The Little Scroll

In the text before us, chapters ten and eleven, we find an interpretational interlude between the sixth and seventh trumpets.

Chapter ten is John’s recommissioning to prophesy. The Revelation is divided into two parts: the first is from a heavenly perspective (4–9); the second is from an earthly perspective (11–17). John’s first commissioning was in 1:1 and 11, and now comes his second commissioning in 9:1 and 11.

An important theme of these chapters from the sealing of His servants (7:1–8) to the two witnesses (11:1–14) is the protection of Christians from the spiritual harm revealed in the first six trumpets. This sealing will enable the saints to bear tribulation with an enduring witness to the gospel in the midst of great opposition (11:1–13). These two witnesses usher in the final trumpet as evidenced in verse 14: “no more delay” (10:6).

The text applies in at least three ways: (1) the Word of God must effect real change in the life of those who profess Christ through obedience and faithfulness to Christ and His purposes (Acts 1:8). (2) The little scroll is symbolic of the authority given to Christ in the seven-sealed scroll of chapter 5. The church possesses this authority in a limited but powerful way (Matt. 16:18, 19). (3) This conflict involves the mystery of God (v. 7), previously unrevealed truth in the OT and only partially revealed in the NT. The mystery, in some degree, relates to the plan of God to use suffering and apparent defeat as the means to secure the ultimate victory.

We need to understand these things in order to prepare for it, lest we faint and fall away in the crucial hour.