rsecuted sorely, many of them to the death, by the
beast. But the hundred forty and four thousand of Rev. xiv are not among
them; they were caught up before the tribulation commenced, having been
accounted worthy (Luke xxi. 34-36), to escape the things coming on the
earth, and to stand before the SON of MAN. Such are not only virgins,
undefiled by spiritual adultery with the world, but also wise ones,
filled with the SPIRIT: they are not only waiting for the coming of the
Bridegroom, but ready for that coming; whereas the unwise have to go and
buy oil, and so miss their opportunity. In Rev. xiv we see that GOD'S
Name is written on the foreheads of these wise virgins, and that in
their mouths is a song which no one else can sing. They are a
first-fruits Bride united to the first-fruit's Bridegroom, and were
redeemed (not from among the Jews only, but from among men), unto GOD
and the LAMB. Other believers, then in the tribulation, shall join them
later and form the harvest unto GOD (Rev. vii. 14-17), and will come
with the Bridegroom and Bride when our LORD is revealed from heaven in
flaming fire to take vengeance on the ungodly (2 Thess. i, 6-10). The
harvest is not only separated from the first-fruits in Rev. vii and xiv,
but also in Rev. xx. We may read verses 4-6 more clearly if we render
the second clause of verse 4, "I saw also the souls of them, &c.,"
instead of "and I saw, &c." and the last clause, "They also lived and
reigned with CHRIST a thousand years." We thus see the enthroned
Bridegroom and Bride and the harvest, the Body of CHRIST, forming the
first resurrection, and together reigning in glory.

_"And I will bless them."_ A word of encouragement to Aaron and his sons
in pronouncing the blessing, as well as to the people who received it.
The blessing was preceded by GOD'S command ("Speak unto Aaron ... On
this wise ye shall bless"), and followed by the promise quoted above;
even as our SAVIOUR in giving His last commission to disciple all
nations, preceded it by, "All power is given unto Me...: Go ye
therefore;" and followed it by the assurance and promise, "Lo, I am with
you alway." In the word of a King there is power; and when His servants
carry out His commands, our KING is present to authenticate them, and to
ensure the result.

PART III.

Princely Service.

NUMB. VII.

We learned from Numbers vi, GOD'S requirements of those who desire to
take the privileged position of separation to Him