Verses 1-10. A continuation of the closing subject of the last chapter, describing more particularly the state of temptation and its effect with the wicked and with the good.

Verses 11-25. Revelation from the Lord that those who are merely natural will persist in their hatred of good, while the good will be delivered; including a description of the state of the good during the temptation, and of consolation given to them, notwithstanding that their temptation may continue.

Verses 26-39. Further, there is revelation giving a more particular description of the experiences of the wicked, of their vastation, and of the preservation of those who are established in good and truth.

Verses 40-45. Concerning the attempt of those who are in merely external worship without any genuine spiritual life to overcome evil by and from themselves, and the consequences thereof.