Daily Devotional

John’s interaction here with one of the 24 elders is an interesting one. While it was the elder who asked the question, as we will see in the next verse, the elder was also the one to answer it. It is as though the elder was voicing John’s own thought.

The group to which the elder appears to be referring to is the “great multitude” of verse 9, they that were “clothed with white robes.” The elder directed John’s—and our—attention to these two specific points: the group’s attire and where they were previous to being before the throne of God.

Imagine seeing that vast throng of people, described as being too great to number and from all over the world. “All nations” will be represented here; there will be none left out. Realize that there will have never been a crowd this diverse—different faces and cultures and ethnicities and heritages—all gathered in one location.

But there is one thing, and one thing alone, that will bind them all together: the white robe of Christ’s righteousness. The redeemed now have the sinless nature of Adam before the fall. They have been purified by the blood of the Lamb.

And every one of them humbly, gratefully, joyfully will wear it. Imagine so many in such seamless unity. No earthly ruler could bring such a diverse company together—but Christ, and Christ alone, can and will.

Next comes this important characteristic: “Where did they come from?” What experience led them to this point of unity? How did they get to the throne of God? This is significant in that it draws attention to the past.

Where have you been? What road are you walking right now? The path of the just is not an aimless wandering; it is going somewhere. And people don’t just stumble into salvation. God has a plan for you. We should all strive to be one of these saints. Thankfully, Scripture not only gives us the questions upon which we are to dwell but also provides the answers—and in just the next verse.

Gracious Lord, thank You for both carving out and guiding me down the pathway that leads straight to Your throne.

For Further Study: Isaiah 26:7; Matthew 7:13, 14; Galatians 3:28