Revelation 6

Revelation 6

What is our reaction to the dramatic events of our world? There seems to be a growing trend toward the histrionic and panic. Every time there is an opportunity for a panic, there is someone who will attempt to capitalize on it. From the passive media (it can hardly be called the news media) to politicians to special interest groups to businesses to individuals wanting to see that everyone is informed and every event is exploited. But to do that, there must be generated fear, sensationalism, and crisis. Events large and small are presented as harbingers of doom. A grown man playing a boy’s game takes a knee during the national anthem, and it spells the end of Liberty. Providing plastic straws with a fast food meal means the ruin of the environment. Nothing is so trivial as to not be useful for exploitation in one way or the other.

We see a different picture in Revelation 6. In this chapter we see history, or should we say historical events, unfolding, but we do not see panic or fear. We see God's plan in the scroll opened up by the Lamb, who is worthy to accomplish God's plan. Note the phrase “it was granted.” Within God's plan there is permission given for the dramatic events of history. It is important to know that while men may act and nature may convulse, it does so not apart from the power of God and the Lamb, but by their permission.

We need to also note the two reactions of people. First is that of the martyrs. They have suffered the worst in this world for the Lamb. Faced with tumult, they turn to and draw close to God. They do not see even their own death as something out of control or beyond God’s power and provision. The second reaction is from kings and rich men, slaves and freedmen. Without faith, these people, who represent all of humanity, face the apparent chaos of the world with a desire to be hidden from God. The world, the flesh, and the powers of darkness are delighted for us to be filled with fear and panic because from there it is a short trip to wanting to hide from God. Instead, we must live understanding all events are in His control. He is worthy to open the seals. 

The saint who is about to give his life for the Name of Christ doesn’t see history running amok. They see all of history working out according to the plan God has prepared and which the Lamb is bringing about. 

“Lord, help me see Your hand in history. AMEN”