAT ON HIM (its rider)
HAD A PAIR OF BALANCES (or scales)
IN HIS HAND.

6:6. AND I HEARD (what sounded like) A VOICE IN THE MIDST OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings) SAY, A MEASURE (or two pounds, or a quart) OF WHEAT FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages); AND THREE MEASURES (or six pounds, or three quarts) OF BARLEY FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages); AND SEE THOU HURT NOT (or do not damage) THE OIL AND THE WINE. Ref Mt 24:7. T1.

THE FOURTH SEAL
THE PALE HORSE, DEATH
1796-5A-5

6:6. AND I HEARD (what sounded like)

A VOICE IN THE MIDST OF THE FOUR BEASTS (or living beings)

SAY, A MEASURE (or two pounds, or a quart)
OF WHEAT (or what may be considered a day’s food),
FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages),

AND THREE MEASURES (or six pounds, or three quarts)
OF BARLEY FOR A PENNY (or a day’s wages). This seems to depict the existing food being carefully measured out on a scale or set of balances, apparently, showing the extreme scarcity of food upon the earth and the resulting high prices—a day’s wages for a day’s food.

AND SEE THOU HURT NOT (or do not damage)
THE OIL AND THE WINE. Some believe the last part of the passage is indicating there will not be enough money left over to buy any oil or wine, or that even the rich may find it difficult to obtain these items. The exact meaning of this passage is uncertain.

Already there is starvation in some places around the world; however, seal three describes the results of a massive war. Consider the aftermath of a massive nuclear war. As radioactive fallout would occur, farm crops all over the earth could be ruined. Do the Scriptures indicate that this war will involve nuclear weapons? As we should see shortly, the answer is, obviously, yes.

Famines are also mentioned during the Tribulation, in Mt 24:7. This worldwide famine follows the great war, thus it is expected to take place at the beginning of the Tribulation.

6:7. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb) HAD OPENED (or broke) THE FOURTH SEAL, I HEARD THE VOICE OF THE FOURTH BEAST (or living being) SAY, COME AND SEE. Seal 4, T1.

6:7. AND WHEN HE (the Lamb, which is Jesus)

HAD OPENED (or broke)
THE FOURTH SEAL, I HEARD THE VOICE OF THE FOURTH BEAST (or living being)

SAY (the fourth living being was like a flying eagle-ref Rev 4:7-JNT¹³⁰). It said,
COME AND SEE. Some have wondered, since the emblem of the USA is the flying eagle, if this could mean trouble for the United States.

6:8. AND I LOOKED, AND BEHOLD (in front of me) A PALE (or pallid, sickly-looking-JNT¹³¹) HORSE: AND HIS NAME THAT SAT ON HIM WAS DEATH (its rider’s name was Death-NIV), AND HELL (or Sh’ol, or Hades) FOLLOWED WITH HIM (or close behind him). AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM OVER THE FOURTH PART (or one-quarter) OF THE EARTH, TO KILL WITH (or by) SWORD (or war), AND WITH HUNGER (or famine), AND WITH DEATH (or plagues, or pestilence), AND WITH THE (wild) BEASTS (or animals) OF THE EARTH. Ref Ezek ch 38,39. T1.

THE FIFTH SEAL
MARTYRED FOR JESUS
1797-5A-5

6:8. AND I LOOKED, AND BEHOLD (in front of me)

A PALE (or pallid, sickly-looking-JNT¹³¹)
HORSE. The word used here could indicate a pale green, such as a dead or dying green.

AND HIS NAME THAT SAT ON HIM WAS DEATH (its rider’s name was Death-NIV). There has just been a great war. Famines resulted. Death follows. None of the riders of the first three horses are named. The rider on the fourth horse is named Death.

AND HELL (or Sh’ol, or Hades)
FOLLOWED WITH HIM (or close behind him, close behind death). What is being said here, if fully comprehended, is terrifying. Hell followed the rider of death.

AND POWER (or authority)
WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM (note, plural)
OVER THE FOURTH PART (or one-quarter)
OF THE EARTH. This seems almost unbelievable. As a result of the war, one-quarter of the earth will die. One might ask, "What on earth could cause such a thing?" The answer is a war with nuclear weapons. When Russia attacks Israel-ref Ezek 38, would the United States not respond? It seems evident that the United States and Russia will become involved in a nuclear exchange. Other verses also seem to support this. This may explain why, in the Scriptures, the United States and Russia are both clearly missing from world events during most of the Tribulation, after the Russian-Arab invasion of Israel. Some believe an economic collapse will occur in the United States, before the Tribulation, removing it from the world scene; however, the Scriptures do not appear to confirm this.

Remember, the Scriptures show that hell followed with death, involving one-fourth of the earth’s population. This indicates that every single person who died went to hell—well over one billion people perished to hell! How can this be? Consider, if the Rapture had just taken place and all born-again believers were gone, the only ones left would be the unredeemed. Almost immediately, the great war erupts, followed by a nuclear exchange. Over a billion people die and are forever lost. Note, the word "hell," used in Rev 6:8, comes from the same Greek word used in Lk 16:23. This is where the rich man ended up.

Considering the nations that will be involved in the war, according to the Scriptures, we might conclude that the majority of the casualties will come from the Middle East, Russia, Europe, Africa, and the United States. The results, however, will be cataclysmic, affecting the entire world. Ezek chapters 38 and 39, plus many other verses, tend to support this.

Power was given to the rider of the pale horse
TO KILL. He kills
WITH (or by)
SWORD (or war),
AND WITH HUNGER (or famine),
AND WITH DEATH (or plagues, or pestilence),
AND WITH THE (wild)
BEASTS (or animals)
OF THE EARTH.