Identity of the Great Multitude

The Great Multitude is a term derived from the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 7:9-17. This passage describes a vast assembly of people from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. The identity of this multitude has been a subject of theological discussion and interpretation within Christian eschatology.

In Revelation 7:9 , it is written: "After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands." This description emphasizes the universality and inclusivity of the multitude, indicating that they are not limited to a specific ethnic or cultural group but represent the redeemed from all over the world.

The Great Multitude is often contrasted with the 144,000 mentioned earlier in Revelation 7:4-8. While the 144,000 are described as being from the twelve tribes of Israel, the Great Multitude is seen as encompassing all believers who have come to faith in Jesus Christ, transcending ethnic and national boundaries. This interpretation aligns with the broader biblical theme of the gospel being available to all people, as seen in passages such as Galatians 3:28 : "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

The white robes worn by the Great Multitude symbolize purity and righteousness, which are attributed to the redemptive work of Christ. Revelation 7:14 states: "These are the ones who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." This indicates that the multitude has been purified through the sacrificial death of Jesus, highlighting the centrality of His atonement in their salvation.

Reward of the Great Multitude

The reward of the Great Multitude is depicted in Revelation 7:15-17, where their eternal destiny and blessings are described. Verse 15 states: "For this reason, 'They are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple; and the One seated on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them.'" This indicates that the Great Multitude enjoys the privilege of being in the immediate presence of God, serving Him continually in a state of worship and fellowship.

The imagery of God spreading His tabernacle over them suggests divine protection and communion, reminiscent of the Old Testament tabernacle where God's presence dwelled among His people. This reward signifies an intimate relationship with God, free from the barriers of sin and suffering.

Further, Revelation 7:16-17 promises: "Never again will they hunger, and never will they thirst; nor will the sun beat down upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd. 'He will lead them to springs of living water,' and 'God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.'" These verses portray a future where the Great Multitude experiences complete satisfaction and comfort, free from the physical and emotional afflictions of the present world.

The Lamb, identified as Jesus Christ, is depicted as their shepherd, guiding them to springs of living water, a metaphor for eternal life and spiritual sustenance. The promise that God will wipe away every tear underscores the ultimate healing and restoration that awaits the redeemed, where sorrow and pain are replaced by joy and peace in the presence of God.

In summary, the Great Multitude represents the redeemed from all nations who have been purified by the blood of the Lamb. Their reward is the eternal presence and protection of God, where they experience unending worship, satisfaction, and joy, free from the trials and tribulations of earthly life.