Revelation 7

There are many different interpretations to the Book of Revelation and our text for today is at the top of the list of the most debated interpretations. There is much speculation about the meaning of the 144,000. As I seek to be consistent in the application of accepted principals for understanding apocalyptic literature I understand the 144,000 to be multiple of ten which means completeness and a multiple of twelve which is a reference to the people of God. Therefore the 144,000 are not a group of specific individuals; rather they represent the whole people of God. In John’s vision he is seeing that the whole people of God will not be destroyed in their present persecution. As wicked and evil as the Emperor is; he will not destroy the people of God. There will be casualties, as the previous chapter with the Four Horseman revealed. In the next portion of our text John’s vision gives the assurance that those who died as martyrs for their faith are not lost. These faithful ones have been brought into the very presence of God.

John’s vision was a message from God to the churches. It is an encouragement to preserve in the face of persecution. Even though they were called to what seemed an impossible task, against an insurmountable force, God is giving the churches His assurance that their work, their faithfulness is not futile. The movement of God will not be defeated. And, God is faithful and true. Those who give their last full measure for the cause of Christ will not be forgotten by God.

I think it was with this same sure confidence of God’s faithfulness that the Apostle Paul wrote,

“When this perishable body puts on imperishability,

and this mortal body puts on immortality,

then the saying that is written will be fulfilled:

‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’

‘Where, O death, is your victory?

Where, O death, is your sting?’

Therefore, my beloved,

be steadfast, immovable,

always excelling in the work of the Lord,

because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

1 Corinthians 15: 54-58 (NRSV)

What does today’s reading

reveal to you about God?

What does it reveal to you about yourself?

Think about what God wants you to do

or remember about this passage.

Does God want you to change

anything in your life?

6-Oct-11       Rev. 8:1-13