Revelation 10:8

Then the voice that I had heard from heaven spoke to me again, saying, "Go, take the small scroll that lies open in the hand of the angel standing on the sea and on the land."

Study Bible

Then the voice that I had heard from heaven spoke to me again
This phrase indicates a continuation of divine communication, emphasizing the importance of the message. The voice from heaven is often associated with God's authority and revelation, as seen in other biblical instances such as the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:17). The repetition of the voice speaking "again" suggests ongoing guidance and instruction, a theme prevalent throughout Revelation.

saying, “Go, take the small scroll
The command to "go" implies an active participation in the unfolding of divine prophecy. The "small scroll" is reminiscent of the scroll in Revelation 5, which only the Lamb could open. This scroll, however, is described as "small," possibly indicating a specific, contained revelation. Scrolls in biblical times were used to record important messages, and this one symbolizes a message that John is to internalize and proclaim.

that lies open in the hand of the angel
The scroll being "open" signifies that its contents are ready to be revealed and understood. The angel holding the scroll suggests a messenger of God, often seen as intermediaries between God and humanity. Angels frequently appear in Revelation, symbolizing divine intervention and the execution of God's will.

standing on the sea and on the land.”
The angel's stance on both the sea and the land symbolizes authority over the entire earth, reflecting God's sovereignty over all creation. This imagery connects to the idea of God's dominion as seen in Psalm 24:1, "The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it." The sea and land together represent the totality of the world, indicating that the message of the scroll has universal significance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Voice from Heaven
This is the divine voice that John hears, instructing him to take the small scroll. It signifies God's direct communication and authority.

2. John the Apostle
The recipient of the vision and the one instructed to take the scroll. He represents the faithful servant receiving divine revelation.

3. The Angel
A mighty angel standing on the sea and the land, symbolizing authority over the earth. The angel holds the small scroll, which is central to this passage.

4. The Small Scroll
An open scroll held by the angel, representing a message or revelation from God that John is to receive and internalize.

5. The Sea and the Land
Symbolic of the entire earth, indicating the universal scope of the angel's authority and the message of the scroll.

Teaching Points

Divine Instruction
God communicates directly with His servants, providing guidance and revelation. We must be attentive to His voice in our lives.

Symbolism of the Scroll
The scroll represents God's word and His plans. We are called to internalize and act upon His revelations.

Authority of God's Messengers
The angel's stance on the sea and land signifies God's ultimate authority over creation. We should trust in His sovereign control.

Obedience to God's Commands
John's willingness to take the scroll demonstrates obedience. We are encouraged to respond faithfully to God's instructions.

Universal Scope of God's Message
The message of the scroll is for all creation, reminding us of the global impact of God's word and our role in sharing it.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction to take the scroll reflect our responsibility to engage with God's word in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we discern and respond to the "voice from heaven" in our personal spiritual journey?

3. How does the symbolism of the angel standing on the sea and land encourage us to trust in God's authority over our circumstances?

4. What parallels can we draw between John's experience with the scroll and our own experiences of receiving and internalizing God's word?

5. How can we apply the lessons from this passage to enhance our obedience and faithfulness in fulfilling God's purposes for us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 2:8-3:3
This passage parallels John's experience, where Ezekiel is instructed to eat a scroll, symbolizing the internalization of God's message.

Revelation 5:1-5
The scroll in the hand of the one on the throne, which only the Lamb can open, connects to the theme of divine revelation and authority.

Jeremiah 15:16
Jeremiah speaks of finding God's words and eating them, which brings joy and delight, similar to John's experience with the scroll.