In the Bible, “great multitude” refers to a large group of people, often signifying a diverse assembly of believers or followers gathered for worship, celebration, or judgment. It emphasizes themes of unity and the inclusiveness of God’s salvation, as seen in passages like Revelation 7:9, which describes a vast crowd from every nation worshiping before the throne of God.
Scripture
9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands,
10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”
11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God,
12 saying, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”
13 Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, “Who are these, clothed in white robes, and from where have they come?”
14 I said to him, “Sir, you know.” And he said to me, “These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
15 “Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.”
16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat.
17 For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
Meaning of “Great Multitude” in the Bible
The term “great multitude” in the Bible often embodies a profound symbol of collective faith and divine promise. It illustrates the unity and diversity of believers, transcending cultural, ethnic, and social boundaries. Revelation 7:9 depicts this concept vividly: “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.” This imagery not only celebrates the inclusiveness of God’s salvation plan — indicating that His offer is available to all — but also highlights the fulfillment of the prophecy of restoring humanity in its entirety. This multitude represents the vast family of God, unified in worship and devotion, emphasizing that God’s grace extends beyond any earthly divisions.
The significance of a “great multitude” is also echoed in the Gospels, particularly in the feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:1-14), where Jesus serves a large crowd, showing His compassion and ability to provide for diverse needs. The multitude here is indicative of the spiritual and physical nourishment Christ offers to all who seek Him. Similarly, in Acts 2:41, after Peter’s impactful sermon at Pentecost, it is noted that about 3,000 were added to the numbers of believers — illustrating the rapid growth of the early Church and furthering the message that the gospel is for everyone. Thus, the “great multitude” not only reflects the loving outreach of God but also acts as a testament to the transformative power of faith in gathering people from all walks of life into a communal relationship with Him.
Beyond the specific passages that depict the “great multitude,” this theme resonates throughout various narratives and teachings in both the Old and New Testaments. In the context of Israel’s journey, the massive gatherings during festivals such as Passover and Pentecost highlight an assembly of people from diverse backgrounds, uniting in worship and remembrance of God’s covenant. These gatherings serve as a precursor to the later understanding of a “great multitude,” where individuals from varied tribes and nations come together, underscoring the timelessness of God’s redemptive work that encompasses all of humanity.
Moreover, the “great multitude” symbolizes not just the physical throngs that gather for worship or miracles, but also the spiritual awakening that occurs as a result of God’s intervention in human history. In the parables of Jesus, particularly those about the Kingdom of Heaven, the imagery of great gatherings illustrates the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom, where the invitation goes out to the righteous and the unrighteous alike. This concept points to the eschatological hope where a multitude, representing all who responded to God’s grace, will one day stand in His presence, a testament to the fulfillment of divine promises across generations. Thus, the recurring notion of a “great multitude” weaves a rich tapestry of divine inclusiveness, highlighting both the call to unity among believers and the overarching mission of spreading the gospel to every corner of the earth.
The Inclusivity of God’s Kingdom
The term “great multitude” often signifies the inclusivity of God’s kingdom, emphasizing that salvation is available to all people, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or social status. This concept reflects the idea that God’s grace extends beyond a select few, inviting a diverse array of individuals into a relationship with Him. The “great multitude” serves as a reminder that the community of believers is made up of various nations, tribes, and languages, highlighting the universal nature of the Gospel message.
The Power of Collective Faith
Another broader meaning of “great multitude” relates to the power of collective faith and community. When large groups of people come together in faith, they can create a significant impact, both spiritually and socially. This collective aspect underscores the importance of unity among believers, as they support one another in their spiritual journeys and work together to fulfill the mission of spreading the Gospel. The “great multitude” symbolizes the strength found in community, where shared beliefs and experiences can lead to transformative actions and a deeper understanding of faith.
The Anticipation of Eschatological Fulfillment
The phrase “great multitude” also carries eschatological implications, pointing to the future fulfillment of God’s promises. It serves as a prophetic vision of the ultimate gathering of believers in the end times, where all who have accepted Christ will be united in worship and praise. This anticipation of a “great multitude” in the eschaton reflects hope and assurance for believers, reinforcing the idea that God’s plan encompasses a vast and diverse assembly of His people, ultimately culminating in eternal communion with Him.
How to Embrace Inclusivity in Your Christian Faith
Embracing inclusivity in your Christian faith is a beautiful journey that reflects the heart of Jesus’ teachings. Start by recognizing that every person, regardless of their background, race, or beliefs, is created in the image of God and deserves love and respect. Engage with those who are different from you—listen to their stories, share meals, and create spaces where everyone feels welcome. Remember, Jesus often broke societal norms to reach out to the marginalized, and as His followers, we are called to do the same. Reflect on passages like Galatians 3:28, which reminds us that in Christ, there is no division. Let this truth guide your actions and attitudes, fostering a community that celebrates diversity and embodies the love of Christ. By doing so, you not only grow in your faith but also become a beacon of hope and acceptance in a world that desperately needs it.
Bible References to “Great Multitude” Meaning:
Revelation 19:1-6: 1 After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God,
2 for his judgments are true and just; for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.”
3 Once more they cried out, “Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up forever and ever.”
4 And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!”
5 And from the throne came a voice saying, “Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, small and great.”
6 Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.
Matthew 14:13-21: 13 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns.
14 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.
15 Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.”
16 But Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.”
17 They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.”
18 He said, “Bring them here to me.”
19 Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.
20 And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over.
21 And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.
Matthew 15:29-39: 29 Jesus went on from there and walked beside the Sea of Galilee.
30 And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them,
31 so that the crowd wondered, when they saw the mute speaking, the crippled healthy, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. And they glorified the God of Israel.
32 Then Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion on the crowd because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. And I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way.”
33 And the disciples said to him, “Where are we to get enough bread in such a desolate place to feed so great a crowd?”
34 And Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven, and a few small fish.”
35 And directing the crowd to sit down on the ground,
36 he took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.
37 And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over.
38 And those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children.
39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan.
Mark 3:7-12: 7 Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great crowd followed, from Galilee and Judea
8 and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from around Tyre and Sidon. When the great crowd heard all that he was doing, they came to him.
9 And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they crush him,
10 for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed around him to touch him.
11 And whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.”
12 But he strictly charged them not to make him known.
Mark 5:21-24: 21 And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea.
22 Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet
35 While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler’s house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”
24 And he went with him. And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him.
Luke 6:17-19: 17 And he came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon,
18 who came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured.
19 And all the crowd sought to touch him, for power came out from him and healed them all.
John 6:1-14: 1 After this Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias.
2 And a large crowd was following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick.
3 And Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples.
4 Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand.
5 Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?”
6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do.
7 Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.”
8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him,
9 “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?”
10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number.
11 Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted.
12 And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.”
13 So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten.
14 When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!”
Acts 14:1-7: 1 Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed.
2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.
3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
4 But the people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews and some with the apostles.
5 When an attempt was made by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to mistreat them and to stone them,
6 they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country,
7 and there they continued to preach the gospel.
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.