Revelation 6:1
Verse
Context
The First Seal: The White Horse
1Then I watched as the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say in a thunderous voice, “Come!”
Sermons
Willie Mullan
Stuart Briscoe
Chuck Smith
Stanley Voke
Billy Strachan
Mike BickleSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
When the Lamb opened one of the seals - It is worthy of remark that the opening of the seals is not merely a declaration of what God will do, but is the exhibition of a purpose then accomplished; for whenever the seal is opened, the sentence appears to be executed. It is supposed that, from Revelation 6:1-11:19, the calamities which should fall on the enemies of Christianity, and particularly the Jews, are pointed out under various images, as well as the preservation of the Christians under those calamities. One of the four beasts - Probably that with the face of a lion. See Rev 4:7. Come and see - Attend to what is about to be exhibited. It is very likely that all was exhibited before his eyes as in a scene, and he saw every act represented which was to take place, and all the persons and things which were to be the chief actors.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I saw, when the Lamb opened one of the seals,.... Of the sealed book; one of the seven seals of it, as read the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin, and the Oriental versions, and the Complutensian edition; that is, the first; so "one" is used for first in Gen 1:5; and as appears from the following seals being called second, third, fourth, &c. These seals express events to be fulfilled; and therefore cannot respect the steps towards, and the signs of Jerusalem's destruction, and that itself, which had been accomplished some years before the vision of the seals; and which vision would have been needless: and these are called seals, because they were sealed among God's treasure, or were resolved on, and decreed by him; and because they were hidden and unknown until they came to pass; and when they were come to pass, they were pledges of what God would do in the destruction of Rome Papal, as here in the destruction of Rome Pagan: for these seals, at least the first six of them, concern the Pagan empire, and the state of the church in it; and are so many gradual steps to the ruin of it, and to the advancing and increasing of the kingdom of Christ; and these, with the seven trumpets, which the last seal introduces, reach from the times of the apostles to the end of time, as appears from Rev 10:6. Now the opening of these seals is the revealing of the events signified by them, and expressed in the hieroglyphics here made use of, and the fulfilment of them; and I heard as it were the noise of thunder; a voice very loud and sonorous, exciting the attention of John: one of the four beasts saying, come and see; this was the of the four living creatures, for the word one is used in the same sense as in the foregoing clause; and this creature was like to a lion, Rev 4:7; wherefore his voice was loud, as when a lion roars, Rev 10:3, and is fitly compared to thunder: there is no need to look out for any particular person, as intended by this living creature; or to conclude him to be Peter, as Grotius, who was dead before this seal was opened; or Quadratus, Aristides, and Justin Martyr, who courageously appeared in the Christian cause, and made very excellent apologies for it, with success, since these lived under the second seal; it is enough in general to understand the ministers of the Gospel, who, as sons of thunder, loudly and publicly preached the Gospel, and, as lions, boldly and bravely defended, and took notice of the power and providence of God in succeeding their ministry, and in weakening the kingdom of Satan in the Gentile world, and particularly in the Roman empire; and therefore are represented as calling to John to "come and see"; observe and take notice of the following hieroglyphic, representing the success of the Gospel ministry, , "come and see", is a phrase often used by the Jews, to stir up attention to what is about to be said; See Gill on Joh 1:46.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, 1. Christ, the Lamb, opens the first seal; he now enters upon the great work of opening and accomplishing the purposes of God towards the church and the world. 2. One of the ministers of the church calls upon the apostle, with a voice like thunder, to come near, and observe what then appeared. 3. We have the vision itself, Rev 6:2. (1.) The Lord Jesus appears riding on a white horse. White horses are generally refused in war, because they make the rider a mark for the enemy; but our Lord Redeemer was sure of the victory and a glorious triumph, and he rides on the white horse of a pure but despised gospel, with great swiftness through the world. (2.) He had a bow in his hand. The convictions impressed by the word of God are sharp arrows, they reach at a distance; and, though the ministers of the word draw the bow at a venture, God can and will direct it to the joints of the harness. This bow, in the hand of Christ, abides in strength, and, like that of Jonathan, never returns empty. (3.) A crown was given him, importing that all who receive the gospel must receive Christ as a king, and must be his loyal and obedient subjects; he will be glorified in the success of the gospel. When Christ was going to war, one would think a helmet had been more proper than a crown; but a crown is given him as the earnest and emblem of victory. (4.) He went forth conquering, and to conquer. As long as the church continues militant Christ will be conquering; when he has conquered his enemies in one age he meets with new ones in another age; men go on opposing, and Christ goes on conquering, and his former victories are pledges of future victories. He conquers his enemies in his people; their sins are their enemies and his enemies; when Christ comes with power into their soul he begins to conquer these enemies, and he goes on conquering, in the progressive work of sanctification, till he has gained us a complete victory. And he conquers his enemies in the world, wicked men, some by bringing them to his foot, others by making them his footstool. Observe, From this seal opened, [1.] The successful progress of the gospel of Christ in the world is a glorious sight, worth beholding, the most pleasant and welcome sight that a good man can see in this world. [2.] Whatever convulsions and revolutions happen in the states and kingdoms of the world, the kingdom of Christ shall be established and enlarged in spite of all opposition. [3.] A morning of opportunity usually goes before a night of calamity; the gospel is preached before the plagues are poured forth. [4.] Christ's work is not all done at once. We are ready to think, when the gospel goes forth, it should carry all the world before it, but it often meets with opposition, and moves slowly; however, Christ will do his own work effectually, in his own time and way.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:1–16:21 Three sets of seven judgments—the seals, trumpets, and bowls—form the core of Revelation. Some suggest that the judgments form a chronological sequence from beginning to end, with each set of judgments flowing from the seventh judgment of the previous set for a total of twenty-one successive judgments. More likely, the relationship is cyclical (as in other Jewish apocalyptic works; cp. Dan 2, 7, 8, 11), with each set conveying increasing intensity and adding new details of God’s judgment on those who rebel against him. In this perspective, all three cycles end at the same chronological point, with the return of Christ. 6:1–8:1 The Lamb breaks the seven seals to reveal the significance of history from God’s perspective. 6:1-8 The four horses and their riders (see Zech 1:8-11; 6:1-8) sum up the power structures of the world; their activities primarily lead to war, violence, economic imbalance, and death. It is pointless to put our hope in these power structures.
Revelation 6:1
The First Seal: The White Horse
1Then I watched as the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say in a thunderous voice, “Come!”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Revelation) the Importance of the Book
By Willie Mullan1.9K1:05:03Book Of LifeJHN 1:4REV 4:10REV 5:9REV 5:13REV 6:1REV 14:3In this sermon, the preacher describes a vision of the heavenly throne room. He envisions four beasts representing different faces, including a lion and an ox. The preacher also mentions angels and saints in the vision. The central focus is on the lamb in the midst of the throne, symbolizing Jesus Christ, who has power and authority. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing Christ's power and the worship of the lamb who was slain.
Temptation
By Stuart Briscoe1.8K42:57TemptationREV 6:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the game of baseball and how the coach gives signals to the outfielders based on the weaknesses of the batter. He then relates this to the story of Job in the Bible, where Satan is given permission by God to test Job. The preacher emphasizes the importance of calling on Jesus for help when faced with temptation, as it leads to victory. He also highlights the biblical instruction to count it as joy when facing trials and reminds the audience that temptation itself is not sin. Overall, the sermon encourages believers to rely on God's strength in times of weakness and to see their weaknesses as opportunities for growth.
(The Word for Today) Isaiah 23:15 - Part 2
By Chuck Smith1.6K25:59ExpositionalISA 23:15EZK 22:301TI 2:1REV 5:9REV 6:1REV 21:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the events described in the book of Revelation. He mentions the sun darkening, the moon turning to blood, and other signs that will occur. He emphasizes the importance of praying to be worthy to escape these events and stand before the Son of Man. The preacher also highlights the scene in Revelation where John sees the throne of God and Jesus taking the scroll. He mentions the praises sung to the Lamb who is worthy to loose the seals. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the future visitation of Tyre and the transformation of its merchandise for the Lord's glory. The preacher also mentions the judgment and devastation that will come upon the earth, affecting all segments of society. He refers to the opening of the first four seals in Revelation, which result in the destruction of one fourth of the earth's population.
The Throne of God and of the Lamb
By Stanley Voke1.0K26:30Lamb Of GodEZK 2:9REV 4:9REV 5:1REV 5:6REV 5:8REV 6:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of worshiping God as the Creator. He emphasizes that everything in the universe, including ourselves, was made for God's pleasure. The preacher mentions that although things have gone wrong and fallen, there will come a time when all creation will praise and worship God. The sermon also highlights the importance of recognizing that everything exists for God's pleasure, rather than our own.
Revelation Pt 3
By Billy Strachan5811:03:31RevelationMAT 4:17JHN 1:1ACT 2:38REV 4:1REV 6:1REV 10:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the idea that no man is an island and emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things. He describes a vision of the fourth angel sounding and causing a disturbance in the sun, moon, and stars. This event leads to cataclysmic events on Earth, including the burning of a third of the trees and grass. The preacher also mentions the opening of the seventh seal, which reveals seven trumpets that will bring further judgments upon the people. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to be evangelistic and share the knowledge of what is to come in order to win souls.
First Seal: Antichrist's Political Aggression
By Mike Bickle2753:12The AntichristEnd Times ProphecyREV 6:1Mike Bickle discusses the significance of the first seal in the Book of Revelation, which introduces the Antichrist as a political leader emerging on the world stage. Initially underestimated, the Antichrist will form peace treaties and gain authority, leading to a dramatic shift in the church's prayer focus from seeking light to calling for judgment against the reprobate. Bickle emphasizes that the Antichrist's rise is part of God's plan to reveal the true nature of humanity and to judge the harlot Babylon, which has persecuted the saints. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding the context of these events and the necessity for believers to draw near to God for clarity in these times. Ultimately, the Antichrist's reign will culminate in a period of intense spiritual conflict and the eventual return of Christ.
The Seals of Judgment and God's Protection
By Mike Bickle231:02:17JudgmentGod's ProtectionREV 6:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the seven seals in the book of Revelation, illustrating how they represent God's judgment against wickedness and His protection over the saints. He explains that the seals are not merely symbolic but literal events that will unfold in a specific order, driven by the prayers of the church. Bickle reassures believers that God's judgments are ultimately aimed at cleansing the earth and preparing it for His glory, rather than being directed at the faithful. He encourages the church to grow in prayer and understanding, as the maturity of the prayer movement is essential for the unfolding of these events. The sermon highlights the importance of being prepared and familiar with God's plan as revealed in Revelation.
Doomsday Preppers: Jesus Opens the Seals - Rev 6
By Shane Idleman1558:03Spiritual PreparednessEnd TimesREV 6:1Shane Idleman explores Revelation 6, discussing the various interpretations of the seals opened by Jesus and the implications for believers today. He emphasizes the importance of humility in understanding the book of Revelation, acknowledging that many views exist regarding the end times, including pre-tribulation and post-tribulation perspectives. Idleman warns of the coming judgment and encourages listeners to prepare spiritually, likening it to the mindset of doomsday preppers who stockpile resources for physical survival. He stresses the necessity of spiritual nourishment, living water, and reliance on God as the ultimate source of strength and healing. Ultimately, he calls for repentance and a genuine relationship with Jesus, reminding that the day of God's wrath is coming and urging believers to be ready.
The Seven Seals
By W.J. Erdman0REV 4:1REV 5:1REV 6:1REV 7:1REV 8:1W.J. Erdman preaches on the powerful vision of Christ in the place of universal power, depicted in Revelation chapters 4 and 5. The vision reveals Christ as the Lamb that was slain, receiving worship and praise from all created beings, leading to His ultimate triumph as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The sermon emphasizes the assurance that despite the trials and judgments on earth, Christ's people are safe in His care and will be rescued from the wrath to come.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
When the Lamb opened one of the seals - It is worthy of remark that the opening of the seals is not merely a declaration of what God will do, but is the exhibition of a purpose then accomplished; for whenever the seal is opened, the sentence appears to be executed. It is supposed that, from Revelation 6:1-11:19, the calamities which should fall on the enemies of Christianity, and particularly the Jews, are pointed out under various images, as well as the preservation of the Christians under those calamities. One of the four beasts - Probably that with the face of a lion. See Rev 4:7. Come and see - Attend to what is about to be exhibited. It is very likely that all was exhibited before his eyes as in a scene, and he saw every act represented which was to take place, and all the persons and things which were to be the chief actors.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I saw, when the Lamb opened one of the seals,.... Of the sealed book; one of the seven seals of it, as read the Alexandrian copy, the Vulgate Latin, and the Oriental versions, and the Complutensian edition; that is, the first; so "one" is used for first in Gen 1:5; and as appears from the following seals being called second, third, fourth, &c. These seals express events to be fulfilled; and therefore cannot respect the steps towards, and the signs of Jerusalem's destruction, and that itself, which had been accomplished some years before the vision of the seals; and which vision would have been needless: and these are called seals, because they were sealed among God's treasure, or were resolved on, and decreed by him; and because they were hidden and unknown until they came to pass; and when they were come to pass, they were pledges of what God would do in the destruction of Rome Papal, as here in the destruction of Rome Pagan: for these seals, at least the first six of them, concern the Pagan empire, and the state of the church in it; and are so many gradual steps to the ruin of it, and to the advancing and increasing of the kingdom of Christ; and these, with the seven trumpets, which the last seal introduces, reach from the times of the apostles to the end of time, as appears from Rev 10:6. Now the opening of these seals is the revealing of the events signified by them, and expressed in the hieroglyphics here made use of, and the fulfilment of them; and I heard as it were the noise of thunder; a voice very loud and sonorous, exciting the attention of John: one of the four beasts saying, come and see; this was the of the four living creatures, for the word one is used in the same sense as in the foregoing clause; and this creature was like to a lion, Rev 4:7; wherefore his voice was loud, as when a lion roars, Rev 10:3, and is fitly compared to thunder: there is no need to look out for any particular person, as intended by this living creature; or to conclude him to be Peter, as Grotius, who was dead before this seal was opened; or Quadratus, Aristides, and Justin Martyr, who courageously appeared in the Christian cause, and made very excellent apologies for it, with success, since these lived under the second seal; it is enough in general to understand the ministers of the Gospel, who, as sons of thunder, loudly and publicly preached the Gospel, and, as lions, boldly and bravely defended, and took notice of the power and providence of God in succeeding their ministry, and in weakening the kingdom of Satan in the Gentile world, and particularly in the Roman empire; and therefore are represented as calling to John to "come and see"; observe and take notice of the following hieroglyphic, representing the success of the Gospel ministry, , "come and see", is a phrase often used by the Jews, to stir up attention to what is about to be said; See Gill on Joh 1:46.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, 1. Christ, the Lamb, opens the first seal; he now enters upon the great work of opening and accomplishing the purposes of God towards the church and the world. 2. One of the ministers of the church calls upon the apostle, with a voice like thunder, to come near, and observe what then appeared. 3. We have the vision itself, Rev 6:2. (1.) The Lord Jesus appears riding on a white horse. White horses are generally refused in war, because they make the rider a mark for the enemy; but our Lord Redeemer was sure of the victory and a glorious triumph, and he rides on the white horse of a pure but despised gospel, with great swiftness through the world. (2.) He had a bow in his hand. The convictions impressed by the word of God are sharp arrows, they reach at a distance; and, though the ministers of the word draw the bow at a venture, God can and will direct it to the joints of the harness. This bow, in the hand of Christ, abides in strength, and, like that of Jonathan, never returns empty. (3.) A crown was given him, importing that all who receive the gospel must receive Christ as a king, and must be his loyal and obedient subjects; he will be glorified in the success of the gospel. When Christ was going to war, one would think a helmet had been more proper than a crown; but a crown is given him as the earnest and emblem of victory. (4.) He went forth conquering, and to conquer. As long as the church continues militant Christ will be conquering; when he has conquered his enemies in one age he meets with new ones in another age; men go on opposing, and Christ goes on conquering, and his former victories are pledges of future victories. He conquers his enemies in his people; their sins are their enemies and his enemies; when Christ comes with power into their soul he begins to conquer these enemies, and he goes on conquering, in the progressive work of sanctification, till he has gained us a complete victory. And he conquers his enemies in the world, wicked men, some by bringing them to his foot, others by making them his footstool. Observe, From this seal opened, [1.] The successful progress of the gospel of Christ in the world is a glorious sight, worth beholding, the most pleasant and welcome sight that a good man can see in this world. [2.] Whatever convulsions and revolutions happen in the states and kingdoms of the world, the kingdom of Christ shall be established and enlarged in spite of all opposition. [3.] A morning of opportunity usually goes before a night of calamity; the gospel is preached before the plagues are poured forth. [4.] Christ's work is not all done at once. We are ready to think, when the gospel goes forth, it should carry all the world before it, but it often meets with opposition, and moves slowly; however, Christ will do his own work effectually, in his own time and way.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:1–16:21 Three sets of seven judgments—the seals, trumpets, and bowls—form the core of Revelation. Some suggest that the judgments form a chronological sequence from beginning to end, with each set of judgments flowing from the seventh judgment of the previous set for a total of twenty-one successive judgments. More likely, the relationship is cyclical (as in other Jewish apocalyptic works; cp. Dan 2, 7, 8, 11), with each set conveying increasing intensity and adding new details of God’s judgment on those who rebel against him. In this perspective, all three cycles end at the same chronological point, with the return of Christ. 6:1–8:1 The Lamb breaks the seven seals to reveal the significance of history from God’s perspective. 6:1-8 The four horses and their riders (see Zech 1:8-11; 6:1-8) sum up the power structures of the world; their activities primarily lead to war, violence, economic imbalance, and death. It is pointless to put our hope in these power structures.