ODJ: United in Worship

June 19, 2018 

READ: Revelation 7:9-17 

I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb (v.9).

Getting a group of people to move in the same way and at the same time requires skill. But over 31,000 women in China made it look easy. Guinness World Records says that 31,697 Chinese women set the record for mass plaza dancing in multiple locations. The participants danced for more than five minutes in six different cities.

Although thousands of people united in dance is a sight to see, Scripture tells us there will be a day when believers too numerous to count will set a ‘record’ for a mass worship service in one location.

In an amazing vision, John saw a multitude of people from every nation, tribe, people and language worshipping God (Revelation 7:9). The diverse congregation was standing before God the Father and in front of the Lamb (Jesus), united in praise. This pictured the fulfilment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding his future family: “Then the Lord took [Abraham] outside and said to him, ‘Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!’ ” (Genesis 15:5).

The worshippers in the vision held palm branches in their hands, symbolic of royal and military processions (Revelation 7:9). Together with the angels, elders and four living creatures, this vast group of people was united in worshipping God. Who is this multitude? The group most probably represents all God’s faithful followers throughout the generations, all singing a hymn of praise to God and the Lamb for their great salvation. What a sight to behold!

One day God will gather together people from every nation, and we will be united in worship, singing and raising a loud and victorious shout to our God and King. It won’t be to set a record; it will be for the glory of His name (v.12).

—Marvin Williams

365-day plan: John 3:1-21