Revelation Part 26
The voice of the martyrs calls out across the ages, challenging us to examine whether we are developing the kind of faith that can endure trial and persecution.
In the fifth seal the cry of these martyrs is: “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” (Revelation 6:10). This is not a cry for personal vengeance, but a call for God’s justice. It is the same spirit found in the imprecatory Psalms, where God’s people pray for His righteousness to triumph over evil, and in Luke 18:6–8, where Jesus assures His followers that God will avenge His elect who cry to Him day and night. The martyrs’ prayer reflects the yearning for God to set things right, to end the reign of injustice and persecution under Satan’s dominion.
In response, each is given a white robe, a symbol of righteousness and victory (Revelation 3:4–5; 19:8).
“Then a white robe was given to each of them; and it was said to them that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed” (Revelation 6:11).
They are to rest a little while longer until the full number of martyrs is complete.
This points to an appointed plan: God has determined both the trials of His people and the timing of His justice. It is a reminder that the persecution of the faithful is not random but part of the refining process by which character is built:
“If need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6–7).
Our faith is proven genuine, more precious than gold tested by fire, and the endurance of it testifies to God’s glory. Luke 21:36 reminds us that we can “pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.” But even if we do fall into persecution, we know that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
The lesson of the fifth seal presses deeply on us today. The voice of the martyrs calls out across the ages, challenging us to examine whether we are developing the kind of faith that can endure trial and persecution. Are we willing to sacrifice comfort, reputation, and even life itself for Christ? Galatians 2:20 reminds us that true discipleship is a life crucified with Christ, while Romans 12:1–2 urges us to offer ourselves as living sacrifices. Whether by literal martyrdom or by daily surrender, we are called to bear witness through faithfulness.
Ultimately, the fifth seal is not just about death but about hope and vindication. The martyrs rest, clothed in white, awaiting the completion of God’s plan. When judgment comes, it will come swiftly, as in the days of Noah. For those who fear God, there is no reason to despair—nothing can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:31–39). Their cry of “how long?” is answered in God’s perfect timing, reminding us to hold fast in faith, to endure in obedience, and to trust that God’s justice will prevail.
UYA Team | uya@ucg.org
United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.
