No idol or power in heaven or on earth can even come close. In fact, earthly powers actually tremble at the very thought of God. The righteous, though, need not fear, for God protects and delivers them from all that is evil. These verses offer comfort to all who suffer because of their faith. This last part of his vision is particularly dream-like.
Images shift, often in confusing ways.
The reading consists of selected verses of the larger concluding vision. The angel guiding John through his vision begins to explain the reason for his coming. Twice their conversation is interrupted by the voice of Jesus. By verse 12, when our reading opens, the angel has gone and Jesus himself appears. As the vision closes, the risen and ascended Jesus again speaks, assuring John and the others that, yes, he is indeed coming and coming soon.