Revelation 7:9-17

Now John sees a great multitude which no man could number, of all nations, peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands. John was informed that "these are they that have come out of great tribulation and have washed their robes and have made them white in the blood of the Lamb; therefore are they before the throne of God, they shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more," etc. This scene shows the blessedness of the saved and especially of the martyred dead, who came out of great tribulation, and is in happy contrast to the sad and somber pictures of Judgment that preceded and that are to follow. This seventh chapter is the happy episode or interlude between the sixth and seventh seals, and between the scenes of judgment which they portray.

It has been thought by some that the terms used to describe this multitude are too inclusive or universal to fit the historical view of these Chapter s. In answer it may be said that the terms used to describe the multitudes that were in Jerusalem at Pentecost were almost as universal; for it is said that there were Jews from every nation under heaven. Besides it is not necessary to assume that the vision was limited by the age of the world and the progress of the kingdom up to that date; but that the vision might fitly convey an idea of the consummation of Christ's kingdom as an incentive and encouragement to the church on earth in the times of its trial, and in all times.