1. Four horsemen of destruction (1-8)
In this chapter the Lamb opens 6 of the 7 seals affixed to the scroll in God's hand. When each of the first 4 seals is broken, a horse and rider come out. They seem to represent in sequence: military conquest, internal revolution, famine and death (ΒΌ of the earth). These things cause great suffering (Eze 7:5-8).
2. The saints, and the Lamb's wrath (9-17)
The focal point is the 5th seal. Under it are the people of God who were slain because of their faithfulness to God and to his word. They await the ultimate victory of the Lamb, when the Lord will come to judge the earth. The 6th seal is then opened. It reveals the wrath of the Lamb. He is to be feared far more than natural disaster or war. However, God will keep his own people safe, while unrepentant kings and slaves look for a place to hide.
Application: Lord, help me to be faithful to you and to your word to the end.
One Word: Hold fast to the word of God