What do the iron breastplate symbolize? (Revelation 9:9)

And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of chariots of many horses running to battle. Revelation 9:9 - King James

 

 

⚪ "as-it-were" breastplate (Methodists)

Rev. 9 [...] 9:9. And they had breastplates — "Breastplates of righteousness." — Eph. 6:14. As it were breastplates of iron. — An Iron breastplate would be a good one but an "as-it-were" breastplate would need examination. It was not uncommon for oldtime Methodists to deceive themselves into thinking they had not sinned for years. Those who had such breastplates wore the "As-lt-were" variety. Source : 🇺🇸 1917 - Studies in the Scriptures, Vol 7, The finished mystery, page 158, page 159 + Cover

 

⚫ Impenetrable iron breastplate that protects the heart of the anointed ones

Rev. 9 [...] Their hearts, the organs of love for God and for his righteousness, hence hearts that know no fear but are courageous, are well protected as if by impenetrable breastplates of iron. So they never lose love and courage. Source : 🇺🇸 December 1, 1961, page 719 + Cover