The scene, in John's vision, is still set in the throne room of heaven. God is seated on the throne (Revelation 5:1) and the Lamb, looking as if it had been ritually sacrificed, was standing alive in the middle of the throne (Revelation 6:5). The Lamb breaks open the seals around a scroll describing God's judgements for the world (Revelation 6:1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12). Before the seventh seal is broken and God's wrath is released on the earth (Revelation 8:1-5), God announces His protection (Revelation 7:3) of two groups of people. The first are the 144,000 (Revelation 7:1-8), and the second are the suffering or persecuted church (Revelation 7:9-17), the group we now consider.

Their identity as the persecuted church does not emerge until Revelation 7:14. However, in Revelation 7:9-10 there is no trace of suffering, self-pity or grievance. Their focus is on Father God and the Lamb. They are not a shrivelled remnant assembling before the throne (like the mere 144,000 of Israel in Revelation 7:4) but a very great multitude which could not be counted. They comprised the redeemed people from every nation and ethnic background and tribal language. They are standing to be presented to the Father and the Son. Their white robes are the clothing of those who have been made righteous and prepared as a bride (Isaiah 61:10); they are also overcomers who have withstood the heat of persecution (Revelation 3:4-5).

Their palm branches remind us of Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem: now in John's vision they are awaiting His coronation as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 17:14). And their song is full of praise: not the 'Lord, we beg you to save us' of the triumphal entry (Matthew 21:9) - echoing Psalm 118:25; but 'the salvation of God is certain'. This salvation is equally owned, and won by both the Father and the Son – who are equally being worshipped (John 5:23). The tribulations of the redeemed - and all true believers experience some persecution (2 Timothy 3:12) - pale into insignificance compared to the revealed glory of God (1 Peter 4:13).

What comfort this vision has been to innumerable suffering believers. In the end, the Lord honours those who have honoured Him (1 Samuel 2:30). Although pain drives many to feel isolated, the drama here shows that suffering is a normal part of the life of every believer: we suffer with Him and for Him (Philippians 1:29). It has been true since the cross and, however it may escalate until the return of Christ, the Lord will set a limit on the suffering (Revelation 7:3). If you are enduring trouble now, be encouraged that the Lord will enable you to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13). If your life is peaceful, pray for the persecuted church and prepare for what may come to you. Above all, fix your eyes on Jesus; He endured because He anticipated the glory to come (Hebrews 12:2-3): so must we.