Christians believe that Jesus is coming back again. A terrifying time of unprecedented persecution and suffering, destruction and death will precede His return, however (Revelation 6:1–16:21). Satan will cause havoc, severely persecuting those who believe in God.
In the midst of such intense suffering on earth, God has encouraged His people by letting them have a glimpse into heaven. In a vision, John saw “a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language” (Revelation 7:9). This fulfills the two promises God gave to Abraham: His descendants would be as countless as the dust of the earth (Genesis 13:16) and as numerous as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5). God also said he would be the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4).
The immensity and diversity of the crowd described in Revelation 7:9 emphasizes the universality of the gospel: Jesus died to save the whole world, not just the Jews (John 1:29; 1 John 2:2, 4:14). Even as Jesus told us to “go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone” (Mark 16:15), God gives us a picture of heaven that completes the great commission (Matthew 24:14).
At His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a large crowd asked Jesus for salvation (Matthew 21:9 NIV). They shouted, “Hosanna,” a Hebrew exclamation of praise that literally means “save now.” The believers in heaven praise Him for answering this request. The multitude roars in one accord: “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!” (Revelation 7:10). They praise God for their redemption and for Jesus who died to save them.
Let’s join the angels and bow down in worship of the God who saves! (Revelation 7:13).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Deuteronomy 29:1-29
More:
Read Revelation 5:1-14 to learn about another vision of heaven.What did John see that assures, encourages, or comforts you?
Next:
Why is your salvation the most important thing for which you can thank God? How do you show that you’re truly grateful for your salvation?
Gary Shultz on February 23, 2014 at 7:29 am
Oh nameless one – The hope of heaven and it’s King, is enough to make us sing.
Roxanne Robbins on February 23, 2014 at 7:43 pm
It will be a glorious day when every knee bows to Jesus Christ. Romans 14:11
daisymarygoldr on March 14, 2014 at 6:55 pm
The people lining the streets of Jerusalem shouted, “Hosanna”. They meant “Save us now from the Roman rule”.
Did the Lord answer their request? No. Instead, Jesus wept “How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace. But now it is too late… because you did not accept your opportunity for salvation.” (Luke 19:41-44).
Why didn’t God answer this prayer? It was not in accordance to His will. The people were focused on the earthly throne. God sent Jesus not to set up an earthly kingdom (John 18:36) but to usher in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 10:7).
The people of Jerusalem wanted Jesus their King to save them from social, psychological, physical, emotional, political and economic oppression. And just like them even today, many are crying out in despair for Jesus to save them from poverty, hunger, addictions, AIDS… you name it.
Sadly many don’t realize that the greatest need is to be saved from sin—and fail to accept their opportunity for salvation. Jesus came to save His people from their sins, so they will not die but live happily forever in the Kingdom of God. This is the Good news that will bring great joy to all people.