Verses 1–7
The apostle saw another representation. The person communicating this discovery probably
was our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, or it was to show his glory. He veils his glory, which is too
great for mortal eyes to behold; and throws a veil upon his dispensations. A rainbow was upon his
head; our Lord is always mindful of his covenant. His awful voice was echoed by seven thunders;
solemn and terrible ways of discovering the mind of God. We know not the subjects of the seven
thunders, nor the reasons for suppressing them. There are great events in history, perhaps relating
to the Christian church, which are not noticed in open prophecy. The final salvation of the righteous,
and the final success of true religion on earth, are engaged for by the unfailing word of the Lord.
Though the time may not be yet, it cannot be far distant. Very soon, as to us, time will be no more;
but if we are believers, a happy eternity will follow: we shall from heaven behold and rejoice in
the triumphs of Christ, and his cause on earth.
Verses 8–11
Most men feel pleasure in looking into future events, and all good men like to receive a word
from God. But when this book of prophecy was thoroughly digested by the apostle, the contents
would be bitter; there were things so awful and terrible, such grievous persecutions of the people
of God, such desolations in the earth, that the foresight and foreknowledge of them would be painful
to his mind. Let us seek to be taught by Christ, and to obey his orders; daily meditating on his word,
that it may nourish our souls; and then declaring it according to our several stations. The sweetness
of such contemplations will often be mingled with bitterness, while we compare the Scriptures with
the state of the world and the church, or even with that of our own hearts.
Chapter 11
Chapter Outline
The state of the church is represented under (1, 2)
the figure of a temple measured.
Two witnesses prophesy is sackcloth. (3–6)
They are slain, after which they arise and (7–13)
ascend to heaven.
Under the seventh trumpet, all antichristian (14–19)
powers are to be destroyed and there will be
a glorious state of Christ's kingdom upon
earth.