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144000 in Revelation 14
144000 in Revelation 14
In Revelation 14, John (again) sees 144,000 people. L. A. Mott wrote concerning this group:
“In Revelation 7 they are identified as “the servants of our God” and are located on earth, for they were sealed before the judgments were turned loose on the earth. They were entirely exempt from the plague that came with the sounding of the fifth trumpet (9:4). The Zion on which they stand in 14:1 seems to be the heavenly Zion (cf. Heb. 12:22). The new song which only they could learn was sung “before the throne” (14:2-3). The past tenses in their identification (esp. 14:41, 5) are another indication that the 144,000 now appear in glory. They have been through the difficulties on earth and now appear in glory with their number intact, What consolation for those who remain on earth!”
Harkrider wrote: “When they were introduced in chapter seven, four angels were about to send forth the winds of God’s judgment upon the earth. However, these 144,000 were “sealed,” meaning they would not be hurt by the plagues God brought against the wicked. God’s protection did not insure one against suffering physical persecution, even death, as a result of his faith. But the seal of God did assure that even if death occurs, it would only issue one into a better habitation.”
God’s people DO suffer in this life. God not only knows, He has prepared something better to come. For a little while, it may be necessary to suffer, but God has prepared for us glory and honor. If we give up NOW, we lose for all eternity. If we are faithful NOW, we live in God’s presence for eternity. Are you one of God’s people? Will you remain faithful through whatever problems come your way?
Hugh DeLong
L. A. Mott, Thinking Through Revelation, pg. 74-75.
Robert Harkrider, The Book of Revelation, pg. 162.
