Chapter 7 begins the sealing of the 144,000 from the twelve tribes of Judah- twelve thousand from each of the tribes which included Judah, Reuben, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Manesseh, Simeon, Levi, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin.
"And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel." (vs.4)
At this point it should be mentioned that the myth about ten lost tribes is non-biblical. The myth is derived from certain passages of the Old Testament which are misinterpreted. Peter and James address their epistles to all twelve tribes, not to mention the Old Testament prophecies.
These 144,000 are sealed to protect them from the events that follow. Apparently, they are spiritually protected witnesses for Christ during the tribulation; because note that the very next verse reads, "After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues." (vs.9)
These appear before the throne of God right after the sealing of the 1444,000. However, this is not part of the group from chapter five with the 24 elders. "These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." (vs.14)
It is commonly believed that they were all saved by the testimony of the 1444,000 sealed tribes of Judah. In verse 15, we see these serving God in the temple, unlike those in chapter 5 who serve as kings and priests.
"They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." (vs.16-17)
What a wonderful time it will be when we finally get to spend eternity with Jesus our Lord and Savior. He should be returning any day now. Be watchful for there will be a reward for all those who are ready.
We need to study the scriptures to show ourselves approved and pay attention to the things that are happening around the world. Prophecy is unfolding daily, right before our eyes on the news. In addition, we need to pay close attention to Israel as she plays a key role in End Time events.
More importantly, we need to stay as close to God as we can.
"Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you." (James 4:8)