Revelation 7:15

KJV

Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G1223}{G5124} are they {G1526} before {G1799} the throne {G2362} of God {G2316}, and {G2532} serve {G3000} him {G846} day {G2250} and {G2532} night {G3571} in {G1722} his {G846} temple {G3485}: and {G2532} he that sitteth {G2521} on {G1909} the throne {G2362} shall dwell {G4637} among {G1909} them {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

That is why they are before God’s throne.

“Day and night they serve him in his Temple;
and the One who sits on the throne
will put his Sh’khinah upon them.

Berean Standard Bible

For this reason, they are before the throne of God and serve Him day and night in His temple; and the One seated on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them.

American Standard Version

Therefore are they before the throne of God; and they serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall spread his tabernacle over them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 7:15 presents a profound vision of the redeemed multitude in their eternal state, standing perpetually before the very throne of God. This verse encapsulates their blessed reality, characterized by unceasing worship and devoted service within God's heavenly temple. It culminates in the glorious promise of intimate, perpetual communion, where the Almighty God, who sits upon the throne, will personally tabernacle among His people, signifying the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan and His desire to dwell with humanity forever.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 7:15 serves as the climactic declaration regarding the identity and blessed state of the "great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues" introduced in [Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - The Great Multitude"). This vision of the multitude, distinct from the 144,000 sealed Israelites, follows a period of intense tribulation. The preceding verses, [Revelation 7:13-14](/revelation/7-13-14 "Revelation 7:13-14 - Identity of the Multitude"), explicitly identify them as those "which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." Thus, verse 15 details the immediate and eternal consequences of their redemption and perseverance, describing their privileged access to God's presence and their perpetual, intimate relationship with Him. It transitions from their earthly suffering to their heavenly reward, solidifying their secure and blessed future.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in Revelation 7:15 draws heavily on Old Testament concepts of divine presence and worship, which would have resonated deeply with its original Jewish and early Christian audience. The "throne of God" evokes the heavenly court seen by prophets like Isaiah ([Isaiah 6](/isaiah/6 "Isaiah 6 - Isaiah's Vision of God")) and Ezekiel ([Ezekiel 1](/ezekiel/1 "Ezekiel 1 - Ezekiel's Vision of God")), representing ultimate authority and sovereignty. The "temple" refers not to an earthly structure, but to the heavenly sanctuary, the true dwelling place of God, echoing the Tabernacle and Temple in Israel's history as places where God's presence was manifested and worship was offered. The phrase "serve him day and night" reflects the continuous priestly service in the earthly temple ([1 Chronicles 9:33](/1_chronicles/9-33 "1 Chronicles 9:33 - Levites on Duty")), but here it is elevated to an eternal, unceasing spiritual devotion. For Christians facing persecution under the Roman Empire, this vision offered immense hope: a future free from suffering, in the direct, protective presence of God, a stark contrast to the earthly realities of exile and death.
* **Key Themes:** Revelation 7:15 powerfully reinforces several core themes prevalent in the book of Revelation and broader biblical theology. The theme of **Divine Sovereignty** is paramount, as the redeemed stand "before the throne of God," acknowledging His supreme authority and rightful place as the object of all worship. **Eternal Worship and Service** is another central theme, emphasized by the continuous "day and night" service in His temple, signifying that the ultimate purpose and joy of the redeemed in heaven is ceaseless adoration and spiritual ministry to God. This perpetual worship is not burdensome but a joyful expression of their redeemed state. Finally, the profound theme of **God's Dwelling Presence** reaches its zenith with the promise that "he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them." This echoes God's desire for intimate communion with humanity from the Garden of Eden ([Genesis 3:8](/genesis/3-8 "Genesis 3:8 - God Walking in the Garden")) through the Tabernacle ([Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God Dwells Among Israel")) and the Incarnation ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), culminating in the New Jerusalem where God's tabernacle is explicitly "with men" ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity")). This verse, therefore, paints a picture of ultimate security, purpose, and intimate fellowship with the Creator.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **serve (Greek, _latreúō'_):** This word (G3000) signifies a specific type of worshipful service, denoting religious homage or priestly duties rendered to God. It implies more than mere work; it is service offered in a sacred capacity, indicating that the redeemed will engage in a form of spiritual ministry or adoration. Their service is not a chore but a continuous act of devotion and worship.
* **throne (Greek, _thrónos'_):** Referring to a stately seat (G2362), "throne" here primarily symbolizes divine authority, power, and sovereignty. To be "before the throne of God" signifies direct access to the ultimate source of power and a position of privileged intimacy and security in the divine presence.
* **dwell (Greek, _skēnóō'_):** This verb (G4637) literally means "to pitch a tent" or "to tabernacle." Its use is highly significant, recalling the Old Testament Tabernacle where God's presence symbolically "dwelt" among Israel ([Exodus 40:34-35](/exodus/40-34-35 "Exodus 40:34-35 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle")). In Revelation 7:15, it powerfully foreshadows the ultimate, intimate dwelling of God with humanity, implying protection, communion, and an enduring, personal presence, a theme fully realized in the New Jerusalem ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore are they before the throne of God,"**: This clause establishes the privileged and secure position of the redeemed multitude. "Therefore" links their present blessed state to their past endurance of tribulation and their cleansing by the Lamb's blood. To be "before the throne of God" signifies direct, unhindered access to the Almighty, a position of honor, protection, and intimacy, contrasting sharply with the earthly struggles they faced.
* **"and serve him day and night in his temple:"**: This describes the primary activity and purpose of the redeemed in their eternal state. "Serve" (latreúō) implies worshipful devotion and spiritual ministry. "Day and night" is a merism indicating continuous, ceaseless, and unending service and adoration, not bound by earthly time. Their service takes place "in his temple," referring to the heavenly sanctuary, emphasizing the sacred and pure environment of their eternal occupation.
* **"and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them."**: This is the profound culmination of the verse, promising ultimate intimacy and communion. The "he that sitteth on the throne" is God Himself, the sovereign Lord. The promise that He "shall dwell among them" (skēnóō) signifies His personal, protective, and intimate presence, tabernacling with His people. This is the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire to be with humanity, providing comfort, security, and unending fellowship.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 7:15 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Allusion**. The "throne of God" symbolizes His absolute sovereignty, authority, and the center of divine power and justice. The "temple" is not a literal building but a symbolic representation of God's immediate, holy presence and the locus of heavenly worship, an **Allusion** to the earthly Tabernacle and Temple where God's presence was manifested. The phrase "day and night" functions as a **Merism**, a figure of speech where two contrasting parts represent a whole, signifying perpetual, unending, and ceaseless activity. This conveys the eternal nature of their worship and service. The verb "shall dwell" (skēnóō) is a powerful **Allusion** to the Old Testament Tabernacle, where God "pitched His tent" among Israel, and it carries the profound theological weight of God's desire for intimate communion with His people, culminating in the New Jerusalem. The entire verse uses vivid imagery to convey a profound spiritual reality, offering comfort and hope through its symbolic language.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 7:15 offers a breathtaking glimpse into the eschatological reality of the redeemed, underscoring the ultimate purpose of humanity: to worship and serve God in His unadulterated presence. The perpetual nature of their service ("day and night") signifies an eternal state of joyful devotion, where their very existence is an act of worship. This continuous communion and service are the consummation of God's redemptive work, fulfilling His ancient desire to dwell intimately with His people. It highlights that salvation is not merely escape from judgment, but entrance into an eternal, meaningful relationship with the Creator, characterized by direct access, divine protection, and purposeful engagement in His heavenly realm. This vision serves as a profound source of comfort and motivation for believers enduring earthly trials, assuring them of a glorious, secure, and eternally fulfilling destiny.

* [Revelation 4:8](/revelation/4-8 "Revelation 4:8 - Ceaseless Worship")
* [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity")
* [Psalm 100:2](/psalms/100-2 "Psalm 100:2 - Serve the Lord with Gladness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 7:15 provides an incredibly powerful and comforting vision for believers in every generation. It assures us that our present sufferings, trials, and tribulations are temporary, leading to an eternal reality of peace, security, and intimate fellowship with God. This verse challenges us to consider our ultimate purpose: to worship and serve God. If our eternal destiny is ceaseless adoration and service in His presence, how ought that shape our lives now? It encourages us to cultivate a heart of worship and service in our daily lives, recognizing that our earthly endeavors, when offered to God, are a foretaste of our heavenly occupation. It calls us to persevere through hardship, knowing that a glorious reward awaits, where God Himself will shelter and dwell among us. This vision of heaven should not lead to passive waiting, but to active, joyful, and faithful living, inspired by the certainty of our future in His glorious presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of God dwelling among His people in eternity impact your understanding of His character and His desire for relationship?**
* **If our eternal purpose is to "serve Him day and night," how can you begin to cultivate a spirit of continuous worship and service in your daily life now?**
* **In what ways does this vision of the redeemed multitude's secure and blessed state offer comfort and hope to you amidst present challenges or tribulations?**

### FAQ
**What does "serve him day and night in his temple" truly mean for believers in heaven?**

Answer: The phrase "serve him day and night in his temple" signifies a continuous, unceasing, and joyful devotion to God. It does not imply a burdensome or exhausting labor, but rather a perpetual state of worship, adoration, and spiritual ministry. The "temple" here refers to the heavenly sanctuary, God's immediate presence, not a physical building. This service is the ultimate fulfillment of our redeemed purpose, an eternal expression of love and gratitude, where every aspect of our being is dedicated to glorifying God. It suggests that our eternal existence will be one of active, purposeful communion with the Divine, free from the limitations and weariness of earthly service. It is a state of perfect alignment with God's will, where worship is our very being, as seen in the ceaseless praise of the heavenly beings in [Revelation 4:8](/revelation/4-8 "Revelation 4:8 - Ceaseless Worship").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 7:15, while depicting the redeemed before God's throne, finds its ultimate fulfillment and accessibility through the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is through the "blood of the Lamb" that the multitude has "washed their robes and made them white" ([Revelation 7:14](/revelation/7-14 "Revelation 7:14 - Cleansed by the Lamb's Blood")), signifying that their very presence before the throne is a direct result of Christ's atoning sacrifice. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "temple," the one in whom God's presence dwells fully ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), [John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus, the True Temple")), and it is through Him that believers gain direct access to the Father's throne ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access Through Christ")). Furthermore, the promise that "he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them" is profoundly Christ-centered. Jesus, as the incarnate God, "tabernacled" among humanity during His earthly ministry, foreshadowing this ultimate dwelling. In the New Jerusalem, it is God and the Lamb who are the temple ([Revelation 21:22](/revelation/21-22 "Revelation 21:22 - God and the Lamb are the Temple")), and the Lamb is the one who will "guide them to springs of living water" ([Revelation 7:17](/revelation/7-17 "Revelation 7:17 - The Lamb Leads Them")). Thus, the intimate dwelling, the perpetual service, and the privileged access described in Revelation 7:15 are all made possible, mediated, and ultimately centered in the redemptive work and ongoing presence of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 22:3

And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:

Revelation 21:3

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God.

Revelation 21:4

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Isaiah 4:5

And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory [shall be] a defence.

Isaiah 4:6

And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

2 Corinthians 6:16

And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in [them]; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

1 Chronicles 23:25

For David said, The LORD God of Israel hath given rest unto his people, that they may dwell in Jerusalem for ever: