Table of Contents
The seventh seal is opened, revealing the fulfillment of Revelation. Seven angels with seven trumpets appear, representing people who will announce judgment. The first four trumpets sound. The first trumpet brings hail, fire and blood that kills one-third of the people (grass and trees). The second trumpet shows a blazing mountain (headquarters church) thrown into the sea (world), killing one-third in the branch churches. The third trumpet reveals the star Wormwood (a false teacher) poisoning one-third of the pastors and evangelists. The fourth trumpet strikes one-third of the sun (pastors), moon (evangelists) and stars (saints), causing them to go dark. An eagle cries “Woe!” as the final three trumpets, bringing greater woes, are about to sound. The chapter depicts progressive spiritual death in the apostate church system due to rebellion.
Shincheonji holds distinct theological views that differ from mainstream Christian denominations, yet it also shares some common teachings. This overlap can sometimes blur the lines between their beliefs and those of traditional Christianity. Therefore, it is essential to exercise critical thinking and discernment to differentiate between these shared elements and the unique doctrines they present.
While their interpretations warrant careful examination through a critical and biblical lens, it is equally important to approach these matters with an open yet discerning mindset.
The following notes were documented in person during Shincheonji’s 9-month Bible Study Seminar. They provide insight into the organization’s approach to introducing and explaining its beliefs to potential new members, often referred to as the ‘harvesting and sealing.’ This process is described as being ‘born again’ or ‘born of God’s seed,’ which involves uprooting the old beliefs and replanting new ones. This uprooting and replanting must occur continuously. By examining this process, we can gain a better understanding of the mindset and beliefs held by Shincheonji members.
Quick Review of Revelation.
We will conduct another quick review of everything we have covered up to this point. We will focus on examining 3 to 4 main points from each chapter to ensure everyone is caught up with the material.
Revelation Chapter Titles:
- Rev 1:1-8: The Summarized Conclusion of the Entire Book of Revelation.
- Rev 1:9-20: The Beginning of the Events of Revelation and the Mystery of the Seven Stars and the Golden Lampstands.
- Rev 2-3: The Letter Sent to the Messengers of the 7 Churches.
- Rev 4: The Throne and Structure of God in the Spiritual Realm.
- Rev 5: The Book Sealed with 7 Seals.
- Rev 6: The Judgement of the Sun, Moon, and Stars of the Former Heaven that Betrayed.
- Rev 7: The Newly Created 12 Tribes of New Spiritual Israel.
In understanding the chapters of Revelation, being able to recite them means you grasp the main points just from the titles alone.
We are appreciative that New John provided these titles to summarize the content of each revelation chapter. Though you may not be tested on these titles, studying them helps remember the main points of each chapter.
Revelation 1 marks the beginning of the events. John sees Jesus, who instructs him to write on a scroll what he sees and send it to the seven churches. John prepares to fulfill this task.
What John has seen is the beginning of Satan’s deception to the chosen people. His job is to observe and report, sending letters to those people about what is happening in their midst.
After sending the letters, John is given a vision of heaven in the spiritual world. Through this vision, he understands the throne and structure of God. He is also tasked with preparing a place where heaven will come when the time comes. Then, he sees God prepare to open the book.
This book is sealed with 7 seals in God’s right hand. John realizes that as long as it remains sealed, God’s work of fulfilling the last book of Revelation will remain incomplete.
John wept, but one of the elders reassured him, saying “Do not weep, for there is one who is capable of opening the seals and looking inside.”
At this point, only 6 seals have been opened, with the 7th seal still needing to be opened.
The chapter then introduces the trumpets. In Revelation chapter 8, the trumpets are introduced and begin to blow.
Rev 8: The Last Seal and the 7 Trumpets
When summarizing Revelation chapter 8, you can begin by stating its two main components: the last seal and the seven trumpets.
This simple statement effectively captures the chapter’s essence. From this foundation, you can then elaborate by:
- Explaining what occurs when the last seal is opened
- Discussing the introduction of the seven trumpets
This demonstrates why titles are crucial – they provide a clear framework for understanding and explaining the content.
Revelation 8:1
When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.
Revelation 8:1 NIV84
ONE – 7 Seals Opening: Fulfilling – Appearance of Actual Reality
When the last seal was opened, there was quiet in heaven for 30 minutes. This silence in heaven has deeper meaning.
The opening of the last seal represents several important things:
- The book is now opened, meaning the fulfillment of Revelation
- The appearance of actual reality, with real people and real events
- The word is now opened, making it possible to be fully understood
When the book is opened, it signifies that Jesus has prepared for the appearance of real people and real events. Additionally, the word being open means that the parables, prophecy, and fulfillment can now be understood.
TWO – Silence in Heaven: Half and Hour – Monumental Moment
There was silence in heaven for a significant reason. This book had been sealed for 2,000 years, and when it finally became fulfilled and opened, it marked a monumental time for all of heaven. This resulted in a period of silence that lasted for half an hour.
Looking back at the fulfillment of Revelation 6, when the first six seals were being opened, the winds were blowing. Then, as described at the beginning of Revelation 7, these winds were stopped to allow the sealing to begin.
In Revelation 8, when the last seal is opened, silence falls.
This silence occurs because the word, which everyone had been waiting for, has finally been opened. The winds have been momentarily paused. After this half-hour of silence in heaven, things begin to unfold.
Revelation 8:2
Revelation 8:2 NIV84 And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and to them were given seven trumpets.
The passage shows us the appearance of the seven angels, and each one of them receives a trumpet.
What does a trumpet signify? A trumpet represents a person.
ONE – 7 Angeles Given: 7 Trumpet
The seven angels appear, and they are given seven trumpets (representing 7 people).
Isaiah 58:1 NIV84 “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the house of Jacob their sins.
Regarding Revelation 7 and specifically Revelation 8, the introduction of the trumpets is discussed. In the past, there was a belief that these trumpets were to be interpreted literally – that everyone in the world would hear these trumpets simultaneously, and heaven would crack open.
However, when examining scripture, we can see there have been numerous instances where trumpets were meant to blow. Isaiah serves as an excellent example of this. He was given the responsibility to testify like a trumpet and to shout aloud about the people’s sin and rebellion.
A trumpet’s primary function is to announce – it is the sound or the word that announces. Specifically, it announces sin and rebellion so that people can repent. This is ultimately the fundamental purpose of a trumpet: to help people achieve repentance.
The trumpet serves two crucial purposes:
- To make people aware of their wrongdoings
- To announce specific actions that people need to take
The sound will go out from the mountain, and the law will sound. When this happens, people need to jump into action and respond accordingly. They need to do a specific thing in response to this trumpet call.
Sacrifice, Rev 8:1-4 and Rev 9:5-6
Who are the 4 Trumpets (people)? → The male child’s brothers
In Revelation 8, 4 out of the 7 trumpets blow in this chapter. These four trumpets represent people who are making announcements.
Who are these people? They are flesh – specifically, they are the brothers of the male child mentioned in Revelation chapter 12. These individuals were originally members of the tabernacle temple. They were among the first ones to come out when the chairman began to testify.
These brothers work alongside him and fight with him.
Remaining Trumpets, Rev 9:5-6
In Revelation chapter 9, 2 more trumpets blow – specifically the fifth and sixth trumpets. We will examine what happens when these trumpets sound as we study this chapter.
Salvation – Last Trumpet, the 7th Trumpet, Rev 11:15.
The last trumpet is introduced in Revelation 10:7 and blows in Revelation 11:15. This seventh trumpet is New John, who is both the 7th and last trumpet.
The 7 trumpets hold great importance as they begin to blow, relating to sacrifice and salvation. There is a distinct difference between the roles of the first 6 trumpets and the 7th trumpet.
The first 6 trumpets, as mentioned in Isaiah 58:1, serve to announce the sin and rebellion of the people. People went to the Tabernacle Temple to testify about betrayal.
They warned:
– The invaders have come
– The Nicolaitans are here
– People are eating food sacrificed to idols
– “Stop what you are doing”
As people’s hearts responded to these warnings, the events of Revelation 8 began to unfold.
The 7th trumpet serves a different purpose.
It announces:
– The kingdom of the world becoming the kingdom of God
– The salvation of God
– The mystery of God
The mystery of God reveals that eternal life will not only be for those in the spirit but also for those still alive. This means the flesh will be saved, and after 6,000 years, eternal life will finally take place – eternal life in the flesh.
This is the work of salvation that the 7th trumpet announces.
Revelation 8:3-5
Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne. [4] The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, went up before God from the angel’s hand. [5] Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.
Revelation 8:3-5 NIV84
ONE – Golden Censer is New John
In Revelation 8:3, it states “Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar.”
To understand this verse, we must first address: What is a censer?
While a censer is literally a container, in this context, it represents a person.
The golden censer mentioned here represents New John, who acts as a container for the prayers of the saints. This means that New John carries out God’s answers to the prayers of the saints who work alongside him.
To put this in perspective: The first people who come out are not only going to the tabernacle temple to point out betrayal, but they are also praying. Through New John’s actions, these prayers from God are being fulfilled.
Figurative Censer, Incense and Smokes
A censer serves as a container, which figuratively represents a person’s heart.
When the Bible refers to someone as a vessel or container, it’s like in Acts 9:15 where Apostle Paul is described as God’s “chosen instrument” (vessel/container).
The word of God is like the fire that enables a censer to burn. When this word dwells in a person’s heart, their prayers become powerful and effective.
The incense represents the prayers of the saints, as mentioned in Psalm 141:2: “May my prayers be like the evening sacrifice and like incense.”
The smoke symbolizes prayers being lifted up by the saints. When someone prays, their angel listens and carries these prayers upward to the one who hears – God, who is seated on the throne.
God then chooses whether to answer these prayers, remembering that “no” is also an answer.
God receives these prayers from the saints, and He is particularly attentive to prayers from those He considers righteous, as mentioned in the book of James.
Prayers – Using God’s Words to Align with God’s Will
God is seeking specific types of prayers – not necessarily prayers for material things like houses, cars, or business success.
What prayers is God truly looking for?
The prayers God desires are:
- Prayers that praise Him and His word
- Humble prayers from those seeking to do His will for His kingdom
- Prayers from a repenting heart
- Prayers that align with God’s will, which is contained in His word
Examples of prayers aligned with God’s word:
– “God, as You said in Matthew 18:20, when two or three are gathered, You are among us. Be with us in this gathering.”
– “Lord, as stated in John 4:24, a time is coming when people will gather in spirit and truth. May this be such a gathering.”
– “Jesus, as You promised in John 15:7, if I remain in You and You in me, I can ask whatever I wish. Help my unbelief and help me understand more.”
– “Open my eyes and ears. Make my study time fruitful and help me remember what is right.”
While material prayers aren’t primary, they can be acceptable when tied to doing God’s will. For example: “Lord, may my car work well so I can get to where I need to go to do Your will.”
Personal example: Before COVID, when classes were in-person further north in Atlanta, prayers were offered: “Lord, let the train come quickly, prevent delays, so I can arrive on time for the lesson.”
Just as God specified a particular incense formula for the temple in Exodus (not for personal use), He has specific preferences for prayer. The prayers that please God – like incense – are those aligned with His will.
Male Child and his Brothers
In Revelation chapter 8, the male child and his brothers are aware of the impending war. They pray to God for strength, knowing they will need divine help for their challenging mission ahead.
While the male child and his brothers are praying for God’s help in their mission, the censer is hurled onto the earth. Specifically, this earth refers to the first heaven and first earth – the Tabernacle Temple.
At that time, New John was sent to the Tabernacle Temple to deliver his testimony, with the message: “This is what is happening in your place. Repent and come out.”
These events are taking place.
Revelation 8:6-7 | 1st Trumpet
Then the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared to sound them. [7] The first angel sounded his trumpet, and there came hail and fire mixed with blood, and it was hurled down upon the earth. A third of the earth was burned up, a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.
Revelation 8:6-7 NIV84
ONE – Hail: Isa 28:2,16
When the first trumpet blows, a judgment begins to unfold.
The first phenomenon described is hail, but it’s not ordinary hail – it’s mixed with fire and blood. This presents an interesting paradox:
Let’s analyze this hail:
- It’s water in frozen form (ice)
- It’s mixed with fire
- It contains blood
This creates a logical question: How can ice remain solid while being on fire? It’s physically impossible as the ice would melt. Furthermore, this hail is described as being hurled down to earth, burning one-third of it. This raises another question: Can a single hail cause such widespread destruction?
The answer lies in understanding that this hail carries a spiritual meaning. This follows the principle that physical things are used to explain spiritual things.
To understand the dual meaning of hail, we need to examine:
Isaiah 28:2 and Isaiah 28:16 Isaiah 28:2,16 NIV84 See, the Lord has one who is powerful and strong. Like a hailstorm and a destructive wind, like a driving rain and a flooding downpour, he will throw it forcefully to the ground. [16] So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed.
1.- “One” = Pastor with the Word (New John)
When examining “hail on fire mixed with blood,” we can understand its deeper meaning. In verse 2, when it mentions “one,” the Lord has one specific person who is powerful and strong.
This hail is figuratively describing a person – specifically a pastor with the word. As referenced in verse 16, hail has characteristics like stone, being frozen water that has the same impact as stone. This connects to the scripture “See, I lay a stone in Zion.”
2.- Word of Wrath (Judgement)
The stone represents Jesus, and this hailstorm is described as powerful and effective, falling from heaven. When hail is mentioned, it symbolizes judgment – the Word of God’s wrath.
This makes sense because the hailstorm is described as being on fire – the word that consumes and judges – and it is mixed with blood. This blood refers to Jesus’ blood, which represents His words of life, as stated in John 6:63 where Jesus says “eat my flesh and drink my blood.”
Therefore, in Revelation, this hailstorm represents New John.
TWO – Earth, Tress and Grass: 1 Peter 1:22-24
New John possesses the word that came to him from above, and through this word he brings judgment.
This judgment then extends to the Tabernacle Temple, which represents those who are like the earth.
What do grass, trees, and earth represent in this context? According to 1 Peter 1:22-24, they represent people, as it states that “all men are like grass.”
The hail represents a pastor with the word. In this particular case, while the word is like Jesus’ blood, it serves as a word of judgment because people are now being destroyed. This judgment continues to spread across the earth.
A Quick Review of Revelation’s Flow and Structure
Revelation follows a clear progression:
– Revelation 1-6: Events of betrayal
– Revelation 8-13: Events of destruction
– Remaining chapters: Salvation
Note: Chapter 7 spans across different eras as it continues to be fulfilled today.
Revelation 8: The Last Seal and Seven Trumpets
When the last seal is opened in Revelation 8:1, the entire book of Revelation becomes fully opened. This opening signifies that it is ready to be fulfilled and revealed to many peoples, nations, languages, and kings.
In verse 2, seven angels with seven trumpets are introduced. The angel serves as the trumpeter, while the spirit is the one that blows. The people referenced are the male child and his brothers – those who came out and are now testifying about the events in that place.
The Trumpets:
– First 6 trumpets: Announce the destruction and judgment/sacrifice of the tabernacle temple’s people
– 7th trumpet: Different – announces salvation, declaring that the world’s kingdom is becoming God’s kingdom
The Golden Censer (Revelation 8:3-5):
A censer, which is a container holding fire, represents a person’s heart. When incense burns in it, smoke is produced. When a heart is on fire with the word and prays, these prayers become powerful and effective because they align with God and Jesus’s will in heaven. The censer being hurled to earth symbolizes one containing God’s word and saints’ prayers testifying to the people.
The First Trumpet:
When blown, hail on fire mixed with blood is hurled to earth, killing a third of the grass and trees (representing people). This signifies the death of people’s spirits. Important note: The “third” mentioned throughout Revelation 8 refers to the same group – those who recognize the judgment but refuse to repent.
Revelation 8:8-9 | 2nd Trumpet
The second angel sounded his trumpet, and something like a huge mountain, all ablaze, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea turned into blood, [9] a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed.
Revelation 8:8-9 NIV84
ONE – Huge Mountains: HQ of The Taberbacle Temple.
When the second angel sounded his trumpet, something resembling a huge mountain, completely ablaze, was thrown into the sea.
The mountain in this context represents a church – specifically a large church. This huge mountain refers to the 7 stars church, which is the Headquarters (HQ) of the Tabernacle Temple.
At this particular time, the people from this church were testifying about a new word.
TWO – Ship: Branch Churches
During a period of 14 years, people came from everywhere to hear the word. The tabernacle temple, which began small, expanded into a large temple.
The growth led to the establishment of many branch churches throughout Korea, reaching over 70 branch churches during this time. Their expansion was rapid.
These ships, which represent the branch churches, were like islands removed from their place. However, something unfavorable happened to these ships.
THREE – Fish: Congregation Members of the Tabernacle Temple
The fish represents people, specifically the congregation members of the Tabernacle Temple (TT).
In this spiritual context, TT functions as the organization, symbolized by the mountain. The ships represent branch churches.
While these fish (people) belong to this place, unfortunate events befall the mountain (temple/church).
This interpretation is supported by Hebrews 12:22-23 (NIV): “For you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the church of the firstborn, where thousands upon thousands of angels gather in joyful assembly.” This verse confirms that a mountain symbolically represents a church or temple.
The mountain being “all ablaze” signifies judgment upon it. When the mountain is thrown into the sea, it symbolizes becoming part of Babylon.
Regarding the ships (branch churches):
– A third of the ships sink into the sea
– A ship’s proper place is above the sea (above Satan’s world)
– When destroyed, it becomes part of Satan’s world
The fish (people) who should be caught in nets and placed in baskets are instead dying in the sea. This indicates that both the place (mountain/temple) and its people are under judgment.
Importance of knowing the Parables, it is given not earned
See how the parables make more sense now that we understand them?
If we had tried to explain this earlier in the seminar when we were just learning to distinguish good from evil, it wouldn’t have made any sense. But by God’s grace, the word is being revealed to us.
It’s being opened to our understanding. These things make sense now, and that’s purely God’s grace.
This is what it means when Scripture says, “let those who have eyes that can see and ears that can hear do so.” This understanding isn’t earned through 15 years of seminary studies. It doesn’t come simply from reading the Bible repeatedly.
This understanding is a gift that comes when things are fulfilled. The understanding is given, not earned.
So if you’re thinking, “This really makes a lot of sense to me,” don’t say “Wow, I’m so smart.” Instead, say “God, thank you.”
That should be our response – thanking the Lord that this makes sense, thanking Him for giving us eyes that can see.
We should pray for hearts that are ready to receive more, not hearts that receive and become arrogant. We need hearts that receive and become even more humble because of the grace we have received.
Let’s continue to understand this truth.
Revelation 8:10-11 | 3rd Trumpet
The third angel sounded his trumpet, and a great star, blazing like a torch, fell from the sky on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water— [11] the name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters turned bitter, and many people died from the waters that had become bitter.
Revelation 8:10-11 NIV84
Star Wormwood: False Pastor, Mr. Oh
The third trumpet’s blast reveals a peculiar star appearing in the sky. This star is called Wormwood.
Wormwood, in reality, is a plant that can become poisonous if not properly treated. It is known as a bitter plant, and when placed in water, it makes the water bitter as well.
This star named Wormwood, which should be in heaven, has fallen. This star represents a false pastor, specifically identified as Mr. Oh, also known by the pseudonym Nicholas. He will be further revealed in Revelation 13 as the beast from the earth.
The poison that Wormwood uses to contaminate the springs and rivers is Satan’s lies, which he teaches and speaks to the springs and rivers.
Who are the springs and rivers?
1.- Springs represent pastors
2.- Rivers represent evangelists and disciples.
Proverbs 10:11 NIV84 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
Let’s read a couple of verses about this because this is really important to digest what’s happening here.
The mouth of the righteous serves as a fountain or spring that gives life.
A spring represents the initial source of water on earth, being the first point on a mountain to receive water when it rains. This water coming from above is the purest and cleanest form.
Just as Jesus stated in John 4:14, the spring symbolizes the source of living water: “Anyone who drinks my water, the water I give, will never thirst again.” This is because springs of living water will well up from within that person.
Those who receive this water can then nourish others with the water within them. Jesus further explained in John 7 that streams of living water will flow from within those who drink his water, like rivers flowing.
The spring acts as the water source, while a river’s purpose is to carry water from the spring down the mountain, ultimately reaching the sea. The goal is for the seawater to become fresh, as beautifully depicted in the vision of Ezekiel 47.
However, in Revelation chapter 8, the opposite occurs. The springs – representing pastors, evangelists, and disciples who are like rivers – become poison. When people drink this poisoned water, their spirits die.
The water turning to blood or becoming bitter symbolizes lies that kill spirits.
Mr Oh Teachings – Commentaries (False Words)
The teaching about Wormwood involves Mr. Oh, who was spreading false teaching. When people consumed this false teaching, it resulted in death, with pastors and evangelists being the first victims since they were responsible for teaching others.
To understand what actually happened: Mr. Yoo (the son), one of the seven stars, introduced Mr. Oh as an educator. Mr. Oh was highly regarded due to his extensive theological background, having studied at various seminaries across different denominations.
Mr. Yoo viewed Mr. Oh as an authority figure. However, Mr. Oh introduced false teaching (which will be explained later) after being appointed as an educator. He instructed the pastors to abandon the teachings they received from the seven stars and instead follow his commentary.
Initially, some pastors resisted, maintaining that the seven stars’ teaching was true. However, since Mr. Oh was brought in by one of the seven stars who approved of him, they began to consider his teachings might have merit. Gradually, one-third at a time, they accepted these words, which ultimately led to killing the spirits of their congregation with this false teaching.
This unfortunate situation meant their word no longer made the water fresh but made it more bitter, turning it to blood. In Revelation, there are two types of blood:
- Jesus’ blood – which we should drink, gives life, and cleanses
- Poisonous blood – like the Nile turning to blood during Moses’ time, making the water undrinkable and lethal
Wormwood appears again in Revelation 9, where he receives the key to the shaft of the abyss, leading to worse consequences.
Reference is made to 2 Peter 2:17, which shows what happened to the Tabernacle Temple’s pastors and evangelists when they began drinking the wormwood blood water. 2 Peter 2:17 NIV84 These men are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them.
The entire chapter discusses false teachers and their destruction. These springs became springs without water – specifically without drinkable water, without water from heaven or from above. This was their outcome.
Revelation 8:12-13 | 4th Trumpet
The fourth angel sounded his trumpet, and a third of the sun was struck, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them turned dark. A third of the day was without light, and also a third of the night. [13] As I watched, I heard an eagle that was flying in midair call out in a loud voice: “Woe! Woe! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth, because of the trumpet blasts about to be sounded by the other three angels!”
Revelation 8:12-13 NIV84
ONE – The Tabernacle Temple has fallen and becoming Dark
T
he 4th trumpet’s blast strikes a third of the sun, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars.
These celestial bodies figuratively represent:
– Sun: Pastors
– Moon: Evangelists
– Stars: Saints
This describes what happened to the Tabernacle Temple of heaven, where these spiritual leaders and believers have progressively gone dark, occurring one-third at a time. The Tabernacle Temple, which was once God’s possession, has now fallen under Satan’s control.
When it says “a third of the day was without light,” it means during times when the sun should be shining (like Sunday morning services), no light comes from that sun – only darkness is being spread. The evangelists, who should be transmitting the light from the sun, are now delivering false word. The saints, who normally differ in splendor, have become dark, along with congregation members.
Each trumpet served as an announcement of current events, warning the congregation: “This is what is happening to you. Repent. Come out. You need to change course.”
Despite these warnings going out, people continued to die spiritually. This unfortunate situation occurred because people did not repent, and consequently, judgment is approaching.
TWO – Eagle: 4 Living Creature
In Revelation 8:13, we observe an eagle. This eagle is not just a bird – it is one of the four living creatures, representing an archangel.
In this verse, the eagle-like living creature calls out with a loud voice, proclaiming “Woe, woe, woe.”
The Remaining Trumpets: The 3 woes
Woe essentially means curse.
The three woes mentioned correspond to the three remaining trumpets in the Book of Revelation.
These three remaining woes are:
- The Fifth Trumpet (First Woe)
- The Sixth Trumpet (Second Woe)
– Both found in Revelation chapter 9
- The Seventh Trumpet (Third Woe)
– Mentioned in Revelation 10:7 and Revelation 11:15
These three woes represent the final trumpets that are yet to come in the sequence of events described in Revelation.
Memorization
Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne.
Revelation 8:3 NIV84
Let’s Us Discern
Discernment is still a work in progress …. Proverbs 14:15 (ESV)
“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.”
Analysis
Questions to Self-Reflect
Outline
Revelation Chapter 8 – The Last Seal and the Seven Trumpets
I. Introduction
- A. Structure of Revelation 8: This section introduces the chapter’s two main components: the last seal and the seven trumpets.
- B. Review of Being Sealed: Explores the two levels of being sealed in Revelation: Level One (hearing and accepting) and Level Two (being sealed 100% to become a priest).
- C. Revelation Timeline: Outlines the three eras of Revelation: Betrayal (1966-Sept. 1980), Destruction (Sept. 1980-Mar. 14th, 1984), and Salvation (present day onwards).
- D. The First Third to Die (Spiritually): Sets the stage for exploring how and why the first third of remaining people die spiritually during the Era of Destruction.
II. The Last Seal (Revelation 8:1)
- A. Opening the Seventh Seal: Discusses the significance of the last seal opening, revealing the fulfillment of Revelation, the appearance of actual reality, and the word becoming fully understandable.
- B. Silence in Heaven: Explains the half-hour silence in heaven as a monumental moment signifying the fulfillment of a 2,000-year-old prophecy.
III. The Seven Trumpets (Revelation 8:2)
- A. The Seven Angels and Their Trumpets: Introduces the seven angels who each receive a trumpet, representing seven individuals.
- B. The Meaning of a Trumpet: Explains that trumpets symbolize individuals announcing sin and rebellion to call people to repentance.
- C. The First Four Trumpets (Revelation 8:6-13): Identifies the first four trumpets as the male child’s brothers who testify about betrayal and warn people within the Tabernacle Temple.
- D. The Remaining Trumpets (Revelation 9:5-6, 10:7, 11:15): Briefly mentions the fifth and sixth trumpets that blow in Revelation 9 and the seventh trumpet (New John) who announces salvation in Revelation 11:15.
IV. The Golden Censer and the Prayers of the Saints (Revelation 8:3-5)
- A. Symbolism of the Censer: Explains the golden censer represents New John, who carries the prayers of the saints.
- B. Figurative Meanings: Details the symbolism of the censer (person’s heart), incense (prayers of the saints), and smoke (prayers ascending to God).
- C. God’s Desired Prayers: Outlines the types of prayers that please God, focusing on praise, humility, repentance, and alignment with His will.
V. The First Trumpet (Revelation 8:6-7)
- A. The Symbolism of Hail: Interprets the hail mixed with fire and blood as representing a pastor (New John) with a message of judgment.
- B. The Earth, Trees, and Grass: Explains these represent people within the Tabernacle Temple who are being judged.
VI. The Second Trumpet (Revelation 8:8-9)
- A. The Huge Mountain Ablaze: Identifies the mountain as the headquarters of the Tabernacle Temple under judgment.
- B. The Ships: Explains the ships represent branch churches of the Tabernacle Temple, also experiencing judgment.
- C. The Fish: Interprets the fish as the congregation members of the Tabernacle Temple who are spiritually dying.
VII. The Third Trumpet (Revelation 8:10-11)
- A. The Star Wormwood: Identifies Wormwood as a false pastor (Mr. Oh) who spreads poisonous teachings.
- B. Springs and Rivers: Explains springs represent pastors and rivers represent evangelists and disciples, all being poisoned by false teachings.
- C. Mr. Oh’s Teachings: Details how Mr. Oh introduced false commentaries, leading to the spiritual death of pastors and their congregations.
VIII. The Fourth Trumpet (Revelation 8:12-13)
- A. The Sun, Moon, and Stars: Interprets the sun, moon, and stars as representing pastors, evangelists, and saints within the Tabernacle Temple who have gone spiritually dark.
- B. The Eagle: Identifies the eagle as an archangel, one of the four living creatures, proclaiming three woes.
- C. The Remaining Trumpets as Woes: Connects the three woes announced by the eagle to the three remaining trumpets.
IX. Review and Questions
- A. Summary of Revelation 8: Briefly reviews the key points of the chapter, including the opening of the last seal, the symbolism of the trumpets, the censer, and the judgments associated with the first four trumpets.
A Study Guide
Revelation Chapter 8 Study Guide
Short Answer Quiz
Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.
- What are the two distinct levels of being sealed, and who do they apply to?
- What are the three eras of Revelation, and which era are we currently in?
- Explain the significance of the silence in heaven when the seventh seal is opened.
- What do trumpets symbolize in Revelation, and what is their primary purpose?
- Who are the four trumpets in Revelation 8, and what is their role?
- What does the golden censer represent in Revelation 8:3-5?
- Explain the symbolism of hail, fire, and blood in the context of the first trumpet.
- What does the huge mountain ablaze thrown into the sea represent in the second trumpet?
- Who is Wormwood, and how does he affect the springs and rivers in the third trumpet?
- What happens when the fourth trumpet is sounded, and what does this symbolize?
Short Answer Quiz Answer Key
- Level One: Hearing and accepting God’s word, applicable to both the 144,000 and the Great Multitude. Level Two: Being sealed 100% and having the ability to teach others, specifically applicable to the 144,000 who will serve as priests.
- Era of Betrayal (1966 – September 1980), Era of Destruction (September 1980 – March 14th, 1984), and Era of Salvation (March 14th, 1984 – present). We are currently in the Era of Salvation.
- The silence signifies the monumental moment when the book of Revelation is fully opened and its fulfillment begins. It marks a pause before the unfolding of the events described within.
- Trumpets symbolize people, specifically those who announce God’s word. Their primary purpose is to announce sin and rebellion, prompting people towards repentance and action.
- The four trumpets in Revelation 8 are the brothers of the male child, who were initially members of the Tabernacle Temple. Their role is to testify about the betrayal within the Tabernacle Temple and warn people to come out.
- The golden censer represents New John. He acts as a container for the prayers of the saints, carrying out God’s answers to those prayers through his actions.
- Hail symbolizes judgment and God’s wrath, fire represents the consuming and judging nature of God’s word, and blood refers to Jesus’ blood, representing his words of life. Together, they symbolize New John delivering a message of judgment with the word of God.
- The huge mountain ablaze represents the headquarters of the Tabernacle Temple, which is under judgment. Being thrown into the sea signifies its fall and becoming part of Babylon.
- Wormwood is a false pastor, identified as Mr. Oh (Nicholas). He poisons the springs (pastors) and rivers (evangelists and disciples) with Satan’s lies, leading them to preach false teachings and causing spiritual death.
- A third of the sun (pastors), moon (evangelists), and stars (congregation members) are struck and turn dark. This symbolizes the spiritual death and darkness that have overtaken the Tabernacle Temple and its people.
Essay Questions
- Analyze the significance of the division of Revelation into three distinct eras. How does this understanding contribute to a deeper comprehension of the book’s overall message?
- Explore the role of the male child and his brothers in Revelation. What is their relationship to the seven trumpets, and how do their actions contribute to the unfolding events?
- Discuss the symbolism of the golden censer and its connection to prayer. How does this imagery illuminate the power and importance of prayer in alignment with God’s will?
- Examine the destructive consequences of the first four trumpet blasts. What do these events reveal about the spiritual condition of the Tabernacle Temple and its people?
- Compare and contrast the purpose and message of the first six trumpets with that of the seventh trumpet. How does the seventh trumpet offer a glimmer of hope amidst the judgment and destruction?
Glossary of Key Terms
144,000: A symbolic number representing the group of believers chosen by God to serve as priests and guide others.
Great Multitude: The vast number of believers who will be saved and inherit eternal life.
Era of Betrayal: The period marked by the establishment and subsequent destruction of the Tabernacle Temple (TT), characterized by spiritual unfaithfulness and compromise.
Era of Destruction: The period following the Era of Betrayal, marked by God’s judgment and the spiritual death of many within the Tabernacle Temple.
Era of Salvation: The present and future era, characterized by the ongoing gathering and sealing of believers, culminating in the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.
Trumpet: A symbol representing a person who announces God’s word, particularly messages of sin, rebellion, judgment, and salvation.
Golden Censer: A symbolic representation of New John, who carries the prayers of the saints and executes God’s answers to those prayers.
Wormwood: A symbol representing the false pastor, Mr. Oh (Nicholas), who spreads lies and false teachings, poisoning the spiritual waters and causing spiritual death.
Sun, Moon, and Stars: Symbolic representations of pastors, evangelists, and congregation members, respectively. Their darkness signifies the spiritual death and corruption within the Tabernacle Temple.
Three Woes: The three remaining trumpet blasts in Revelation, signifying the intensification of God’s judgment and the approaching final events.
Breakdown
Timeline of Events
Era of Betrayal (1966 – September 1980)
- 1966: The Tabernacle Temple (TT) is established.
- September 1980: The TT is destroyed, marked by the resignation of the 7 Stars. The winds blow, and the sun, moon, and stars go dark and fall.
Era of Destruction (September 1980 – March 14th, 1984)
- Revelation 8-9: The events of these chapters take place during this period.
- Revelation 11: Provides more details about the 42 months of destruction.
- Revelation 13: Also takes place during this era.
Events within the Era of Destruction (Specific Dates Not Provided)
- Opening of the Seventh Seal: The book of Revelation is fully opened, marking the appearance of actual reality and the possibility for full understanding of the word. Silence falls in heaven for half an hour.
- Appearance of the Seven Angels: The angels appear and are given seven trumpets, each representing a person who will make announcements.
- The First Trumpet: New John, carrying the word of God’s wrath, delivers judgment upon the Tabernacle Temple. This leads to the spiritual death of one-third of the congregation members.
- The Second Trumpet: The headquarters of the Tabernacle Temple (the 7 Stars church) is judged and becomes part of Babylon. This results in the spiritual death of one-third of the congregation members in branch churches.
- The Third Trumpet: Mr. Oh, a false pastor known as Wormwood, spreads poisonous teachings within the TT. One-third of pastors and evangelists are deceived and begin preaching Satan’s teachings, leading to the spiritual death of those who follow them.
- The Fourth Trumpet: One-third of the pastors, evangelists, and congregation members within the TT are struck and can no longer speak the truth. The Tabernacle Temple falls under Satan’s control.
- Eagle’s Proclamation: An archangel, represented by an eagle, announces three woes to come, corresponding to the remaining three trumpets.
Era of Salvation (Ongoing)
- Revelation 7: This chapter continues to be fulfilled as people hear the word and are sealed and gathered on the mountain.
- Future Events: The remaining three trumpets (Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh) are yet to be blown, signaling further events within the Era of Salvation.
Cast of Characters
1. New John:
- The “golden censer” filled with the prayers of the saints.
- Carries out God’s answers to the prayers of the saints who work alongside him.
- Delivers God’s message of repentance to the Tabernacle Temple.
- Represents the “hail on fire mixed with blood” in the First Trumpet, bringing God’s judgment upon the unrepentant.
2. The Male Child:
- Not explicitly identified in the provided source.
- Mentioned as having brothers who are among the first to come out of the Tabernacle Temple and testify alongside New John.
3. The Male Child’s Brothers:
- The four people represented by the first four trumpets.
- Originally members of the Tabernacle Temple.
- Among the first to heed New John’s message and leave the TT.
- Testify about the betrayal and sin within the TT, warning others to repent.
4. The 7 Stars:
- Leaders of the Tabernacle Temple, likely pastors or elders.
- Their resignation in September 1980 marked the beginning of the TT’s destruction.
- Their church (the headquarters of the TT) is represented as the “huge mountain all ablaze” in the Second Trumpet.
5. Mr. Oh (Nicholas):
- A false pastor represented by the star Wormwood in the Third Trumpet.
- Introduced to the TT by Mr. Yoo, one of the 7 Stars.
- Spreads poisonous teachings and commentaries, leading pastors and evangelists astray.
- Later revealed as the “beast from the earth” in Revelation 13.
6. Mr. Yoo:
- One of the 7 Stars.
- Introduces Mr. Oh to the Tabernacle Temple as an educator.
- Believes in Mr. Oh’s authority due to his extensive theological background.
7. The Eagle:
- One of the four living creatures, representing an archangel.
- Announces three woes to come, corresponding to the remaining three trumpets (Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh).
8. The Congregation Members of the Tabernacle Temple:
- Represented by the “grass,” “trees,” “fish,” “sun,” “moon,” and “stars” in the various trumpet judgments.
- Gradually fall under judgment as they fail to heed the warnings and repent.
- Those who listen and follow New John are sealed and gathered on the mountain, escaping spiritual death.
Overview
Overview: Understanding Revelation 8
Key Interpretations:
- Revelation Timeline: The source places the events of Revelation 8 within the “Era of Destruction” (September 1980 – March 14th, 1984), specifically focusing on the spiritual death of the “first third” of remaining believers following the events of Revelation 6.
- Symbolic Language: The source emphasizes the symbolic language of Revelation, interpreting physical events as representations of spiritual realities. For example:
- Trumpets: Represent individuals (specifically the “male child’s brothers” and later New John) who announce God’s judgments and ultimately salvation.
- Golden Censer: Represents New John as a vessel for the prayers of the saints.
- Hail, Fire, and Blood: Represent the word of God, both as judgment and life-giving.
- Mountain: Represents a church (specifically the Tabernacle Temple headquarters).
- Ships: Represent branch churches.
- Fish: Represent congregation members.
- Wormwood: Represents a false pastor (Mr. Oh) spreading poisonous teachings.
- Sun, Moon, and Stars: Represent pastors, evangelists, and believers, respectively.
- Eagle: Represents an archangel announcing the coming “woes.”
- Specific Events: Each trumpet blast is interpreted as a specific event related to the Tabernacle Temple and its followers. For example:
- First Trumpet: New John’s preaching brings judgment upon the Tabernacle Temple, leading to spiritual death for a third of its members.
- Second Trumpet: The Tabernacle Temple headquarters falls under judgment and becomes part of “Babylon”.
- Third Trumpet: The false pastor (Mr. Oh) spreads lies, leading to the spiritual death of pastors and evangelists.
- Fourth Trumpet: Pastors, evangelists, and believers within the Tabernacle Temple become spiritually darkened.
- Salvation and Judgment: The source highlights the contrast between the first six trumpets (announcing judgment) and the seventh trumpet (announcing salvation). The focus is on the need for repentance and the consequences of rejecting God’s message.
Important Quotes:
- On the purpose of the trumpets: “A trumpet’s primary function is to announce – it is the sound or the word that announces. Specifically, it announces sin and rebellion so that people can repent.”
- On the symbolic meaning of hail: “This hail is figuratively describing a person – specifically a pastor with the word… hail has characteristics like stone… This connects to the scripture ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion.'”
- On the importance of understanding parables: “This understanding isn’t earned through 15 years of seminary studies… This understanding is a gift that comes when things are fulfilled. The understanding is given, not earned.”
- On the significance of the golden censer: “The golden censer mentioned here represents New John, who acts as a container for the prayers of the saints.”
- On the meaning of Wormwood: “Wormwood, in reality, is a plant that can become poisonous if not properly treated. It is known as a bitter plant, and when placed in water, it makes the water bitter as well… This star named Wormwood represents a false pastor.”
Q&A
Q&A
1. What happens when the last seal is opened in Revelation 8?
The opening of the last seal symbolizes the unsealing of the book of Revelation, meaning its contents are ready to be fulfilled and revealed to the world. This marks the beginning of a period of judgment and destruction, announced by seven angels with trumpets.
2. What do the trumpets represent in Revelation 8?
The trumpets symbolize pronouncements of judgment and warnings of sin and rebellion directed specifically at those who betrayed God within the Tabernacle Temple. They are sounded by angels, but each trumpet also represents a person who is testifying.
3. What is the difference between the first six trumpets and the seventh trumpet?
The first six trumpets announce judgment and destruction upon those in the Tabernacle Temple who have betrayed God. The seventh trumpet, however, announces salvation and declares the coming of God’s kingdom on earth.
4. Who is the “golden censer” in Revelation 8:3-5?
The golden censer symbolizes New John, who acts as a vessel for the prayers of the saints. He carries out God’s answers to these prayers, particularly those seeking God’s will and expressing repentance.
5. What does the “hail and fire mixed with blood” in the first trumpet judgment represent?
This imagery symbolizes New John, who carries God’s word of judgment. The hail represents the powerful word of God, the fire represents its consuming and judging nature, and the blood represents the words of life, which are now turned into judgment for those who refuse to repent.
6. What does the “huge mountain, all ablaze, thrown into the sea” symbolize in the second trumpet judgment?
This represents the headquarters of the Tabernacle Temple being judged and becoming part of Babylon. The mountain represents the church, the fire represents God’s judgment, and being thrown into the sea symbolizes falling under Satan’s influence.
7. Who is Wormwood, and what happens when the third trumpet sounds?
Wormwood represents a false pastor named Mr. Oh who spreads false teachings and poisons the springs and rivers, which symbolize pastors, evangelists, and disciples. As a result, they drink in these lies, leading to the death of their spirits.
8. What happens when the fourth trumpet sounds?
The fourth trumpet announces that one-third of the sun (pastors), moon (evangelists), and stars (saints) are struck and turned dark. This signifies the spiritual death of those within the Tabernacle Temple as they embrace falsehood and lose their ability to spread the truth.