REVELATION 7

THE GREAT MULTITUDE FROM EVERY TRIBE + NATION

Before the destruction of the Earth is to begin, an angel arrives from the east carrying the seal of God. This angel is there to protect those who are servants of God, preserving them from God’s wrath. In the vision, John hears that 144,000 servants would be sealed and protected, twelve thousand from each of the twelve tribes. This numbering of the tribes is reminiscent of a census of the twelve tribes, which was typically a preparation for war (Numbers 1).

Although John hears that 144,000 would be saved, he turns to see a greater multitude of people that no one could number. The great crowd comprises every nation, from all tribes and people, speaking all languages. Everyone stands before the lamb on the throne, clothed in white and holding palm branches. In a loud voice the people cry out “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” Everyone is overcome with awe and falls to the ground worshipping God.

In the vision, one of the elders addresses John, asking who made up the great crowd. John replies that they are the believers who have been made clean by the blood of the Lamb. These people will serve God and remain in His presence. They will no longer experience hunger or thirst. The Lamb will be their shepherd and guide them to springs of living water, wiping away every tear from their eyes.