Revelation, the final book of the Bible, previews a future where multitudes from every nation, tribe, language and people stand before the throne of God in worship.

John (the author) uses this language throughout his writings. During the last days God will send two powerful witnesses to prophesy and proclaim his message. These witnesses will eventually be murdered and allowed to lie dead in the streets. Then, for three and a half days some from every people, tribe, language and nation will gaze on their bodies and refuse them burial. Folks will gloat and celebrate, even sending gifts to one another in mockery of God and his prophets.

This does not turn out well for the revelers, as the prophets come to life, ascend to heaven, and an earthquake rocks the city.

The Lord, however, refuses to give up on those who continue to reject him. John writes: Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.”

Despite turning away again and again, the Lord pursues people from all over the world with his good news. Even the people who danced a jig over the bodies of the prophets heard from the Lord.

God is ever merciful. We’re approaching a day when men and women from every nation, tribe, language and people follow the Lord. The Christian faith spans the globe. But there’s still room for more. Let’s pray for the multitudes to continue to grow.

Revelation 7, 11 & 14 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Craig Whitehead