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The below study is in response to a "doctrine" some assumed was of God that makes the claim the 144,000 (144k) can actually die and resurrect in time to be in that number. I would have posted it weeks ago, but the ministry was under a major attack and so I was unable to until now. Before starting I must delcare that when some step forward with statements from SDA pioneers or any other trusted preachers or teachers that go against that which is written by the Lord with the claim that it is "new light" we MUST always rely on Scripture because new light will never contradict old light. The fact there are no Bible verses that say the 144k can ever die, and for those of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) persuasion that see Ellen White as a prophet, I can also state with confidence that there are no statements from the Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) that says they die either. That being the case, we can end this study here if we wanted to because the prophet's of the written Word of God and the prophet Ellen White never said they can die and since we know this as fact, that means the comments from the SDA pioneers that are being presented as proof the 144k can die are only based on assumptions of said pioneers. And it is common knowledge of all in the SDA church that none of the pioneers, and this includes James White, were ever considered to be prophets. That also means, if they make such claims, (be it in actual documents of forgeries) seeing how there are no inspired Scripture or SOP to back it up as a confirmed prophetic utterance, then the only way they can make the claims is to actually prophesy. Therefore, those using statements from the pioneers are actually claiming the pioneers themselves are actual prophets when in fact they are not.

We must also take into consideration that Rome is very crafty and has been caught more than a few times counterfeiting documents and even creating new ones that go directly against the written Word of God so as to preach another Jesus as well as hide their evil ways and even discredit those that expose her. Take for example the claim that James White stated that Ellen White would be, and I quote, "counted in the 144,000." Problem is, I have the original collection of the Review and Herald articles where this quote was claimed to have been found and it is not in there at all. And secondly, even if it was, unless we can verify James White was suddenly a prophet who can speak extrabiblicaly, then we must only embrace a thus saith the Lord. Thing is we already know James White was not a prophet and so that argument is moot.

END RESULT: Either the statements shared by the pioneers suggesting the 144k can die are 100% fabricated, or the pioneers themselves are proven false prophets. For it is plainly stated in Isaiah 8:20, "to the law and the testimony, if they speak not according to this Word it is because there is no light in them. And since biblical jurisprudence confirms nary a single doctrine can be confirmed by mere opinion or conjecture, the following study from the Word of God and Spirit of Prophecy is presented as concrete evidence that the 144k cannot die therefore confirmign the promise of the Lord and His glory remain intact just as His Word proclaimed it would be.

Can the 144,000 die?

The question has been presented by some brethren in the church; can the 144k ever die? Or, will those that were called to declare the third angels message in the prophesied 9th hour of over 100 years ago that have since gone to their graves somehow resurrect to be literally counted in the 144k by number? To begin with, I must assume those reading have a basic understanding of the Word of God and being a student of the Word you already know why Elijah and Moses stood next to Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration.

• Matthew 17:1-4, "And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart,  And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.  And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.  Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias."

Jesus was glorified before the three apostles that day to illustrate what will happen at the second coming. Jesus appears in His glorified state as He will be when He returns. Moses is standing there to represent those that died as faithful Christians before His return. And finally Elias (Elijah) is standing there to represent those the 144k that will never die. As we know, Jesus is Lord and Saviour who has promised to return in glory and so this is why He stands glorified. As we also know Moses died and was resurrected and is now in the city of New Jerusalem (Heaven) and has been there for thousands of years. And as we also know, Elijah never died a physical death at all and was taken up in a chariot of fire before the very eyes of his understudy Elisha and is now in New Jerusalem as well.

Elijah standing there alone proves the 144k can never die as they are the obedient people of God that have the faith, wisdom, courage, and love of Jesus to be able to stand alive without failing in the faith during the seven last plagues who will then stand firm in Jesus when the Eastern sky rips wide to witness firsthand as Jesus returns as promised in His Word. For we all know Elijah never died because of what it says in 2 Kings 2:11, "And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven." In short, Elijah never saw death before he was taken up to Heaven and that is why He was standing next to Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration that day. Moses stood there because he did experience death for his sinful act of striking the Rock.

There are other areas in the Word that speak of the 144k and I do have some sermons and a video touching on those areas in the Word if you the reader would like additional information. Just click here to see that page. I am presently working on another study on the second chapter of Joel that also speaks of the undying promise unto the 144k from our Lord that I plan to post to that page soon.

Notice if you will that it says in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." Notice also what SOP says when speaking of that great and dreadful day in the following quote from Early Writings.

• I saw the saints leaving the cities and villages, and associating together in companies, and living in the most solitary places. Angels provided them food and water, while the wicked were suffering from hunger and thirst. Then I saw the leading men of the earth consulting together, and Satan and his angels busy around them. I saw a writing, copies of which were scattered in different parts of the land, giving orders that unless the saints should yield their peculiar faith, give up the Sabbath, and observe the first day of the week, the people were at liberty after a certain time to put them to death. But in this hour of trial the saints were calm and composed, trusting in God and leaning upon His promise that a way of escape would be made for them. In some places, before the time for the decree to be executed, the wicked rushed upon the saints to slay them; but angels in the form of men of war fought for them. Satan wished to have the privilege of destroying the saints of the Most High; but Jesus bade His angels watch over them. God would be honored by making a covenant with those who had kept His law, in the sight of the heathen round about them; and Jesus would be honored by translating, without their seeing death, the faithful, waiting ones who had so long expected Him.  {EW 282.2}

As we see here, Sister White literally details why some will make the claim the 144k can die. The claim is put forth by some outside the church so as to lure some in the church to remove all hope in the promises of God. Is this not what Satan has done for 6000 years? God says one thing and then Satan says another. And those in disobedience believe it. This actually reminds me of how Satan beguiled Eve in the Garden. The Lord clearly said in Genesis 2:17, "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die." And then Satan said to Eve not too much later in Genesis 3:4, "And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:" Well what we see happening with the 144k is the same lie but only now instead of saying you won't die, Satan is now saying you can! For in so doing makes the PROMISE of God appear faulty and unbelievable.

Some have also claimed because sister White says the following in Early Writings that She too will be “IN” the 144,000.. but nowhere does it say that in this quote. The claim is solely based on opinion and according to 2Peter 1:20, that is not a wise act.

• The graves were opened, and those who had died in faith under the third angel’s message, keeping the Sabbath, came forth from their dusty beds, glorified, to hear the covenant of peace that God was to make with those who had kept His law. {EW 285.1}

Here we can see how some honest in heart but lured off the path of truth just the same can become confused. Those that were faithful during the 3^rd angel’s message will in fact arise before the multitudes are raised, because she also says later the following regarding those that have been dead from the beginning of time.

• “The earth mightily shook as the voice of the Son of God called forth the sleeping saints. They responded to the call and came forth clothed with glorious immortality, crying, "Victory, victory, over death and the grave! O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?" Then the living saints and the risen ones raised their voices in a long, transporting shout of victory. Those bodies that had gone down into the grave bearing the marks of disease and death came up in immortal health and vigor. The living saints are changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and caught up with the risen ones, and together they meet their Lord in the air.” - {EW 287.1} 

The reference to the "twinkling of an eye" when the resurrected ones are "changed" is referring to 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 which also says, "Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed."

As for the living saints, it says this in Spirit of Prophecy. (SOP)

• The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses’ did when he came down from Mount Sinai. {EW 14.1}

Notice this one glaring reality here. It doesn't say 143,999 so as to make it a perfect 144,000 after Ellen White resurrects at all. But this is what some have been led to believe. And so the question is, why do you think this way? It has to do with the following quote found in Early Writings. So the question now is, does the angel say Ellen White will be IN the number or does it back up her previous statements wherein she speaks about being resurrected before the dead in Christ so as to be WITH the 144k to witness amazing events surrounding the Lord return? You tell me.

• “Then the angel said, "You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.” {EW 39.3}

Seems rather clear to me that the Angel is merely saying she will be "with" the 144k and not "in" the 144k. It is also clear she will be blessed with the blessing to see the Lord's return along WITH the 144,000 for her obedience towards remaining "faithful" unto death as the angel suggested on page 39.3. Her work on earth as a prophet deems the blessing from on High and if she remains faithful, she will be blessed to see what the 144k see on that great and dreadful day, not to mention the visitation of the other worlds. In fact, I do believe Moses, Enoch and Elijah are also blessed with such travles as would be the 24 elders due to their obedient and prophetic acts. Did not Sister White see Enoch training a grape vine on one of these worlds in vision? But I cannot find any Scripture that says they are “IN” the 144,000 number any more than I see Ellen White in that blessed number.

As I shared earlier, the angel told sister White (which coincides with biblical jurisprudence) that she may be “WITH” the 144,000 in enjoying their God given privileges if she remained obedient unto death. But as the angel and Scripture confirm, that does not mean the 144,000 will be at 143,999 awaiting her to be added or does it grow to 144,001 to include Sister White. Nor will it grow to 144,004 to include Enoch, Moses and Elijah. Nor will it grow to 144,028 to include the 24 elders or anyone else that will enjoy those privileges as promised all throughout biblical history.

Now notice this…

• “I hardly know what to say to you. [WORDS TO A HUSBAND AND CHILDREN ON THE LOSS OF A WIFE AND MOTHER.] The news of your wife's death was to me overwhelming. I could hardly believe it and can hardly believe it now. God gave me a view last Sabbath night which I will write. . . .  {FLB 173.2} I saw that she was sealed and would come up at the voice of God and stand upon the earth, and would be with the 144,000. I saw we need not mourn for her; she would rest in the time of trouble, and all that we could mourn for was our loss in being deprived of her company. I saw her death would result in good.  {FLB 173.3} 

The only way someone can "come up at the voice of God" is to be dead first. And notice this as well. Ellen White is using the exact same terminology the angel did in her vision that said if she remained faithful she too would be WITH the 144k. That being said, are those that preach the 144k can die also teaching this woman that died in Ellen White's day will then be IN the 144k just as they claim with Ellen White? Yes they are. For the exact same statement is made by both EllenWhite and the angel. But of course they will say no they are not saying that because it would be considered silly. But the basic fact remains, and I am only using basic grammar and the English language to declare they do in fact hang their hat of theology on the angel's statement to Ellen White as definitive proof that she is IN that number. But then when the exact same words are used to speak of a mere Christian who is not a prophet being "with" the 144k, it now has a completely different meaning in the English language to support the idea that she is now only WITH the 144k? How's that possible?

You can't have it both ways, but that's how the enemy of souls works. He uses the Word of God to have it say one thing here and another thing elsewhere so as to keep the truth well covered in lies. But only the disobedient who are accustomed to the lies will fall for that. Could it be those that preach such things use this woman that died long ago as an example to claim some will die that will make up that number? Notice however it does not say she will be “IN” that number, but like everyone else that arises that day she will be “WITH” the 144,000 on that great and dreadful day just as will be the entire retinue of Angels, the 24 elders, Moses, Enoch, Elijah, our Lord and His Father.

But notice this. Ellen White only says here that this woman is “WITH” the 144,000. She does not mention what the angel said to her when he said she “shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.” Ellen White never told this grieving husband his wife will have such privileges promised only to the 144k and those involved in the 3 angels message. Sister White even says “she would rest in the time of trouble.” If she was ”IN” that number that goes through the plagues as the 144k did, she would not be in the grave “resting" at all.

The 144k are a special number of people that not only have the same faith and courage as the prophets of old who may join them in their privileges throughout eternity; the 144k are a special group that are able to stand in the divine nature on a planet swimming in sin and judgment during the plagues as well. Not even the prophets of old can do this. In fact it even speaks of the 144k in Revelation 14:3 as the only ones capable of singing a particular song.

• Revelation 14:3, "And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth."

Most saints and even the prophets of old cannot partake in this baptism, nor can they stand during the plagues and so they all die beforehand just as the many souls that helped Noah build the ark died before the flood. Only the 144k will have such a faith to be able to stand firm during the time of Jacob’s trouble. In fact it says this in SOP…

• This was the time of Jacob's trouble. Then all the saints cried out with anguish of spirit, and were delivered by the voice of God. The 144,000 triumphed. Their faces were lighted up with the glory of God. {EW 37.2}

So, getting back to that woman. Ellen White said that woman was “resting” in the time of trouble did she not? If that’s the case, how can she “triumph” as the 144k are prophesied to do so during those final plagues; and just so you know, how could Ellen White "triumph" as well seeing how she is resurrected shortly before that woman was when all along the 144k were there for all 7 of those plagues?

There are many other instances in SOP to back up this truth. But I am not called to correct preachers outside the faith, as that would entail every hour of the day. I only share this for you, my brothers and sisters in the faith because I know my duty and calling at this time. What I see these disobedient preachers and teachers doing here is as is to be expected of the government approved preachers who due to disobedience cannot see what we see and so the promises of God can be easily twisted in their minds by the serpent in the tree. I pray you, my precious brethren understand the dangers of listening to them preach or teach as their calling is obvious. In fact it was propehsied! See my "image of the beast" page when you get time.

These government approved preachers use false theology from confused and even some fallen pioneers who actually left the faith to make Scripture and SOP appear to say things they simply do not say. And they do so claiming to be propets for only a prophet can declare that which is not written with assurance from on High. But, at the same time, that which the "prophet" speaks must coincide with that which is already written. And we have ample evidence in the Word of God and in SOP itself that the 144k cannot die. For them to say they can, is declaring the Lord thy God to be a liar. For Isaiah 8:20 clearly says, "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

In short, "new light" can never contradict old Light. And we have the Light of the Word of God to confirm that biblical fact in a very bright manner. What we see happening with the confused preachers and teachers is as it has always been. They are confused because of the same disobedience the pioneers embraced that fell off the path over a century ago as well as the disobedient Pharisees who fell 2000 years ago. They cannot see the truth even though it’s as simple to see as I outlined here because their eyes have been clouded by their own choice to rebel.

One last thing:

Satan loves confusion, this is why he created so many denominations that have spun off from his masterpiece in Rome. He also loves to mock the Lord who promised in His Word that the 144k cannot die. Now I can repeat myself or even sit back to search out some intense ways to explain how Satan is glorified by preaching the 144k die and the Lord is belittled. But me thinks letting Ellen White say it would be so much better as she did just that in a very blessed manner.

"I was pointed back to faithful Noah. When the rain descended and the flood came, Noah and his family had entered the ark, and God had shut them in. Noah had faithfully warned the inhabitants of the antediluvian world, while they had mocked and derided him. And as the waters descended upon the earth, and one after another was drowning, they beheld that ark, of which they had made so much sport, riding safely upon the waters, preserving the faithful Noah and His family. So I saw that the people of God, who had faithfully warned the world of His coming wrath, would be delivered. God would not suffer the wicked to destroy those who were expecting translation and who would not bow to the decree of the beast or receive his mark. I saw that if the wicked were permitted to slay the saints, Satan and all his evil host, and all who hate God, would be gratified. And oh, what a triumph it would be for his satanic majesty to have power, in the last closing struggle, over those who had so long waited to behold Him whom they loved! Those who have mocked at the idea of the saints' going up will witness the care of God for His people and behold their glorious deliverance."  {EW 284.1}

Chain of events at the second coming

When speaking of the 144k we see them surrounded by the wicked of the world who seek to kill them. Now notice what it says in Early Writings pages 282 and on...

•      It was at midnight that God chose to deliver His people. As the wicked were mocking around them, suddenly the sun appeared, shining in his strength, and the moon stood still. The wicked looked upon the scene with amazement, while the saints beheld with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance. Signs and wonders followed in quick succession. Everything seemed turned out of its natural course. The streams ceased to flow. Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other. But there was one clear place of settled glory, whence came the voice of God like many waters, shaking the heavens and the earth."

Stopping here for a moment we see the wicked suddenly realize the end is near while at the same time the 144,000 see it as a joyful event. Now notice what happens next...

• "There was a mighty earthquake. The graves were opened, and those who had died in faith under the third angel's message, keeping the Sabbath, came forth from their dusty beds, glorified, to hear the covenant of peace that God was to make with those who had kept His law."  {EW 285.1}

What we see here is proof that all those obedient unto death who proclaimed the third angel's message over a century ago, and this includes Ellen White, were in the grave before this mighty earthquake happened. And that quake occurs directly after the wicked surround the already numbered 144k. In fact, it is at this time all those that proclaimed the 3 angels message during the 9th hour movement of Christ's obedient church are allowed to see His second coming as the angel promised Ellen White. First and foremost, nowhere does it say she will be "in" that number. In fact, as we saw earlier, the angel only tells her that she will be "with the 144,000" as they visit the other worlds. That happens for the most part after all Christians ascend to heaven with the Lord. So to use that statement to claim she is "in" that number is to do so way out of context. Nowhere does it say she will be IN that number. And as we see in this vision she is having now in Early Writings page 285, she is allowed to get up with the other 9th hour obedient pioneers who did the work with her.

As I said earlier, I believe this is where the people that believe the 144k can die get confused. They see Ellen White alive when the second coming occurs and assume that it's because she is in that number. They are confused because as we read on we see that when the Lord gets close enough to the earth He then calls ALL the saints from their graves. Because she is alive when this occurs, the confusion begins to set in due to the fact it appears as if two different resurrections are happening here. The confused soul believes the first one must mean they are of the 144k when in fact the 144k are already numbered BEFORE they came out of their graves as the previous earthquake confirms.

Continuing in Early writings we see this...

• "The sky opened and shut and was in commotion. The mountains shook like a reed in the wind and cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot and cast out stones upon the land. And as God spoke the day and the hour of Jesus' coming and delivered the everlasting covenant to His people, He spoke one sentence, and then paused, while the words were rolling through the earth. The Israel of God stood with their eyes fixed upward, listening to the words as they came from the mouth of Jehovah and rolled through the earth like peals of loudest thunder. It was awfully solemn. At the end of every sentence the saints shouted, "Glory! Hallelujah!" Their countenances were lighted up with the glory of God, and they shone with glory as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked could not look upon them for the glory. And when the never-ending blessing was pronounced on those who had honored God in keeping His Sabbath holy, there was a mighty shout of victory over the beast and over his image.  {EW 285.2}  
  Then commenced the jubilee, when the land should rest. I saw the pious slave rise in victory and triumph, and shake off the chains that bound him, while his wicked master was in confusion and knew not what to do; for the wicked could not understand the words of the voice of God.  {EW 286.1} Soon appeared the great white cloud, upon which sat the Son of man. When it first appeared in the distance, this cloud looked very small. The angel said that it was the sign of the Son of man. As it drew nearer the earth, we could behold the excellent glory and majesty of Jesus as He rode forth to conquer."

This is witnessed by all the wicked, the 144k, AND Ellen White. It even counts as witnesses those that worked in faithful obedience with her to preach the third angel's message in the 1800's. But as we see plainly, the many saints that have died the last 6000 years are still in their graves awaiting the voice of Jesus to call them out as soon as He gets close enough to the earth. And so again I see this as the reason those that claim the 144k can die get so confused. They see Ellen White witnessing all this along "with" the 144k and assume she must be IN that number because she sees what they see. When in fact there is not a single reference in her writings or in the Word of God that this happens. And so there is where Satan lurks. He sees their confusion and builds on it so as to make the promise of the Lord to appear to be lacking as he did with Eve in the garden. So pray for these dear souls that they use the power of Christ to shout "get thee hence Satan" and come back into the truth.

• "A retinue of holy angels, with bright, glittering crowns upon their heads, escorted Him on His way. No language can describe the glory of the scene. The living cloud of majesty and unsurpassed glory came still nearer, and we could clearly behold the lovely person of Jesus. He did not wear a crown of thorns, but a crown of glory rested upon His holy brow. Upon His vesture and thigh was a name written, King of kings, and Lord of lords. His countenance was as bright as the noonday sun, His eyes were as a flame of fire, and His feet had the appearance of fine brass. His voice sounded like many musical instruments. The earth trembled before Him, the heavens departed as a scroll when it is rolled together, and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. "And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every freeman, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; and said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: for the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?" Those who a short time before would have destroyed God's faithful children from the earth, now witnessed the glory of God which rested upon them. And amid all their terror they heard the voices of the saints in joyful strains, saying, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us."  {EW 286.2}  
  The earth mightily shook as the voice of the Son of God called forth the sleeping saints. They responded to the call and came forth clothed with glorious immortality, crying, "Victory, victory, over death and the grave! O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?" Then the living saints and the risen ones raised their voices in a long, transporting shout of victory."

Here we see yet another area of confusion for those believing Ellen White is "IN" the 144k. It's because this reference declares the "living saints" and the "risen ones" now proclaim victory. But had they read earlier they would know the "living saints" at this time compile both Ellen White AND the 144k. But because they see it only saying "living saints" they believe she must be "IN" the 144k, as they assume it intimates by just saying "living saints" instead of saying "those that arose to hear the date so as to join "with" those already alive in the 144,000, join their voices with the people that just came out of their graves a few moments ago."

This is where Satan can always take advantage. He takes actual truth and add all sorts of assumptions unto it so as to glorify his lies. But if you have eyes to see and an obedient heart towards the Lord Jesus who then prevents you from "adding to or taking away" from His inspired Word, then you will be of the elect that cannot be decieved. And even if you did get tipped up a little on this one, just repent of the mistake, aplogize if in fact you offended anyone you disagreed with, and move on in Christ.

Finishing the chain of events for those seeking clarity on all this, we read on.

"Those bodies that had gone down into the grave bearing the marks of disease and death came up in immortal health and vigor. The living saints are changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and caught up with the risen ones, and together they meet their Lord in the air. Oh, what a glorious meeting! Friends whom death had separated were united, never more to part.  {EW 287.1}  
On each side of the cloudy chariot were wings, and beneath it were living wheels; and as the chariot rolled upward, the wheels cried, "Holy," and the wings, as they moved, cried, "Holy," and the retinue of holy angels around the cloud cried, "Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty!" And the saints in the cloud cried, "Glory! Alleluia!" And the chariot rolled upward to the Holy City. Before entering the city, the saints were arranged in a perfect square, with Jesus in the midst. He stood head and shoulders above the saints and above the angels. His majestic form and lovely countenance could be seen by all in the square. {EW 287.2}

Below is a compilation of SOP statements that confirm truth:

WHO ARE THE 144,000 IN REVELATION?

Revelation 14:3 – “And they (144,000) sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.”

1. Who are the 144,000?

This group is so special because “they came out of the great tribulation” - (Rev 7:13-14). They did not worship the Beast and his Image nor receive the Mark of the Beast during the great tribulation period when Sunday law is enforced by America (Rev 13:11-17) till the second coming of Christ. Mrs. Ellen G. White in reference to the 144,000 says, “These are they which came out of the great tribulation; they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation…” -Maranatha chapter 320.

They are the "righteous" sealed at the time when probation closes. And they will be "translated" amongst the living at the time when Christ returns.

2. Is the 144,000 a literal number of a symbolic number?  

Not everything mentioned in Revelation is symbolic. The millennium in Revelation Chapter 20 (1,000 years) is literal. This special group, the 144,000 people, is a literal number. They are seen as standing in front of the throne of God in heaven singing the new song. Only the 144,000 out of those redeemed from the earth knew how to sing the new song – Rev 14:3. The rest of the saved which is “the great multitude” (Rev 7:9) do not know the new song. Those who will receive eternal life are more than 144,000; but the 144,000 is a special group. She further says, “These, having been translated, from the earth, from among the living, are counted as the “first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. Rev 15:2,3; 14:1-5.” -Last Day Events page 269.

She used the word “translated.” The 144,000 is the group that will be “translated” like Enoch and Elijah, when Christ returns. They will never see death. They are the righteous people of God that are ALIVE at the time when Christ returns.

3. The 144,000 Are Sealed at the Close of Probation amongst the LIVING

When probation closes, amongst those who are “living,” the righteous remain righteous, and the wicked remain wicked - Revelation 22:11. The “righteous” that will be sealed amongst the living at the time when probation closes will be exactly 144,000 in number. God knows the future and He has foretold us of the number that will go through the time of Jacob’s trouble and be translated (taken alive) from amongst the “living” when Christ comes back the second time to take the righteous to heaven. God foretold of the number that will be saved from Sodom and Gomorrah to Abraham – Genesis 18:26-33. God could have told Noah that only eight people will be saved in the ARK before he preached for 120 years because He knows the future. On the night of the Passover, Jesus Christ foretold about Judas’ plan to sell Him – John 13. God knows the future – Isaiah 46:9-10.

4. Why the 144,000 are sealed as God’s Children at the Close of Probation?

The group 144,000 people will be sealed by God amongst the living when probation is closed because of their Christ-like character. They love God and by faith, keep His Commandments – Rev 12:17; 14:12; 22:14. They do not have the Mark of the Beast.

Mrs. White says,

• "The seal of God will be placed on those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character.” The SDA Bible Commentary, vol.7, p.970.
• “Everyone who by faith obeys God’s commandments, will reach the condition of sinlessness in which Adam lived before his transgression.” Maranatha, August 4, p.224 (Signs of the Times, July 23, 1902)
• “Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin…” The Review and Herald 01-17-1907.
• "Exact obedience is required and those who say that it is not possible to live a perfect life throw upon God the imputation of injustice and untruth" MANUSCRIPT 148, 1899
• "He who is not sufficient faith in Christ to believe that he can keep him from sinning has not the faith that will give him entrance to the kingdom of God" Review and Herald, March 10, 1904
• “He (Jesus) had kept His Father’s commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand in the time of trouble.” The Review and Herald 03-14-1912.
• “Everyone who by faith obeys God’s commandments, will reach the condition of sinlessness in which Adam lived beforehis transgression.” Maranatha, August 4, p.224 (Signs of the Times, July 23, 1902)

The 144,000 are the remnant of God during the great tribulation period from the close of probation to the second coming of Christ because of their Christ-like character. The Christ-like character is the character of God’s children who lived beginning from Adam to the time of Christ’s return. Adam, Abel, Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Caleb, Elijah, Daniel, Joseph, and many others lived a Christ-like character in their new life in Christ. All those who lived a Christ-like character will be either resurrected in the first resurrection or become part of the 144,000 to be translated if they are still alive at Christ’s coming.

5. What about those who do not receive the Mark of the Beast; those who lived a Christ-like character when Sunday law was enforced but died as a martyr before the close of Probation? … Will they not be part of the 144,000?

The great tribulation will begin when Sunday law becomes enforced by America, and it stretches passed the close of probation time till the second coming of Christ. Many of God’s faithful people will become martyrs when Sunday law is enforced before the close of probation; and should they die in the LORD before probation closes, these faithful ones who do not receive the Mark of the Beast will be resurrected from the grave when Christ returns – 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. Anyone who died in Christ before the close of probation will not make up the group 144,000, though they will receive eternal life. These martyrs will become part of the great multitude in heaven – Rev 7:9.

6. Will any of the 144,000 people die during the time of Jacob’s trouble which is between the close of probation and the second coming of Jesus Christ?

No! Those who are sealed by God among the “living” at the time when probation closes, they will make up the number 144,000. This group (144,000) will never experience the first death during the time of Jacob’s trouble even though they may suffer and become persecuted severely. Many will face the death penalty but they will not die. After probation is closed, God will not allow anyone from the 144,000 to die because the death of the righteous at this time will not bring about a witness to the wicked to cause him or her to repent and be saved. Mrs. White comments,  "If the blood of Christ's faithful witnesses were shed at this time, it would not, like the blood of the martyrs, be as seed sown to yield a harvest for God. Their fidelity would not be a testimony to convince others of the truth; for the obdurate heart has beaten back the waves of mercy until they return no more. If the righteous were now left to fall a prey to their enemies, it would be a triumph for the prince of darkness." -The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 4 page 452

The 144,000 will be preserved by God throughout “the time of Jacob’s trouble” and be taken alive at Jesus Christ’s second coming.

7. Will the 144,000 people suffer for lack of Food during the time of Jacob’s trouble?

No! God will provide for their needs. Remember none of them will die. Mrs. White says, “Bread and water is all that is promised to the remnant in the time of trouble.” The Story of Redemption, p.129

She further says, “The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of food they will not be left to perish.… While the wicked are dying from hunger and pestilence, angels will shield the righteous and supply their wants.” -Maranatha Chapter 269.

8. Will God reveal the day and hour of Jesus Christ’s coming to the 144,000?

Yes! Since probation is already closed, God in His mercy to the righteous, He will reveal it to them. Listen to what Mrs. White says, “Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus' coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses' did when he came down from Mount Sinai.” {Early Writings p.14.1}

Conclusion:

Since the sealing of God’s people is based on Christ-like character and not on any other reason, therefore, the rest of the billions of people on earth at that time when probation is closed will not be sealed because of their ungodly character. They have the Mark of the Beast. God is gracious, but His grace has to come to an end to destroy the wicked because they rejected His offer of salvation. As it was in the time of Noah, so shall it be with those who live at the end.

We should strive to live a Christ-like character every day, so should we die before the close of probation, it does not matter because we can be still found in God’s kingdom though me may not be alive to make up the special group 144,000 in number. The 144,000 are not the only ones to receive eternal life. Those who will be resurrected at the first resurrection when Christ returns will make up the great multitude in heaven – Rev 7:9. Amen!

The characteristics of the 144,000

A. no guile

Christ: 1 Peter 2:21-22 “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:“

144,000: Revelation 14:5 And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.

B. Obedient

Revelation 14:4 “These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth.”

John 10:27 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:”

C. not connected to any apostate church

Revelation 14:4 “These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins.”

D. they came out of the great tribulation

"These are they which came out of great tribulation"; they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob's trouble; .-- {LDE 268.4}

E. They have stood without intercessor

"they have stood without an intercessor through the final outpouring of God's judgments.-- {LDE 268.4}

F. They have stood for the Word, received opposition

Why were they [the 144,000] so specially singled out? Because they had to stand with a wonderful truth right before the whole world, and receive their opposition, and while receiving this opposition they were to remember that they were sons and daughters of God, that they must have Christ formed within them the hope of glory. They were ever keeping in view the great and blessed hope that is before them. What is it? It is an eternal weight of glory. Nothing could surpass it. {1SAT 72.3}

Privilege of the 144,000:

1. they will know the hour of Jesus' coming (after the plagues begin)
   Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus' coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses' did when he came down from Mount Sinai. {CET 58.1}
2. to visit other worlds
   "You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God." AH 543.2
3. no human weapons can hurt them
   The 144,000 were all sealed, and perfectly united. On their foreheads was written, "God, New Jerusalem," and a glorious star containing Jesus' new name. At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us who could wash one another's feet, and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet. {CET 58.2}
4. they can enter into the temple of God
   And as we were about to enter the holy temple, Jesus raised His lovely voice and said, "Only the 144,000 enter this place," and we shouted, "Alleluia." {CET 63.2}
5. their names are engraved in the table of stones in the temple
   I saw there tables of stone in which the names of the 144,000 were engraved in letters of gold. {CET 63.3}
6. they sing a special song
   Revelation 14:3 “And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred [and] forty [and] four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.”

Controversial quote:

"The Lord has given me a view of other worlds. Wings were given me, and an angel attended me from the city to a place that was bright and glorious. The grass of the place was living green, and the birds there warbled a sweet song. The inhabitants of the place were of all sizes; they were noble, majestic, and lovely. They bore the express image of Jesus, and their countenances beamed with holy joy, expressive of the freedom and happiness of the place. . . . I begged of my attending angel to let me remain in that place. I could not bear the thought of coming back to this dark world again. Then the angel said, 'You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with* the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.'"--Early Writings, pp. 39, 40.

*Note: Observe that the promise was given to Mrs. White that if she was faithful, she with the 144,000 would have certain privileges. It does not say that she will raise from the dead to be with the 144,000 in the time of trouble. It is referring to the simple fact that if she would be found faithful in her time before her probation would close, she would come up at the voice of God in the 1st resurrection to be with all the saints of God and standing there with the 144,000 and would still have the privileges to visit the other worlds. This quote is not saying she will help make up the 144,000 and go through the time of trouble. Only the 144,000 will go through the time of trouble. Anyone who does not go through the time of trouble and experience it, will not be in the 144,000. Therefore, EGW will not be a 144,000 member, but only with them.

RECENT STUDY:

As I was in study this morning a thought came to mind regarding a question that specifically asked "was Mrs Hastings or Sister White prophesied to be part of the 144,000?" This question stems from a statement made in 1850 that I will share in a moment. But first notice this...

“The 144,000 shouted, "Alleluia!" as they recognized their friends who had been torn from them by death, and in the same moment we were changed and caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.” {EW 16.2} 

Notice that Sister White speaks of the 144,000 in the third person and then says “we were changed” which depicts her being outside that number.

“Then the angel said, "You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.” {EW 39.3}

As for Mrs Hastings; we read this...

"I saw that she [Mrs. Hastings, who had just died] was sealed and would come up at the voice of God and stand upon the earth, and would be with the 144,000. I saw we need not mourn for her; she would rest in the time of trouble."--Letter 10, 1850 (2SM 263).

The fact sister White says Mrs Hastings “would rest in the time of trouble” confirms she won’t be IN the 144,000 and only “with” them at the end of the plagues. For it is clearly prophesied that the 144,000 go through ALL the plagues. Revelation 14:3 says, “And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.”

That “song” mentioned here is not just speaking of the experience of Moses, it’s the experience of the 144,000 as well.

After sister White quotes Revelation 14:1-4 she says, "This Scripture represents the character of the people of God for these last days." (MS 139, 1903) 

Mentioning "these last days" confirms those singing the "new song" in verse 3 are in fact end time believers who had victory over the mark and image of the beast. This confirms Sister White, the pioneers or anyone else that have died while in the truth as Sabbath keepers who shared the 3 angels messages cannot be IN the 144,000. Because they ALL DIED before the mark was enforced!

"Now mark! these were bought from the earth, and they sung a song that no man could learn. This must have been one which they had learned in their united experience, something like the song of Moses on the banks of deliverance from the Egyptians. No other people could have sung the song because it was the song of their deliverance, for as I have stated these first five verses show this 144,000 in their immortal state, "redeemed from the earth," (not out of it.) "These are they which were not defiled with women." "The woman which thou sawest is the great city which reigneth over the kings of the earth." - 17:18, called Babylon, (the nominal churches). These, then, were the same ones that had come out of the churches; see 8-11 verses, and 15:2 verse." {1848 JB, SC3 217.2}

Haskel believes the "new song" is the "song of Moses" as mentioned in Rev_15:3.

"On earth the distinguishing mark of the one hundred and forty-four thousand is the seal of God in their foreheads; in heaven it will be the wonderful song which they will sing: "They sung as it were a new song before the throne: . . . and no man could learn that song but the one hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth." (Rev_14:3) "They sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the lamb." (Rev_15:3) It is a song of experience-wonderful melody! Not even the angel choir can join in those marvelous strains as they echo through the arches of heaven. Even Abraham, the friend of God, with all his faith, cannot join in that song. What a chorus that will be! one hundred and forty-four thousand voices all in perfect accord, singing the "song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb." {1914 SNH, CIS 366.1}

As the twelve tribes, after crossing the Red Sea, all united in the song of triumph, so the last representatives of the twelve tribes of Israel on earth, as they stand a mighty phalanx on the sea of glass before the throne of God in heaven, will sing the song of Moses and the Lamb." {1914 SNH, CIS 366.2}

NOTE: What Haskel says here makes sense in that the Jews that crossed the Red Sea are later represented by the 144,000 who are made up of 12,000 from each tribe of Israel as listed in Revelation 7:4-8.

When it says in Revelation 14:3 that "no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand" we see that the experience of the 144,000 who had victory over the image and its mark to the point they could survive the plagues and especially the "time of Jacob's trouble" at the end of plague #6. And so it is fitting that the "song of Moses" first sung by the Jews as they watched Pharaoh's men destroyed when the waters fell on them (Exodus 15:1-21) moments before they could reach the Jews; all those surrounding the 144,000 around the world will also die before the eyes of the 144,000 as they too watch the wrath of God fall upon the wicked that seek to kill them on that day. In fact, it is prophesied in Psalms 91:7 that says, “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.”

E.J. Waggoner locks this down by saying...

"That is to say, none could learn that song except those who had been through the experience. Passing on to the fifteenth chapter, we read:- {November 2, 1899 EJW, PTUK 691.9}

"And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God. And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire; and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? for Thou only art holy; for all nations shall come and worship before Thee; for Thy judgments are made manifest." Rev. xv. 1-4. {November 2, 1899 EJW, PTUK 691.10}

From these texts we see that the new song which the redeemed sing is the song of Moses the servant of God. In the fifteenth chapter of Exodus we find that song recorded. It begins, "I will sing unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath He thrown into the sea. The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation." Then we read, "Who is like unto Thee, O Lord, among the gods? who is like Thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? Thou stretchedest out Thy right hand, the earth swallowed them. Thou in Thy mercy hast led forth the people which Thou hast redeemed; Thou hast guided them in Thy strength unto Thy holy habitation." Verses 11-13. So we see that the new song is a song of exultation at the power of the Lord over all who exalt themselves against Him, professing to be gods. And inasmuch as God triumphs over all false gods, whether it be in the shape of graven or molten images, or in the shape of men who profess to be authorised to speak and act in God's stead, it necessarily follows that all who identify their cause with His must at the same time triumph also. Therefore the new song is a song of thanks to God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. xv. 57. {November 2, 1899 EJW, PTUK 692.1}

“I saw that the four angels would hold the four winds until Jesus' work was done in the sanctuary, and then will come the seven last plagues. These plagues enraged the wicked against the righteous; they thought that we had brought the judgments of God upon them, and that if they could rid the earth of us, the plagues would then be stayed. A decree went forth to slay the saints, which caused them to cry day and night for deliverance. This was the time of Jacob's trouble. Then all the saints cried out with anguish of spirit, and were delivered by the voice of God. The 144,000 triumphed. Their faces were lighted up with the glory of God.” {EW 36.2}