Then I saw
The phrase "Then I saw" indicates a continuation of John's visionary experience. The Greek word for "saw" is "εἶδον" (eidon), which implies not just physical sight but a deeper, spiritual perception. This suggests that John is being granted a divine revelation, a glimpse into the heavenly realm that is beyond ordinary human experience. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual insight in understanding God's plans.

another mighty angel
The term "another" (ἄλλον, allon) suggests that this angel is distinct from those previously mentioned. The word "mighty" (ἰσχυρὸν, ischyron) underscores the angel's power and authority, reflecting the strength and majesty of God's messengers. Angels in biblical texts often serve as God's emissaries, carrying out His will and delivering His messages. This particular angel's mightiness may symbolize the significance of the message he brings.

coming down from heaven
This phrase highlights the divine origin of the angel, emphasizing that he is sent by God. The descent from heaven signifies the intervention of the divine in earthly affairs, a common theme in apocalyptic literature. It reassures believers of God's active involvement in the world and His ultimate sovereignty over creation.

wrapped in a cloud
Clouds in biblical symbolism often represent the presence and glory of God. The Greek word "περιβεβλημένον" (peribeblēmenon) means "clothed" or "wrapped," suggesting that the angel is enveloped in God's glory. This imagery recalls the Old Testament theophanies, such as God's presence on Mount Sinai, and serves to remind readers of God's holiness and majesty.

with a rainbow above his head
The rainbow is a symbol of God's covenant and mercy, first seen in Genesis 9:13 as a sign of His promise to Noah. The presence of a rainbow above the angel's head signifies hope and assurance of God's faithfulness. It serves as a reminder that even amidst judgment, God's promises remain steadfast and His mercy endures.

his face was like the sun
The comparison of the angel's face to the sun (ἡλίου, hēliou) suggests brilliance and radiance, reflecting the glory of God. This imagery is reminiscent of the transfiguration of Christ, where His face shone like the sun (Matthew 17:2). It symbolizes divine illumination and truth, indicating that the message the angel brings is of utmost importance and clarity.

and his legs like pillars of fire
The description of the angel's legs as "pillars of fire" evokes images of strength, stability, and purification. Fire in biblical texts often represents God's judgment and holiness. The Greek word "πυρός" (pyros) for fire suggests a purifying presence, indicating that the angel's mission involves both judgment and the refining of God's people. The imagery of pillars suggests a firm foundation, reinforcing the idea of God's unshakeable truth and justice.

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.

and he cried out
The phrase "cried out" in the Greek is "ἐκέκραξεν" (ekekraxen), which conveys a sense of urgency and authority. This is not a mere speaking but a powerful proclamation. In the context of Revelation, this cry is significant as it heralds a divine message. The act of crying out is often associated with prophets in the Old Testament, who would deliver God's messages to His people. This emphasizes the importance and divine origin of the message being delivered.

in a loud voice
The "loud voice" (Greek: "φωνῇ μεγάλῃ," phōnē megalē) signifies not only volume but also authority and power. In biblical literature, a loud voice often accompanies divine revelation or significant announcements. This is reminiscent of the voice of God at Sinai, which was so powerful that it caused the people to tremble (Exodus 19:16). The loudness underscores the importance of the message and ensures that it captures the attention of all who hear it.

like the roar of a lion
The comparison to "the roar of a lion" (Greek: "ὡς λέοντος μυκᾶται," hōs leontos mykatai) evokes imagery of strength, majesty, and fear. In the ancient world, the lion was a symbol of power and kingship. The roar of a lion is both awe-inspiring and terrifying, suggesting that the message being delivered is both authoritative and demands respect. This imagery aligns with the portrayal of Christ as the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5), emphasizing His sovereignty and power.

And when he cried out
This phrase marks a transition, indicating that the cry has an immediate effect. The repetition of the act of crying out highlights its significance and prepares the reader for the ensuing revelation. It suggests a cause-and-effect relationship, where the cry triggers a divine response.

the seven thunders
The "seven thunders" (Greek: "ἑπτὰ βρονταί," hepta brontai) are mysterious and not explicitly explained in the text. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in biblical literature, suggesting that these thunders represent a complete or perfect revelation from God. Thunder is frequently associated with God's voice in the Bible, as seen in Psalm 29, where the voice of the Lord is described as powerful and majestic, like thunder.

sounded their voices
The phrase "sounded their voices" (Greek: "ἐλάλησαν τὰς ἑαυτῶν φωνάς," elalēsan tas heautōn phōnas) indicates that the thunders are not mere natural phenomena but have a communicative purpose. The use of "voices" suggests that they are conveying a message, though the content of this message is not revealed in the text. This adds to the mystery and awe of the passage, inviting readers to reflect on the hidden aspects of God's plan and the majesty of His revelation.

And when the seven thunders had spoken
The phrase "seven thunders" is intriguing and mysterious, often interpreted as a symbol of God's perfect and complete voice of judgment or revelation. The number seven in biblical terms signifies completeness or perfection, often associated with divine actions. Thunders, in the scriptural context, are frequently linked to God's voice (Psalm 29:3-9). The Greek word for thunder, "brontē," suggests a powerful, awe-inspiring sound, indicating the authority and majesty of God's communication. Historically, thunder has been seen as a divine manifestation, a direct communication from God to humanity, emphasizing the gravity and significance of the message being conveyed.

I was about to write
John's intention to write signifies the importance of the revelation he received. Writing was a means to preserve divine messages for the church's edification and instruction. The act of writing in the ancient world was a deliberate process, often reserved for significant and authoritative communications. John's readiness to document the message underscores his role as a faithful witness and recorder of divine revelation, tasked with conveying God's messages to the early Christian communities.

but I heard a voice from heaven say
The "voice from heaven" represents divine authority and instruction, often seen throughout Scripture as God's direct intervention or command (Matthew 3:17, Acts 9:4). This heavenly voice interrupts John's action, indicating a higher purpose or divine reasoning that transcends human understanding. The interruption serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the selective nature of divine revelation, where not all mysteries are meant to be disclosed to humanity.

Seal up what the seven thunders have said
The command to "seal up" suggests the intentional concealment of certain divine truths. The Greek word "sphragizō" implies securing or keeping something hidden. This act of sealing is reminiscent of Daniel 12:4, where Daniel is instructed to seal the words of his prophecy until the end times. It highlights the theme of divine mystery and the notion that some aspects of God's plan are not yet meant for human understanding, reserved for a future time of revelation.

and do not write it down
The instruction "do not write it down" emphasizes the selective nature of revelation. While much of Revelation is meant to be shared with the church, this particular message is withheld, suggesting that not all divine knowledge is intended for immediate disclosure. This directive underscores the theme of trust in God's wisdom and timing, encouraging believers to rely on faith rather than complete understanding. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of human knowledge and the importance of humility in the face of divine mystery.

Then the angel
The word "angel" in Greek is "ἄγγελος" (angelos), meaning "messenger." In the context of Revelation, angels often serve as divine messengers or agents of God's will. This particular angel is significant, as he is described with great authority, standing on both the sea and the land, symbolizing dominion over the entire earth. This imagery reflects the angel's role in conveying a message of universal importance, emphasizing the sovereignty and power of God over all creation.

I had seen
The phrase "I had seen" indicates a continuity in John's vision. It suggests that this is not a new revelation but a continuation or expansion of what has already been revealed. John's role as a witness is crucial, as he is tasked with recording these visions for the benefit of the Church. His consistent witnessing underscores the reliability and divine origin of the message.

standing on the sea and on the land
This phrase highlights the angel's position, which is both literal and symbolic. Standing on the sea and the land signifies authority over all of creation, both the chaotic and the stable. In biblical symbolism, the sea often represents chaos and the unknown, while the land represents stability and the known world. The angel's stance indicates God's ultimate control over all aspects of the world, reassuring believers of His omnipotence and the fulfillment of His divine plan.

lifted up his right hand
Lifting the right hand is a gesture of oath-taking or making a solemn declaration. In biblical times, the right hand was associated with power and authority. By lifting his right hand, the angel is making a solemn vow or declaration, underscoring the seriousness and truth of the message he is about to deliver. This act is reminiscent of the Old Testament practice of swearing an oath, further connecting the New Testament revelation with the continuity of God's covenantal promises.

to heaven
The direction "to heaven" signifies the source of the angel's authority and the divine origin of the message. Heaven is the dwelling place of God, and by lifting his hand towards it, the angel acknowledges that the message he bears is not of his own making but is a direct command from God. This act serves to remind believers of the heavenly authority behind the unfolding events in Revelation, encouraging them to trust in God's ultimate plan and sovereignty.

And he swore
The act of swearing an oath in biblical times was a solemn and binding declaration. The Greek word used here is "ὤμοσεν" (ōmosen), which implies a formal and serious commitment. In the context of Revelation, this oath underscores the gravity and certainty of the message being delivered. The angel's oath signifies the unchangeable nature of God's plan and the assurance that His purposes will be fulfilled.

by Him who lives forever and ever
This phrase emphasizes the eternal nature of God, highlighting His sovereignty and timeless existence. The Greek phrase "ζῶντα εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας τῶν αἰώνων" (zōnta eis tous aiōnas tōn aiōnōn) reflects the concept of God as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. This eternal perspective assures believers that God's promises are not bound by temporal limitations and that His dominion is everlasting.

who created heaven and everything in it
The reference to God as the Creator is foundational to the biblical worldview. The Greek word "κτίσαντα" (ktisanta) denotes the act of creation, affirming God's authority over all creation. This acknowledgment of God as the Creator of heaven and its contents serves as a reminder of His power and the order He established in the universe. It calls believers to worship and trust in the Creator who sustains all things.

and the earth and everything in it
This phrase extends God's creative authority to the earth, reinforcing His dominion over the physical world. The earth, in biblical symbolism, often represents the realm of human existence and activity. By affirming God's creation of the earth and all it contains, the text reassures believers of His control over human history and the natural world, encouraging them to live in accordance with His will.

and the sea and everything in it
In ancient Near Eastern thought, the sea often symbolized chaos and unpredictability. By declaring God's creation of the sea and its contents, the text asserts His mastery over chaos and disorder. The Greek word "θάλασσαν" (thalassan) for sea, coupled with the notion of God's creative power, provides comfort to believers that even the most tumultuous aspects of life are under His sovereign control.

There will be no more delay!
This proclamation marks a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's eschatological plan. The Greek phrase "χρόνος οὐκέτι ἔσται" (chronos ouketi estai) indicates the cessation of waiting and the imminent fulfillment of God's purposes. For believers, this is a call to readiness and anticipation, as the long-awaited culmination of God's promises is at hand. It serves as a reminder of the urgency of the gospel message and the need to live faithfully in expectation of Christ's return.

But in the days
This phrase indicates a specific period, emphasizing the unfolding of divine events within God's perfect timing. The Greek word for "days" (ἡμέραι) often signifies not just literal days but appointed times or seasons. This suggests a divinely orchestrated period where God's plans come to fruition, reminding believers of God's sovereignty over time and history.

of the voice of the seventh angel
The "voice" (φωνή) here is a powerful symbol of authority and divine proclamation. The "seventh angel" signifies completion and perfection, as the number seven often represents in biblical numerology. This angel's role is pivotal, marking the culmination of a series of divine interventions. The angel's voice heralds a significant shift in the spiritual realm, underscoring the importance of listening to God's messengers.

when he is about to sound his trumpet
The trumpet (σάλπιγξ) is a recurring biblical symbol of announcement and judgment. In ancient Israel, trumpets were used to signal important events, such as festivals or battles. Here, the trumpet's sound signifies the imminent fulfillment of God's plan, calling believers to readiness and alertness. It serves as a divine wake-up call, urging the faithful to prepare for the unfolding of God's ultimate purpose.

the mystery of God
The "mystery" (μυστήριον) refers to divine truths previously hidden but now revealed through Christ and His apostles. In the New Testament, mysteries often pertain to God's redemptive plan through Jesus. This phrase reassures believers that God's purposes, though sometimes beyond human understanding, are intentional and will be unveiled in His timing. It invites trust in God's wisdom and His overarching plan for creation.

will be fulfilled
The Greek word for "fulfilled" (τελέω) conveys a sense of completion and perfection. It assures believers that God's promises and prophecies will reach their intended conclusion. This fulfillment is not just an end but the realization of God's redemptive work, offering hope and assurance that His kingdom will be established in its fullness.

just as He proclaimed
This phrase emphasizes the faithfulness of God in communicating His plans. The Greek word for "proclaimed" (εὐαγγελίζω) is often associated with the good news or gospel. It highlights that God's revelation to His prophets was not only a warning but also a message of hope and salvation. It reassures believers of the reliability and truth of God's word.

to His servants the prophets
The "servants" (δοῦλοι) are those who have dedicated their lives to God's service, particularly the prophets who were chosen to convey His messages. This phrase underscores the continuity of God's revelation from the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament apostles. It affirms the unity of Scripture and God's consistent communication with His people throughout history. The prophets serve as a testament to God's ongoing relationship with humanity, encouraging believers to heed their messages and trust in God's promises.

Then the voice
The phrase "Then the voice" refers to a divine communication, a recurring theme in Revelation where God or His messengers communicate with John. The Greek word for "voice" is "φωνή" (phonē), which can mean sound or utterance. This voice is authoritative and commands attention, signifying the importance of the message being delivered. In the biblical context, a voice from heaven often indicates divine revelation or instruction, underscoring the heavenly origin and authority of the message.

that I had heard from heaven
This phrase emphasizes the source of the voice, which is heaven, the dwelling place of God. The Greek word for "heaven" is "οὐρανός" (ouranos), symbolizing the divine realm. The repetition of hearing the voice from heaven suggests continuity and consistency in divine communication, reinforcing the idea that the message is not of earthly origin but is divinely inspired and authoritative.

spoke to me again
The word "again" indicates a continuation or repetition of communication, suggesting that God’s messages are persistent and intentional. The Greek verb "λαλέω" (laleō) means to speak or talk, often used in the New Testament to denote the act of conveying important truths or commands. This repetition highlights the importance of the message and the need for John to pay close attention to what is being communicated.

saying, 'Go, take the small scroll
The command "Go, take" is an imperative, indicating urgency and action. The Greek word for "take" is "λαμβάνω" (lambanō), which means to receive or seize. The "small scroll" (Greek: "βιβλαρίδιον," biblaridion) is a diminutive form of "βιβλίον" (biblion), meaning a book or scroll. This suggests that the scroll is of significant but specific content, possibly containing a particular revelation or prophecy that John is to internalize and proclaim.

that lies open in the hand of the angel
The scroll "lies open," indicating that its contents are accessible and meant to be read or understood. The Greek word for "open" is "ἀνοίγω" (anoigō), which means to open or reveal. The angel, a messenger of God, holds the scroll, symbolizing divine authority and the transmission of God’s message to humanity. The open scroll signifies transparency and the readiness of God’s revelation to be received and understood by John.

who is standing on the sea and on the land
The angel's stance "on the sea and on the land" symbolizes authority over all creation, both the chaotic and the stable. The sea often represents chaos or the unknown in biblical literature, while the land represents stability and order. This imagery underscores the comprehensive authority of the angel, and by extension, the message of the scroll, over all aspects of creation. It signifies that the revelation contained within the scroll has universal significance and impact.

And I went to the angel
This phrase signifies John's active obedience and willingness to approach the divine messenger. The Greek word for "angel" (ἄγγελος, angelos) means "messenger," indicating a being sent by God to deliver His message. In the context of Revelation, angels often serve as intermediaries between God and humanity, emphasizing the importance of divine communication and the need for human receptivity to God's word.

and asked him to give me the little scroll
The "little scroll" (βιβλαρίδιον, biblaridion) is a diminutive form of the word for book or scroll, suggesting something small yet significant. In biblical times, scrolls were the primary medium for recording important texts, including Scripture. The act of asking for the scroll indicates John's desire for understanding and revelation, a model for believers to seek God's wisdom earnestly.

He said to me, 'Take it and eat it.'
The command to "take" (λαβὲ, labe) and "eat" (φάγε, phage) the scroll is symbolic of internalizing God's word. Eating the scroll represents the process of fully absorbing and integrating divine truth into one's life. This imagery echoes Ezekiel 3:1-3, where the prophet is also instructed to eat a scroll, signifying the consumption of God's message to proclaim it faithfully.

It will make your stomach bitter
The "bitter" (πικρανεῖ, pikranei) experience in the stomach suggests the challenging and sometimes distressing nature of God's revelations. While the word of God is life-giving, it also contains messages of judgment and calls for repentance, which can be difficult to digest. This bitterness reflects the reality that following God's will often involves trials and tribulations.

but in your mouth it will be as sweet as honey
The sweetness "as honey" (ὡς μέλι, hōs meli) in the mouth highlights the initial delight and joy found in receiving God's word. Honey, a symbol of pleasure and satisfaction in ancient cultures, represents the immediate gratification and spiritual nourishment that comes from engaging with Scripture. This duality of sweetness and bitterness underscores the complexity of the Christian journey, where joy and suffering coexist in the pursuit of God's kingdom.

I took the small scroll from the angel's hand and ate it
The act of taking the "small scroll" signifies a personal acceptance and responsibility for the message contained within. In the context of Revelation, scrolls often symbolize divine revelation or prophecy. The Greek word for "scroll" (βιβλαρίδιον, biblaridion) suggests a diminutive form, indicating that this message, while significant, is part of a larger divine narrative. Historically, scrolls were the primary medium for recording sacred texts, emphasizing the importance of the message John is about to internalize.

It tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth
The sweetness "as honey" reflects the initial joy and delight in receiving God's word. In the Hebrew Scriptures, honey is often used metaphorically to describe the desirability and richness of God's laws and promises (e.g., Psalm 19:10). The sweetness indicates the initial pleasure and satisfaction that comes from understanding and receiving divine truth. This imagery is reminiscent of Ezekiel 3:3, where the prophet also eats a scroll that is sweet as honey, symbolizing the pleasantness of receiving God's revelation.

but when I had eaten it, my stomach turned bitter
The bitterness in the "stomach" represents the difficult and often painful reality of living out or proclaiming God's message. The Greek word for "bitter" (πικρός, pikros) conveys a sense of harshness or severity. This duality of sweetness and bitterness highlights the complex nature of prophecy: while the message of God is inherently good and true, its implications can be challenging and distressing, especially when it involves judgment or suffering. This reflects the broader biblical theme that following God's will can lead to trials and tribulations, as seen in the lives of many prophets and apostles.

And they told me
This phrase indicates a divine command or instruction given to John, the author of Revelation. The "they" refers to the heavenly beings or the voice from heaven, emphasizing the authority and divine origin of the message. In the context of Revelation, this highlights the role of angels as messengers of God's will. The Greek word for "told" (λέγουσιν, legousin) implies a continuous or repeated action, suggesting that this is not a one-time instruction but an ongoing mission for John.

You must prophesy again
The word "must" (δεῖ, dei) in Greek conveys a sense of necessity or divine imperative. This is not merely a suggestion but a command that John is obligated to fulfill. "Prophesy" (προφητεύω, prophēteuō) means to speak forth by divine inspiration, often concerning future events or divine truths. The word "again" indicates that John's prophetic mission is not complete; he has more to reveal. This underscores the ongoing nature of God's revelation and the importance of perseverance in delivering His message.

about many peoples
The term "peoples" (λαοῖς, laois) refers to distinct ethnic groups or communities. In the biblical context, it signifies the universal scope of the prophecy. The message is not limited to a single group but is intended for all humanity. This reflects the inclusive nature of the Gospel and God's desire for all people to hear His word.

and nations
"Nations" (ἔθνεσιν, ethnesin) in Greek often refers to Gentiles or non-Jewish peoples. This term broadens the scope of the prophecy to include all political and cultural entities. Historically, this reflects the Roman Empire's vast reach during John's time, symbolizing the global impact of the prophetic message. It emphasizes that God's sovereignty extends over all nations.

and tongues
The word "tongues" (γλώσσαις, glōssais) signifies languages or dialects. This highlights the diversity of human speech and the need for the Gospel to be communicated in every language. It echoes the Pentecost event in Acts 2, where the Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to speak in various tongues, symbolizing the universal reach of God's message.

and kings
"Kings" (βασιλεῦσιν, basileusin) refers to rulers or those in authority. This indicates that the prophetic message is not only for the common people but also for those in positions of power. It serves as a reminder that all leaders are accountable to God and that His divine plan encompasses all levels of society. Historically, this would have been a bold statement during a time when emperors and kings wielded significant power.