Continue with 'Hidden Manna And A White Pebble'

These also receive " a white pebble." In Roman courts, pebbles were used in passing judgment. A white pebble meant acquittal, whereas a black pebble meant condemnation, often to death. Jesus' giving a white pebble to the Christians in Pergamum would indicated that he adjudges them innocent, pure and clean. But Jesus' words may have a further meaning. In Roman times, pebbles were also used like tickets to gain entry to important events. So the white pebble may indicated something very special for the conquering anointed Christian-his being admitted to an honored place in heaven at the marriage of the lamb. Only 144,000 such pebbles are provided.-Revelation 14:1; 19:7-9.

Does this mean that you are left unconsidered if you are one of the great crowd of companion worshipers? Not at all! While not receiving the white pebble of admittance into heaven, you may, if you endure, come out of the great tribulation to have a part in the joyful work of restoring Paradise on earth. Sharing with you in this will be resurrected faithful ones from pre-Christian times and those of the other sheep who may have died more recently. Eventually, all the other redeemed dead will be favored with a resurrection to life on a paradise earth.-Psalm 45:16; John 10:16; Revelation 7:9, 14.

What is the new name written on the pebble? A name is a means of identifying a person and distinguishing that one from others. These anointed Christians receive the pebble after they have finished their earthly course as conquerors. Clearly, then, the name on the pebble has to do with their privilege of being united with Jesus in heaven-a most intimate position of royal service to be fully appreciated and enjoyed only by those who inherit the heavenly Kingdom. Hence, it is a name,or a designation of office, "which no one knows except the one receiving it."- Compare Revelation 3:12.

What an inducement for the John class to "hear what the spirit says to the congregations" and apply it! And how this encourages their associates, the great crowd, to serve faithfully with them while they can enjoy their companionship here on earth and share with them in making known Jehovah's Kingdom!

Next time: Abhorring The "Deep Things Of Satan"