V.1-8 This chapter interrupts the description of the sixth chapter — it ended with the sixth seal. Many in Israel are going to believe the Lord, and turn to Him. They are going to be preserved through these dreadful days.
V.9-17 These are Gentiles, not Jews. Those who have believed the preaching of the gospel of the kingdom. (See Matt. 24:14, 36-41). Notice that in verse 40 and 41 it is the reverse of the “rapture” for those were the unbelievers who disappear.