Interpreting the seven trumpets of Revelation

Gregory K. Beale

1st trumpet

famine as depicted by the third horseman, which is a judgement on Babylon

2nd trumpet

similar conditions but affecting the sea

3rd trumpet

undrinkable water causes affliction

4th trumpet

light from the sun, moon and stars is diminished

5th trumpet

demonic locusts able to inflict spiritual harm on those unbelievers who have not been sealed, who do not benefit from the seal's protecting nature, and who will never benefit from it

6th trumpet

monstrous horses, ferocious and dreadful demonic beings that afflict people in a fierce, apalling, and devastating manner

7th trumpet

God's kingdom and the climactic final judgment when all the unbelieving dead are judged and destroyed