Revelation 14:5; Followed the Lamb Withersoever He Goeth

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Revelation 14:4 These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. 

John gives a fourfold identification of the redeemed from the earth:

• they are pure

• they are followers of the Lamb

• they are firstfruits

• they are blameless

 Kistemaker, S. J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953–2001). Exposition of the Book of Revelation (Vol. 20, p. 404). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.

Feinberg observed well, “There is no intent to advocate celibacy over against marriage (cf. Hebrew 13:4), but only to emphasise the chastity in life as virgins are.” They have kept themselves from the idolatry so blatantly fostered by the Romans Beast and the False Prophet (Revelation 13). Repeatedly in the Old Testament, idolatry is likened to fornication and adultery (cf. the Book of Hosea for an extended example).”

He further observed well, “They have chosen the highest fellowship in the universe; they are constantly in the company of the spotless Lamb of God.”

Also, he said insightfully, “They are honoured to be first fruits to God and Christ. The Lord Jesus is the first fruits in resurrection (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:20); the church is the first fruit of His creatures” (cf. James 1:18); here are the first fruits of the coming kingdom age (cf. Ironside, op. cit., p256). Finally, in the day of wholesale falsehood and deception perpetrated by Satan and the Antichrist, these will keep themselves unblemished (not sinlessly perfect) by avoiding all lying.”

1 Corinthians 15:20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, andbecome the firstfruits of them that slept. 

James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 

[Charles Lee Feinberg, Revelation – The Grand Finale, BMH Books, 1985, 103]

Psalm 90:14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. 

Robert Murray M’Cheyne tells us the spiritual blessing of those who follow Christ:

(1) Because Life Is Very Short

(2) Because Life Is Uncertain

(3) Most that are Ever Saved Fly to Christ When Young

(4) Because it is Happier to be In Christ Than Out of Christ

(5) It Makes You Glad All Your Days

These are the reasons why children should fly to Christ without delay. [Andrew Bonar, Memoir & Remains of Robert Murray M’Cheyne, The Banner of Trust Trust, 2009, 584-585]

Amen.