Scripture Reading: Revelation 6:1-8
The focus in the book of Revelation changes sharply from chapter 5 to chapter 6. Chapters 4 and 5 pictured the throne of God in heaven, but in chapter 6 the scene shifts to the earth. There is a stark contrast between the glories of God's presence and the darkness of His wrath, beginning now to be described in chapter 6.
Most of the remaining chapters in Revelation have in view what will take place on the earth during the wondrous and horrible time of tribulation that will befall the earth near the end of history, as we know it.
The troubles described in this text have certainly been part of the history of humanity, but they will be concentrated during the great tribulation, especially during the last 3½ years of that period.
One purpose of this global tribulation is a display of divine justice on the rebellious nations of the earth. 19th century English pastor, Henry Alford, described this time of divine judgment as "the beating down of earthly power, the breaking up of earthly peace, the exhausting of earthly wealth, the destruction of earthly life" (Alford, The Greek Testament, IV:613).
Let us stand in awe of God's power and justice and let us be deeply thankful to be saved, by God's grace, from the fearsome fury of His justice.
