Sermon 197

📖 SERMON 197 — HOW LONG YET?

Text: Revelation 6:9–11
Date: December 25, 1951
Preacher: Rev. G. S. Kok

INTRODUCTION

We are conscious of the passing of time, and as believers we face the question of the end of time. Time rushes by; the end of our earthly life draws nearer. Judgment Day is also approaching with great speed. For that reason we continue our series on the Book of the Seven Seals, as John saw its opening in the vision on Patmos. Tonight we hear the cry: “How long, O Master, the Holy and True…?”

I. BY WHOM THIS QUESTION IS ASKED

A. John sees the altar of burnt offering

It stood at the door of the tabernacle.
Upon it the animals for sacrifice were offered.
Beneath it the blood of the slain was poured—formerly the blood of animals, here the blood of martyrs.

B. The souls under the altar

They are the souls of those who were slaughtered.
Slain for the Word of God.
Slain for the testimony which they held—they did not remain silent.

II. TO WHOM THIS QUESTION IS ADDRESSED

A. “O Master” — Despotes — Absolute Ruler

They had called themselves slaves of the Lord.
In His service they were slain.
They acknowledge His authority over all.

B. “The Holy One and True”

Absolutely just and righteous.
Absolutely faithful.

C. The One whose honor is attacked

Their enemies were His enemies.
Their death was an attack upon Him.
“Why persecutest thou Me?”

III. HOW LONG BEFORE WHAT HAPPENS?

A. Before He avenges their blood

How long before the ungodly murderers are judged?
How long before the wicked persecutors are punished?
How long before this intolerable situation ends—where those who love God’s Word are slain?

B. Before the final restoration of all things

Their cry is not for personal revenge.
Their blood cries out for the end of this condition of violence and injustice.
They long for God’s honor to be vindicated.

IV. THE ANSWER GIVEN

A. They are each given white robes

Symbols of righteousness and holiness.
Symbols of joy and victory.
They may rest, untroubled and secure.
Whenever a martyr dies, his blood cries out for judgment; from Abel onward this has been so.

B. “Rest yet for a little time”

They must wait a little longer.
Until the number of martyrs is complete.
Their number is fixed by divine decree and will be fulfilled.

CONCLUSION

Time rolls on. The roll of martyrs is still not complete; even today names are added. The question is not only how long before God judges the world, but: Do I so hold fast the Word of God that my name might be added to the roll of martyrs if the Lord wills it? When that “little time” is past—and it may be very soon—where will you and I be?