Revelation 7:9
Verse
Context
Praise from the Great Multitude
8from the tribe of Zebulun 12,000, from the tribe of Joseph 12,000, and from the tribe of Benjamin 12,000.9After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. 10And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”
Sermons
David Wilkerson
K.P. Yohannan
Denny Kenaston
Oswald J. Smith
J. Vernon McGee
T. Austin-Sparks
David PlattSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A great multitude - This appears to mean the Church of Christ among the Gentiles, for it was different from that collected from the twelve tribes; and it is here said to be of all nations, kindreds, people, and tongues. Clothed with white robes - As emblems of innocence and purity. With palms in their hands, in token of victory gained over the world, the devil, and the flesh.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
no man--Greek, "no one." of all nations--Greek, "OUT OF every nation." The human race is "one nation" by origin, but afterwards separated itself into tribes, peoples, and tongues; hence, the one singular stands first, followed by the three plurals. kindreds--Greek, "tribes." people--Greek, "peoples." The "first-fruits unto the Lamb," the 144,000 (Rev 14:1-4) of Israel, are followed by a copious harvest of all nations, an election out of the Gentiles, as the 144,000 are an election out of Israel (see on Rev 7:3). white robes--(See on Rev 6:11; also Rev 3:5, Rev 3:18; Rev 4:4). palms in . . . hands--the antitype to Christ's entry into Jerusalem amidst the palm-bearing multitude. This shall be just when He is about to come visibly and take possession of His kingdom. The palm branch is the symbol of joy and triumph. It was used at the feast of tabernacles, on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when they kept feast to God in thanksgiving for the ingathered fruits. The antitype shall be the completed gathering in of the harvest of the elect redeemed here described. Compare Zac 14:16, whence it appears that the earthly feast of tabernacles will be renewed, in commemoration of Israel's preservation in her long wilderness-like sojourn among the nations from which she shall now be delivered, just as the original typical feast was to commemorate her dwelling for forty years in booths or tabernacles in the literal wilderness.
John Gill Bible Commentary
After this I beheld,.... What follows is a distinct vision from the preceding one, and is not a continuation of that, as if the sealing of the Jewish believers was designed by the former, and the sealing of the Gentiles in this latter; whereas in this vision there is no mention made of sealing, nor was there, or will there be any need of it in the time it refers unto; and which is not the time of the Reformation; nor when the vials began to be poured out upon the seat of the beast; for though there were great numbers converted in many nations, kindreds, people, and tongues, yet not in all; nor do the characters of this great multitude, and the happiness they shall enjoy, seem to suit with persons in a state of mortality and imperfection, Rev 7:14; wherefore many interpreters understand this vision of the saints in heaven: but it rather respects the millennium state, or thousand years' reign of Christ with his saints on earth, with which all that is here said agrees; compare Rev 7:14 with Rev 20:4; and Rev 7:15 with Rev 22:3; and Rev 7:16 with Rev 21:4. And the design of this vision is to show to John, and every diligent observer, that after the seventh seal is opened, the trumpets are blown, and the vials poured out; during which time there will be a number sealed that will profess Christ; and at the close and winding up of all things, in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, Christ will descend, and all the saints with him; their bodies will be raised, and the living saints changed, and make one general assembly, who are shown to John here, as in Rev 21:9; to relieve his mind, and support his spirits, in a view of the calamities ushered in by the opening of the seventh seal. And lo, a great multitude, which no man could number; which design all the elect of God in the new Jerusalem church state, the bride, the Lamb's wife, or the new Jerusalem descending from God out of heaven; these will appear to be a great multitude, not in comparison of the inhabitants that shall have dwelt upon earth, nor of the professors of religion in one shape or another; for, with respect to each of these, they are but a few, a seed, a remnant, a little flock; but as considered in themselves, and so they are many who are ordained to eternal life, whose sins Christ has bore, for whom his blood has been shed, and whom he justifies, and who are called by his grace, and are brought to glory; and who make up such a number as no man can number: God indeed can number them, but not man; for they are a set of particular persons chosen by God, and redeemed by Christ, and who are perfectly and distinctly known by them; their number and names are with them; their names are written in the Lamb's book of life; and God and Christ can, and do call them by their name; and when they were given to Christ, they passed under the rod of him that telleth them; and he will give an exact account of them, of every individual person, another day. But then they are not to be numbered by men; and they will be of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, and therefore must consist both of Jews and Gentiles; these were not all nations, &c. but "of" all nations, some of all nations; and such God has chosen, Christ has redeemed, and the Spirit calls; God has not chosen all the Jews, but a remnant, according to the election of grace, nor all the Gentiles, but has taken out of them a people for his name; and so Christ has redeemed, by his blood, some out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation, of Jew and Gentile: and hence the Gospel has been sent into all the world, and to all nations, for the gathering of these persons out of them; and when they are all gathered in, they will all meet together in the new Jerusalem church state, and make up the body here presented to view. Stood before the throne and before the Lamb; the throne of God, and of the Lamb, will be in the midst of the new Jerusalem church; the tabernacle of God will be with men, and he will dwell, among them; and before the presence of his glory will all the saints be presented; and the Lamb will then present to himself his whole church, without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; and they will behold his glory, and see him as he is: and as they are described before by their number, and their descent, so here by their position and situation, and, as follows, by their habit and attire, clothed with white robes; agreeably to their princely and priestly characters: it was usual for princes and noblemen to be arrayed in vestures of linen, as Joseph was in Pharaoh's court; and the Jewish priests wore garments of linen, in their daily ministry and service; and in the thousand years' reign the saints will appear to be kings and priests, Rev 5:10; and accordingly will be clothed as such: and this may also be expressive of their entire freedom from sin by the blood of Christ, Rev 7:14; and their complete justification by his righteousness, which is sometimes compared to white raiment, and is called fine linen, clean, and white; and likewise their spotless purity and holiness, sanctification in them being now perfect, which was before imperfect: and these robes may also design their shining robes of glory and immortality; for they will now be clothed upon with their house from heaven, and will have put off mortality and corruption, and have put on immortality and incorruption, and appear with Christ in glory; for such will be the then state of things: and palms in their hands; or branches of palm trees, as in Joh 12:13 as an emblem of their uprightness and faithfulness, which they had shown in the cause of Christ, even unto death, the palm tree being a very upright tree, Jer 10:5; or of their bearing up under a variety of pressures and afflictions, by which they were not cast down and destroyed, but bravely stood up under them, and were now come out of them; the palm tree being of such a nature, as is reported, that the more weight is hung upon it, the higher it rises, and the straighter it grows; see Psa 92:12; and chiefly as an emblem of victory and triumph over their enemies, as sin, Satan, the world and death, which they had been struggling with, in a state of imperfection, but were now more than conquerors over them; the palm tree is well known to be a token of victory. So Philo the Jew (f) says, the palm tree is , "a symbol of victory". Conquerors used to carry palm tree branches in their hands (g): those who conquered in the combats and plays among the Greeks, used not only to have crowns of palm trees given them, but carried branches of it in their hands (h); as did also the Romans in their triumphs; yea, they sometimes wore "toga palmata", a garment with the figures of palm trees on it, which were interwoven in it (i): and hence here palms are mentioned along with white garments; and some have been tempted to render the words thus, "clothed with white robes", and "palms on their sides"; that is, on the sides of their robes (k). The medal which was struck by Titus Vespasian, at the taking of Jerusalem, had on it a palm tree, and a captive woman sitting under it, with this inscription on it, "Judaea capta", Judea is taken. And when our Lord rode in triumph to Jerusalem, the people met him with branches of palm trees in their hands, and cried, Hosanna to him. So the Jews, at the feast of tabernacles, which they kept in commemoration of their having dwelt in tents in the wilderness, carried "Lulabs", or palm tree branches, in their hands, in token of joy, Lev 23:40; and in like manner, these being come out of the wilderness of the world, and the tabernacle of God being among them, express their joy in this way; See Gill on . (f) Allegor. l. 2. p. 74. (g) A. Gell. Noctes Attic. l. 3. c. 6. Sueton. in Caio, c. 32. (h) Pausan. Arcadica, l. 8. p. 532. Alex. ab Alex. Genial. Dier. l. 5. c. 8. & l. 6. c. 19. (i) Isidor. Hispalens. Origen. l. 19. c. 24. p. 168. (k) Vid. Lydium de re Militare, l. 6. c. 3. p. 225.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:9-17 The interlude’s second vision shows heaven with an innumerable crowd rejoicing because they are secure in Christ and all tears and sorrows have ended. 7:9 This vast crowd of believers (7:14) is too great to count, fulfilling God’s promises to Abraham (Gen 15:5; 17:4-5; Rom 4:16-24; Gal 3:29). • White robes (Rev 6:11) and palm branches (John 12:13) are ancient symbols of victory and success, adding to the celebration that occurs after God ends the hostile world.
Revelation 7:9
Praise from the Great Multitude
8from the tribe of Zebulun 12,000, from the tribe of Joseph 12,000, and from the tribe of Benjamin 12,000.9After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. 10And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Whole New World Is Coming
By David Wilkerson9.5K43:35End Of The WorldREV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having joy and confidence in one's Christian life. He encourages those who may be doubting their readiness for heaven to come forward and ask Jesus to take away their fear and doubts. The preacher then shifts to discussing future events, starting with Jesus putting a stop to time and ushering in eternity. He describes time as a small piece in the larger circle of eternity and explains that God has given humanity this little space to repent. The sermon concludes with the preacher highlighting the promise of believers being changed in the twinkling of an eye and being gathered together by angels from all nations.
Authentic Missions, Part One
By K.P. Yohannan3.4K25:59MissionsMAT 28:18MRK 16:15JHN 13:1JHN 13:34JHN 21:15COL 1:24REV 7:9In this sermon, Brother K. P. Johannon discusses the concept of authentic missions and what it looks like according to the teachings of Jesus. He begins by acknowledging that Jesus did not explicitly give a plan for world evangelism to his disciples in the Gospels. However, he emphasizes the importance of studying scripture to understand the Lord's call to reach the lost world. Brother K. P. then focuses on Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus commissions his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey his commands. He highlights the simplicity of Jesus' approach, emphasizing the importance of love and service in fulfilling the mission of spreading the good news.
The Radical Example of Moravian Missions
By Denny Kenaston3.2K1:17:48Moravian MissionsMAT 6:33REV 5:10REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the entire Bible is centered around the Lord Jesus Christ and what He can do for humanity. God's ultimate passion is revealed through His love for the world, demonstrated by giving His only Son. The speaker highlights that the joy set before Jesus was the gathering of nations, peoples, and tongues to worship God. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of responding to the message of the Gospel and actively sharing it with others, as believers will one day be judged based on their actions and obedience to God's Word.
Oswald J. Smith Preaching - Part 1
By Oswald J. Smith3.1K01:33MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 10:14REV 7:9
This sermon emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel to all nations, inspired by the realization that not everyone has had the opportunity to hear the message of Jesus Christ. The speaker reflects on the command to preach the gospel to every creature and every kindred, tongue, tribe, and people, highlighting the urgency and responsibility to reach those beyond one's own borders.
(Genesis) Genesis 11:5-9
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K06:28GenesisGEN 11:1MAT 6:33ACT 2:1REV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the Tower of Babel from the Bible. He emphasizes that the people's attempt to build the tower and unite against God was an act of rebellion. God, recognizing the capabilities of mankind, decided to confound their language to prevent their unity. This language barrier became a powerful separation between people, stronger than any physical barrier. The preacher also highlights that the purpose of speaking in tongues in the New Testament is to signify that God has provided redemption for all mankind, regardless of language or nationality.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 7
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K45:42Seeing JesusPSA 66:18ISA 6:3EZK 1:1MAT 6:33JHN 20:31REV 7:9REV 21:11In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the visions of God that Ezekiel saw. The speaker highlights that whenever the Lord takes a new step or movement, He reveals His glory to someone or some instrument. The speaker then discusses the symbolism of the four living ones or cherubim and the wheels under the throne. The wheels represent a great multitude of redeemed individuals who have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and are now worshiping and praising God. The sermon emphasizes that this vision of glory through holiness is not limited to Ezekiel's time but is a timeless message for all believers.
The Glory of God - Part 4
By David Platt1.9K08:09MAT 16:24MRK 8:34PHP 3:20HEB 11:16HEB 13:14REV 7:9
This sermon emphasizes the importance of risking everything for the mission of God, highlighting the dedication and sacrifice of believers in different parts of the world who prioritize the Word of God and the spread of His glory over their own comfort and safety. It challenges listeners to consider whether they are willing to risk it all for the sake of the Gospel and to choose devotion over mere religious practice.
The Guaranteed Harvest
By Paul Washer1.9K1:17:26EvangelismPSA 2:6MAT 6:33JHN 6:37ACT 1:8EPH 1:4REV 5:1REV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not wasting one's life and giving more to the cause of Christ. He urges the audience to prioritize the Great Commission and the gospel over worldly pursuits. The preacher warns the young people in the congregation that they will be held accountable for their privilege of hearing the Bible taught. He also highlights the need for believers to have a deep knowledge of God and a vision of Christ. The sermon concludes with the introduction of a strong angel proclaiming a message that is meant for the entire universe.
Salvation Army Marches and Evangelism
By William Booth1.8K02:25PSA 133:1ACT 1:8EPH 4:3COL 3:14REV 7:9
This sermon reflects on Salvationist meetings and the International Congress in London in 1904, showcasing the growth and expansion of the Army's activities over the years. It highlights the unity of different races in a common religious enthusiasm, as seen in the great march past at the Crystal Palace led by General William Bull.
Crying Out
By Denny Kenaston1.8K1:24:09Crying OutMAT 6:33LUK 18:1JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 10:13REV 5:9REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power and significance of John 3:16, which states that God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son for the salvation of all who believe in Him. The speaker highlights the importance of truly understanding the depth of this verse and its implications for all nations and peoples. The sermon also addresses the need for prayer and support for missionaries who are sent to preach the Gospel to those who have not heard. The speaker acknowledges the overwhelming and despairing nature of the task, but reminds the audience that God longs to save even the most lost and sinful individuals.
Outpouring in Papua New Guinea (Part 1)
By David Sitton1.7K1:00:39RevivalGEN 1:27MAL 1:11MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 17:30ACT 20:24REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the challenges of reaching remote and unreached people groups with the gospel. He describes the difficult journey of missionaries through the jungle, highlighting the geographical remoteness as one of the reasons for the lack of access to these groups. However, he encourages the audience to remember the incredible potential they have as believers, even with their advantages in education, technology, and resources. The speaker defines missions as taking light into darkness and emphasizes the importance of access to reach the billions of people living in unreached people groups around the world.
The Making of Overcomers
By Stephen Kaung1.5K1:11:58OvercomingPSA 23:1MAT 6:33JHN 10:11REV 1:13REV 5:5REV 7:9REV 7:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses various scenes from the book of Revelation. The first scene described is the vision of Christ as the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Lamb standing before the throne. The second scene is the vision of Christ as the Son of Man walking among the seven golden candlesticks, symbolizing His presence in His own church. The speaker then introduces another scene from Revelation chapter 7, where a great multitude from every nation and tribe stands before the throne and the Lamb, dressed in white robes and holding palms in their hands. The angels and elders also worship God, giving Him blessings, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might.
Joshua’s Divine Commission
By Brent Yim1.5K58:41Divine CommissionDEU 31:6JOS 1:6PSA 23:4MAT 28:18ACT 16:6EPH 2:10REV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the divine appointment and assurance given to Joshua. The sermon begins by highlighting the importance of making a decision to follow God, using the example of people who made the decision at a balloon and wine festival. The preacher then moves on to discuss the divine assurance given to Joshua, emphasizing that God's promises would be the source of Joshua's strength and courage. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of sharing the gospel and making disciples, encouraging listeners to fulfill their own divine commission.
(Genesis) 17 - Noah's House Saved, the World Condemned
By S. Lewis Johnson1.5K54:23NoahGEN 8:22ACT 13:48HEB 11:7REV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of the judgment that will come at the second coming of Jesus Christ. He compares it to the judgment of the Flood, where there was no warning given. The preacher urges the audience to seek refuge in Jesus Christ, who offers atonement for sins and eternal life. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's sin, believing in Christ, and surrendering oneself to Him. The sermon concludes with a prayer for those who have not yet come to know Christ and a reminder of the mysterious impulse of the Holy Spirit in bringing people to faith.
Church History - Session 7 (The Book of Revelation)
By Edgar F. Parkyns1.3K47:48MAT 6:33REV 1:1REV 5:9REV 6:2REV 7:9REV 7:17REV 21:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the divine intervention on the human scene in judgment, specifically focusing on the seven angels with the seven trumpets. The first four trumpets are described, with each one causing destruction and devastation on the earth, sea, and rivers. The preacher suggests that these trumpets symbolically represent the actual historical events of the breakup of the Roman Empire. The sermon concludes with a warning of three more trumpets to come and the introduction of the next set of visions, the seven seals.
The Righteous Branch
By Conrad Mbewe1.2K59:05WarningJER 23:1MAT 6:33REV 7:9REV 7:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of true leadership in the church. He urges preachers and elders to be faithful in guiding and watching over their flock. He also highlights the significance of Jesus Christ as the ultimate leader, who continues to save and sanctify his people. The preacher warns against the failure of leadership, which can lead to corruption and judgment from God. He emphasizes that God will intervene and raise up new leaders when there is a perpetual failure in leadership. The sermon draws from the book of Jeremiah to support these points.
Laying the Tracks of Spiritual Reawakening
By Richard Sipley1.1K55:10ISA 11:9MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 2:1ACT 2:41JAS 5:16REV 7:9
This sermon emphasizes the importance of laying tracks for spiritual awakening in the local church. It discusses the distinction between revival and spiritual awakening, highlighting the need for prayer, obedience to God, and a missionary thrust to reach the world. The speaker shares insights on how to gradually introduce prayer initiatives in the church to sustain and build momentum towards revival and spiritual awakening.
Our Hope for Revival
By Erroll Hulse9951:06:17PSA 2:6ZEC 8:20ZEC 8:23MAT 28:18MRK 16:15ACT 1:8REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the responsibility of believers to fulfill the Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28. Jesus commanded his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them and baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The speaker highlights the importance of prayer and information in fueling this mission, referencing a treatise by Jonathan Edwards that inspired a movement of extraordinary prayer in the 18th century. The speaker encourages believers to be diligent in their prayerfulness and earnestness for revival, both in their own nations and around the world.
The Curse on Canaan
By Chuck Smith96625:04Biblical GenealogySin NatureCanaanGEN 9:24GEN 10:1GEN 11:1ISA 19:25MAT 1:1LUK 3:23ROM 1:16GAL 3:28EPH 2:14REV 7:9Chuck Smith discusses 'The Curse on Canaan' as he explores the sinful nature of humanity, which persists even after the flood. He emphasizes that Noah's curse on Canaan was misinterpreted historically to justify slavery, which is a perversion of scripture. Smith clarifies that the descendants of Canaan were not destined for servitude but contributed significantly to civilization, particularly through the Phoenicians. He also highlights the genealogical significance of Noah's sons, particularly Shem, from whom Abraham and ultimately Jesus would descend. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the importance of understanding biblical history and its implications for faith today.
Unreached Peoples: The Ansari People of South Asia
By Paul Hattaway95900:00MAT 9:36ACT 4:12ROM 10:141TI 2:5REV 7:9
This sermon focuses on the Ansari people of South Asia, particularly known for their intricate silk weaving craftsmanship but often trapped in poverty due to exploitation. Despite their warm-hearted nature and Islamic practices, many Ansari lack assurance of salvation and are in need of hearing about the grace and salvation found in Jesus Christ. The sermon calls for prayers for the Ansari to encounter the truth of the Gospel and be woven into the diverse tapestry of believers worshipping Jesus for eternity.
Unreached Peoples: China's Minority Groups #6 the Jungles of Southern Yunnan
By Paul Hattaway88400:00PSA 67:2MAT 9:37MAT 28:19ACT 1:8ROM 10:14REV 7:9
This sermon focuses on various minority people groups in Xishuangbanna, China, such as the Hani, Kutsong, Jingpa, Lahu, Genua, and Bulong, highlighting their unique cultures, religious practices, and the introduction of Christianity among them. It emphasizes the importance of praying for these unreached groups, that the Word of God may reach their hearts and minds, leading to spiritual transformation and the expansion of God's kingdom among diverse communities.
The Harvest Is Now (Dutch)
By K.P. Yohannan7411:00:21MAT 4:19MAT 9:36MAT 10:16ROM 10:152CO 9:7PHP 2:3JAS 1:271JN 3:18REV 7:9
This sermon emphasizes the call to follow Jesus and live a life of compassion and service, focusing on the urgency of reaching the lost and suffering in the world. It challenges listeners to pray earnestly for unreached nations, live simply, consider dedicating their lives to missions, and support native missionaries in sharing the gospel in difficult regions.
Five Things That Characterise This World
By Ian Paisley73325:32REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the characteristics of the world and the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The world is described as a dark place, filled with sin and lost souls. However, the good news is that through the blood of Jesus, all sins can be forgiven and washed away. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is the light that has come into the world, performing miracles and offering salvation, yet many do not recognize Him. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the message to reach and transform countless souls, bringing them out of darkness and into the light of the gospel.
What Christ Means to Me!
By Stan Ford68538:35PSA 32:7ISA 55:7ACT 3:19REV 1:5REV 4:4REV 5:11REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker opens the book of Revelation and reflects on the praise given to God by one man. The speaker emphasizes that God is too big to be limited to just four wedding creatures or a junior choir. The speaker then highlights the presence of four and twenty elders, possibly referring to the junior choir. However, the speaker is amazed to discover that there are thousands upon thousands singing worthy of the Lamb. The sermon also touches on the theme of loneliness and the importance of being connected to Christ to avoid being lost. The speaker shares a personal story of taking a wrong turn and feeling lost in London. The sermon concludes with a story of a little boy on London Bridge who is not lost but is searching for his parents.
He Shall See His Seed
By Ian Paisley66233:47PSA 145:4ISA 55:7MAT 11:28MAT 28:19LUK 15:7JHN 1:6REV 7:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the assurance of salvation for those who follow Christ. He uses the imagery of a ship in a storm to illustrate that all who obey Christ's command will safely reach their destination in heaven. The preacher also highlights the importance of trusting in the Lord and resting on His promises during difficult times. He concludes by emphasizing the victory that believers will experience when they all gather in heaven and the assurance that God's seed, His chosen people, will be saved.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A great multitude - This appears to mean the Church of Christ among the Gentiles, for it was different from that collected from the twelve tribes; and it is here said to be of all nations, kindreds, people, and tongues. Clothed with white robes - As emblems of innocence and purity. With palms in their hands, in token of victory gained over the world, the devil, and the flesh.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
no man--Greek, "no one." of all nations--Greek, "OUT OF every nation." The human race is "one nation" by origin, but afterwards separated itself into tribes, peoples, and tongues; hence, the one singular stands first, followed by the three plurals. kindreds--Greek, "tribes." people--Greek, "peoples." The "first-fruits unto the Lamb," the 144,000 (Rev 14:1-4) of Israel, are followed by a copious harvest of all nations, an election out of the Gentiles, as the 144,000 are an election out of Israel (see on Rev 7:3). white robes--(See on Rev 6:11; also Rev 3:5, Rev 3:18; Rev 4:4). palms in . . . hands--the antitype to Christ's entry into Jerusalem amidst the palm-bearing multitude. This shall be just when He is about to come visibly and take possession of His kingdom. The palm branch is the symbol of joy and triumph. It was used at the feast of tabernacles, on the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when they kept feast to God in thanksgiving for the ingathered fruits. The antitype shall be the completed gathering in of the harvest of the elect redeemed here described. Compare Zac 14:16, whence it appears that the earthly feast of tabernacles will be renewed, in commemoration of Israel's preservation in her long wilderness-like sojourn among the nations from which she shall now be delivered, just as the original typical feast was to commemorate her dwelling for forty years in booths or tabernacles in the literal wilderness.
John Gill Bible Commentary
After this I beheld,.... What follows is a distinct vision from the preceding one, and is not a continuation of that, as if the sealing of the Jewish believers was designed by the former, and the sealing of the Gentiles in this latter; whereas in this vision there is no mention made of sealing, nor was there, or will there be any need of it in the time it refers unto; and which is not the time of the Reformation; nor when the vials began to be poured out upon the seat of the beast; for though there were great numbers converted in many nations, kindreds, people, and tongues, yet not in all; nor do the characters of this great multitude, and the happiness they shall enjoy, seem to suit with persons in a state of mortality and imperfection, Rev 7:14; wherefore many interpreters understand this vision of the saints in heaven: but it rather respects the millennium state, or thousand years' reign of Christ with his saints on earth, with which all that is here said agrees; compare Rev 7:14 with Rev 20:4; and Rev 7:15 with Rev 22:3; and Rev 7:16 with Rev 21:4. And the design of this vision is to show to John, and every diligent observer, that after the seventh seal is opened, the trumpets are blown, and the vials poured out; during which time there will be a number sealed that will profess Christ; and at the close and winding up of all things, in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, Christ will descend, and all the saints with him; their bodies will be raised, and the living saints changed, and make one general assembly, who are shown to John here, as in Rev 21:9; to relieve his mind, and support his spirits, in a view of the calamities ushered in by the opening of the seventh seal. And lo, a great multitude, which no man could number; which design all the elect of God in the new Jerusalem church state, the bride, the Lamb's wife, or the new Jerusalem descending from God out of heaven; these will appear to be a great multitude, not in comparison of the inhabitants that shall have dwelt upon earth, nor of the professors of religion in one shape or another; for, with respect to each of these, they are but a few, a seed, a remnant, a little flock; but as considered in themselves, and so they are many who are ordained to eternal life, whose sins Christ has bore, for whom his blood has been shed, and whom he justifies, and who are called by his grace, and are brought to glory; and who make up such a number as no man can number: God indeed can number them, but not man; for they are a set of particular persons chosen by God, and redeemed by Christ, and who are perfectly and distinctly known by them; their number and names are with them; their names are written in the Lamb's book of life; and God and Christ can, and do call them by their name; and when they were given to Christ, they passed under the rod of him that telleth them; and he will give an exact account of them, of every individual person, another day. But then they are not to be numbered by men; and they will be of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, and therefore must consist both of Jews and Gentiles; these were not all nations, &c. but "of" all nations, some of all nations; and such God has chosen, Christ has redeemed, and the Spirit calls; God has not chosen all the Jews, but a remnant, according to the election of grace, nor all the Gentiles, but has taken out of them a people for his name; and so Christ has redeemed, by his blood, some out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation, of Jew and Gentile: and hence the Gospel has been sent into all the world, and to all nations, for the gathering of these persons out of them; and when they are all gathered in, they will all meet together in the new Jerusalem church state, and make up the body here presented to view. Stood before the throne and before the Lamb; the throne of God, and of the Lamb, will be in the midst of the new Jerusalem church; the tabernacle of God will be with men, and he will dwell, among them; and before the presence of his glory will all the saints be presented; and the Lamb will then present to himself his whole church, without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; and they will behold his glory, and see him as he is: and as they are described before by their number, and their descent, so here by their position and situation, and, as follows, by their habit and attire, clothed with white robes; agreeably to their princely and priestly characters: it was usual for princes and noblemen to be arrayed in vestures of linen, as Joseph was in Pharaoh's court; and the Jewish priests wore garments of linen, in their daily ministry and service; and in the thousand years' reign the saints will appear to be kings and priests, Rev 5:10; and accordingly will be clothed as such: and this may also be expressive of their entire freedom from sin by the blood of Christ, Rev 7:14; and their complete justification by his righteousness, which is sometimes compared to white raiment, and is called fine linen, clean, and white; and likewise their spotless purity and holiness, sanctification in them being now perfect, which was before imperfect: and these robes may also design their shining robes of glory and immortality; for they will now be clothed upon with their house from heaven, and will have put off mortality and corruption, and have put on immortality and incorruption, and appear with Christ in glory; for such will be the then state of things: and palms in their hands; or branches of palm trees, as in Joh 12:13 as an emblem of their uprightness and faithfulness, which they had shown in the cause of Christ, even unto death, the palm tree being a very upright tree, Jer 10:5; or of their bearing up under a variety of pressures and afflictions, by which they were not cast down and destroyed, but bravely stood up under them, and were now come out of them; the palm tree being of such a nature, as is reported, that the more weight is hung upon it, the higher it rises, and the straighter it grows; see Psa 92:12; and chiefly as an emblem of victory and triumph over their enemies, as sin, Satan, the world and death, which they had been struggling with, in a state of imperfection, but were now more than conquerors over them; the palm tree is well known to be a token of victory. So Philo the Jew (f) says, the palm tree is , "a symbol of victory". Conquerors used to carry palm tree branches in their hands (g): those who conquered in the combats and plays among the Greeks, used not only to have crowns of palm trees given them, but carried branches of it in their hands (h); as did also the Romans in their triumphs; yea, they sometimes wore "toga palmata", a garment with the figures of palm trees on it, which were interwoven in it (i): and hence here palms are mentioned along with white garments; and some have been tempted to render the words thus, "clothed with white robes", and "palms on their sides"; that is, on the sides of their robes (k). The medal which was struck by Titus Vespasian, at the taking of Jerusalem, had on it a palm tree, and a captive woman sitting under it, with this inscription on it, "Judaea capta", Judea is taken. And when our Lord rode in triumph to Jerusalem, the people met him with branches of palm trees in their hands, and cried, Hosanna to him. So the Jews, at the feast of tabernacles, which they kept in commemoration of their having dwelt in tents in the wilderness, carried "Lulabs", or palm tree branches, in their hands, in token of joy, Lev 23:40; and in like manner, these being come out of the wilderness of the world, and the tabernacle of God being among them, express their joy in this way; See Gill on . (f) Allegor. l. 2. p. 74. (g) A. Gell. Noctes Attic. l. 3. c. 6. Sueton. in Caio, c. 32. (h) Pausan. Arcadica, l. 8. p. 532. Alex. ab Alex. Genial. Dier. l. 5. c. 8. & l. 6. c. 19. (i) Isidor. Hispalens. Origen. l. 19. c. 24. p. 168. (k) Vid. Lydium de re Militare, l. 6. c. 3. p. 225.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:9-17 The interlude’s second vision shows heaven with an innumerable crowd rejoicing because they are secure in Christ and all tears and sorrows have ended. 7:9 This vast crowd of believers (7:14) is too great to count, fulfilling God’s promises to Abraham (Gen 15:5; 17:4-5; Rom 4:16-24; Gal 3:29). • White robes (Rev 6:11) and palm branches (John 12:13) are ancient symbols of victory and success, adding to the celebration that occurs after God ends the hostile world.