Revelation Part 40
The angel's face is described as being like the sun, reflecting radiant glory. This imagery reminds us that human beings who come into close contact with the glory of God can themselves reflect something of that glory.
Revelation chapters 10 and 11 form the second major interlude, or inset section, in the flow of Revelation. Just as Revelation 7 provided a pause between the sixth and seventh seals, these chapters pause the action between the sixth and seventh trumpets. The second woe has passed, and the third woe is still coming. Revelation 11:15 will bring us to the sounding of the seventh trumpet, so before that moment arrives, John is given additional information that helps explain what is happening and what is still to come.
By this point in the narrative, the judgments have already brought unimaginable destruction. Revelation 9 describes the devastating events associated with the sixth trumpet, and the judgments of the fourth seal and sixth trumpet together have resulted in an enormous loss of human life. Yet Revelation 9:20–21 gives us one of the most sobering descriptions of humanity's response. Those who were not killed by the plagues still did not repent of the works of their hands. They continued murder, sorceries, sexual immorality, and thefts. Even after experiencing the consequences of rebellion on an unprecedented scale, many continued to refuse to turn to God.
Revelation 10:1 through Revelation 11:14 therefore takes another pause before the final trumpet sounds. The second woe is past, and the third woe is coming. Within these chapters there are several important sections.
Revelation 10 begins with John seeing another mighty angel coming down from heaven. The Greek word “angelos” simply means messenger. This mighty angel is distinct from the seven angels who have been sounding the trumpets. His appearance contains several similarities to descriptions associated with Jesus Christ and with the glory and authority of God, but this does not necessarily mean that the angel is Christ Himself.
John uses distinct titles when referring directly to Christ elsewhere in Revelation. Strong or mighty angels also appear in other places in the book, including Revelation 5:2 and Revelation 18:21. There is another important reason to distinguish this being from God Himself. In Revelation 10:5–6, the angel raises his hand toward heaven and swears by Him who lives forever and ever, the One who created heaven, earth, and the sea and everything in them. The angel is therefore swearing by God. This would be an unusual description if the angel were intended to be God Himself. The better understanding is that this is an extraordinarily powerful messenger who comes with divine authority and reflects the glory of the One who sent him.
The angel is clothed with a cloud. Throughout Scripture, clouds are associated with divine power, presence, and judgment. Christ is described as coming with clouds in Revelation 1:7, and the imagery of clouds also appears in descriptions of His future return in Matthew 24:30, Mark 13:26, and Luke 21:27. The cloud surrounding this angel therefore communicates that his message comes with divine authority and is connected to the judgments now unfolding.
A rainbow is upon his head. The rainbow immediately reminds us of God's covenant and His mercy. In Genesis 9:11–17, the rainbow was given as a sign of God's covenant following the flood. Its appearance here is particularly reassuring because Revelation is describing a period of increasingly severe judgment. Even amid judgment, the reminder of mercy remains. God is not acting without purpose, and His character includes both justice and mercy.
The angel's face is described as being like the sun, reflecting radiant glory. This imagery reminds us that human beings who come into close contact with the glory of God can themselves reflect something of that glory. Moses spoke directly with God, and after coming down from the mountain his face shone. Exodus 34:27 records God's instruction to Moses to write down His words, and Exodus 34:29 describes the effect of being in God's presence. The radiant appearance of this angel communicates the glory and authority behind the message he carries.
His feet are like pillars of fire. Fire throughout Scripture is associated with judgment, purification, and the presence of God. Revelation 1:14–16 contains similar imagery in the description of Christ, including eyes like a flame of fire and feet like refined bronze. This mighty angel comes as a messenger carrying a message of judgment and authority. His appearance demonstrates that the One who has sent him has complete authority over the events that are about to unfold.
UYA Team | uya@ucg.org
United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.
