Revelation 10:2

He held in his hand a small scroll, which lay open. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land.

Study Bible

He held in his hand
The phrase signifies possession and control. In the Greek, the word for "held" (ἔχων, echōn) implies a firm grasp, indicating authority and intentionality. The hand, often symbolic of power and action in biblical literature, suggests that the figure has the authority to execute what is written in the scroll. This imagery evokes the sovereignty of God, who holds the future and the unfolding of His divine plan.

a small scroll
The "small scroll" (βιβλαρίδιον, biblaridion) is distinct from the larger scrolls mentioned elsewhere in Revelation. Its diminutive size may imply a specific, focused message or revelation. Historically, scrolls were used to record important decrees or prophecies, and this scroll being "small" could suggest a particular aspect of God's plan that is being revealed. The scroll's presence in the angel's hand underscores its divine origin and the importance of its contents.

which lay open
The openness of the scroll (ἀνεῳγμένον, aneōgmenon) indicates that its contents are ready to be revealed and understood. In the context of Revelation, this openness contrasts with the sealed scrolls earlier in the book, symbolizing that the time for this revelation has come. Theologically, it suggests God's willingness to disclose His mysteries to humanity, inviting believers to seek understanding and wisdom.

He placed his right foot on the sea
The act of placing the right foot on the sea symbolizes dominion and authority over the chaotic and unpredictable forces of nature. In biblical symbolism, the sea often represents chaos and evil. The right foot, traditionally associated with strength and favor, signifies the angel's power to subdue and control these forces. This imagery reassures believers of God's ultimate sovereignty over all creation, including the tumultuous aspects of life.

and his left foot on the land
Placing the left foot on the land signifies authority over the earth and its inhabitants. The land, in biblical terms, often represents stability and the realm of human activity. By standing on both the sea and the land, the angel demonstrates comprehensive dominion over the entire world. This dual placement emphasizes the universality of God's reign and the encompassing nature of His plan, offering hope and assurance to believers that nothing is beyond His control.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Mighty Angel
This figure is a powerful angelic being, distinct from the seven angels with trumpets. His appearance and actions signify authority and divine message.

2. The Small Scroll
The scroll is open, indicating that its contents are meant to be revealed and understood. It symbolizes a message or revelation from God.

3. The Sea and the Land
The angel's stance with one foot on the sea and the other on the land represents dominion over the entire earth, both maritime and terrestrial realms.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority and Sovereignty
The angel's stance over the sea and land emphasizes God's ultimate authority over all creation. Believers are reminded of God's control over every aspect of life and the world.

Revelation and Understanding
The open scroll signifies that God desires to reveal His plans to His people. Christians are encouraged to seek understanding and wisdom from God's Word.

Proclamation of God's Message
Just as the scroll is open and ready to be read, believers are called to proclaim God's message boldly and faithfully, trusting in His timing and purpose.

Preparedness for God's Revelation
The readiness of the scroll suggests that believers should be prepared to receive and act upon God's revelations in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the angel's stance over the sea and land teach us about God's authority in our personal lives and the world?

2. How can we ensure that we are ready to receive and understand God's revelations, as symbolized by the open scroll?

3. In what ways can we actively proclaim God's message in our communities, inspired by the open scroll in Revelation 10:2?

4. How does the imagery of the open scroll in Revelation 10:2 connect with the concept of internalizing God's Word, as seen in Ezekiel 2-3?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's sovereignty in your life. How does this passage encourage you to trust in His control over all circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 2-3
The prophet Ezekiel is given a scroll to eat, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. This parallels the open scroll in Revelation, suggesting a message to be consumed and proclaimed.

Daniel 12
Daniel is told to seal up the words of a scroll until the end times, contrasting with the open scroll in Revelation, which indicates the time for revelation has come.

Psalm 95:5
This verse speaks of God's ownership of the sea and land, reinforcing the angel's stance as a symbol of divine authority over creation.