The Seal of God

 

After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth, that no wind might blow on earth or sea or against any tree. Then I saw another angel ascending from the rising of the sun, with the seal of the living God, and he called with a loud voice to the four angels who had been given power to harm earth and sea, saying, “Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.” (Revelation 7:1-3 ESV).

 

In our reading today we see a pause in the middle of John revealing what will happen at the end of the age. God puts a seal on 144,000 people:12,000 from each of the 12 tribes of Israel. There is some debate in Christian circles as to whether that is a literal or figurative number. Regardless, those that are sealed go into the world and are witnesses for Christ during this period known as the great tribulation. While it is important to understand what this means for these 144,000, it is even more important for us to understand the personal meaning of this for us today.

 

There are a few different definitions for the word “seal.” There are three basics that are important for us. First, it guarantees safety. The seal in the biblical era always signified the one who wrote that which was sealed. It carried a weight of power and protection from others who might think to steal the communication. Second, it is a mark of ownership. The seal was unique. It is something like a brand today. It conveyed absolute irrefutable ownership. Third, it certified that something was real or authentic.

In biblical times, as well as today, when a seal was attached to a document, it gave that document legitimacy.

 

Remember the context we have just seen. In the previous scene we saw everyone reeling as the foundations of the earth tore apart and people had nowhere to hide. And now we see God’s mighty angels holding back the four winds so that God’s servants can receive his seal of protection. All who have faith in God and the saving power of the Lamb (Jesus) will be spared from the oncoming destruction.

 

The tearing open of creation leaves no uncertainty. When God says the time has come, there will no longer be anywhere to hide. God’s seal on us is God’s way of saying, “I am your God; you are my people. I love and care for you more than you will ever understand. I am not here to let destruction come upon you but to give life to all who put their trust in me.” (cf. John 3:16.) The gift of God’s seal is ours to embrace; it is also a call commitment to stand with all who identify as servants of the living God.