The voice of the Martyrs

Revelation 6:9–17
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5.   Fifth Seal       - Speaks of the Martyrs slain (vv. 9-11).

6.   Sixth Seal       - The world is shattered (vv. 12-17).

The sight the apostle beheld at the opening the fifth seal was very heart searching. He saw the souls of the martyrs under the altar, at the foot of the altar in heaven, at the feet of Christ. Evidently these were the martyrs of the first months of the tribulation period (v. 9). Note that these martyrs are alive and conversing with the Lord in His presence (v. 10). It appears that it was difficult for these martyrs to understand why God would allow their murderers to live; yet God asks these saints to trust Him (v. 11). Persecutors can only kill the body; after that there is no more they can do; the soul lives. God has provided a good place in the better world, for those who are faithful unto death. It is not their own death, but the sacrifice of Christ, that gives them entrance into heaven.

The cause in which they suffered, was for the word of God (the best cause any man can lay down his life for) faith in God’s word, and the unshaken confession of that faith. They commit their cause to Him to whom vengeance belongs. The Lord is the comforter of his afflicted servants, and precious is their blood in his sight. As the measure of the sin of persecutors is filling up, so is the number of the persecuted, martyred servants of Christ. When this is fulfilled, God will send tribulation to those who trouble them, and unbroken happiness and rest to those that are troubled. (vv. 12-17) When the tribulation comes people will act as if they believe the end of the world is at hand, not simply talk as if it were (v. 16).

Application

No one who has rejected God can survive the day of His wrath, but those who belong to Christ will receive a reward rather than punishment. I am so thankful that I do not have to fear His wrath.