Revelation 7

A.M. 4100. A.D. 96.

In this chapter is represented,

(1,) The suspension of further calamities to the church by persecution, till multitudes should be converted to the faith of Christ, and the enjoyment of the blessed privileges of the gospel, from among both Jews and Gentiles, and should be prepared, by the sanctifying and comforting influences of the Spirit, for glorifying God on earth and enjoying him in heaven, Revelation 7:1-8 .

(2,) The happy state which the church, now delivered from all persecution, should be in, even on earth, but especially in the eternal world, when all tribulation should be for ever ended, Revelation 7:9-17 .

The former chapter concluded the first grand period of the sufferings of the church, under the persecutions of the heathen Roman empire. The second grand period of prophecy begins with the opening of the seventh seal, and is contained in the events which attend the sounding of the trumpets; an account of which we have in chap. 8., 9. In this chapter we have an account of a little pause, or interval, to describe the state of things for a short time, between the two periods. It seems to be a representation of a state of peace and quiet throughout the earth, especially in the Roman empire; and of the great number of persons in every nation who embraced the profession of Christianity; of the encouraging protection that was given to the Christian church; of thankful acknowledgments, by the whole church, for the goodness and power of God and Christ, in such eminent instances of favour and protection; and, finally, of the happy state of all the faithful confessors and martyrs; who, after a short time of tribulation for the faith of Christ, and constancy in his religion, have arrived at a state of everlasting rest, happiness, and glory. Thus wisely does this part of prophecy promote the principal design of the whole, to encourage the faith and patience, the hope and constancy of the church, under all opposition and sufferings. It seems designed to show, with the certainty of prophetic revelation, that, as God directs all things in the world by his providence, so he will direct them to serve the designs of his goodness to the church; and that the great revolutions of the world shall often be in favour of true religion, and for its protection; and to assure the faithful that all they suffer, for the sake of truth and righteousness, shall soon be rewarded with a state of peace, glory, and felicity. See Lowman.