Revelation – The 144,000 in Revelation 7 & 14

This teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship focuses on understanding the identity and mission of the 144,000 described in Revelation chapters 7 and 14. Revelation is presented not as a book of fear, but as a message of hope and encouragement for believers facing tribulation [1]. The speaker, Matthew Vander Els, emphasizes that Revelation was written to inspire believers to stand firm in their faith and to witness, or martyr, against the evil of the world [1, 2].

Understanding Apocalyptic Literature

The Book of Revelation is written in the style of apocalyptic literature, which uses symbolic language to reveal a deeper perspective on events [2]. While the world may appear to be in chaos, Revelation assures believers that God is still in control [2]. The visions in Revelation often replay Old Testament narratives through the lens of Yeshua (Jesus), providing new meaning and context [3].

The Sealing of the 144,000

In Revelation 7, the 144,000 are introduced as a group being sealed by God to protect them from his wrath during times of tribulation [4]. This seal empowers them to stand as soldiers and witnesses against the destructive forces of the beast [4]. The sealing is reminiscent of Ezekiel 9, where a mark is placed on the foreheads of the righteous to protect them from slaughter [3, 5]. The number 144,000 is symbolic, representing the fullness and completion of God’s covenant people [6]. It is derived from 12,000 individuals from each of the 12 tribes of Israel, with 12 symbolizing God’s kingdom people [6, 7]. The mention of 1,000 represents a vast, nonspecific number implying fullness [6]. This symbolizes the Jewish hope that the eschatological restoration would be fulfilled in the redeemed followers of the Lamb [6].

The Identity of the 144,000

The 144,000 are preparing for battle and receive a spiritual seal, which is not meant to remove them from tribulation but to enable them to endure it [8]. This army of holy warriors follows the Davidic Messiah, who is the Lion of the tribe of Judah, but is revealed as a lamb [8]. They conquer, not through violence, but through their faithful witness and the blood of the Lamb [8]. The seal signifies their belonging to God, contrasting with those who bear the mark of the beast [8].

Anomalies in the Census

There are a couple of anomalies in the listing of the tribes [9]:

• The tribe of Dan is missing [9].
• Judah is listed first, which is unusual for Old Testament censuses [9].
• Levi is included, despite being excluded from war censuses in the Torah [9, 10].

The inclusion of Levi is particularly significant because it symbolizes that God can call, equip, and seal anyone He chooses, regardless of expectations [10].

The Great Multitude

After hearing the number of the sealed, John looks and sees a great multitude that cannot be counted, from every nation, tribe, people, and language [11]. They stand before the throne and the Lamb, wearing white robes and holding palm branches, symbolizing sanctification and victory [11, 12]. This vision represents the restored Israel and the fulfillment of the promise made to Abraham, encompassing all nations [12, 13]. The multitude is both an army being equipped for battle and a community of the redeemed engaged in worship [12].

The 144,000 in Chapter 14

In Revelation 14, the 144,000 are seen again, standing before the Lamb on Mount Zion [14]. They sing a new song that no one else can learn, and they are described as those who were redeemed from the earth, who did not defile themselves, and who follow the Lamb wherever he goes [14]. They are without lie and blameless [14]. This vision offers reassurance and a preview of the outcome of the battle against evil [14]. They are called virgins here as symbolic purity from not fornicating with Babylon [15]. Both men and women are included in the Army of God [16].

Application for Everyday Life

• Stand Firm in Faith: Like the early churches, believers today are called to hold fast to their faith, even in the midst of tribulation [1, 17].
• Be Witnesses: Believers are called to witness against the evil in the world and to stand for the Kingdom of God [1, 2].
• Embrace Your Calling: Recognize that God can call and equip anyone for His purposes, regardless of background or expectations [10].
• Live a Life of Purity: Strive to remain undefiled by the ways of the world and the beast system [18].
• Follow the Lamb: Participate in the mission and ministry of Jesus, showing the love and grace of God to others [19, 20].
• Endure to the End: Keep God’s commandments and remain faithful to Yeshua through patient endurance [21].
• Recognize the Battle: Acknowledge the spiritual battle taking place and actively resist the forces of evil [4, 22].
• Live as Ambassadors: Represent the Kingdom of Heaven in your daily life, giving a foretaste of the New Jerusalem [23].
• Love Your Enemies: Look at others through the lenses of the cross, recognizing their struggles and offering them the love and grace of God [24].

References

• Revelation 7
• Revelation 14
• Ezekiel 9
• Zechariah 6
• Psalms 50
• Deuteronomy 7
• Romans 9

Resources

• Books by Richard Bauckham
• The Bible