COMMENTARY

Lesson 1: Revelation 7:2-4, 9-17
John gives a vision of heaven where innumerable saints worship God. The book of Revelation, written ca. A.D. 96, has as its purpose to comfort and strengthen Christians at a time of great distress. They are enduring persecution at the hands of the Roman Emperor, Domitian. They are encouraged and strengthened by the news of ultimate victory in heaven. Chapter 7 is an interlude between the sixth and seventh seals. The saints are assured that they will be free from the plagues and judgments. In heaven, the saints from every place will be beyond numbers. Their white robes speak of their righteousness and the palm branches represent their victory. The saints are before the altar to ascribe seven forms of praise. They serve God and under the Lamb's le…