5 Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, thunderings, lightnings, and an earthquake.

A. The angel took the censer filled with fire and threw it down on the earth. The earth here represents the wickedness of evil men who are opposed to God. (See 12:12, 16; 13:11; 16:2) The angel is casting fire on those who have been unfaithful to God.

B. The earthquake depicts the fear and shaking of those who are fighting against the will of God.

C. The noises, thunder and lightening are pictured as coming from the throne of God. (4:5)

D. This verse ends the opening of the seven seals. We now move to the sounding (warning) of the seven trumpets.

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Old Testament