Revelation 7:1-3; Hurt Not the Earth

Revelation 7:1-3 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 

Lockyer said well, “Revelation 7 is a “parenthesis of grace.” In this chapter, there are two separate visions: the first, concerning Israel (v1-8) and the second, concerning the Gentiles (v9-17). These are two groups of redeemed saints. It is not all judgement in these days of tribulation. John gives us a deeply interesting episode of blessing for both Jews and Gentiles. The course of judgement was suspended, and the veil is drawn aside, so that we may witness the heart of our God. Just when this visitation of blessing takes place, we are not told. But we do know that Christ’s return for His church will create a profound impression in the world and that, after this translation of the saints, God will work in grace among His ancient people, the Jews and Gentiles. … This break in God’s judgements is provided so that there might be an outflowing of God’s grace.”

He further observed, “Four angels come into view. They are related to the four directions of the compass.

Isaiah 11:12 And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth.

They control the four winds, which implies that, through them, God is able to control or release the judgements. The number four signifies the completeness and universality of judgements.”

The sealing angel is evidently a distinguished spiritual being who is authorized to seal the servants of God. He appears from the east, which is the direction from which God manifests Himself.”

2 Peter 3:15a And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. Amen.