MPV Commentary

Seventh Seal. Preparation for the Seven Trumpets. The First

The breaking of the seventh seal marks the beginning of a solemn period in heaven, characterized by silence that lasts for half an hour (v. 1). This interval contrasts with the joyful songs of the multitude and angels that preceded it (Re 7:9-11). It is an introduction to the eternal Sabbath-rest of God's people, commencing with the Lamb reading the book previously sealed up.

The silence in heaven is a brief pause between visions, implying both the solemn introduction to the eternal sabbatism following the seventh seal and the stillness during the incense-accompanied prayers that usher in the first of the seven trumpets (Re 8:3-5). In the Jewish temple, musical instruments and singing resounded throughout the sacrifice-offering service. However, at the offering of incense, solemn silence was kept ("My soul waiteth upon God," Ps 62:1; "is silent," Margin; Ps 65:1, Margin), as people prayed secretly.

The seven angels stand ready to sound their trumpets (v. 2). These judgments come during a time when the martyrs rest until their fellow servants are also killed, and the inhabitants of the earth are affected by God's judgments (Re 6:10). The ungodly and opponents of Christ's kingdom are meant, as evidenced by Re 11:15, 18. The seven trumpets bring about the downfall of world kingdoms to make way for Christ's universal kingdom.

Another angel, not Christ, is mentioned here (v. 3). This angel serves as a ministering spirit, offering up prayers on behalf of God's people through the incense given by Christ. The saints themselves are priests, and the angels in this priestly ministry are their fellow servants (Re 19:10).

The angel offers the incense with the prayers of all saints (v. 4). The smoke from the incense ascends to heaven, blending with the prayers of the saints. This scene highlights the power of the saints' prayers and the role of angels in presenting these prayers before God.

As a result of the incense-perfumed prayers, God's fiery judgments are about to descend on the Church's foes (v. 5). The hot coals from the altar symbolize God's wrath against those who oppose Christ's kingdom.

The first four trumpets bring judgments that affect natural objects and accessories of life (vv. 6-7). These plagues are similar to those in Egypt, with elements punishing their abusers. The language used is drawn from the biblical account of the ten plagues on Egypt.

The fire from the altar affects a third part of the earth, causing all green grass to burn up (v. 8). This event is reminiscent of Jer 51:25 and Am 7:4.

A mountain-like burning mass appears in the sky, turning a third part of the sea into blood (v. 9). The symbolical interpreters see this as a reference to churches or apostolic vessels corrupted by heresy.

The star that fell from heaven is interpreted as a chief minister who has fallen from his high place and become corrupt (v. 10). Instead of shining with heavenly light, he becomes a torch lit with earthly fire and smoldering with smoke.

A partial obscuration of the sun occurs, with a third part of its light being withdrawn (v. 12). This event comes between the prayers of the martyrs under the fifth seal and the last overwhelming judgments on the ungodly under the sixth seal.

An angel, symbolizing judgment, descends from heaven to afflict the inhabitants of the earth (v. 13). The eagle is a symbol of judgment, pouncing on its prey like a king of birds. This scene contrasts with another angel or messenger and the everlasting Gospel in Re 14:6.