This mighty angel is described as being wrapped in a cloud (v1) which spoke of him being in presence of God. The rainbow over his head speaks of the faithfulness of God and how the angel speaks for the God who keeps His covenant promises. The face of the angel shining like the sun speaks of him reflecting something of the glory of God, whose presence He has come from.

He set his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land (v2b), this is showing that he is claiming authority over the whole world. The angel calls out with a loud voice like a roaring lion and as he does seven thunders sounded (v3). He is God’s servant being used to fulfil God’s purposes.

The sealing of the message of the seven thunders is in contrast to the little open scroll which the mighty angels holds in his hand (v2). This reminds us that God reveals the truth we need to know, but there is a lot of other truth which God in His wisdom and love chooses not to reveal to us now.

Not only must John take the scroll he has to eat it (v9). More and more John is being brought in to be part of this revelation. When we embrace God’s truth into our hearts and lives and then share that truth, we like John become part of God’s wonderful plan in the world (v11).