Revelation 7

Revelation 7! :)

Chapter 6 was about the horrible things that would happen in the world before Jesus returns. And it ended with the question in verse 17...."for the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to survive?" Here's the answer...

v1-10- just when all hope was lost with the coming judgement, four angels appear in John's vision and hold back the four winds of judgement until God's people (us!) are sealed as his own. Only then will he oped the seventh and last seal. 

A seal on a scroll, or envelope protects its contents so the letter doesn't fall out. God places his own seal (v2) on us, his followers, showing his protection over us! 

Application: This is awesome, we may be beaten or feel pain, but our souls are protected by Christ's seal. :)

Verses 4-8 list the 12 tribes of Israel and how many were marked with the seal of God....wait for it....a total of 144,000, 12,000 from each tribe. But these tribes aren't the usual one listed in the OT, this is because it shows God's true followers. But don't get hung up on the number 144,000- there are more Christians than that thankfully!! From John's perspective, they're make a massive crowd, to big to count (v9). The important fact is that all of these people are safe because Jesus rescued them on the cross (v10) :D

v11-17- This huge crowd is described as "the ones who died in the great tribulation" (or the great suffering). These believers have come through their times of suffering and trials by remaining loyal to God. Because they remain loyal, God will provide them with eternal life. 

Application: We too should remain loyal to God who provides us with protection.

v14- It's pretty difficult to imagine how blood could make anything turn white. But but but, the blood of Christ is the world's greatest purifier since it removes the stain of sin...yes, it is better than vanish!

God will provide for his children's needs in their eternal home where there will be no hunger, thirst or pain, and he will wipe away all our tears.

Application: When you are suffering, take comfort in the fact that Gods promise to us is complete protection :)

So, in verses 1-8, we see the believers receiving a seal to protect them through great tribulation and suffering. In verses 9-17, we see the believers finally with God in heaven. All who have been faithful to God and singing his praises. Their trials are over and they will have no more tears, pain or fears.

'You hold me now' by Hillsong is a song about this, worth a listen :)