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Revelation 10

Hendriksen
‹ Chapter 9 Revelation — All Chapters Chapter 11 ›

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The Angel and the Little Scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (10:1 11)) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 6 3 8 0 0 Outline (continued) ) 8. Interlude (10:1 11:14) ) a. The Angel and the Little Scroll (10:1 11) ) (1) A Mighty Angel (10:1 4) ) (2) The Angel s Message (10:5 7) ) (3) The Scroll and Its Purpose (10:8 11) ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 8. Interlude) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10:1 11:14) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 1 And I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven clothed in a cloud. And the rainbow was on his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs as pillars of fire. 2 And he held a little scroll, unrolled in his hand. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left on the land, 3 and he cried with a loud voice as a lion roars. And when he cried, the seven peals of thunder raised their voices. 4 And when the seven peals of thunder spoke, I was about to write, and I heard a voice from heaven saying, Seal the things which the seven peals of thunder said, and do not write them. ) 7 3 3 8 0 0 5 And the angel, whom I saw standing on the sea and on the land, raised his right hand to heaven. 6 And he swore by the one who lives forever and ever, who created heaven and the things in it, the earth and the things in it, and the sea and the things in it, and said, There will no longer be a delay. 7 However, in the days when the voice of the seventh angel is about to blow his trumpet, the mystery of God will be accomplished, as he proclaimed to his servants the prophets. ) 8 And the voice that I heard speaking with me again from heaven said, Go, take the scroll that is unrolled in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the land. 9 And I went to the angel and asked him to give me the little scroll. And he said to me, Take it and eat it, and it will turn your stomach sour, but in your mouth it will be as sweet as honey. ) 10 And I took the little scroll out of the hand of the angel and ate it. And it was in my mouth as sweet as honey, and when I had eaten it, my stomach turned sour. 11 And I was told, You must prophesy again against many peoples and nations and languages and kings. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 a. The Angel and the Little Scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10:1 11) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 Once again, John writes an interlude, just as he did in chapter 7. After the sixth seal, he digresses to show the reader a picture of the saints in heaven. The sixth seal revealed the scene of unbelievers facing the wrath of God and the Lamb (6:15 17); the subsequent interlude of chapter 7 presented the saints in glory, who are sealed by God and are a prelude to the opening of the seventh seal (8:1). Similarly, the sounding of the sixth trumpet depicts the unbelievers who refuse to repent from their evil works, even though they have witnessed divine judgment in a series of plagues (8:6 9:21). But before the seventh trumpet sounds, John presents the saints on earth who are instructed to present the Word of God to the world. In short, this interlude of chapter 10 is not an interval of ease but a time to receive and proclaim the gospel. ) In the sequence of sevens (seals, trumpets, and bowls), there is an interlude after the sixth seal and the sixth trumpet, but not after the sixth bowl.

This signifies that in addition to the church preaching the gospel to the world, there is nothing else believers can do as they wait for the consummation that ends in the final judgment. John presents a series of sevens in the context of seals, trumpets, and bowls that show progressive parallelism. These sets of seven reveal pictures within pictures that are neither rigorously contemporaneous nor successive. It is better to say that the sets of seven are realized both simultaneously and successively.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref1 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn1”

  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� As the sets of pictures unfold, the focus on Christ s victory and Satan s defeat becomes increasingly clearer. These sets, each in its own way, point to the consummation. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.10|AUTODETECT|” John hears a voice from heaven saying, Seal the things which the seven peals of thunder said, and do not write them (v. 4). As elsewhere in the Apocalypse, he couches the vision in the language of the Old Testament, taking some words from Daniel s prophecy. Daniel is told to seal up his visions because they pertain to the future 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.10|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 22:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref2 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn2”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.37.10|AUTODETECT|” �� Likewise John s visions become reality when God s time has come. The reading a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet (11:11) seems to echo ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.37.10|AUTODETECT|” Ezekiel 37:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref3 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn3”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.10|AUTODETECT|” �� The angel s instruction to have John eat the little scroll, which tasted like honey, echoes the Psalms and the Prophets 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 19:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.103|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.103|AUTODETECT|” 119:103) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.15.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.15.16|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 15:16) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 2:8) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.3-26.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.3-26.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 3:3 13) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 What is the meaning of the expression ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 little scroll?) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.1-66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” There are some interpreters who state that the expression refers to the scroll that the Lamb took from the right hand of God 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.1-66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:1 9) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). They point out that here the adjective ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 little) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 has lost its meaning since in the Greek the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is itself a diminutive. Indeed, some examples prove that a diminutive at times loses its characteristics.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref4 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn4”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The context of this chapter shows that John sometimes uses the terms ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 little scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 interchangeably (see vv. 2, 8, 9, 10). These interpreters conclude that the two words signify the same thing and that not much weight should be placed on a distinction between the scroll in 5:1 9 and the ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 little) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll in 10:2, 9 10.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref5 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn5”
  5. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� But is it John s intention to identify the two scrolls mentioned in chapters 5 and 10? ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 We note that in regard to these words John makes a few distinctions. First, he writes the term ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 book) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in the phrase ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 the book of life) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , which book contains the names of God s people (3:5; 20:15). He seems to convey the idea that this is an all-inclusive volume. Next, he pens the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for the volume that is so full that it has writing on the inside and on the back (5:1). With this term, he appears to say that the scroll is of considerable length. Third, when he uses the expression ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 little scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , he calls attention to an unsealed roll lying open in the hand of an angel (10:2). By contrast, the scroll that the Lamb took from the hand of God was sealed with seven seals. Fourth, if the two scrolls were the same, we would have expected John to add the definite article before the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to alert the reader to the previous references in chapter 5, which is not the case in 10:2 . Then in 10:8 the definite article appears referring to 10:2.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref6 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn6”
  6. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� From an exegetical perspective, the arguments against identifying the two scrolls are impressive.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref7 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn7”
  7. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” This little scroll links chapters 10 and 11. Its content seems to be the gospel that the church proclaims to the world (11:3 7). The church must prophesy God s word and the testimony of Jesus, which is exactly the reason that John is on the island of Patmos (1:9). In obedience to Jesus mandate to be witnesses before the end comes 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:19 20) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), this gospel must be proclaimed to many peoples, nations, languages, and kings (10:11).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref8 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn8”
  8. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The task of the two witnesses, namely the church, is to proclaim the message of salvation in a hostile world (11:3). The period during which this message is preached relates not to the time of the last trumpet, as many have held, but to the entire period with which this book is concerned. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref9 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn9”
  9. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 (1) A Mighty Angel) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10:1 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. And I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven clothed in a cloud. And the rainbow was on his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs as pillars of fire.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 When John writes that he saw another mighty angel, he is no longer in heaven but back on earth. He saw the angel coming down from heaven to earth and was standing on the sea and on the land (v. 5). Earlier John was in heaven observing a scroll in God s right hand and a mighty angel asking anyone who would be worthy to break its seals and open it (5:1 2). With a slight variation, the adjective ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 mighty) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is used for the voice of an angel who had great authority (18:1 2).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref10 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn10”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� But what is the meaning of the adjective in this context? We are unable to identify the angel with Jesus Christ, for nowhere in this chapter do we read anything about worshiping or adoring him, which would be true for the Lord. The New Testament in general and the Apocalypse in particular do not call Jesus an angel. The writer of Hebrews teaches that angels are creatures in submission to Jesus. Indeed he says, For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham s descendants (2:16). Whereas Jesus is divine and human, angels are only spirits. Therefore, it stands to reason that if Jesus had been an angel, he would be expected to aid fellow angels. But this is not the case, for fallen angels cannot be redeemed; they are condemned and chained in the Abyss.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref11 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn11”
  2. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Also, this angel swears by the one who lives forever and ever (v. 6), which seems more appropriate for an angel than for Jesus. And last, to identify the angel with archangels (for instance, Michael or Gabriel) is only an assumption.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref12 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn12”
  3. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 John describes this angel as mighty because of the physical appearance of his head, face, and legs; this colossal figure stands on sea and land, and with his reverberating voice he reaches everyone in God s creation. In addition, he possesses the enormous power needed to execute God s purpose. There may be similarities between the portrayal of the mighty angel (vv. 1 6) and the description of the bronze statue of Colossus at Rhodes, an island to the southeast of Patmos.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref13 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn13”
  4. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� This figure, erected about 280 b.c., reached a height of 105 feet (32 meters). But an earthquake more than fifty years later destroyed it, and thus the statue lost its significance. There is no indication that John thought of an icon dedicated to a sun god. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.21|AUTODETECT|” This mighty angel comes directly from the presence of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. He is clothed in a cloud to demonstrate his eminence and majesty. Scripture speaks poetically of clouds as vehicles God uses to progress 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.21|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 13:21) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.33.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.33.26|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 33:26) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.104.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.104.3|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 104:3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.19.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.19.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 19:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” ). So the Son of Man is coming with a cloud 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.7|AUTODETECT|” and see ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:7) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.14|AUTODETECT|” 14:14) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.12-1.9.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Around the angel s head is a rainbow as a symbol of God s faithfulness to keep his covenant promises with his people 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.12-1.9.16|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 9:12 16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This does not mean that God appears in the form of an angel but that God sent this angel as his messenger to communicate his sovereignty and his trustworthiness. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.1.28|AUTODETECT|” The colorful rainbow results from a refraction of the brilliant beams radiating from the angel s face 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 1:28) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.21-2.13.22|AUTODETECT|” ). As Jesus face was like the sun shining in its full strength (1:16), so the reference to the angel s face beaming like the sun means that the angel came from the presence of Jesus. While Jesus feet were like fine brass refined as in a furnace (1:15), the angel s legs are like pillars of fire. The description is meant to convey the magnitude and magnificence of the angel s appearance. The imagery of the angel s legs as pillars of fire refers indirectly to God s providential care. God protected the Israelites during chilly nights in the desert with the warmth and light from a pillar of fire, and with it he shielded them from the Egyptian army, thus showing his constant nearness and power 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.21-2.13.22|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 13:21 22) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.14.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.14.24|AUTODETECT|” 14:24) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0
  1. And he held a little scroll, unrolled in his hand. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left on the land, 3. and he cried with a loud voice as a lion roars. And when he cried, the seven peals of thunder raised their voices.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.9|AUTODETECT|” a. And he held a little scroll, unrolled in his hand. John again relies on the Old Testament for his descriptive material by turning to the prophecy of Ezekiel. The prophet writes that a hand, stretched out to him, held a scroll that was unrolled in front of him 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 2:9) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Of significance is the term ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 unrolled) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , which suggests that the volume is small in size so as to give the reader full view of the written message. John, therefore, qualifies the scroll with the adjective ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 little) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to convey the idea of a small papyrus roll. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref14 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn14”
  1. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.1|AUTODETECT|” �� The contrast between this scrap of paper and the scroll that was sealed 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is clear. The message of the sealed scroll revealed God s plan for the entire world throughout cosmic time from beginning to end. But the scrap of papyrus lying open in the hand of the angel is apparently a gospel message relating the testimony of Jesus. Although the text itself is brief, the context of this chapter and the next shed light on the significance of the little scroll. That is, after John consumes the booklet, he is told to prophesy (v. 11); similarly the two witnesses prophesied until they finished their testimony (11:3, 6, 7). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 b. The angel placed his right foot on the sea and his left on the land. Here is a picture of an angel that is colossal in appearance and controls God s creation on both sea and land. With a written message in hand, he takes possession of sea and land the sea comes first as being the greater of the two bodies. Note the repetition of the phrase standing on the sea and on the land (vv. 5 and 8). I do not think that the placing of the left foot on the land symbolizes something sinister and the right foot on the sea something blissful.

Furthermore, there is no need to say that John wrote from his point of view on the island Patmos as he saw the angel s right foot on the Mediterranean Sea and his left foot on Asia Minor. The verse communicates the authority of this gigantic angel over both land and sea, for he comes with a message that proclaims salvation to those who obey and judgment to those who reject this message. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.11.10|AUTODETECT|” c. And he cried with a loud voice as a lion roars. Once again John relies on Old Testament prophets. The wording roar as a lion comes from ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.11.10|AUTODETECT|” Hosea 11:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.8|AUTODETECT|” , where the Lord God roars to tell the Israelites who are scattered in various countries to return from exile. And ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:8) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 reads: The lion has roared who will not fear? The Sovereign Lord has spoken who can but prophesy? When the Lord roars from Zion, his people are warned of coming judgment should they fail to listen. Likewise, Jeremiah writes this word of prophecy: ) 7 3 3 8 0 0 The Lord will roar from on high; ) he will thunder from his holy dwelling ) and roar mightily against this land. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.30|AUTODETECT|” 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.30|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 25:30) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; see ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Amos 1:2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Peter speaks descriptively about Satan going around like a roaring lion 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.8|AUTODETECT|” 1 Pet. 5:8) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But here the picture refers to the voice of a mighty angel who calls out with such volume that his voice is heard throughout God s creation. In brief, the illustration of a roaring lion is a symbol of a sound that reverberates. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 d. And when he cried, the seven peals of thunder raised their voices. John writes poetic parallelism, in both the preceding line and this one. As the lion roars on the earth, so thunder rumbles in the sky. To give it special emphasis, he notes that there were seven peals of thunder. The number seven has no literal meaning but only symbolic significance. Seven stands for completeness, so that the noise of thunder is overwhelming to the people living on earth. Both the roaring of the lion and the peals of thunder induce fear and trepidation in the hearts of earth s inhabitants. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.29.3-19.29.4|AUTODETECT|” John and his readers were familiar with one of the psalms of David that extols God s glory, majesty, and power. The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.29.3-19.29.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 29:3 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.29.0|AUTODETECT|” ). John s allusion to ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.29.0|AUTODETECT|” Psalms 29) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is even more meaningful when we see that in this psalm David mentions the phrase the voice of the Lord seven times. Also, in the Apocalypse John repeatedly mentions thunder as a sign of the divine presence and judgment. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref15 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn15” 15) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.29.0|AUTODETECT|” �� But in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.29.0|AUTODETECT|” Psalms 29) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and in Revelation the peals of thunder are not simply noise but articulate speech. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 4. And when the seven peals of thunder spoke, I was about to write, and I heard a voice from heaven saying, Seal the things which the seven peals of thunder said, and do not write them. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 When Scripture uses the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 thunder) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , nearly without exception it brings a message of divine power and judgment. In the Apocalypse thunder repeatedly accompanies divine activity and messages (e.g., 4:5; 6:1; 8:5; 11:19; 16:18). The noise of thunder is a symbol of judgment. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Sevenfold thunderous noise comes to John in the form of spoken words, but we are not told what was said. I assert that John emphasizes the act of speaking and not the message it conveyed. And therefore, I assume that these spoken words differ from the message of the scroll (v. 2). The scroll contains a prophetic message, while the communication of the seven thunders cannot be made known. Even though John wishes to be obedient to the voice of Jesus who first called him to write (1:11, 19), he is now told by a voice from heaven not to do so. This voice speaking to him is perhaps the voice of Jesus Christ, who in the Apocalypse quite often addresses John (see 9:13 14; 10:8; 11:12). ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.29.29|AUTODETECT|” John says that he was about to write. While pen in hand ready to record, he hears a divine voice saying: Seal the things which the seven peals of thunder said. Words can be sealed when they are written down, but before the author begins to pen the words he is told to seal them. What precisely is the meaning of the command? This verse communicates that the words of the seven-thunder voice must not be revealed. And the reason that this action is even mentioned is to differentiate between the things that are sealed and those that are revealed 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.29.29|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 29:29) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). We are not allowed to speculate and surmise what the message of the sevenfold thunder may have been. This remains a mystery that we must leave unexplained. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The verb ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to seal) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.26|AUTODETECT|” appears again in the last chapter of the Apocalypse, where John is told not to seal the words of the prophecy of this book (22:10). This contrasts with the instruction Daniel received to seal up his vision and the writing on a scroll. That restriction would be lifted at the end time 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 8:26) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.4|AUTODETECT|” 12:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Similarly the message that came to John from the seven thunders will have to wait until cosmic time has come to an end. We realize that visions and words about heaven and the future often cannot be expressed intelligibly to human beings; our capacity for comprehending heavenly portents is severely limited in the sinful state that is ours. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 10:1 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ! 6��� the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 rainbow) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 is in the nominative case instead of the accusative as object of the verb I saw. But John writes an Aramaic coordinate style consisting of clauses that take the place of sentences. The same thing is true for the nominative singular participle ��� (having), which should have been in the accusative. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ����������� booklet. This word occurs three times in this chapter (vv. 2, 9, 10) and nowhere else. It is a diminutive, which is also true for ������� (v. 8). The manuscripts vary between these two words in all these verses, but the manuscript evidence best supports the readings in the text. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 3) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 ������� he roars. This verb appears only here in the New Testament. In classical Greek it is used of animal sounds: the bellowing of oxen, the braying of donkeys, and the growling of dogs. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 �t �P�p ������ the aorist subjunctive serves as a prohibition to indicate that the act of writing had not yet begun. So John is told, Do not begin to write. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref16 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn16” 16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 (2) The Angel s Message) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10:5 7) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 5. And the angel, whom I saw standing on the sea and on the land, raised his right hand to heaven.) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 The author resumes his identification of the angel. He leaves the impression that the angel who descended from heaven must be distinguished from Jesus. By mentioning again the angel s stance on the sea and on the land, John wishes to stress the power and authority of this particular servant of God. ) Raising one s right hand at the taking of an oath is customary today in courts of law and at inaugurations. It indicates appealing to God as the highest power in heaven and on earth; often the appeal is concluded with the phrase, So help me God. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.22|AUTODETECT|” Scripture provides references to people and God lifting their hands to heaven as they swear an oath. To illustrate, Abraham raised his hand to the Lord God when he took an oath in the presence of the king of Sodom 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.22|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 14:22) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.7|AUTODETECT|” ). Daniel saw a man dressed in linen who lifted both hands to heaven and swore by him who lives forever 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.12.7|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 12:7) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ). And God swears by himself and raises his hand to heaven 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 6:8) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.32.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.32.40|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 32:40) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 6. And he swore by the one who lives forever and ever, who created heaven and the things in it, the earth and the things in it, and the sea and the things in it, and said, There will no longer be a delay. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 There is a link between the preceding verse (v. 5) and this one in the three-fold division of the created world. Verse 5 gives the sequence sea, land, and heaven; here the order is reversed: heaven, earth, and sea. ) The angel swears by the one who lives forever and ever. When he swears by the living God, he testifies that the spoken words are absolutely sure and reliable. Further, whereas a law can be changed or repealed, an unconditional oath cannot be altered but remains in effect. As the angel swears by God who lives forever and ever, he calls on his eternity by applying it to the oath. The phrase ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 forever and ever) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 occurs more often in Revelation (1:6, 18; 4:9, 10; 15:7) than in any other New Testament book. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.11|AUTODETECT|” Next, the angel swore because God is the creator of the world and watches over everything that heaven, earth, and sea contain. That is, he appeals to God s providential care over all his creatures 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.11|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 20:11) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 9:6) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.146.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.146.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 146:6) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:24) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and relates the entire world with all its fullness to the oath which he swears. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The oath reveals a time limit, for the angel says, There will no longer be a delay. A literal translation is, Time will be no more, which means that a period of waiting is past, so that without any further delays God s judgments will begin to take place. Concerning Jezebel Jesus says, And I gave her time to repent, but she does not want to repent from her fornication (2:21). When time for repentance is past, delay is ruled out. But how do we understand the concept ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 delay) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 when chronological time continues to its inevitable end? Is there a conflict with the plea of the souls at the altar who cry out, How long, O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, will you not judge and avenge our blood on those that dwell on the earth? And the Lord tells them to wait a little while longer (6:10 11). The answer lies in the fact that the interlude of chapter 10 occupies a place between the blowing of the sixth trumpet (9:13) and that of the seventh (11:15). This interlude presents a picture within a picture. It shows an occurrence presented not necessarily in chronological sequence but concurring with the events in the era before the Lord s return and even before the angel blows the seventh trumpet.

Then the plagues will take place. They will be completed when the seventh angel pouring out his bowl of God s wrath speaks the brief utterance It is done (16:17). As a last remark, bear in mind that the words spoken by the mighty angel (v. 1) are said in the context of swearing a solemn oath. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 7. However, in the days when the voice of the seventh angel is about to blow his trumpet, the mystery of God will be accomplished, as he proclaimed to his servants the prophets. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 a. However, in the days when the voice of the seventh angel is about to blow his trumpet. The adversative ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 however) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 links this verse to the last line of verse 6, where John notes that there will be no more delay. The division between verses 6 and 7 is infelicitous, for the preceding sentence should be taken together with verse 7. ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 We would have expected the seventh angel to blow his trumpet to introduce the series of seven plagues. This is not the case here, because John is writing only a preliminary reference to this event and not the event itself, which will take place in 11:15. With this reference he tells the reader to wait until he has completed the writing of his interlude that describes the task of God s people on earth. ) In other words, the blowing of the seventh trumpet will not occur immediately during or after John s lifetime. When this trumpet sounds, the days of the end have arrived and are made visible by several visions.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref17 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn17” 17) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The trumpet blast announces the message that the end is at hand and the consummation of this age is near. And when this trumpet is heard, the second woe belongs to the past (11:14). The third woe encompasses the judgment (11:15b 19). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 b. The mystery of God will be accomplished, as he proclaimed to his servants the prophets. What is the meaning of the expression ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 the mystery of God?) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 John relies on the Old Testament prophets Daniel and Amos for the setting of this verse. Nebuchadnezzar asked Daniel to interpret a dream he had, to which the prophet replies that no one is able to do so. But, Daniel said, there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries (2:28). And as God s messenger he interpreted the king s dream in regard to future events. Next, Amos assured the people of Israel that the Lord God does nothing, without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref18 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn18” NRSV) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). God reveals his mystery to his spokesman John relative to the events that must occur in the last days. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The events take place in the future, at the time when the mystery of God will be accomplished. Interestingly, whereas in translation the future tense of the verb ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to accomplish) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.9|AUTODETECT|” is used, the Greek text shows the past tense. In Greek the past tense has a futuristic connotation that should be understood not from the author s point of view but from God s eventual fulfillment. When delay has run its course (v. 6), the trumpet of the seventh angel will sound and God will cause his mysterious plan to become reality. When this trumpet sounds, the time has come for God and his Christ to rule the kingdom of the world and to judge the dead (11:15 18). The cry of the souls under the altar asking for judgment will be fulfilled on the Judgment Day (6:10; 20:11 15), and the blowing of the seventh trumpet is a sign of that day. During the time preceding the Judgment Day, however, God s prophets must proclaim his message of salvation to the world. God does not want anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.9|AUTODETECT|” 2 Pet. 3:9) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Who are God s prophets? The term ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 his servants the prophets) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 appears frequently in the Old Testament.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref19 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn19” 18) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.4-49.3.5|AUTODETECT|” �� It includes the prophets of both the Old and New Testament eras, of which John is the last one with respect to recording God s Word. John does not distinguish between the prophets of the two eras: all the people commissioned to write the divine Word are prophets, and that includes the apostles and their helpers 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.4-49.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:4 5) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And John himself has the honor of revealing to the church God s apocalypse concerning the end time. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Last, God proclaimed the good news of his revelation to his servants the prophets. It is the message of God s redemption to those who love him and judgment for those who hate him. God gives this message to his servants, whom he expects to pass it on to all people (vv. 10 11; 11:3, 10). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 10:6 7) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 6) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 d����� � he swore by. The preposition � used with the verb ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to swear) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.34|AUTODETECT|” reflects Hebraic syntax 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:34) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.36|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.36|AUTODETECT|” 36) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.16|AUTODETECT|” 23:16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref20 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn20” 19) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.12|AUTODETECT|” �� In Greek grammar this verb is followed by the accusative case 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.12|AUTODETECT|” James 5:12) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.13|AUTODETECT|” ), the preposition ���� 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.13|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.34-40.5.35|AUTODETECT|” ), or the preposition �0� 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.34-40.5.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:34 35) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 7) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 �P �������� this is the aorist active of the verb ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to bring good news) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . In the New Testament the active appears only here and in 14:6; everywhere else it is in the middle voice. The active is prevalent in later Greek and in essence is nearly the equivalent of the much more common middle voice �P�����������.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref21 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn21” 20) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 (3) The Scroll and Its Purpose) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10:8 11) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The announcement on imminent judgment is moderated by additional insights into the unfolding of world history. First, the conflict between good and evil leads inevitably to its final end. Next, during the interlude God does not forsake his own but makes his revelation known. And last, revelation must be proclaimed to all people throughout the world. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 8. And the voice that I heard speaking with me again from heaven said, Go, take the scroll that is unrolled in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the land. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 3 3 8 0 0 The first time the voice from heaven spoke, it told John to seal the things the seven peals of thunder said and not to write them down (v. 4). The voice apparently is the voice of Jesus Christ. ) The voice utters a clear command by saying Go! This word is followed by a second imperative, take! The object John must take is the scroll, which is now qualified by the phrase that is unrolled in the hand of the angel. Here is the little scroll or booklet that can be read at a glance (v. 2). ) The angel is identified as the one who controls sea and land, that is, God s creation and all those who live in it. This mighty angel, therefore, comes with a message from God Almighty. Three times in succession the writer describes the stance of this angel on sea and land (vv. 2, 5, 8). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 9. And I went to the angel and asked him to give me the little scroll. And he said to me, Take it and eat it, and it will turn your stomach sour, but in your mouth it will be as sweet as honey. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Standing on the earth, John approached the angel with the little scroll lying open in his hand and asked him for it. The angel s response to him was, Take it and eat it. The wording is taken from the Book of Ezekiel, where a voice from heaven instructs the prophet to eat an unrolled scroll and to fill his stomach with it. Ezekiel did so and discovered that it was sweet like honey in his mouth 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 2:8) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.1-26.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.1-26.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3:1 3) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ). The prophet saw the unrolled scroll and noticed that on both sides there were words of lament, mourning, and woe 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 2:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.10|AUTODETECT|” John is told to eat the little scroll that will be sweet as honey in his mouth but bitter in his stomach. He is now personally involved in knowing the booklet. By eating and swallowing it, he realizes its effect in his inward being. This is God s Word that is sweeter than honey in his mouth 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 19:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.103|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.103|AUTODETECT|” 119:103) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is indeed a joy to take the words of God into one s mouth and to sing his praises. But that same Word when it is proclaimed creates inner tension that is bitter. First, it uncovers hidden sins in the closet of one s heart. Next, the world rejects God s Word and demonstrates opposition by attacking its messengers. Third, whatever gift God gives his people is always good. Although his people endure oppressions and persecution because of his Word, God blesses them by drawing them ever closer to himself. ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Nonetheless, as the gospel brings life, light, and joy to believers, it causes unbelievers to react with indifference, antipathy, and enmity. Both the prophets in the Old Testament era and the apostles in New Testament times experienced opposition from the people of Israel and the world. They brought the message of redemption which was a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.23|AUTODETECT|” 1 Cor. 1:23) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35-40.10.36|AUTODETECT|” ). The gospel of Christ turns the members of one s own household against one another 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35-40.10.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:35 36) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.18-43.15.19|AUTODETECT|” ), and the unbelieving world hates the servants of the Lord 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.18-43.15.19|AUTODETECT|” John 15:18 19) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.11.3-66.11.10|AUTODETECT|” ). In fact, this is what the two witnesses in the Apocalypse encountered when they prophesied to the world in the name of the Lord: they were killed 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.11.3-66.11.10|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 11:3 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 10. And I took the little scroll out of the hand of the angel and ate it. And it was in my mouth as sweet as honey, and when I had eaten it, my stomach turned sour. 11. And I was told, You must prophesy again against many peoples and nations and languages and kings. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 a. And I took the little scroll out of the hand of the angel and ate it. The sequence of action of my stomach turned sour and in my mouth as sweet as honey (v. 9) is now reversed to the normal process of eating and digesting. Some commentators interpret this passage literally by stressing that the natural flow from mouth to stomach suggests a literal eating of the booklet.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref22 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn22” 21) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� I prefer to say that John mentally appropriated the message of the little scroll so that he completely mastered it. He tasted its sweetness in his mouth when he proclaimed the message; but noticing the opposition this word created among the people, he had to endure bitterness in his inward being. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Witnessing for the Lord calls for unflinching courage and gracious tact. Anyone who speaks the Word of God in a hostile world will be opposed, scorned, and ridiculed. But that person ought to have fully absorbed the Word so that it has become an inseparable part of his or her being. He or she must appropriate God s message by faith, obey it fully, be totally controlled by it, always remain true to its message, speak judiciously, and not become silent.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref23 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn23” 22) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 b. And I was told, You must prophesy again against many peoples and nations and languages and kings. Almost every word in this sentence presents interesting perspectives and even some difficulties. We begin with the introductory formula And they said to me. We assume that the pronoun ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 they) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 points to heavenly voices that speak to John. But he fails to identify them. Therefore, the indefinite subject allows us to translate the formula as a passive, And I was told. The use of the passive voice hides the identity of the agent. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Next, a moral obligation lies on John s shoulders. When heavenly voices tell him to prophesy, he knows that he must obey God s will. Prophesying does not merely mean to foretell what is going to happen; it also means to propagate all the other visions and divine disclosures John had received. In short, he must proclaim God s full revelation. The adverb ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 again) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 signifies that John earlier had received some information that he had to make known. And now, possessing the message of the little scroll, he is told to make its message known to the world. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Third, one Greek word is open to various translations; it is the preposition ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 epi) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 which in this verse can mean before -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref24 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn24” KJV) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), against -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref25 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn25” NJB) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), concerning -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref26 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn26” NASB) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), over -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref27 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn27” REB) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and about -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref28 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn28” NIV) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , NRSV). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Most translators have interpreted the Greek preposition as about Thus, John is told to prophesy about many peoples and nations and languages and kings. Although this translation is good, the question must be asked concerning the recipients of this message. Are these four groups receptive to the gospel (5:9; 7:9) or are they hostile? John appears to use the phrase for unbelievers who are to be judged because of their identification with Babylon and the beast (11:9; 13:7 8; 14:6; 17:15). Therefore, the translation ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 against) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.30|AUTODETECT|” is preferred and can be supported by ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.30|AUTODETECT|” Jeremiah 25:30) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref29 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn29” LXX) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), Now prophesy all these words against them. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref30 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn30” 23) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 John categorizes humanity in four ways: peoples, nations, languages, and kings; the number four symbolizes the world. He writes a fourfold grouping of people seven times in the Apocalypse: five have the same categories although in different sequence (5:9; 7:9; 11:9; 13:7; 14:6) and two with variations . Regarding these seven occurrences, remember that the number seven signifies completeness. John alludes to the Book of Daniel, where a threefold phrase (peoples, nations, languages) occurs six times.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref31 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn31” 24) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The Old Greek translation of Daniel, however, adds the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 regions) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.3.4|AUTODETECT|” to the phrase in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Daniel 3:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.20|AUTODETECT|” and thus provides a list of four categories 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.20|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 10:20) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref32 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn32” 25) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” God wants all humanity to hear and respond to his message. He is concerned about all people, for all of them individually are his image bearers 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:27) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.18.32|AUTODETECT|” ). The Lord God has no desire that anyone should die a spiritual death: I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live! 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.18.32|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 18:32) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ). He wants all people everywhere to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.4|AUTODETECT|” 1 Tim. 2:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 10:8 11) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 8) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 �������� grammatically this participle should be in the nominative, but is in the accusative case by attraction to the present participle ��������. It may also be that the last letter of �������� is the movable � to separate it from the present imperative U���� (go!). ) �x ������� the manuscript support for this word in chapter 10 is divided. Manuscripts A, C, and 1006 have this reading in verse 8, and manuscripts P) 11 1 -1 9 0 0 47) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , �, and 1006 have it in verse 9. The ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref33 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn33” TR) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and the Majority Text have the diminutive ����������� in both verses. The two words in this verse are identical in meaning because of the qualifying phrase unrolled in the hand of the angel, which indicates it is the booklet mentioned in verse 2.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref34 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn34” 26) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 The reading ����������� (v. 10) instead of ������� is decided on the weight of external evidence. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref35 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn35” 27) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 Verse 11) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 2 3 8 0 0 �������� the variant reading is the present singular �����, which obviously is a textual corrective. The more difficult reading is the original. ) �� with the genitive the preposition means before ; with the accusative, against ; and with the dative, in regard to. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref36 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn36” 28) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn1 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref1” 1 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Herman Hoeksema, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Behold, He Cometh! An Exposition of the Book of Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Grand Rapids: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 1969), p. 335. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn2 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref2” 2 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Richard Bauckham, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Climax of Prophecy) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Edinburgh: Clark, 1993), p. 251. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn3 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref3” 3 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Consult Steve Moyise, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Old Testament in the Book of Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , JSNTSup 115 (Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1995), p. 105. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn4 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref4” 4 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 E.g., Hermas ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Vision) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 2.1, 4 shows that the two Greek words ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 biblaridion) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 biblidion) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 are synonyms of ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 biblion) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , and all of them mean little book. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn5 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref5” 5 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Frederick D. Mazzaferri, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Genre of the Book of Revelation from a Source-Critical Perspective) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , BZNW 54 (Berlin and New York: de Gruyter, 1989), pp. 265 79; Bauckham, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Climax of Prophecy) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , pp. 243 57; and see his ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Theology of the Book of Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.10.11|AUTODETECT|” , New Testament Theology (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1993), pp. 80 84. David E. Holwerda, The Church and the Little Scroll 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.10.11|AUTODETECT|” Revelation 10, 11) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ), ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 CTJ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 34 (1999): 148 61. Holwerda agrees with Bauckham and suggests that both scrolls could be coextensive with each other and with the book of Revelation after the opening of the seals (p. 153). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn6 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref6” 6 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 See Robert H. Mounce, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Book of Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , rev. ed., NICNT (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998), p. 202. The Syriac version has the expression ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 sephr� d) 12 1 -1 9 0 0 e) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 %ay�) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (the book of life) in 3:5, and ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 sephr�) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 appears also in 20:12. The word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 k) 12 1 -1 9 0 0 e) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 thbh�) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (book, record) appears in 5:1 9, but in chapter 10 the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 k) 12 1 -1 9 0 0 e) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 thbh�n�) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (booklet, pamphlet) consistently appears (vv. 2, 8, 9, 10). The Syriac provides insight into the relevance of the diminutive ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 booklet) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn7 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref7” 7 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 David E. Aune, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation 1 5) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , WBC 52A (Dallas: Word, 1997), p. xcix; Gregory K. Beale 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Book of Revelation. A Commentary on the Greek Text) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , NIGTC [Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1998], p. 531) notes the stubborn fact that the word ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 biblaridion) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 occurs only here and therefore cannot be without significance. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn8 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref8” 8 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Compare Martin Kiddle, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of St. John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (reprint, London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1943), p. 167; R. H. Charles, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Revelation of St. John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , ICC (Edinburgh: Clark, 1920), 1:260; Charles R. Erdman, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Philadelphia: Westminster, 1936), p. 99. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn9 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref9” 9 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 G. R. Beasley-Murray, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Book of Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , NCB (London: Oliphants, 1974), p. 169. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn10 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref10” 10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 In his excursus on angels, M. Robert Mulholland Jr. avers that in numerous places where angels are mentioned in Revelation (7:2; 8:3; 10:1; 18:1; 20:1; 22:6 9) they are identified with Christ. See his ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation: Holy Living in an Unholy World) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, Frances Asbury Press, 1990), pp. 62 64. Likewise Beale 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 525) writes that the angel is the divine Angel of the Lord, as in the OT, who is to be identified with Christ himself. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn11 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref11” 11 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Simon J. Kistemaker, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Exposition of the Epistle to the Hebrews) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , NTC (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1984), p. 76. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn12 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref12” 12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to George Eldon Ladd, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentary on the Revelation of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972), p. 141; Alan F. Johnson, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , in ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Expositor s Bible Commentary) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , ed. Frank E. Gaebelein (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1981), 12:496; Charles, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , 1:258; Robert L. Thomas, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation 8 22. An Exegetical Commentary) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Chicago: Moody, 1995), pp. 59 60. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn13 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref13” 13 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 David E. Aune, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation 6 16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , WBC 52B (Nashville: Nelson, 1998), pp. 556 57. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn14 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref14” 14 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Henry Barclay Swete, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentary on Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (1911; reprint, Grand Rapids: Kregel, 1977), p. 126. Isbon T. Beckwith 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Apocalypse of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 [1919; reprint, Grand Rapids: Baker, 1979], p. 580) comments, Apparently the word is meant to distinguish this roll from the great scroll of chapt[er] 5. Similarly, J�rgen Roloff, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , trans. J. E. Alsup (Minneapolis: Fortress, 1993), p. 123. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn15 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref15” 15 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 John P. M. Sweet, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , WPC (Philadelphia: Westminster, 1979), p. 138. See also Friedrich D�sterdieck, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Critical and Exegetical Handbook to the Revelation of John) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (New York and London: Funk and Wagnalls, 1886), p. 300; Leon Morris, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , rev. ed., TNTC (Leicester: Inter-Varsity; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987), p. 135; William Hendriksen, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 More Than Conquerors) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (reprint, Grand Rapids: Baker, 1982), p. 124 n. 2; Bauckham, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Climax of Prophecy) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 259. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn16 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref16” 16 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 A. T. Robertson, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 A Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Nashville: Broadman, 1934), p. 853. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn17 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref17” 17 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 James L. Resseguie, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation Unsealed: A Narrative Critical Approach to John s Apocalypse) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , BIS 32 (Leiden: Brill, 1998), p. 164. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn18 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref18” NRSV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New Revised Standard Version ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn19 9 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.17.13|AUTODETECT|” 18 ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.17.13|AUTODETECT|” 2 Kings 17:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.17.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.17.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.10|AUTODETECT|” 21:10) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.9.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.9.11|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 9:11) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 7:25) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.4|AUTODETECT|” 25:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.26.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.26.5|AUTODETECT|” 26:5) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.19|AUTODETECT|” 29:19) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.35.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.35.15|AUTODETECT|” 35:15) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.44.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.44.4|AUTODETECT|” 44:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 9:6) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:7) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn20 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref20” 19 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 C. F. D. Moule, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 An Idiom-Book of New Testament Greek) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , 2d ed. (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1960), p. 183. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn21 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref21” 20 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Bauer, p. 317. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn22 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref22” 21 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Thomas, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation 8 22) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 74; D�sterdieck, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 304. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn23 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref23” 22 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Compare Hoeksema, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Behold, He Cometh!) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 357. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn24 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref24” KJV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 King James Version (Authorized Version) ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn25 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref25” NJB ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New Jerusalem Bible ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn26 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref26” NASB ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New American Standard Bible ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn27 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref27” REB ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Revised English Bible ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn28 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref28” NIV ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New International Version ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn29 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref29” LXX ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Septuagint ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn30 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref30” 23 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Aune, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation 6 16) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , pp. 573 74; Beale, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 554. Mounce 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 210 n. 52) takes ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 epi) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in the sense of to or about rather than against. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn31 9 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 24 ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 3:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.3.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.3.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 4:1) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (Theod. only; = 3:31 MT); 5:19; 6:25; 7:14. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn32 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref32” 25 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Refer to Bauckham, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Climax of Prophecy) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , pp. 326 28. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn33 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref33” TR ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Textus Receptus: The Greek New Testament according to the Majority Text) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn34 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref34” 26 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 J. Ramsey Michaels 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Interpreting the Book of Revelation) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 [Grand Rapids: Baker, 1992], p. 61) links 10:8 to 5:1. He interprets 10:8 by saying, Go take ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll [with the definite article recalling the scroll described in chapter 5].& But this exegesis can hardly be correct in view of verse 2, which has the noun ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 scroll) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 without the definite article; this occurrence of the word serves as the more immediate, and hence more likely, antecedent for the article that appears in v. 8. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn35 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref35” 27 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Bruce M. Metzger, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , 2d ed. (Stuttgart: Deutsche Bibelgesellschaft, 1994), p. 671. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn36 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref36” 28 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 S. Greijdanus, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 De Openbaring des Heeren aan Johannes) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 , KNT (Amsterdam: Van Bottenburg, 1925), p. 224. In the Old Testament the phrase ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to prophesy against) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.13|AUTODETECT|” is common in the major prophets 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.13|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 25:13) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 4:7) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.11.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.11.4|AUTODETECT|” 11:4) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.25.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.25.2|AUTODETECT|” 25:2) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ). )

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