What does Revelation 7:14 mean?

Explanation

Revelation 7:14 presents a dialogue between the Apostle John and an elder in a vision of heaven.

This verse is part of a larger narrative that describes a multitude of people from every nation who stand before the throne of God after surviving great tribulation. The elder explains that these people have come out of a period of immense suffering and persecution.

The phrase "washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb" symbolizes the purification and redemption of believers through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the Lamb. The images of washing and white robes convey cleanliness, righteousness, and sanctification.

Historical Context

The book of Revelation is traditionally believed to have been written by John the Apostle while he was in exile on the island of Patmos.

This likely occurred late in the first century AD, during a time of persecution of Christians under Roman rule.

The specific historical context for the verse is the expectation among early Christians that they would experience tribulation before the return of Christ.

The "great tribulation" may refer to specific events of persecution or a more general experience of suffering and martyrdom that Christians faced in the early church period.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse carries multiple layers:

• Eschatology: The concept of tribulation is often associated with eschatological themes, referring to end times and the suffering that precedes the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.
• Soteriology: This passage also touches on the doctrine of salvation, with "the blood of the Lamb" symbolizing Christ's atoning death on the cross, which is believed to purify and save believers.
• Victory in Suffering: Theologically, the verse asserts that spiritual victory and purity are possible through Christ, even in the midst of severe trials.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse inspires Christians to persevere through difficult times with faith and hope.

It emphasizes the belief in the redemptive power of Christ's sacrifice and the ultimate reward that awaits them.

Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast and continue living righteously, trusting that their trials will result in spiritual purification and closeness to God.

Cross-References

• Revelation 1:5: "[...] Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,"
• Revelation 12:11: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."
• Isaiah 1:18: "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Language Study

The key phrases in the original Greek text of Revelation 7:14 are:

• "ἐκ τῆς θλίψεως τῆς μεγάλης": Translated as "out of great tribulation", where "θλίψεως" (thlipseos) refers to pressure, affliction, or tribulation.
• "ἐπλύναν τὰς στολὰς αὐτῶν": Translated as "washed their robes", with "ἐπλύναν" (eplunan) meaning "they washed" and "στολὰς" (stolas) meaning "robes" or "garments".
• "ἐλεύκαναν": Translated as "made them white", from the root "λευκός" (leukos) meaning "white" or "bright".

In the context, the washing of robes and making them white is symbolic of purification from sin.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various cultures and religions, the concept of purification through sacrificial actions is common.

In ancient Jewish rituals, the washing of garments was often a symbol of purification, as seen in Levitical laws.

In many mythological traditions, heroic figures often undergo trials or sacrifices to bring about renewal or redemption, similar to the concept of tribulation leading to purification in Revelation.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly relate to empirical science, the metaphorical language used to describe spiritual concepts can intersect with psychological understandings of coping with trauma and the transformation that often follows severe life challenges.

Modern psychology recognizes the process of finding meaning and growth in suffering, a concept known as post-traumatic growth.

Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the saints' perseverance through trials and their ultimate victory through Christ's righteousness.
• The MacArthur Study Bible notes that the "great tribulation" has been identified variously as a historical period of suffering or a future time of global distress before Christ's return.
• The ESV Study Bible points out that the washing of robes is a recurring image in Revelation, emphasizing the purity and holiness granted to believers through Jesus' sacrificial death.

Experts agree that despite differences in interpretation about the timing and nature of the tribulation, the focus of the verse is on the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice for believers' ultimate salvation and sanctification.