way to heaven is through many tribulations; but tribulation, how great soever, shall not separate
us from the love of God. Tribulation makes heaven more welcome and more glorious. It is not the
blood of the martyrs, but the blood of the Lamb, that can wash away sin, and make the soul pure
and clean in the sight of God; other blood stains, this is the only blood that makes the robes of the
saints white and clean. They are happy in their employment; heaven is a state of service, though
not of suffering; it is a state of rest, but not of sloth; it isa praising, delightful rest. They have had
sorrows, and shed many tears on account of sin and affliction; but God himself, with his own
gracious hand, will wipe those tears away. He deals with them as a tender father. This should support
the Christian under all his troubles. As all the redeemed owe their happiness wholly to sovereign
mercy; so the work and worship of God their Saviour is their element; his presence and favour
complete their happiness, nor can they conceive of any other joy. To Him may all his people come;
from him they receive every needed grace; and to him let them offer all praise and glory.
Chapter 8
Chapter Outline
The seventh seal is opened and seven angels (1, 2)
appear with seven trumpets, ready to proclaim
the purposes of God.
Another angel casts fire on the earth, which (3–5)
produces terrible storms of vengeance.
The seven angels prepare to sound their (6)
trumpets.
Four sound them. (7–12)
Another angel denounces greater woes to (13)
come.Verses 1–6
The seventh seal is opened. There was profound silence in heaven for a space; all was quiet in
the church, for whenever the church on earth cries through oppression, that cry reaches up to heaven;
or it is a silence of expectation. Trumpets were given to the angels, who were to sound them. The
Lord Jesus is the High Priest of the church, having a golden censer, and much incense, fulness of
merit in his own glorious person. Would that men studied to know the fulness that is in Christ, and
endeavoured to be acquainted with his excellency. Would that they were truly persuaded that Christ
has such an office as that of Intercessor, which he now performs with deep sympathy. No prayers,
thus recommended, was ever denied hearing and acceptance. These prayers, thus accepted in heaven,
produced great changes upon earth. The Christian worship and religion, pure and heavenly in its
origin and nature, when sent down to earth and conflicting with the passions and worldly projects