NT Fire Starters – Day 347: Revelation 7:1-17
READ: Revelation 7:1-17
THINK: The great tribulation is a time of God’s unprecedented judgment on a world that has persistently rejected Christ; but it’s also a time of satanic assault against those who receive Christ and remain true to His Word. During this period, followers of Christ will suffer terrible persecution. The conflict between righteousness and wickedness will be so intense that it can only be called a “great tribulation” (v. 14). This phrase in Greek literally reads “the tribulation, the great”–the repeated article “the” adding forceful emphasis. Matthew 24:21 says, “For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now–and never to be equaled again.” But through this time, those who receive Christ and remain true to Him have assurance of eternal peace and joy like the world has never known.
RESPOND: How do John’s visions in chapter 7 relate to the opening of the seals and the corresponding judgments? (See 7:1 note.) Who is depicted in these visions? What does “the seal of the living God” indicate? Who receives it and why? (See 7: 2 note.) Who are the 144,000 and what will they do? Who is part of the “great multitude” standing before Christ in heaven and where do they come from (vv. 9, 13-14)? (See 7:9 note.) What do their white robes and palm branches represent? Regarding the end-time judgments on the earth, what is implied by the phrase “great tribulation”? (See 7:14 note.) During this time, how will God respond to those who rejected Him, and how will Satan respond to those who follow Christ? For those who remain faithful to Christ, what assurances are given in this passage (vv. 15-17)? What does it mean that “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes”? (See 7:17 note.)
PRAY: Pray for the strength to endure persecution for Christ. Pray for the salvation of Jewish people and for peace in Israel. Thank Jesus that one day the troubles of life will be forever past. Thank Him for His seal of protection on your life.
ACT: Encourage as many people as possible today–Christians and non-Christians alike–who are going through difficult times. Volunteer to pray for those to whom God directs you, even doing so in person.