And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. And no one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. And they sang a new songThe phrase "a new song" is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing a fresh act of divine deliverance or a new phase in God's redemptive plan. The Greek word for "new" (καινός, kainos) implies something unprecedented or unique. In the context of Revelation, this new song represents the ultimate victory and redemption through Christ, a theme that resonates throughout the book. Historically, songs in the Bible, such as the Song of Moses or the Psalms, have been expressions of praise and thanksgiving for God's mighty works. This new song is a celestial anthem, signifying the fulfillment of God's promises. before the throne
The "throne" in Revelation is a central symbol of God's sovereign rule and authority. The Greek word for throne (θρόνος, thronos) is used extensively in Revelation, emphasizing God's ultimate control over the cosmos. The imagery of singing before the throne suggests an act of worship and reverence, acknowledging God's majesty and dominion. In the historical context of the early church, this would have been a powerful reminder of God's supremacy amidst persecution and trials. and before the four living creatures
The "four living creatures" are introduced earlier in Revelation (Revelation 4:6-8) and are often interpreted as angelic beings that represent all of creation, constantly worshiping God. The Greek term for "living creatures" (ζῷα, zōa) indicates beings full of life and vitality. Their presence in this scene underscores the universal scope of worship and the acknowledgment of God's glory by all creation. This imagery draws from Old Testament visions, such as those in Ezekiel, where similar creatures are described. and the elders
The "elders" in Revelation are typically seen as representatives of the redeemed, possibly symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles, thus encompassing the entirety of God's people. The Greek word for elders (πρεσβύτεροι, presbyteroi) suggests maturity and authority. Their presence in this heavenly scene highlights the continuity of God's covenant people and the fulfillment of His promises to them. Historically, elders were leaders within the early church, and their inclusion here would resonate with the original audience as a symbol of faithful leadership and witness. And no one could learn the song
This phrase emphasizes the exclusivity and special status of the 144,000. The Greek word for "learn" (μανθάνω, manthanō) implies understanding or comprehending something deeply. The inability of others to learn the song suggests a unique relationship and experience with God that the 144,000 possess. This exclusivity serves to highlight the distinctiveness of their redemption and calling. except the 144,000
The "144,000" are mentioned earlier in Revelation 7:4, where they are described as being sealed from the twelve tribes of Israel. The number is often interpreted symbolically, representing the completeness and perfection of God's people. The specificity of this group underscores their special role and identity in God's redemptive plan. From a historical perspective, this would have been a source of hope and assurance for the early Christians, affirming their place in God's eternal kingdom. who had been redeemed from the earth
The term "redeemed" (ἀγοράζω, agorazō) in Greek conveys the idea of being bought or purchased, often at a great price. This reflects the sacrificial work of Christ, who redeems His people through His death and resurrection. The phrase "from the earth" indicates that these individuals have been set apart from the world, belonging now to God's heavenly kingdom. This redemption is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice and the hope of eternal life. Historically, this would have been a profound encouragement to believers facing persecution, reminding them of their ultimate deliverance and victory in Christ. Persons / Places / Events 1. The 144,000This group is described as those who have been redeemed from the earth. They are unique in their ability to learn and sing the new song. 2. The ThroneRepresents the seat of God's authority and presence in heaven. It is the central place of worship and reverence. 3. The Four Living CreaturesThese are heavenly beings that are often associated with worship and the presence of God, as seen in earlier chapters of Revelation. 4. The EldersTypically understood as representatives of the redeemed people of God, often seen as a symbol of the church or the faithful throughout history. 5. The New SongA unique song that signifies a new act of God’s redemptive work, which only the 144,000 can learn and sing. Teaching Points The Uniqueness of RedemptionThe 144,000 represent those who have a special relationship with God, marked by their redemption. This highlights the uniqueness and privilege of being redeemed by Christ. Worship in Spirit and TruthThe new song signifies a deeper, more profound worship that comes from a true understanding of God's redemptive work. Believers are called to worship God with sincerity and understanding. The Mystery of God’s WorkThe fact that only the 144,000 can learn the song points to the mystery and depth of God's work in the lives of His people. It reminds us that some aspects of God's plan are beyond human comprehension. The Role of the RedeemedThe 144,000 serve as a model for all believers, showing that those who are redeemed have a special role in God's kingdom, both in worship and in witness. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the concept of a "new song" signify in the context of Revelation 14:3, and how can this be applied to our personal worship today? 2. How does the description of the 144,000 in Revelation 14:3 relate to the broader theme of redemption throughout the Bible? 3. In what ways can the exclusivity of the new song to the 144,000 challenge us to seek a deeper understanding of God's work in our lives? 4. How do the roles of the four living creatures and the elders enhance our understanding of heavenly worship, and what can we learn from them for our earthly worship practices? 5. Considering the connections to other scriptures, how does the theme of a "new song" encourage us to reflect on God's ongoing work in the world and in our personal lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Revelation 5:9This verse also mentions a "new song" sung by the redeemed, highlighting the theme of redemption and the unique role of those who are saved. Psalm 40:3Speaks of God putting a new song in the mouth of the psalmist, a song of praise, which parallels the idea of a divinely inspired song of worship. Isaiah 42:10Calls for a new song to be sung to the Lord, emphasizing the theme of newness and divine intervention. People JohnPlaces Babylon, Mount Zion, PatmosTopics 144000, Beasts, Bought, Creatures, Elders, Except, Forty, Forty-four, Front, Hundred, Learn, Presence, Price, Purchased, Redeemed, Rulers, Sang, Save, Seat, Seemed, Sing, Singing, Song, Sung, Thousand, Thousands, ThroneDictionary of Bible Themes Revelation 14:3 1652 numbers, 3-5
4010 creation, renewal
4035 abundance
4627 creatures
5581 throne
7720 elders, in the church
7963 song
9412 heaven, worship and service Revelation 14:1-3 1655 hundreds and thousands Revelation 14:1-4 8204 chastity Revelation 14:1-5 4442 firstfruits
8278 innocence, teaching on Revelation 14:2-3 5332 harp Revelation 14:3-4 5402 market Library The Approval of the Spirit
TEXT: "Yea, saith the Spirit."--Rev. 14:31. The world has had many notable galleries of art in which we have been enabled to study the beautiful landscape, to consider deeds of heroism which have made the past illustrious, in which we have also read the stories of saintly lives; but surpassing all these is the gallery of art in which we find the text. Humanly speaking John is the artist while he is an exile on the Island of Patmos in the Aegean Sea. The words he uses and the figures he presents …
J. Wilbur Chapman—And Judas IscariotThe Declensions of Christianity, an Argument of Its Truth.
"When the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?" That the coming of the Son of man, is here intended of Christ's coming at the commencement of the latter day glory, hath been alleged in the preceding discourse, and several considerations adduced in proof. Additional evidence will arise from a view of the prophecies relative to the great declensions which were to take place in the church, during the gospel day. These, we observed, are of two kinds, one, a corruption of religion, …
Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects Heavenly Worship
"Up to her courts, with joys unknown, The sacred tribes repaired." Between the wings of the cherubim Jehovah dwelt; on the one altar there all the sacrifices were offered to high heaven. They loved Mount Sion, and often did they sing, when they drew nigh to her, in their annual pilgrimages, "How amiable are thy tabernacles O Lord God of hosts, my King and my God!" Sion is now desolate; she hath been ravished by the enemy; she hath been utterly destroyed; her vail hath been rent asunder, and the virgin …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857 20TH DAY. Bliss in Dying.
"He is Faithful that Promised." "Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord."--REV. xiv. 13. Bliss in Dying. My Soul! is this blessedness thine in prospect? Art thou ready, if called this night to lie down on thy death-pillow, sweetly to fall asleep in Jesus? What is the sting of death? It is sin. Is death, then, to thee, robbed of its sting, by having listened to the gracious accents of pardoning love, "Be of good cheer, thy sins, which are many, are all forgiven thee?" If thou hast made up thy …
John Ross Macduff—The Faithful Promiser Wherefore Also the virgins of God Without Blame Indeed...
49. Wherefore also the virgins of God without blame indeed, "follow the Lamb whithersoever He shall have gone," both the cleansing of sins being perfected, and virginity being kept, which, were it lost, could not return: but, because that same Apocalypse itself, wherein such unto one such were revealed, in this also praises them, that "in their mouth there was not found a lie:" [2205] let them remember in this also to be true, that they dare not say that they have not sin. Forsooth the same John, …
St. Augustine—Of Holy Virginity. Let the Inner Ear of the virgin Also...
24. Let the inner ear of the virgin also, thy holy child, hear these things. I shall see [2284] how far she goes before you in the Kingdom of That King: it is another question. Yet ye have found, mother and daughter, Him, Whom by beauty of chastity ye ought to please together, having despised, she all, you second, marriage. Certainly if there were husbands whom ye had to please, by this time, perhaps, you would feel ashamed to adorn yourself together with your daughter; now let it not shame you, …
St. Augustine—On the Good of Widowhood. Letter Xlix to Romanus, Sub-Deacon of the Roman Curia.
To Romanus, Sub-Deacon of the Roman Curia. He urges upon him the proposal of the religious life, recalling the thought of death. Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux, to his dear Romanus, as to his friend. MY DEAREST FRIEND, How good you are to me in renewing by a letter the sweet recollection of yourself and in excusing my tiresome delay. It is not possible that any forgetfulness of your affection could ever invade the hearts of those who love you; but, I confess, I thought you had almost forgotten yourself …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux Whether virginity is the Greatest of virtues?
Objection 1: It would seem that virginity is the greatest of virtues. For Cyprian says (De Virgin. [*De Habitu Virg.]): "We address ourselves now to the virgins. Sublime is their glory, but no less exalted is their vocation. They are a flower of the Church's sowing, the pride and ornament of spiritual grace, the most honored portion of Christ's flock." Objection 2: Further, a greater reward is due to the greater virtue. Now the greatest reward is due to virginity, namely the hundredfold fruit, according …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica The Glory of the virgins and Religious.
Here are two other bright throngs that present themselves. They are the holy Virgins and the Religious. Let us first contemplate the bright glory of the virgins. I quote again from the Apocalypse: "And I heard a great voice from heaven. . . . And the voice which I heard was as the voice of harpers, harping upon their harps. And they sang as it were a new canticle before the throne. . . . And no man could say that canticle but those hundred and forty-four thousand. These are they who were not defiled …
F. J. Boudreaux—The Happiness of Heaven Naked or Clothed?
'As he came forth of his mother's womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.'--ECCLES. v. 15. '... Their works do follow them.'--REV. xiv. 13. It is to be observed that these two sharply contrasted texts do not refer to the same persons. The former is spoken of a rich worldling, the latter of 'the dead who die in the Lord.' The unrelieved gloom of the one is as a dark background against which the triumphant assurance of …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ripe for Gathering
'Thus hath the Lord God shewed unto me: and behold a basket of summer fruit. 2. And He said, Amos, what seest thou? And I said, A basket of summer fruit. Then said the Lord unto me, The end is come upon My people of Israel; I will not again pass by them any more. 3. And the songs of the temple shall be howlings in that day, saith the Lord God: there shall be many dead bodies in every place; they shall cast them forth with silence. 4. Hear this, O ye that swallow up the needy, even to make the poor …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Which Sentence Dishonoreth the Holy Martyrs, Nay Rather Taketh Away Holy Martyrdoms Altogether. ...
3. Which sentence dishonoreth the holy Martyrs, nay rather taketh away holy martyrdoms altogether. For they would do more justly and wisely, according to these men, not to confess to their persecutors that they were Christians, and by confessing make them murderers: but rather by telling a lie, and denying what they were, should both themselves keep safe the convenience of the flesh and purpose of the heart, and not allow those to accomplish the wickedness which they had conceived in their mind. …
St. Augustine—Against Lying Therefore, if we Compare the Things Themselves, we May no Way Doubt that The...
28. Therefore, if we compare the things themselves, we may no way doubt that the chastity of continence is better than marriage chastity, whilst yet both are good: but when we compare the persons, he is better, who hath a greater good than another. Further, he who hath a greater of the same kind, hath also that which is less; but he, who only hath what is less, assuredly hath not that which is greater. For in sixty, thirty also are contained, not sixty also in thirty. But not to work from out that …
St. Augustine—On the Good of Marriage Letter Lii to Another Holy virgin.
To Another Holy Virgin. Under a religious habit she had continued to have a spirit given up to the world, and Bernard praises her for coming to a sense of her duty; he exhorts her not to neglect the grace given to her. 1. It is the source of great joy to me to hear that you are willing to strive after that true and perfect joy, which belongs not to earth but to heaven; that is, not to this, vale of tears, but to that city of God which the rivers of the flood thereof make glad (Ps. xlvi. 4). And in …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux A Treatise of the Fear of God;
SHOWING WHAT IT IS, AND HOW DISTINGUISHED FROM THAT WHICH IS NOT SO. ALSO, WHENCE IT COMES; WHO HAS IT; WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS; AND WHAT THE PRIVILEGES OF THOSE THAT HAVE IT IN THEIR HEARTS. London: Printed for N. Ponder, at the Peacock in the Poultry, over against the Stocks market: 1679. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," and "a fountain of life"--the foundation on which all wisdom rests, as well as the source from whence it emanates. Upon a principle …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Appendix the Daughters of Jerusalem
The question is frequently asked, Who are represented by the daughters of Jerusalem? They are clearly not the bride, yet they are not far removed from her. They know where the Bridegroom makes His flock to rest at noon; they are charged by the Bridegroom not to stir up nor awaken His love when she rests, abiding in Him; they draw attention to the Bridegroom as with dignity and pomp He comes up from the wilderness; their love-gifts adorn His chariot of state; they are appealed to by the bride for …
J. Hudson Taylor—Union and Communion Vanity of Human Glory.
"The world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not."--1 John iii. 1 Of St. Simon and St. Jude, the Saints whom we this day commemorate, little is known[1]. St. Jude, indeed, still lives in the Church in his Catholic epistle; but of his history we only know that he was brother to St. James the Less, and nearly related to our Lord and that, like St. Peter, he had been a married man. Besides his name of Jude or Judas, he is also called Thaddaeus and Lebbaeus in the Gospels. Of St. Simon we only …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII Links Revelation 14:3 NIVRevelation 14:3 NLTRevelation 14:3 ESVRevelation 14:3 NASBRevelation 14:3 KJV
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