‘BEMA ‘7’ Seat’ Judgement for the Redeemed in Christ. ‘It is ‘7’ NOT about Salvation, but rather what have ‘7’ you done for the kingdom of Christ.’ And the ‘rewards’ ‘7’ and ‘acknowledgement’ that Christ wants to give. ‘7 So … what could they be? There is ‘7’ ‘more’ that has probably missed your eye. Consider ‘ALL OF IT’.

1st Corinthians 3:10-15

10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by ‘7’ fire; and the fire shall try every ‘7’  man’s work of what sort it is.

14 If ‘7’ any man’s work abide which he hath ‘7’ built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.

15 If ‘7’ any man’s work shall be burned, he ‘7’ shall suffer loss: but he himself shall ‘7’ be saved; yet so as by fire

Does Christ ‘7’ ‘LIST’ any groupings or sets of REWARDS? What does the Bible say?

Three-fold Reference to Life (Book of Life / Tree of Life / Water of Life):

1. Book of Life. (7X). (Rev. 3:5, 13:8, 17:8, 20:12, 20:15, 21:27, 22:19)
2. Tree of Life. (3X). (Rev. 2:7, 22:2, 22:14)
3. Water of Life. (3X). (Rev. 21:6, 22:1, 22:17)

Commentary: The book, tree and water of life. Tree of life and water of life, each have 3 (three) references, denoting God’s emphasis and intensity regarding a subject, action or event. The tree of life exists in the heavenly city, New Jerusalem. It has 12 (twelve) manner of fruit, a different fruit for each month, and the leaves of which are used for medicinal purposes by the men and nations of earth. The tree of life does not exist on earth, but is physically located in New Jerusalem. Only redeemed men or the saints, are able to have access to the tree of life to enjoy its heavenly fruit. The water of life also only exists in New Jerusalem and flows directly out of or from the throne of God. God allows anyone who freely wants to drink from the crystal pure river, to drink as much as they want. Whether the reference to water is figurative (word of God) or literal (crystal clear, pure water), either result is the same. Saints or the Bride of Christ are able to access either freely and God will supply abundantly. There is no shortage of the word of God, or the water of life. Being the case is made for physical fruit from the tree of life, it is most likely accurate to believe that the water of life is also a physically crystal clear and perfect water. The book of life receives the most references, seven (7) which denotes God’s divinely completed purpose or plan. The book of life is so important (for a man’s name to be in it), that the Holy Spirit refers to it 7 (seven) times.

The book of life is a sort of book-of-ledgers (using an accounting term). It reflects and contains the names of men who have accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, through his forgiveness of their sins and the shedding of his blood. They have acknowledged that Jesus Christ is Lord and believed he is who he said he was, while they were alive on earth. The book of life also contains a record of these men’s deeds, both good and bad, even though they are saved by the grace of God and Jesus Christ. In some cases, men will be rewarded for their faithful service and/or not lose any of the rewards that were set aside for them. Other saved men, however, might have some rewards withheld from them for something they did or didn’t do to benefit the kingdom of Christ. Only Christ knows what any of these rewards or withholdings are.  The Bible does indicate that Christ sets aside as many a 5 (five) various crowns for Christian overcomers depending on either what they had to endure while alive, or what they did for the benefit of Christ’s kingdom. In any event, these things are accounted for in the book of life. The most eternally important thing is to have your name “listed in” Christ’s book of life and to NOT have your name “blotted out of the book of life.” If you die and have not accepted Jesus Christ’s offer of salvation through the forgiveness of your sins by the shedding of his blood, your name is erased, removed or blotted out from his book of life. Jesus Christ is the author of life, and your name has to be in the book he authored in order to receive eternal life, receive the rewards he has set aside for you and to escape the lake of fire, also known as the “second death.”

Three-fold Reference to the Tree of Life:

1. … “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Rev. 2:7). (Emphasis added).
2. … “In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” (Rev. 22:2). (Emphasis added).
3. … “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” (Rev. 22:14). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: An interesting description … twelve manner of fruit. Twelve (12) represents God’s divinely constitutional organization, either in heaven or earth. God has a reason why there are 12 types of fruit, instead of 2, 5, 9, 11 (odd numbers). The 12 fruits would equate to one new fruit, every solar month on earth (in terms of timing). The bible is clear that there will be a literal, physical kingdom of Christ on earth during the millennium. His kingdom includes nations of people, from the regeneration of the human race from the tribulation period. The leaves from the tree of life will be used for medicinal purposes, by the nations on the earth. Keep in mind that the tree of life is in Christ’s New Jerusalem city, whereas, the nations are on earth. These leaves that have properties of physical healing are a gift that Jesus gives to people on earth. Carefully notice, that these leaves are given to people of earth, and not to the heavenly saints. Why? In New Jerusalem (and heaven); death, sickness, disease and sin do not exist. Saints have glorified bodies that are not subject to decay and are designed to last for eternity.

It is logical that there is no need for a saint with a glorified body to have need of the medicinal purposes from the leaves of the tree of life. The medicinal benefits from these leaves are intended for the people on earth, who will still experience physical ailment and death (even though earth has been returned to an Eden like state). Manner of fruit suggests a variety.  The bible is silent on the manner or type of fruit. Why would saints want to eat from the tree of life, if they already have glorified bodies and don’t need physical sustenance. In one word, enjoyment. The marriage feast or supper clearly indicates that food is enjoyed in heaven. When Christ returned from his advent in his glorified body, he ate fish.  It is not that we need physical nutrients, but rather, we can eat for the pure joy of it! We won’t get bored of eating, because something new will be available each month. Just as we look forward to apples in the fall, and strawberries in the summer, we will have something heavenly to look forward to eat every monthly cycle! Another layer upon layer, truth upon truth, numbers within numbers.

Three-fold Reference to the Water of Life:

1. … “And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.” (Rev. 21:6). (Emphasis added).
2. … “And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.” (Rev. 22:1). (Emphasis added).
3. … “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” (Rev. 22:17). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: The water of life flows out from the throne of God and the Lamb. This can be interpreted two ways, but each way still results in a very similar outcome. One interpretation is that the water of life refers to the word of God which gives everlasting life to the person who seeks it. The inference being that God freely provides his word and its benefits. The other interpretation is that the water of life is a literal water of the ultimate purity which has special properties or value. Just as the tree of life will provide special fruit everyone month of the year, the water of life will always be available for those in heaven to enjoy. It is not that the water is needed to sustain glorified bodies, but is provided for enjoyment. Each interpretation is valid and each outcome is basically the same. Water of life, as God’s word and as a literal water, both provide enjoyment, refreshment and life. The water of life is a fountain or river, it is clear and pure as crystal, it comes from God and it is freely and abundantly available to whoever is thirsty!

*Seven-fold Exhortations from Christ for Christians to be Overcomers:

1. … “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God“. (Rev. 2:7). (Emphasis added).
2. … “He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death“. (Rev. 2:11). (Emphasis added).
3. … “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving that he receiveth it“. (Rev. 2:17). (Emphasis added).
4. … “And he that overcometh and keepeth my works unto the end will I give power over the nations:“. (Rev. 2:26). (Emphasis added).
5. … “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels“. (Rev. 3:5). (Emphasis added).
6. … “Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God; and I will write upon him my new name“. (Rev. 3:12). (Emphasis added).
7. … “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne“. (Rev. 3:21). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: These exhortations by Christ are part of the seven (7) blessings offered by Christ to the Christians in his seven (7) Churches throughout the ages, and at the time John the Apostle received the Revelation from Jesus. The fact that Jesus purposely uses the term overcomers is unique. This term or name suggests a battle, or a fight against overwhelming odds. Someone who is an underdog but somehow overcomes the odds to be victorious. Satan is ruler of the earth and his minions do everything they can to defeat mankind from reaching knowledge of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Temptations, deceptions, lies, false teachers, false doctrines, distractions, meddling, trickery, excessive wealth, persecution…the list goes on and on. Jesus knows what we are up against, yet we can become overcomers by our acceptance of his offer of grace, through the forgiveness of our sins. He knows that we are human and what is is like to be human (since God became incarnate in flesh as Jesus). He also knows that we will stumble, falter and fail along the way. However, he urges us to keep up the fight with him, to fight the good fight and to overcome the traps and pitfalls that Satan puts before us. In the words of Christ, to become overcomers! The desire of Jesus for us to become overwhelmers is so strong that he provides a unique and special reward to each Christian, along with each one of his exhortations. Each blessing is unique and different!

*(Rev. 12:11) … “And they overcame him (beast/antichrist) by the blood of the lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto death.” (Emphasis added). Jesus didn’t forget his Tribulation Saints! They also receive the designation of overcomers because of their belief in Jesus Christ and his gospel. They witnessed of their belief at the cost of losing their lives (beheading) by the antichrist. Jesus’ designation of overcomers is universal for Christians, regardless of whether or not they came from the Church Age or the combined Tribulation Period.

Seven-fold Reference of Rewards for Overcomers:

1. To Ephesus … “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.” (Rev. 2:7). (Emphasis added). (citizenship in heaven, eternal life).
2. To Smyrna … ”Be though faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.  The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.” (Rev. 2:10-11).(Emphasis added). (crown of life, eternal life).
3. To Pergamum … “To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.” (Rev. 2:17). (Emphasis added). (hidden reward, personal acknowledgment by Christ).
4. To Thyatria … “To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations, that one will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery, just as I have received authority from my Father. I will also give that one the morning star. “(Rev. 2:26-28).  (Emphasis added). (shared rulership over nations).
5. To Sardis … “To the one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name befor my Father and his angels.” (Rev.3:5). (Emphasis added). (eternal salvation, righteousness, public acceptance by Christ).
6. To Philadelphia … “To the one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name.” (Rev. 3:12). (Emphasis added).(citizenship in New Jerusalem, new identification in Christ).
7. To Laodicea … “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.” (Rev. 3:21). (Emphasis added). (shared rulership).

Commentary: At the conclusion or end of each individual letter to each church, Jesus promises a unique blessing to each member of these churches who overcomes. Again, these promises were specific to the Christians at the time John wrote Revelation and are also considered blessings/promises to Christians throughout the ages who overcome. Since there were seven (7) unique letters, there are seven (7) unique blessings or promises. This is not meant to be all inclusive of His promises throughout all of scripture or Revelation. He promises eternal life (tree of life), living in paradise (heaven/New Jerusalem), a crown (life), not hurt by the lake of fire (2^nd death), hidden reward, white stone with new name (personal acknowledgement), authority over nations (co-reign), dressed in white (righteousness), name written in the book of life (eternal life, escape white throne judgement), acknowledgement by Christ to the Father, becoming a pillar in the temple of God (citizenship in the New Jerusalem), new name in Christ, the right to sit with Christ on his throne (co-rule). What an amazing list of holy blessings or rewards!

Seven-fold Gifts of the Holy Spirit During the Tribulation Period:

1. Wisdom (to value the things of God).
2. Understanding (to grasp faith’s mysteries).
3. Counsel/Right Judgement (to make wise decisions).
4. Fortitude/Courage (to strengthen your will).
5. Knowledge (to enlighten your mind).
6. Piety/Reverence (to love and serve God).
7. Fear/Wonder and Awe of the Lord (to respect God’s majesty)

Commentary: This is a little bit of a mystery. How can the Holy Spirit work on the earth during the Tribution if He has been removed (as the restrainer of evil) along with the Church (Rapture/Harpazo)? Good question! Glad you asked. The Holy Spirit has done, is doing, and will do many mysterious works of God on earth. Yes, the Holy Spirit worked as a restrainer of Satan and evil, prior to the seven (7) year Tribulation period. The Tribulation Saints (those who are martryed for denying the Beast, the Beast’s world system and who do not take his mark) undoubetdly must have received the Holy Spirit in order to be able to withstand the Beast and to be saved by their belief in Christ along with their beheading (martrydom). Many of these gifts and/or attributes of the Holy Spirit will have to be present for the unbelieving/unrepenetant sinners during this period, in order for them to come to the conclusion that they need to be saved by Christ. It is my belief that the role of the Holy Spirit, during this period, will focus on helping with the conversion of souls since He no longer has the role of restraining Satan, the Antichrist, False Prophet or demonic hordes. Only the Holy Spirit can provide the saved person with enough fortitude/courage/ strength of will to not withdraw from the beheading that is staring them in the face. Think about this if it were you. It would take great courage to stare death in the face. How many people will renounce Christ in order to literally save their necks (and losing eternal life and salvation in the process)? The Holy Spirit truly knows who repented. Seven-fold gifts of the Holy denotes God’s divine plan and purpose.

Seven-fold Promised Blessings in Revelation:

1. … “Blessed in the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” (Rev. 1:3).(Emphasis added).
2. … “Then I heard a voice from heaven, say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” (Rev. 14:13). (Emphasis added).
3. … “Look, I come like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and remains clothed, so as not to go naked and be shamefully exposed.” (Rev. 16:15).(Emphasis added).
4. … “Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding super of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” (Rev. 19:9).(Emphasis added).
5. … “Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.” (Rev. 20:6). (Emphasis added).
6. … “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.” (Rev. 22:7).  (Emphasis added).
7. … “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.” (Rev. 22:14).(Emphasis added).

Commentary: These seven blessings or beatitudes, are much like the promises Christ made to the church overcomers/victors in Revelation, chapters 2-3. These summarize the challenges and rewards for being victorious overcomers. These blessings are not all-inclusive of blessings and rewards mentioned throughout the Bible, but are just those specifically reveled by Jesus Christ to John, the Apostle. These blessings can be summed up as representing the spiritual status of each believer, as found by Christ, after Rapture/Harpazo. As such, these blessings, and our status, will remain intact for the rest of eternity. Christ will consider each overcomer to be righteous, a citizen of heaven, invited to the wedding feast, to have rest from their earthly labors, struggles and pain. Jesus also notes that he will take into account, and reward, each believer’s works/deeds done on earth for the benefit of his kingdom. Last, but not least, Jesus also reinforces his promise that Christians will co-reign with him on earth, in many other passages in Revelation.

Seven-fold Reference of White Raiment/Robes/Linen to Righteousness:

1. … “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white; for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” (Rev. 3:4-5). (Emphasis added).
2. … “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” (Rev. 3:18). (Emphasis added).
3. … “And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.” (Rev. 4:4) (Emphasis added).
4. …: ”And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow-servants also and their brethren, that sould be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.” (Rev. 6:11). (Emphasis added).
5. …” After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; … And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? And whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of the great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” (Rev. 7:9, 13, 14). (Emphasis added).
6. … “And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.” (Rev. 15:6). (Emphasis added).
7. … “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” (Rev. 19:7-8). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: In John’s Revelation of Jesus Christ, white rainment, linens or robes are used as metaphors for having, and describing the righteousness of Christ. Who are these people that are described as having white raiment, linens or robes? Rev. 3:4-5 indicates that they are overcomers (those who remain faithful to Christ until the end of their lives). Rev. 4:4 indicates that they are the 24 crowned elders around the throne of God. These crowned elders represent a select group of redeemed saints from throughout the ages (they are not angels) and are part of God’s divine council of government. The number twelve (12) denotes a divinely constituted organization either in heaven or on earth. The number twenty-four (24) denontes God’s abundant (doubled) organizational arrangement (12×2). The verses surrounding Rev. 6:11 indicate that these people who received white robes and were told to wait a little longer are the “Tribulation Saints martryed/beheaded for their belief and witness to Christ.” (Rev. 15:6) indicates these are the “righteous seven angels who pour out God’s wrath in the seven last vial plagues.” (Rev. 19:7-8) clearly indicates this group of people is the “Bride (church) of the Lamb”, which his redeemed people from the past, present and near future (until the Tribulation). As the Bible indicates in the above verses, white rainment indicates righteousness of both saints and angels as given to them by Christ.

Seven-fold Reference to the Book of Life:

1. … “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out him name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.” (Rev. 3:5). (Emphasis added).
2. … “And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” (Rev. 13:8). (Emphasis added).
3. … “And the beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.” (Rev. 17:8). (Emphasis added).
4. … “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things were written in the books, according to their works.” (Rev. 20:12). (Emphasis added).
5. … “And whosover was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Rev. 20:15). (Emphasis added).
6. … “And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsover worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Rev. 21:27). (Emphasis added).
7. … “And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.”  (Rev. 22:19). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: Somehow, God has a way or a system, that accounts for the actions of men, their behaviors, their works and whether or not they accepted Jesus Christ’s offer of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins by the shedding of his blood and his resurrection. These things are kept or accounted for in what appears to be a book of ledgers (using an accounting term). Verse 21:27 is very explicit in stating that this book belongs to the Lamb (Jesus Christ). He is able to account for his own people, whose names are in his book. Conversely, if someone’s name is not in the book, he doesn’t know them (or, they never accepted his offer of salvation). If a person’s name is found in the book, then Jesus confirms to the Father “confess his name before my Father” that this person belongs to him. Those not found recorded in the book of life are lost and thus cast into the lake of fire. Just as a ship has a log or an accounting of every passenger who has paid, and is allowed on the ship, anyone found that is not on the log is cast away. In regards to Jesus Christ, he has already paid for us to be in his book of life and we accepted his ticket.

Seven-fold Acknowledgement of the Tribulation Saints (Martyrs):

1. … “And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.“ (Rev. 6:9-11). (Emphasis added).
2. … “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto death.“ (Rev. 12:11). (Emphasis added).
3. … “And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.” (Rev. 13:15). (Emphasis added).
4. … “ Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” (Rev. 14:12-13). (Emphasis added).
5. … “And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, having the harps of God.“ (Rev. 15:2). (Emphasis added).
6. … “For true and righteous are his judgements: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand.“  (Rev. 19:2). (Emphasis added).
7. … “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgement was given unto them: and I saw souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.“ (Rev. 20:4). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: The Bible makes it abundantly clear that the Tribulation Saints are those people that become Christians during the period of the Antichrist’s reign on earth, over the seven (7) year period. How do they become Saints in the eyes of Christ? They believe in and accept Christ as their Savior and for the forgiveness of their sins. They do NOT take the mark of the beast or the antichrist. They do NOT worship the beast/antichrist. They do NOT worship his image. They DO witness to the word of God and Jesus. They ARE martryed by beheading for believing in Jesus and witnessing for Him. They DO share in many of blessings and rewards that are also awarded to Christians from the Church Age (at the Rapture/Harpazo and Bema Seat Judgement). There is a very clear distinction between Christians redeemed by Christ prior to the Tribulation period, and those Christians redeemed during the Tribulation period. It is clear that they have to come to a saving grace knowledge of Jesus Christ, withstood the best efforts of Satan/Antichrist/False Prophet to thwart their salvation, and are beheaded for their belief and witnessing in Jesus Christ.

Seven-fold Worship of God by the Twenty-four (24) Elders:

1. … “And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.” (Rev. 4:4). (Emphasis added).
2. … “The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Though art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” (Rev. 4:10-11). (Emphasis added).
3. … “And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders felldown before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.” (Rev. 5:8) (Emphasis added).
4. … “And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. (Rev. 5:14). (Emphasis added).
5. … “And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God.” (Rev. 7:11-13). (Emphasis added).
6. … “And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God.” (Rev. 11:16). (Emphasis added).
7. … “And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia.” (Rev. 19:4). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: The number twelve (12) denotes a divinely constituted organization either in heaven or on earth. The number twenty-four  (24) denontes God’s abundant (doubled) organizational arrangement (12 x 2). Many eschatalogists believe that 12 elders are from the Old Testament and 12 are from the New Testament. However, I believe the Bible is silent on this. The 7 passages of worship describe what the 24 elders look like, where they are, what they are doing and why they are doing it. They are clothed in white raiment and have golden crowns on their heads. This suggests that they are a very special, select group of redeemed people from throughout the ages who received their righteousness through Christ and were each awarded  any number of five (5) crowns that were promised to all believers (Crown of Righteousness – 2 Tim.4:8, Crown of Rejoicing – 1 Thessalonians 2:19, Imperishable Crown – 1 Cor. 9:24-25, Crown of Glory – 1 Peter 5:4, Crown of Life – Rev. 2:10). Rev. 4:4 also states that these crowns were gold. These gold crowns are promised to men/women, and not angels. Using an analogy from the sports world that most of us are familiar with, I liken these twenty-four (24) elders to Christ’s ‘MVPs’ (most valuable players) on his team throughout the ages. This doesn’t mean that he loves these people more than you or me. He loves everyone equally, both sinner and saint. MVPs in sports are rewarded and acknowledged for their exemplary accomplishments for the benefit of the team. Rather, I believe the descriptions of the twenty-four (24) elders suggests that at some point in history, they played a very special role and had a very special outcome for the benefit of Christ’s Kingdom. All the verses surrounding the Bema Seat judgement indicate that every Christian believer will receive awards (or have some of their potential rewards witheld), based on what they did (good works, fruit of the spirit) during their brief time on earth for the benefit of Christ.

The acts of worhip then continue indicating that these elders fall down and worhsip God/Christ. Prostrating oneself before God is showing divine worship by physically acknowledging God’s rule on his throne. They acknowledge and testify to the entire heavenly host (angels and saints) that God and Christ are worthy to be worshipped because He lives forever. These twenty-four (24) elders also publicly recognize and acknowledge God’s glory, honour and power (holy attributes). Next, they cast their crowns before Him. No, they are not given their crowns back to Christ or casting them aside. They remove their crowns to publicly acknowledge and admit that they were nothing, without Christ. They only have these crowns because of what Christ did for them and what the Holy Spirit did through them. I believe there is a two-fold intent for the casting of crowns at God’s throne. First, this is a heavenly public display and reminder that everyone, who has been saved, is in heaven because of God’s gift of mercy and salvation through Jesus Christ. Regardless of whether or not all of us receive one crown or another (or none), we are only in heaven because of what Christ did for all of us. Even these greatest, ‘MVP’ saints of Christ humbly acknowledge their redeemed status by casting their crowns at the throne of God, acknowledging from where these crowns originated.  Secondly, the act of physically removing crowns and placing them around the throne of God serves as a unique form of worship to God and Christ. A golden crown(s) would be briliant and shimmering greatly in heaven’s light, giving off blinding glory. The act of placing golden, shimmering crowns around the throne of God has the affect of figuratively and literally giving Him glory!

Next in the series of worship, the twenty-four (24) elders are descried as having harps (musical instruments) and vials full of the prayers of saints. This suggests that now, the elders are presenting and giving to God two things that are very pleasing to Him. First, music is a form of worship that pleases God. Secondly, the prayers of saints please God because they are evidence that his children are communicating with him and acknowledging who HE is (our Father). We don’t know if the vials are literal or symbolic. However, the point is that these elders somehow possess supernaturally the prayers of Christians and then present these to God as worship. Obviously, God/Jesus already know who pray to him. However, the public display of presenting these prayers to God, also acknowledges his glory and worthiness to receive the prayers. Prayers are a form of worship and should only be directed at God and Christ. The last several verses that describe the twenty-four (24) elders worshipping God/Christ indicate that they fell on their faces.This is one of the common themes or acts of worship in the sevenfold throne room acts worship of God. “I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.” (Isaiah 45:23).(emphasis added). Now, the twenty-four (24) elders appear to be worshipping God/Christ at a higher, more intense level by actually falling onto their faces. Knees bowing and faces falling are physical acts of worship.

Last, but not least, tucked away in these verses are strange references to four beasts (or creatures). Other verses attempt to describe what these beasts look like. Their role, like those of the twenty-four (24) elders, appears to be that of worshipping God. These creatures are clearly not redeemed saints or angels, but a unique creation of God, which live in heaven. In the sevenfold worship of God/Christ, these beasts serve a specific role and place in worshipping. They were created to have the ability to worship God since he created them as well as us (and they perhaps have the ability for other forms of heavenly service, as well). Why would heavenly beasts be included in the sevenfold worship of God? Not only is it right for men to worship God, but the rest of his creation will acknowledge and worship him, both heavenly and earthly created beings.

Seven-fold Promises of the New Jerusalem:

1. God will dwell with men, (tabernacle). (3X). (Rev. 21:3, 21:22, 22:3)
2. Communion with God/Jesus, (water of life). (3X). (Rev. 21:6, 22:1, 22:17)
3. Eternal Life,  (tree of life). (3X). (Rev. 2:7, 22:2, 22:14)
4. Heavenly Citizenship, (made a pillar in the temple). (3X). (Rev. 3:12, 21:3, 22:14)
5. No sickness, disease, death, tears, pain (these have passed away). (3X). (Rev. 7:16, 7:17, 21:4)
6. All things made new. (3X). (Rev. 21:1, 21:2 and 21:5)
7. No need for sun or moon, (glory of God and the Lamb light the city). (3X). (Rev. 21:23, 21:25, 22:5)

Commentary: It is easy to forget what Christ promised to those who overcome evil and love him. It seems that most of the book of Revelation focuses on the gloom and doom that awaits evil mankind. And to a certain degree this is true. Almost the entire book of Revelation focuses on the refinement and redemption of Israel,  the wrath poured out on the earth and evil men and the subsequent establishment of the Millennial Reign of Christ on earth. Nonetheless, tucked away in the verses referenced above are Christ’s promises to those who love him and abide by his word. He is very specific in these promises, that require faith (that they will occur) on the part of a Christian. Carefully notice where these verses are placed, they all almost completely occur in the first couple of chapters of Revelation (to the seven churches in Asia-Minor) or in the last couple of chapters of Revelation concerning life in the New Jerusalem. These promises have to do with our own physical/spiritual well-being, with our relationship to God and Christ and with our surroundings. Notice that each promise received exactly three (3) references! Three denoties God’s emphasis and intensity!!! It is not a coincidence that the Holy Spirit references these promises exactly three (3) times. Each promise is of equal weight, importance or benefit to a Christian. One promise is not more significant or of greater value than another promise. Each promise should be considered of equal value or importance. Keep in mind that these promises ALL become manifest IN the New Jersusalem (which itself is a mind boggling blessing and reward for the Bride of Christ).

Twelve-fold References to the 24 Heavenly Elders who Worship God:

1. … “And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.” (Rev. 4:4). (Emphasis added).
2. … “The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” (Rev. 4:10-11). (Emphasis added).
3. … “And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.” (Rev. 5:5). (Emphasis added).
4. … “And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.” (Rev. 5:6). (Emphasis added).
5. … “And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.” (Rev. 5:8). (Emphasis added).
6. …”And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.” (Rev. 5:11). (Emphasis added).
7. … “And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.” (Rev. 5:14). (Emphasis added).
8. … “And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.” (Rev. 7:11-12). (Emphasis added).
9. … “And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? And whence came they?” (Rev. 7:13). (Emphasis added).
10. … “And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God. Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.” (Rev. 11:16-17). (Emphasis added).
11. … “And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.” (Rev. 14:3). (Emphasis added).
12. … “And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen: Alleluia.” (Rev. 19:4). (Emphasis added).

Commentary: Numbers within numbers, meanings within meanings. There are 12 (twelve) references to 24 (twenty-four) “elders”.

These 24 (twenty-four) elders are described as:

1. Each being around the throne. They are in the presence of God, in his throne room and can visibly see his throne.
2. Each elder having a special “seat”, thus there are 24 (twenty-four) seats around the throne for the eldes to sit on. These are defined as “seats” and not as “thrones.” The 24 elders do not sit on thrones.
3. Each being clothed in “white” raiment. Raiment is form of clothing. White is analgous to righteousness, holy, redeemed.
4. Each having a crown(s) of “gold.” A physical, gold crown identifies status, position, reward, righteousness, and authority.
5. Each falls down and worships God.
6. Each cast their crown(s) before the throne. This is a symbolic act of worship and acknowledges him who gave them their crown(s).
7. Each gives glory and honour to him who sits on the throne.
8. One elder identifies who Christ is and that he is worthy to open the seals of the book (of wrath).
9. Each has a harp (musical instrument) that is played in the presence of God for his enjoyment.
10. Each has a vial full of odour (something pleasing to God) which are the prayers of his saints.
11. One elder identifies and describes the Tribulation Saints who were beheaded and martryed during the Tribulation.
12. Each falls on their face and gives thanks to God for being God (reigning).

Twelve (12) descriptions contained in twelve (12) references or verses that come from throughout the book of Revelation. The twenty-four (24) elders are part of God’s divine government and serve as a sort of divine council of righteous representatives. They serve several main functions for God. They worship him. They represent his righteousness. They identify him, who he is, what he does, what he has done. They identify and acknowledge other righteous entities (Jesus Christ, Tribulation Martrys, Prayers of Saints). They do things that are pleasing to God, such as playing harps and giving him vials of the prayers of saints. Thus, they serve the Lord God. The Bible is somewhat silent on exactly who these twenty-four (24) elders are. However, it is commonly believed (rightly or wrongly) that twelve (12) are Old Testament Saints and twelve (12) are the New Testament Apostles. In any case, collectively, they represent the MVP’s  (most valuable players) on Jesus Christ’s team. They are not loved any more or less than any other redeemed man, God and Jesus Christ love everyone equally. However, these ‘MVP’s’ did something extraordinary or extremely unique or beneficial for the kingdom of God and Jesus Christ when they walked the earth. What these things might be, we don’t know. Only Christ and God know. In any case, whatever they did was extremely beneficial and pleasing to God which earned them the special status of being an ‘MVP’ and on the ‘dream team’ (using a sports term). They were also awarded special crowns to reflect whatever the did or endured, while on earth. They truly have an extremely unique role in the kingdom of God and are so noted since they receive twelve (12) references by the Holy Spirit. Of the billions of people that have or will walk the earth, only twenty-four (24) people have earned the reward, right and status of being one of the elders around God’s throne.

But how can they call on him (Jesus Christ) to save them unless they believe in him (Jesus Christ)? And how can they believe in him (Jesus Christ) if they have never heard about him (Jesus Christ)? And how can they hear about him (Jesus Christ) unless someone tells them?” —Romans 10:14

In His Service,

Night Watchman

Paul Rolland

Night Watchman Ministries

Make Your Decision for Christ NOW!!!!!!! Time is Up!!!!!!!

Jesus Christ’s Offer of Salvation:

The ABCs of Salvation through Jesus Christ (the Lamb)

A. Admit/Acknowledge/Accept that you are sinner. Ask God’s forgiveness and repent of your sins.

. . . “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).

. . . “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one.” (Romans 3:10).

. . . “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1 John 1:8).

B. Believe Jesus is Lord. Believe that Jesus Christ is who He claimed to be; that He was both fully God and fully man and that we are saved through His death, burial, and resurrection. Put your trust in Him as your only hope of salvation. Become a son or daughter of God by receiving Christ.

. . . “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:15-17). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13).

C. Call upon His name, Confess with your heart and with your lips that Jesus is your Lord and Savior.

. . . “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10).

. . . “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (John 1:8-10).

. . . “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. (John 2:2).

. . . “In this was manifested the love of god toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.” (1 John 4:9, 14-15).

. . . “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” (Romans 5:8-10).

. . . “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:23).

. . . “Jesus saith unto them, I am the way, the truth, and the life, no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6).

. . . “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth.” (Romans 1:16).

. . . “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts: 4:12).

. . . “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth for there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:4-6).

. . . “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:9).

. . . “But as many as received him, to them gave the power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” (John 1:12).

True Church / Bride of Christ Spared from God’s Wrath:

 Romans 5:8-10. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.”

Romans 12:19. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 1:10. And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

1 Thessalonians 5:9. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

Romans 8:35. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

Jeremiah 30:7. Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it.

Revelation 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.