Revelation 6:9 When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held.

Who are the souls mentioned after opening the fifth seal?

Fox’s book of Martyr’s tells the stories of Christians persecuted and killed for Christ’s sake from the apostles to the reformation protestants. But this is just a handful of the estimated 70 million Christians martyred throughout history. In the 21st century, it is estimated between 100,000 to 160,000 each year. Communism and Fascism accounted for a large number of those deaths. We have a scene after the fifth seal was opened of martyrs under the alter in heaven. Could this be all of the martyrs throughout history?

There are differing opinions on this, but it is just my humble opinion it is all martyrs. No other faith does people accept this as glory but in the Christian faith. Romans 8:38-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Satan and the world cultures do not care about religion. They even encourage it. But speak the name of Jesus and watch the killing begin!

What are the martyrs doing?

Revelation 6:10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” These voices are crying out for justice. They seem to know the amount of time they have been there saying, “How long, O Lord.” They are not seeking revenge themselves but crying to God for vengeance. Hebrews 10:30 For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. And again, “The LORD will judge His people.”

Revelation 6:11 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. The martyrs are given a white robe symbolizing their sainthood and told the time is not now. But they cry out and those they cry out against will receive judgement.

What does this mean for us?

As Christians, we are like sheep amongst the wolves. Jesus was crucified on the cross. If the world wanted Him dead, then why would we expect less? But Jesus left us the great commission in Matthew 28. Go forth! Make disciples of all nations! The call has been made. The world needs to hear about Jesus. For some this could cause our death. For some it may mean beatings. Still for others loss of property. Whatever the cost, it is worth the sacrifice.

As non-believers and persecutors of Christianity, there will be a day God declares His judgement. What a terrible day that will be. There is still time to come to the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Will you seek it out?