Revelation 14:4-5 NIV “These are those who did not defile themselves with women, for they remained virgins. They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among mankind and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb. No lie was found in their mouths; they are blameless.” https://bible.com/bible/111/rev.14.4-5.NIV
Who wants to be a special offering to God, a first fruit to Him among all those who are His? It is natural for men to pursue greatness, but we define it by trophies, treasures, and titles. God defines it by purity, loyalty, and faithfulness. The tier 1 Christians in today’s verses were faithful to Christ alone. They did not defile themselves with the worship of false idols. They were not adulterers with spiritual no-gods. The best keep Jesus first, most, and only as God of their lives, their affections, and their purpose. They follow Jesus by doing what Jesus did and still does, which is seeking and saving the lost and making disciples, teaching obedience to everything Jesus commands. They do not compromise with the world even under persecution, but instead confess with their mouth that Jesus is Lord, so that all may know, and some believe that Jesus Christ is Savior and Lord. The finest of Christians, if such a thing can be, are those who are steadfast, loyal, and uncompromising in their devotion and service to Jesus. They suffer for His Name’s sake and do so willingly, rejoicing to be counted worthy of such an honor. Their reward is God Himself. They receive the greatest intimacy with God. They receive the greatest honor from God. They receive the greatest eternal reward by God. Who do we want to recognize us, honor us, and consider us great? Is it men or God and the heavenly host?
