Scriptural text: Revelation 7:9-17
“Unaccountable Crowd (Revelation 7:9-10).”
The first fruits of Christ having led the way, the Gentiles converted later follow, and ascribe their salvation to God and the Redeemer with triumph. In acts of religious worship we come nigh to God, and must come by Christ, the throne of God could not been approached by sinners, were it not for the Mediator. They were clothed with the robes of justification, holiness, and victory, and they had palms in their hands, as conquerors used to appear in their triumphs. Such a glorious appearance will the faithful servants of God at last, when they have fought the good fight of faith, and finished the course; with a loud voice they gave to God and the Lamb the praise of the great salvation. Those who enjoy eternal happiness must and will bless both the Father and the Son; they will do it publicly, and with fervour. We see what is the work of heaven, and we ought to begin it now, to have our hearts much in it, and to long for that world where our praises, as well as our happiness, will be made perfect.
Every Voice Lifting Praises (v.10).
Having seen God’s people on earth, John now sees the same people in heaven. They come from all nations and are more than anyone can count. They may have suffered persecution and even martyrdom on earth, but in heaven they are seen as conquerors, dressed in white and holding palm branches. The Lamb who died triumphed over death, and His victory is now theirs.
Worshipful Circle: Acts of Worship (v.11) .
Angels add their praise to that of the triumphant.
Words of Acclamation (v.12).
As approving and confirming what the great multitude of men had said in (Revelation 7:12); in ascribing the glory of salvation to God, and the Lamb: the angels, though they have no part in it themselves, yet highly approve of it as right and just, that men should give the glory of it, where it is due.
White-Robed Witnesses (Revelation 7:14-17).
The reason why John was questioned concerning these things, is because it is common in all Divine worship, that man should first will, desire, and pray, and the Lord then answer, otherwise man would not receive anything Divine. And they have washed their robes signifies, and who have cleansed their religious principles from the evils of falsity. By “washing” in the Word, is signified to cleanse from evils and falsities; and by “robes” signified general truths. That “to be washed” signifies to be cleansed from evils and falsities.
“And He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them (Revelation 7:15).”
In heaven, the redeemed will know the loving care and nurture of their Savior. He will protect them from every affliction (they shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun will not strike them, nor any heat). He will also provide for their every need (lead them to living fountains of water).
References: Bridgeway Bible Commentary, Matthew Henry Bible Commentary