"If the first four seals preview human life in general between the first and second comings of Christ, what about Christ’s people during this time? The opening of the fifth seal gives the divine answer." [1]
“When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been.” (Revelation 6:9–11, NIV).
John saw the souls of the martyrs under the altar. Drawing from Jewish worship John viewed the lives of the slain those who had given themselves as a sacrifice. Paul viewed his life in a similar way when he wrote, “But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” (Philippians 2:17, NIV); and again: “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near.” (2 Timothy 4:6, NIV).
Why had these Christians died? They died because of the Gospel; because of their consistent testimony to it. As they cried out to the Lord -- the Sovereign Lord, they were given white robes. "Although many white-clothed beings appear in Revelation, the only ones specifically said to have white robes are these martyrs and the “Great Tribulation” multitude before God’s throne (7:9, 13). The white robes, then, may be a badge of honor reserved for martyrs." [2] They appealed to the Lord of their martydom who is also the Judge. They cried for justice. They cried for justice to Him who knows the limits of the persecution.
God is sovereign. He is Lord. He is holy and true. He hears the cry of the slain. He will answer. "This assurance also becomes a basis for glorified saints in heaven being able to “rest” in peace until the punishment is executed (cf. 14:9–11 with 14:12–13!). The final judgment will begin when all believers whom God has decreed to suffer finally fulfill their destiny." [3].
Father, thank you for the example of those who have given their lives for the Gospel. Thank you for the vision that they are with you. But Lord thank you that they too have a sense of unrest until You bring peace and justice to earth. Lord there are many who are still being killed for the sake of Christ. Strengthen those today who are suffering for the cause of the Gospel. Grant to them grace that exceeds human understanding. I am humbled and perplexed at the ease of my life. These persecuted brothers and sisters cry, "How long?" I cry, "Why?" Why have I been given such peace? Grant me a humble and grace-filled response by standing true to Your Word today. It's the least I can do.
_______________________________
1. Easley, K. H. (1998). Vol. 12: Revelation. Holman New Testament Commentary (109). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
2. Ibid, (110).
3. Beale, G. K. (1999). The book of Revelation: A commentary on the Greek text. New International Greek Testament Commentary (394). Grand Rapids, MI; Carlisle, Cumbria: W.B. Eerdmans; Paternoster Press.
No comments:
Post a Comment