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Cycle One: The Scroll and Its Seven Seals - Revelation 4:1-8:1

Judgments from God's throne unfold as the scroll's seven seals are opened one by one. The participation of the Lamb reminds us that such judgments are based on his unique qualifications and accomplishments (Rev. 5:1-14; 8:2-6). In the formal structure Revelation 5:1-Revelation 8:1 parallels Revelation 8:2-Revelation 11:19. Each has an opening scene that introduces the origin of the judgments (Rev. 5:1-14; 8:2-6). Six judgments follow (Rev. 6:1-17; 8:7-9:21). A dramatic interlude promises care for God's people (Rev. 7:1-17; 10:1-11-14). The seventh and climatic judgment follows the interlude (Rev. 8:1; 11:15-19). The seven judgments move forward toward the Second Coming, which occurs in Revelation 6:12-17 and Revelation 11:15-19. The first four judgments of the seven have an inner unity. The description in Revelation 6:1-8 corresponds to that of the four living creatures of Revelation 4:6 and the four horsemen of Zechariah 1:8. Revelation 8:7-12 concerns the four major physical features of the world (i.e. dry land, sea, fresh water, air/sky).

For more notes please see:

Outline of the Book of Revelation

Reference:

IIIM Seminary Study Bible

If you have questions about the IIIM Seminary Study Bible notes, please email our theological editor Joseph R. Nally, M.Div. at jnally@thirdmill.org.