Revelation 10:2

He held in his hand a small scroll, which lay open. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land.

Study Bible

He held in his hand a small scroll, which lay open.
The "small scroll" in the angel's hand is significant in the context of Revelation. Unlike the sealed scroll in Revelation 5, this scroll is open, indicating that its contents are ready to be revealed. The open scroll suggests the transparency and imminence of God's message. In biblical symbolism, scrolls often represent divine revelation or prophecy. The fact that it is "small" may imply a specific or focused message, possibly related to the events that follow in the narrative. This scroll could be seen as a continuation or further explanation of the larger scroll, emphasizing the unfolding of God's plan. The act of holding the scroll signifies authority and the readiness to deliver its message, reminiscent of Ezekiel 2:9-10, where Ezekiel is given a scroll to eat, symbolizing the internalization of God's word.

He placed his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land.
The angel's stance, with one foot on the sea and the other on the land, symbolizes dominion and authority over the entire earth. This imagery reflects the comprehensive scope of God's sovereignty, encompassing both the chaotic, unpredictable nature of the sea and the stability of the land. In ancient times, the sea often represented chaos and danger, while the land symbolized order and security. By standing on both, the angel demonstrates control over all creation, echoing the dominion given to humanity in Genesis 1:28. This act also signifies the universality of the message contained in the scroll, indicating that it pertains to all of creation. The positioning of the feet may also allude to the promise of God's ultimate victory over evil, as seen in Psalm 8:6, where God places all things under His feet. This imagery reinforces the theme of divine authority and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Mighty Angel
This figure is a powerful angelic being, distinct from the seven angels with trumpets. His appearance and actions signify authority and divine message.

2. The Small Scroll
The scroll is open, indicating that its contents are meant to be revealed and understood. It symbolizes a message or revelation from God.

3. The Sea and the Land
The angel's stance with one foot on the sea and the other on the land represents dominion over the entire earth, both maritime and terrestrial realms.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority and Sovereignty
The angel's stance over the sea and land emphasizes God's ultimate authority over all creation. Believers are reminded of God's control over every aspect of life and the world.

Revelation and Understanding
The open scroll signifies that God desires to reveal His plans to His people. Christians are encouraged to seek understanding and wisdom from God's Word.

Proclamation of God's Message
Just as the scroll is open and ready to be read, believers are called to proclaim God's message boldly and faithfully, trusting in His timing and purpose.

Preparedness for God's Revelation
The readiness of the scroll suggests that believers should be prepared to receive and act upon God's revelations in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the angel's stance over the sea and land teach us about God's authority in our personal lives and the world?

2. How can we ensure that we are ready to receive and understand God's revelations, as symbolized by the open scroll?

3. In what ways can we actively proclaim God's message in our communities, inspired by the open scroll in Revelation 10:2?

4. How does the imagery of the open scroll in Revelation 10:2 connect with the concept of internalizing God's Word, as seen in Ezekiel 2-3?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's sovereignty in your life. How does this passage encourage you to trust in His control over all circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 2-3
The prophet Ezekiel is given a scroll to eat, symbolizing the internalization of God's message. This parallels the open scroll in Revelation, suggesting a message to be consumed and proclaimed.

Daniel 12
Daniel is told to seal up the words of a scroll until the end times, contrasting with the open scroll in Revelation, which indicates the time for revelation has come.

Psalm 95:5
This verse speaks of God's ownership of the sea and land, reinforcing the angel's stance as a symbol of divine authority over creation.