In Revelation we have similar visions called the seven seals (chapter 6), seven trumpets (ch. 8-9) and seven bowls (ch. 16). These visions gave a picture of what’s happening in the world from different angles, a bit like action replays. They teach important principles to explain what’s happening in the world.

Here is wonderful truth (v2-5). It is the prayers of the saints mixed with the smoke of the incense that leads to fire being thrown down to earth and the beginning of the blowing of the trumpets.

The incense was offered by the High Priest in the temple. The incense mixed with the prayers of God’s people speaks of how Jesus the great High Priest presents the prayers of His people along with His own prayers to God the Father. In response God’s purposes on earth are accomplished.

The first four trumpets begin attacks on the physical world. What accompanies these trumpets parallels the plagues delivered through Moses on Egypt. These trumpet blasts are to warn people of God’s judgment.

Trumpet 1 (v7) – 1/3 of the earth was burned.

Trumpet 2 (v8-9) – 1/3 of sea became blood and 1/3 of sea creatures die.

Trumpet 3 (v10-11) – 1/3 of rivers and freshwater become bitter.

Trumpet 4 (v12) – 1/3 of the sun, moon and stars was struck.

These four trumpets speak of how this world is cursed because of the fall of Adam (Genesis 3 v17). Only in Christ is hope to be found.