Chapter 7
Chapter Outline
A pause between two great periods. (1–3)
The peace, happiness, and safety of the (4–8)
saints, as signified by an angel's sealing
144,000.
A song of praise. (9–12)
The blessedness and glory of those that (13–17)
suffered martyrdom for Christ.Verses 1–8
In the figurative language of Scripture, the blowing of the four winds together, means a dreadful
and general destruction. But the destruction is delayed. Seals were used to mark for each person
his own possessions. This mark is the witness of the Holy Ghost, printed in the hearts of believers.
And the Lord would not suffer his people to be afflicted before they were marked, that they might
be prepared against all conflicts. And, observe, of those who are thus sealed by the Spirit, the seal
must be on the forehead, plainly to be seen alike by friends and foes, but not by the believer himself,
except as he looks stedfastly in the glass of God's word. The number of those who were sealed,
may be understood to stand for the remnant of people which God reserved. Though the church of
God is but a little flock, in comparison with the wicked world, yet it is a society really large, and
to be still more enlarged. Here the universal church is figured under the type of Israel.
Verses 9–12
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 be approached by sinners, were it
not for a 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 make at last, when they have fought the good fight of
faith, and finished their 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.
Verses 13–17
Faithful Christians deserve our notice and respect; we should mark the upright. Those who
would gain knowledge, must not be ashamed to seek instruction from any who can give it. The