Understanding the Calling of the Israel of God and the blessing of all the families of the earth

 "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called" (Ephesians 4:4,NIV)

"After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands" (Revelation 7:9)

True Christians espouse a foundational belief rooted in the biblical concept of the "heavenly hope," an idea central to their doctrinal framework. This belief emphasizes the notion that Christians are called to a higher, heavenly calling, distinct from earthly aspirations. A principal scripture reinforcing this belief is found in Philippians 3:14, wherein the apostle Paul speaks of pressing "toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." This passage underscores an elevated calling that transcends earthly concerns, pointing towards an eschatological hope anchored in heaven.

Similarly, Colossians 1:5 highlights the certainty and anticipation of this hope, asserting, "because of the hope which is laid up for you in heaven." This portrays a reserved assurance for believers, a treasure awaiting in the celestial realms. Colossians 1:5 aligns this with the firm hope cultivated through the gospel, emphasizing the divine promise of future glory.

 Another reference, Hebrews 3:1, invites believers to focus on their heavenly calling, urging them to "consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus." Herein, the emphasis is directed towards adhering to Christ, the embodiment of the heavenly promise, and the exemplar of the faith.

The heavenly hope, according to Scriptures is intertwined with the idea of ruling with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realms. This doctrine is built upon verses like 2 Timothy 2:12, which asserts, "if we endure, we will also reign with him." The anticipation of co-reigning with Christ formulates a core aspect of the hope for Jesus' followers, emphasizing a participatory role in the future kingdom. This concept fosters a forward-looking perspective, motivated by the assured promise of heavenly inheritance. It also serves as a cornerstone of the true Christians' teachings, challenging believers to look beyond the temporal, envisage their higher calling, and remain steadfast in the faith as they anticipate the fulfillment of God’s promises in Christ Jesus.

 Reigning with Jesus from heaven is also deeply rooted in several key scriptural passages, reflecting themes of resurrection, leadership, and the broader purpose of blessing the nations. One pivotal scripture is Revelation 20:4, which describes the enthroned believers who reign with Christ for a thousand years. 

 Another significant scripture is 1 Peter 1:4, which speaks of an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you." This verse assures believers of a divine reward and an enduring role in heaven. Many Bible Students and scholars interpret this as a promise of ongoing heavenly governance, reserved for those who have remained steadfast in their faith. It underscores a future leadership role, not marred by earthly decay or corruption, reserved for those who strive diligently in their spiritual journey.

 These scriptures collectively underscore the responsibility and privilege associated with the heavenly hope. The Bible  teaches that this promise of ruling from heaven is not merely about authority but encompasses the greater purpose of blessing all nations from a divine vantage point. The thematic elements of resurrection, leadership, and blessings are crucial to understanding the heavenly hope, as believers are seen as integral to God’s plan for humankind, operating under Christ’s sovereign leadership.

The Great Crowd in Revelation 7:9

 

 Revelation 7:9 introduces the concept of the 'Great Crowd,' a multitude from every nation and tribe, standing before the throne and the Lamb. The interpretation of this scripture varies among Christian denominations but holds particular significance within the Bible Student Movement. While some consider this great company of believers as a secondary heavenly class, others interpret the 'Great Crowd' as a distinct group destined for a different fate from the "heavenly class" of 144,000, who are specifically called to reign with Christ in heaven and they represent the oversomer saints as the spiritual Israel of God (Romans 2: 28-29,9:6, Galatians 6: 16)

 While we cannot be dogmatic, the Bible seems to indicate that the Great Crowd represents the broader swath of humanity who have the opportunity for everlasting life on earth. Many sincere Christians believe this group includes individuals who remain faithful to God but do not qualify for the heavenly calling. Their destiny involves living an eternal, fulfilling life on a restored earth rather than ascending to a heavenly realm.

Support for this viewpoint often draws on additional scripture such as Revelation 21:3-4, which envisions God dwelling with humankind, wiping away tears, and abolishing death, mourning, and pain. This vision aligns with the belief that the Great Crowd will enjoy a paradise on earth, characterized by peace and divine blessings (compare with Revelation 7:17)

The differentiation between the great crowd and the heavenly class is pivotal for understanding the eternities presented in biblical scripture. While the "144,000" are granted direct divine service in heaven, the Great Crowd are seen as inheritors of the Earth, reflecting broader inclusivity and the expansive nature of salvation (Revelation 7:10). It is sure that the Bible offers a hopeful outlook for humanity, underlining the belief that divine grace extends not just to a chosen minority but to all who demonstrate faithfulness.

But when is the Timing of the Great Crowd’s Appearance?

The concept of the Great Crowd, holds significant theological importance, particularly when examining the timing of its appearance in biblical prophecy. It seems that the Great Crowd materializes at a crucial juncture—just before the glorification of the Church. This belief is rooted in specific scriptural references, most notably Revelation 7:14, where it states, "These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

The timing of this event is of paramount importance as it elucidates a sequence of eschatological events that believers look forward to. Revelation 7 describes the Great Crowd as emerging from great tribulation, an indicator that their appearance is closely linked to the end times. 

There are Bible passages which collectively suggest a sequence where the Great Crowd's emergence precedes the resurrection and glorification of the Church. The theological implications of this sequence are profound, offering hope and setting expectations for believers. This timeline reassures the faithful that their trials and tribulations are not in vain, but rather a prelude to the ultimate fulfillment of divine promises.

The presence of the Great Crowd serves as a pivotal signpost, intensifying the anticipation for the Church's imminent glorification. For true Christians, this order of events fortifies their commitment and strengthens their hope in the eventual realization of God's Kingdom. The expectation that the faithful will be united with Christ underscores their perseverance through present trials, invigorating their spiritual journey with a sense of imminent divine fulfillment.

Everlasting Life on Earth vs. Heavenly Calling

The theological framework of the Bible makes a clear distinction between the destinies of the Great Crowd and the Church. This bifurcation relates to the eternal promises of life on Earth for the bigger group ("the many"), contrasted with a heavenly calling for the other ("the few"). According to Psalm 37:29 "The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever," which aligns with Matthew 5:5, which emphasizes, "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." These scriptures underline the promise of a restored paradise on Earth, highlighting the future role and blessings for those who will be part of this new Earthly order.

 In this belief system, the Great Crowd represents a multitude of faithful individuals who obediently adhere to godly principles, thereby earning their place in an Edenic paradise. This group, as described in Revelation 7:9-10, is viewed as a diverse and innumerable assembly that stands before God, not positioned in heaven, but destined for life on a rejuvenated Earth. These individuals are seen as recipients of God’s grace through their adherence to divine precepts and their role in establishing a theocratic society governed by righteousness.

 Conversely, the heavenly calling pertains to a more restricted assembly often referred to as the Church or the ‘little flock’ mentioned in Luke 12:32. This group is to have a special heavenly vocation, acting as co-rulers with Christ in the millennial reign. Through their sacrificial lives and devout faith in consecration, the Church is viewed as being groomed for positions of significant leadership and authority in the divine governance structure, guiding the Great Crowd in the restored paradise.Of course, both destinies fulfill distinct purposes within God's overarching plan. The Great Crowd’s inheritance of the earth ensures the perpetuation of human life in perfect harmony with divine principles, whereas the Church’s ascension to heaven enables them to serve a pivotal role in spiritual and administrative governance, effectuating God's kingdom over both heaven and earth.

The teachings and expectations grounded in the Bible Student Movement carry substantial implications for Christian faith and practice today. The central hope of heavenly rule and the promise of everlasting life on Earth significantly shapes the way believers approach worship, service, and daily living. By aligning their lives with these tenets, Christians find renewed motivation and purpose in their spiritual journey.

 Worship, fundamentally, becomes an expression of gratitude and anticipation. The belief in an eventual heavenly rule encourages believers to uphold a deep sense of reverence and awe towards our Heavenly Father's sovereignty. This is evident in our hymns, prayers, and services, which consistently emphasize the majesty and justice of God's forthcoming kingdom. Worship, thus, transforms into a forward-looking celebration of what is to come, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among brethren. The assurance of everlasting life on Earth propels Christians to engage in acts of kindness, charity, and justice. Knowing that their efforts contribute to an eternal, righteous Kingdom encourages believers to be more proactive in addressing social injustices and supporting those in need. The anticipation of a restored Earth under divine governance compels Christians to mirror this future vision in the present, promoting peace, equity, and compassion in their surroundings.Contemporary challenges, such as personal struggles or global crises, are mitigated by the conviction that current difficulties are temporary and will be resolved under God's perfect rule. This perspective fosters perseverance and steadiness, as believers hold fast to the promise of a future without pain or sorrow. It also inspires continuous moral and spiritual growth, motivating Christians to live uprightly in anticipation of their eternal reward. 

By internalizing these basic Bible doctrines, Christians can strengthen their faith, support one another through trials, and collectively work towards embodying the values of the promised Kingdom in their daily lives. This collective effort ensures that the hope of the High Calling in this Gospel Age not only remains a theological concept but a driving force for transformative, lived faith.