The 144,000 and the Multitude
Chapter 12
Escape, Flight, And Redemption
There is an escape and a flight of the Multitude to the mountains (spiritual) as we will see in the following verses. The Multitude is told to flee when they see the Abomination of Desolation. They are to leave immediately. In fact, they are told they’re not even to go back to their house to get their coat. They are also told that when they see Jerusalem compassed with armies, the prophesied desolation is near.
When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) [16] Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: [17] Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: [18] Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. [19] And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! [20] But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the Sabbath day: [21] For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. - Matthew 24:15-21
And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. [21] Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. - Luke 21:20, 21
Both of these verses speak about a place called Judaea. Judaea is defined as; the Judaean land (i.e. Judaea), a region of Palestine:-Judaea. [i] The under-definition means; Judaean, i.e. belonging to Jehudah:-Jew (-ess) of Judea. [ii] The next under-definition means; soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene glove( including the occupants in each application):-country, earth (-ly), ground, land, world. [iii]
Judaea was actually a physical region during the time of Christ and the Apostles. That region became one of the Roman Provinces. Since we know that the physical Israel can also have a spiritual counterpart, we must also view Judaea in the same context.
Many doctrines of today state that the people that these verses are speaking about are located in physical Israel. These same people hold fast to the idea the 144,000 are male Jewish virgins. If they are so far off on that premise, we can conclude that they are assuredly off on this one.
The spiritual aspect of Judaea would again be those that are in the church. When you look at the definitions and combine them, this is speaking about an inhabitant of Judaea that is located in the territory of Judaea. The warning is telling them to flee from where they are to a place that is safe. In other passages they are told to flee Babylon. Since Babylon is the church and they are told to flee to a safe place, this being Judaea, this represents the Multitude fleeing out of the church to the ground where the Truth is. This would be the spiritual Judaea, Zion, Jerusalem, etc.
In surmising these two definitions combined to a spiritual definition, one can conclude that a Judaean is a spiritual being of Judaean heritage (spiritual) and can be located any where in the world. Taking it one step further, a Judaean is of spiritual Israel (spiritual Judea) and any place on the earth. In short, wherever that person is standing is Judaea (spiritual Judaea).
This concept gives us an entirely different understanding of how to read the verse “then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains.” This is then a warning, not to the physical Jews in Israel, but to the people that are within the church that will be waking up. Many will begin to realize what is occurring by reading their bibles, and they will no longer be listening to some drivel from the pulpit. This text simply says that they’ve got to evacuate immediately and should flee to the mountains (spiritual) when they (spiritual Judaeans) see the Abomination of Desolation.
The verse then tells the person to get out fast. Don’t even go back to your house to take anything out of it. Don’t even take the time to get your coat. Flee now! Don’t even take a moment to get anything, for that little bit of time that you take, may cost you your life, and maybe not only your physical life, but your spiritual life as well. This is telling them to not go back to their church or back into their previous lies. With this warning, they are told very adamantly to FLEE now; immediately. If you take the time to get something, you will be violating what was told to you, by the Lord. You would be disobeying his warning! And at this point in the game, it is certain death.
The word flee used in these verses means; to bolt, i.e. figuratively to flee suddenly - flee (away) put to flight, make haste, run away. [iv]
As you can see from the above definition, when they that are in Judaea are told to flee, it is an immediate evacuation. There is no dilly dallying. There is no planning. There is no forethought. You just go! Right now! If you will compare this to the Woman in the Wilderness, she flies into the wilderness. She does not flee. In referencing Isaiah 52:11, the Woman does not leave by haste or by flight.
For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward. – Isaiah 52:12
The word flight in Isaiah 52:12 is defined as; retreat:-fleeing, flight. [v] The under-definition is; a retreat (literally or figuratively); abstractly a fleeing: escape, way to flee, flight, refuge. [vi] The next under-definition means; vanish away (subside, escape; causatively chase, impel, deliver): (make to) flee (away, -ing) put to flight. [vii]
If you look at the definitions for flight used in 52:11 you will see that the word flight is definitely speaking about fleeing or escaping. In Isaiah 52:12, the verse states that they shall not leave by haste or by flight. The 144,000 do not flee, therefore these passages in Matthew 24:16 and Luke 21:21 do not apply to the 144,000. They definitely are referring to the Multitude. We will see in many verses throughout the rest of this study that the words escape and fleeing will be used multiple times.
How is the hammer of the whole earth cut asunder and broken! how is Babylon become a desolation among the nations! [24] I have laid a snare for thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon, and thou wast not aware: thou art found, and also caught, because thou hast striven against the LORD. [25] The LORD hath opened his armoury, and hath brought forth the weapons of his indignation: for this is the work of the Lord GOD of hosts in the land of the Chaldeans. [26] Come against her from the utmost border, open her storehouses: cast her up as heaps, and destroy her utterly: let nothing of her be left. [27] Slay all her bullocks; let them go down to the slaughter: woe unto them! for their day is come, the time of their visitation. [28] The voice of them that flee and escape out of the land of Babylon, to declare in Zion the vengeance of the LORD our God, the vengeance of his temple. - Jeremiah 50:23-28
These verses are an overview of spiritual Babylon. Spiritual Babylon is most definitely the Harlot Church System. Take a look at verse 28, where it states “The voice of them that flee and escape out of the land of Babylon.”
There are people that flee and escape out of Babylon (spiritual) and seek Zion. Where is Zion? As discussed in the Zion/Sion chapter, Zion is located in the tops of the mountains where the 144,000 are located. Remember, in Revelation 14, the 144,000 are seen on Mount Sion with the Lamb. The tops of the mountains are speaking about a high spiritual place of Truth and Righteousness.
The Multitude flees and escapes out of the Harlot Church (spiritual Babylon) and goes to Zion (tops of the mountains). Remember those that are in Judaea flee to the mountains. The word escape is defined as; (deliverance) concretely an escaped portion. [viii] The under-definition means; a refugee (that have escaped) a fugitive. [ix]
These definitions give us a clearer view of the people that escape. It is an escaped portion, signifying that not all escape. Since only a portion escapes, we have yet another indication that only 1/3 actually escapes, while the balance of them do not escape.
The ones that escape are defined as “refugees” that have escaped. They are also “fugitives.” These are two interesting aspects of the Multitude that are worth looking at. What makes a person a refugee? They have no provisions. Remember the 5 unwise virgins that did not have enough oil? Also, they have left the place they were residing, this being Babylon and now have no home.
Aren’t the people (Multitude) that are in Judaea told to flee and not even go back to their house and to take nothing, not even their coat? This would make them a refugee, wouldn’t it? They will be dependent on being fed and clothed by others. Interestingly, the 144,000 feed the Multitude. The scriptures indicate the 144,000 will be feeding the Multitude with the Word of God, but may also be feeding, clothing, etc. We don’t know at this point, but we cannot discount this either.
The Multitude will also be fugitives. Who is a fugitive? A fugitive is defined in the dictionary; is a person who flees or has fled from danger, justice, etc. [x] Does that describe the Multitude? I would say. You couldn’t describe them with any other word that would be truer.
Think of a fugitive that is escaped out of prison; they are hunted and tracked down. There are verses that say that the Multitude are betrayed, delivered up, afflicted, and put to death. If one is a fugitive, they would have escaped from the initial danger; however they are still a fugitive, one to be hunted and tracked down, so they can be delivered up, afflicted, imprisoned and finally killed. When we come to the chapter on Ezekiel’s Hair, we will again address the idea of the Multitude being tracked down and killed after their initial escape and fleeing from spiritual Babylon.
My people, go ye out of the midst of her, and deliver ye every man his soul from the fierce anger of the LORD. - Jeremiah 51:45
This verse is telling His people, the Multitude, to leave out of the midst of her (Babylon), in order to deliver your soul from the fierce anger (spiritual death) of the Lord.
And the remnant that is escaped of the house of Judah shall yet again take root downward, and bear fruit upward. [31] For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant, and they that escape out of mount Zion: the zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this. – 2 Kings 19:30, 31
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. [21] The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God. [22] For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness. – Isaiah 10:20-22
In both of these verses are the words escape or escaped. The ones that escape come out of the house of Judah, Jerusalem, Zion, Israel, and Jacob. They come from all of these; however, all of these are representative of one thing; Babylon, the apostate church.
The Multitude escapes out of the Church, the Harlot Church System of Spiritual Babylon. They flee to Zion (the mountains) as refugees and fugitives, and eventually will be hunted, tracked down, and killed. This is the ultimate end of the Multitude. They will be redeemed by the sacrifice of their lives.
The Redemption of the Multitude
We would have healed Babylon, but she is not healed: forsake her, and let us go every one into his own country: for her judgment reacheth unto heaven, and is lifted up even to the skies. [10] The
LORD hath brought forth our righteousness: come, and let us declare in Zion the work of the LORD our God. - Jeremiah 51:9, 10
In this verse we can see the people that forsake Babylon. The verse tells us each goes “into his own country” (spiritual Judah, Jerusalem, Zion, Israel, and Jacob) and then it states that the LORD has brought forth “our (the Multitude’s) righteousness.” In verse 10 it states that the Multitude will declare in Zion the work of the LORD. What work would that be referring to; perhaps the judgment of Jerusalem? This will be discussed more in depth in the next section.
When the scripture speaks of those that “forsake Babylon,” there is an interesting interconnection with the word forsake that is used in another verse under a different word. Forsake means; to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc.: forsake, leave (destitute, off). [xi]
This is the same word used in Deut. 32:36 to describe the word left in the verse that says “and there is none shut up, or left.” In a comparison of the two, the word forsake as used in Jeremiah 51:9, means; to let go, loosen, relinquish, or leave Babylon. In Deuteronomy 32:36, in the context of that verse, it states that there are none that are left.
Could this be referring to Babylon; that everyone of the Multitude has forsaken Babylon, and there are no more of those that forsook Babylon left? It appears that there are none left of those that forsake Babylon, because they are all hunted down and martyred.
Zion shall be redeemed with judgment, and her converts with righteousness. - Isaiah 1:27
This verse gives us more clarification of the Multitude, who is separated out from the Apostate Church. The word redeemed used in this verse means; to sever, i.e. ransom; garner, to release, preserve. [xii]
The definition of this verse denotes a separation (being severed) from something. Strong’s actually uses the word ransomed (as in a ransomed possession), in speaking of those that are released from their former captivity to Babylon. Because they are to be preserved, the definitions for this word are all applicable to the Multitude.
Zion will be redeemed with judgment. Judgment is defined as; a verdict (favorable or unfavorable). [xiii] The under-definition means; to judge, i.e. pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication to vindicate or punish [xiv]
When you look at the phrase “Zion will be redeemed with judgment,” we know that this would be referring to the 144,000 and the Multitude. Zion (the remnant) is redeemed (severed, ransomed, released, and preserved) with judgment (a verdict that is favorable and unfavorable). The 144,000 are judged worthy and the Multitude is judged unworthy at the sealing. They are then sentenced, and they are vindicated by being brought through the fire.
In contrast Zion (apostate) is at the same time judged unfavorably. The whole Zion (remnant and apostate) are judged and the Remnant Zion is separated, sealed and in the Multitude’s case, severed; while the Apostate Zion is also judged and sentence is pronounced (unfavorably) and they are punished.
This verse does not actually specify this, but from the study of God’s judgment and Zion, we can understand that when you see phrases or words, there is also an inference that becomes an understanding that is associated with the larger picture. These are understandings that used to be veiled and not understood. Once we begin to truly discern the depth of the prophetic plan, you will see the interconnectivity, shadows, layers, and parallels.
Let’s look at the next phrase “and her converts with righteousness.” The word converts means; to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively. (not necessarily; with the idea of return to the starting point) gen. to retreat: some others include bring (again, home, home again), rescue, restore, retrieve, etc. [xv] The word converts basically means to turn back, or return. Turn back or return from where?
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; - 2 Thessalonians 2:3
The word falling used in this verse is; apostasia, defection from truth (properly the state) [“apostasy”]:-falling away, forsake. [xvi] The Multitude originally came to Christ in truth. They strayed from His Truth and went their own way and became apostate. They defected from the truth.
During the Great Tribulation, they will realize the error of their ways and will turn back, or return from where they (apostate, truth defectors) have gone, and come back to the Lord of Glory. Zion’s converts will be redeemed with righteousness, and this verse is actually, in this line of thought, continued from Jeremiah 51:9, 10. You could actually read Isaiah 1:27 immediately following Jeremiah 51:9, 10, and there is no break in continuity.
Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me. [14] And they have not cried unto me with their heart, when they howled upon their beds: they assemble themselves for corn and wine, and they rebel against me. [15] Though I have bound and strengthened their arms, yet do they imagine mischief against me. [16] They return, but not to the most High: they are like a deceitful bow: their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue: this shall be their derision in the land of Egypt. - Hosea 7:13-16
This verse is showing that the apostate will be destroyed. Notice how these verses in Hosea states “though I have redeemed them.” Which appears to signify that they were redeemed; but, they threw that redemption away.
This word redeemed we have previously looked at and is used in connection with the 144,000 and the Multitude. Also, in verse 16, it states “they return, but not to the most high,” signifying that they do not come back to the Lord. Zion’s converts are redeemed with righteousness. The ones spoken about in Hosea 7:13-16, are the Apostate Church that the Multitude has fled out of. All that is left after the Multitude forsakes Babylon and flees; is the Apostate. The Apostate Church is DESTROYED.
Go ye forth of Babylon, flee ye from the Chaldeans, with a voice of singing declare ye, tell this, utter it even to the end of the earth; say ye, The LORD hath redeemed his servant Jacob. - Isaiah 48:20
Here is a verse that connects the verses Jeremiah 51:9 and Isaiah 1:27. They address forsaking Babylon and being redeemed. These are interrelated, or interconnected. These two elements of fleeing Babylon and becoming converts of Zion (and thereby becoming redeemed) are required criteria in order to be a member of the Multitude.
Of course, once they are converts of Zion, they will know the truth. They will then have the testimony of Jesus and will make their sacrifice in the end. When they truly realize where they have been (in apostasy) they will forsake Babylon and flee to the Zion where the 144,000 are.
The word redeemed as used in the above verse is a different word redeemed than the one used for the 144,000 and the Multitude. This word is exclusive to the Multitude. This word is defined as; to redeem (according to the Oriental law of kinship), i.e. to the next of kin (and as such to buy back a relative’s property, marry his widow, etc): avenger, deliver, purchase, ransom, redeem (-er), revenger. [xvii]
This word is used in the context of buying back property that belonged to someone else. It makes sense, for the Multitude was in the Harlot Church, they fled (escaped from spiritual Babylon), and were purchased back to the Lord through their repenting and accepting the punishment for their iniquity which includes the sacrifice of their lives.
Here are a few more verses that show that the Multitude will be making their way to Zion to seek out the 144,000, and most importantly, the LORD.
Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: [21] And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also. [22] Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD. [23] Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you. - Zechariah 8:20-23
This verse is very interesting. In verse 23 it states that ten men “shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, we will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.” What is this referring to? Perhaps the ten men are of the Multitude, and they take hold of the skirt (clothing) of him that is a “Jew” (spiritual Jew, one of the 144,000), saying that they (of the Multitude) will go with the Jew for they have heard that God is with the Jew. Remember, the 144,000 are in Zion. The Lamb (Jesus) is with the 144,000 (spiritually, as the rain) for the Lord dwells in Zion.
In those days, and in that time, saith the LORD, the children of Israel shall come, they and the children of Judah together, going and weeping: they shall go, and seek the LORD their God. [5] They shall ask the way to Zion with their faces thitherward, saying, Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten. [6] My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their restingplace. [7] All that found them have devoured them: and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.
[8] Remove out of the midst of Babylon, and go forth out of the land of the Chaldeans, and be as the he goats before the flocks. - Jeremiah 50:4-8
The children of Israel and the children of Judah (signifying the entire Israel, specifically; the ones that flee Babylon) are those who shall go and seek the LORD their God in Zion, saying “Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten.” The Multitude will go to Zion seeking the LORD, seeking to join themselves in a perpetual covenant with the LORD.
They go weeping and crying, obviously realizing that they have not been walking in His Truth for all this time. Verse 6 states that they have been lost, as their shepherds (pastors) have caused them to go astray. They have turned them away on the mountains (where they originally were in the truth when they first believed) and taken them down to hills. This is a spiritual signature of a degrading state.
The mountain, being high, represents the understanding of truth; going down to hills, which are lower than mountains, represents leaving truth and going down away from the truth. The verse in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 comes to mind; the falling away; apostasy.
Verse 8 gives us an additional connection to the previous verses. They are told to leave Babylon, and to “be as the he goats before the flocks.” What could this be speaking about? Perhaps, when they leave (flee) from Babylon, and go with their faces thitherward toward Zion, they are seeking the Lord.
It states in these verses that they have been lost sheep, and have forgotten their restingplace. What does this mean? First, we need to identify who the flocks would be. The Multitude flees from Babylon and goes to Zion; where the 144,000 are. I believe that we can conclude that the flocks are the 144,000. This verse is telling the Multitude to be as the he goats before the flocks. It is not saying that they are goats, for we also know about the separation of the sheep and the goats (the goats do not inherit the kingdom of God). This verse is telling them to be as the he goats. Let’s look at some definitions and see if we can ascertain what this verse is referring to.
Goats means; prepared, i.e. full grown; spoken only (in plural) of he goats or (figuratively) leaders of the people:-chief one, (he) goat, ram. [xviii] The under-definition means; prepare - make fit, be ready to become. [xix] These are interesting definitions.
If we look at the first definition we find the word prepared, or full grown. When we add the under-definition; again it says prepare, it also says “to make fit, be ready to become.” Doesn’t that sound exactly like what the Multitude does?
They will prepare (learn the truth of God by being fed by the 144,000) to make them fit and “be ready to become” something. What are they preparing to become? They will become martyrs, slain for the Word of God and the testimony which they hold.
The Multitude flees out of Judaea (also known as Judah, Jerusalem, Israel, Zion, and Jacob) which is the Apostate Church (also known as Mystery Babylon). They flee to the mountains (Zion) where they are fed by the 144,000. Finally realizing they were in apostasy, they seek the LORD God.
They weep and cry for their apostasy and become converts of righteousness. They become as the he goats (preparing, making themselves fit, and are becoming ready to be martyrs) before the flocks (the 144,000). This is where they will be fed and nourished on the Word of the Lord and His ways, as they prepare themselves for their ultimate sacrifice. We can now proceed to the next section that will tie everything together.
We are now going to take a look at chapter 5 of Ezekiel. This chapter in Ezekiel is positively loaded with the concepts that we have been looking at. It has within it the 144,000, the Apostate Church, and the Multitude. We will also see the 2/3 that are to be cut off and die, and the 1/3 that are brought through the fire and refined. There are also verses that tie in the Song of Moses and these will lead us into other passages that will give us a better overall understanding of this whole concept.
[i]. Strong’s 2449
[ii]. Strong’s 2453
[iii]. Strong’s 1093
[iv]. Strong’s 1272
[v]. Strong’s 4499
[vi]. Strong’s 4498
[vii]. Strong’s 5127
[viii]. Strong’s 6413
[ix]. Strong’s 6412
[x]. Webster’s New World Dictionary
[xi]. Strong’s 5800
[xii] . Strong’s 6299
[xiii]. Strong’s 4941
[xiv]. Strong’s 8199
[xv]. Strong’s 7725
[xvi]. Strong’s 646
[xvii]. Strong’s 1350
[xviii]. Strong’s 6260
[xix]. Strong’s 6257
When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) [16] Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: [17] Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: [18] Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. [19] And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! [20] But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the Sabbath day: [21] For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. - Matthew 24:15-21
And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. [21] Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto. - Luke 21:20, 21
Both of these verses speak about a place called Judaea. Judaea is defined as; the Judaean land (i.e. Judaea), a region of Palestine:-Judaea. [i] The under-definition means; Judaean, i.e. belonging to Jehudah:-Jew (-ess) of Judea. [ii] The next under-definition means; soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene glove( including the occupants in each application):-country, earth (-ly), ground, land, world. [iii]
Judaea was actually a physical region during the time of Christ and the Apostles. That region became one of the Roman Provinces. Since we know that the physical Israel can also have a spiritual counterpart, we must also view Judaea in the same context.
Many doctrines of today state that the people that these verses are speaking about are located in physical Israel. These same people hold fast to the idea the 144,000 are male Jewish virgins. If they are so far off on that premise, we can conclude that they are assuredly off on this one.
The spiritual aspect of Judaea would again be those that are in the church. When you look at the definitions and combine them, this is speaking about an inhabitant of Judaea that is located in the territory of Judaea. The warning is telling them to flee from where they are to a place that is safe. In other passages they are told to flee Babylon. Since Babylon is the church and they are told to flee to a safe place, this being Judaea, this represents the Multitude fleeing out of the church to the ground where the Truth is. This would be the spiritual Judaea, Zion, Jerusalem, etc.
In surmising these two definitions combined to a spiritual definition, one can conclude that a Judaean is a spiritual being of Judaean heritage (spiritual) and can be located any where in the world. Taking it one step further, a Judaean is of spiritual Israel (spiritual Judea) and any place on the earth. In short, wherever that person is standing is Judaea (spiritual Judaea).
This concept gives us an entirely different understanding of how to read the verse “then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains.” This is then a warning, not to the physical Jews in Israel, but to the people that are within the church that will be waking up. Many will begin to realize what is occurring by reading their bibles, and they will no longer be listening to some drivel from the pulpit. This text simply says that they’ve got to evacuate immediately and should flee to the mountains (spiritual) when they (spiritual Judaeans) see the Abomination of Desolation.
The verse then tells the person to get out fast. Don’t even go back to your house to take anything out of it. Don’t even take the time to get your coat. Flee now! Don’t even take a moment to get anything, for that little bit of time that you take, may cost you your life, and maybe not only your physical life, but your spiritual life as well. This is telling them to not go back to their church or back into their previous lies. With this warning, they are told very adamantly to FLEE now; immediately. If you take the time to get something, you will be violating what was told to you, by the Lord. You would be disobeying his warning! And at this point in the game, it is certain death.
The word flee used in these verses means; to bolt, i.e. figuratively to flee suddenly - flee (away) put to flight, make haste, run away. [iv]
As you can see from the above definition, when they that are in Judaea are told to flee, it is an immediate evacuation. There is no dilly dallying. There is no planning. There is no forethought. You just go! Right now! If you will compare this to the Woman in the Wilderness, she flies into the wilderness. She does not flee. In referencing Isaiah 52:11, the Woman does not leave by haste or by flight.
For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward. – Isaiah 52:12
The word flight in Isaiah 52:12 is defined as; retreat:-fleeing, flight. [v] The under-definition is; a retreat (literally or figuratively); abstractly a fleeing: escape, way to flee, flight, refuge. [vi] The next under-definition means; vanish away (subside, escape; causatively chase, impel, deliver): (make to) flee (away, -ing) put to flight. [vii]
If you look at the definitions for flight used in 52:11 you will see that the word flight is definitely speaking about fleeing or escaping. In Isaiah 52:12, the verse states that they shall not leave by haste or by flight. The 144,000 do not flee, therefore these passages in Matthew 24:16 and Luke 21:21 do not apply to the 144,000. They definitely are referring to the Multitude. We will see in many verses throughout the rest of this study that the words escape and fleeing will be used multiple times.
How is the hammer of the whole earth cut asunder and broken! how is Babylon become a desolation among the nations! [24] I have laid a snare for thee, and thou art also taken, O Babylon, and thou wast not aware: thou art found, and also caught, because thou hast striven against the LORD. [25] The LORD hath opened his armoury, and hath brought forth the weapons of his indignation: for this is the work of the Lord GOD of hosts in the land of the Chaldeans. [26] Come against her from the utmost border, open her storehouses: cast her up as heaps, and destroy her utterly: let nothing of her be left. [27] Slay all her bullocks; let them go down to the slaughter: woe unto them! for their day is come, the time of their visitation. [28] The voice of them that flee and escape out of the land of Babylon, to declare in Zion the vengeance of the LORD our God, the vengeance of his temple. - Jeremiah 50:23-28
These verses are an overview of spiritual Babylon. Spiritual Babylon is most definitely the Harlot Church System. Take a look at verse 28, where it states “The voice of them that flee and escape out of the land of Babylon.”
There are people that flee and escape out of Babylon (spiritual) and seek Zion. Where is Zion? As discussed in the Zion/Sion chapter, Zion is located in the tops of the mountains where the 144,000 are located. Remember, in Revelation 14, the 144,000 are seen on Mount Sion with the Lamb. The tops of the mountains are speaking about a high spiritual place of Truth and Righteousness.
The Multitude flees and escapes out of the Harlot Church (spiritual Babylon) and goes to Zion (tops of the mountains). Remember those that are in Judaea flee to the mountains. The word escape is defined as; (deliverance) concretely an escaped portion. [viii] The under-definition means; a refugee (that have escaped) a fugitive. [ix]
These definitions give us a clearer view of the people that escape. It is an escaped portion, signifying that not all escape. Since only a portion escapes, we have yet another indication that only 1/3 actually escapes, while the balance of them do not escape.
The ones that escape are defined as “refugees” that have escaped. They are also “fugitives.” These are two interesting aspects of the Multitude that are worth looking at. What makes a person a refugee? They have no provisions. Remember the 5 unwise virgins that did not have enough oil? Also, they have left the place they were residing, this being Babylon and now have no home.
Aren’t the people (Multitude) that are in Judaea told to flee and not even go back to their house and to take nothing, not even their coat? This would make them a refugee, wouldn’t it? They will be dependent on being fed and clothed by others. Interestingly, the 144,000 feed the Multitude. The scriptures indicate the 144,000 will be feeding the Multitude with the Word of God, but may also be feeding, clothing, etc. We don’t know at this point, but we cannot discount this either.
The Multitude will also be fugitives. Who is a fugitive? A fugitive is defined in the dictionary; is a person who flees or has fled from danger, justice, etc. [x] Does that describe the Multitude? I would say. You couldn’t describe them with any other word that would be truer.
Think of a fugitive that is escaped out of prison; they are hunted and tracked down. There are verses that say that the Multitude are betrayed, delivered up, afflicted, and put to death. If one is a fugitive, they would have escaped from the initial danger; however they are still a fugitive, one to be hunted and tracked down, so they can be delivered up, afflicted, imprisoned and finally killed. When we come to the chapter on Ezekiel’s Hair, we will again address the idea of the Multitude being tracked down and killed after their initial escape and fleeing from spiritual Babylon.
My people, go ye out of the midst of her, and deliver ye every man his soul from the fierce anger of the LORD. - Jeremiah 51:45
This verse is telling His people, the Multitude, to leave out of the midst of her (Babylon), in order to deliver your soul from the fierce anger (spiritual death) of the Lord.
And the remnant that is escaped of the house of Judah shall yet again take root downward, and bear fruit upward. [31] For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant, and they that escape out of mount Zion: the zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this. – 2 Kings 19:30, 31
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. [21] The remnant shall return, even the remnant of Jacob, unto the mighty God. [22] For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, yet a remnant of them shall return: the consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness. – Isaiah 10:20-22
In both of these verses are the words escape or escaped. The ones that escape come out of the house of Judah, Jerusalem, Zion, Israel, and Jacob. They come from all of these; however, all of these are representative of one thing; Babylon, the apostate church.
The Multitude escapes out of the Church, the Harlot Church System of Spiritual Babylon. They flee to Zion (the mountains) as refugees and fugitives, and eventually will be hunted, tracked down, and killed. This is the ultimate end of the Multitude. They will be redeemed by the sacrifice of their lives.
The Redemption of the Multitude
We would have healed Babylon, but she is not healed: forsake her, and let us go every one into his own country: for her judgment reacheth unto heaven, and is lifted up even to the skies. [10] The
LORD hath brought forth our righteousness: come, and let us declare in Zion the work of the LORD our God. - Jeremiah 51:9, 10
In this verse we can see the people that forsake Babylon. The verse tells us each goes “into his own country” (spiritual Judah, Jerusalem, Zion, Israel, and Jacob) and then it states that the LORD has brought forth “our (the Multitude’s) righteousness.” In verse 10 it states that the Multitude will declare in Zion the work of the LORD. What work would that be referring to; perhaps the judgment of Jerusalem? This will be discussed more in depth in the next section.
When the scripture speaks of those that “forsake Babylon,” there is an interesting interconnection with the word forsake that is used in another verse under a different word. Forsake means; to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc.: forsake, leave (destitute, off). [xi]
This is the same word used in Deut. 32:36 to describe the word left in the verse that says “and there is none shut up, or left.” In a comparison of the two, the word forsake as used in Jeremiah 51:9, means; to let go, loosen, relinquish, or leave Babylon. In Deuteronomy 32:36, in the context of that verse, it states that there are none that are left.
Could this be referring to Babylon; that everyone of the Multitude has forsaken Babylon, and there are no more of those that forsook Babylon left? It appears that there are none left of those that forsake Babylon, because they are all hunted down and martyred.
Zion shall be redeemed with judgment, and her converts with righteousness. - Isaiah 1:27
This verse gives us more clarification of the Multitude, who is separated out from the Apostate Church. The word redeemed used in this verse means; to sever, i.e. ransom; garner, to release, preserve. [xii]
The definition of this verse denotes a separation (being severed) from something. Strong’s actually uses the word ransomed (as in a ransomed possession), in speaking of those that are released from their former captivity to Babylon. Because they are to be preserved, the definitions for this word are all applicable to the Multitude.
Zion will be redeemed with judgment. Judgment is defined as; a verdict (favorable or unfavorable). [xiii] The under-definition means; to judge, i.e. pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication to vindicate or punish [xiv]
When you look at the phrase “Zion will be redeemed with judgment,” we know that this would be referring to the 144,000 and the Multitude. Zion (the remnant) is redeemed (severed, ransomed, released, and preserved) with judgment (a verdict that is favorable and unfavorable). The 144,000 are judged worthy and the Multitude is judged unworthy at the sealing. They are then sentenced, and they are vindicated by being brought through the fire.
In contrast Zion (apostate) is at the same time judged unfavorably. The whole Zion (remnant and apostate) are judged and the Remnant Zion is separated, sealed and in the Multitude’s case, severed; while the Apostate Zion is also judged and sentence is pronounced (unfavorably) and they are punished.
This verse does not actually specify this, but from the study of God’s judgment and Zion, we can understand that when you see phrases or words, there is also an inference that becomes an understanding that is associated with the larger picture. These are understandings that used to be veiled and not understood. Once we begin to truly discern the depth of the prophetic plan, you will see the interconnectivity, shadows, layers, and parallels.
Let’s look at the next phrase “and her converts with righteousness.” The word converts means; to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively. (not necessarily; with the idea of return to the starting point) gen. to retreat: some others include bring (again, home, home again), rescue, restore, retrieve, etc. [xv] The word converts basically means to turn back, or return. Turn back or return from where?
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; - 2 Thessalonians 2:3
The word falling used in this verse is; apostasia, defection from truth (properly the state) [“apostasy”]:-falling away, forsake. [xvi] The Multitude originally came to Christ in truth. They strayed from His Truth and went their own way and became apostate. They defected from the truth.
During the Great Tribulation, they will realize the error of their ways and will turn back, or return from where they (apostate, truth defectors) have gone, and come back to the Lord of Glory. Zion’s converts will be redeemed with righteousness, and this verse is actually, in this line of thought, continued from Jeremiah 51:9, 10. You could actually read Isaiah 1:27 immediately following Jeremiah 51:9, 10, and there is no break in continuity.
Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me. [14] And they have not cried unto me with their heart, when they howled upon their beds: they assemble themselves for corn and wine, and they rebel against me. [15] Though I have bound and strengthened their arms, yet do they imagine mischief against me. [16] They return, but not to the most High: they are like a deceitful bow: their princes shall fall by the sword for the rage of their tongue: this shall be their derision in the land of Egypt. - Hosea 7:13-16
This verse is showing that the apostate will be destroyed. Notice how these verses in Hosea states “though I have redeemed them.” Which appears to signify that they were redeemed; but, they threw that redemption away.
This word redeemed we have previously looked at and is used in connection with the 144,000 and the Multitude. Also, in verse 16, it states “they return, but not to the most high,” signifying that they do not come back to the Lord. Zion’s converts are redeemed with righteousness. The ones spoken about in Hosea 7:13-16, are the Apostate Church that the Multitude has fled out of. All that is left after the Multitude forsakes Babylon and flees; is the Apostate. The Apostate Church is DESTROYED.
Go ye forth of Babylon, flee ye from the Chaldeans, with a voice of singing declare ye, tell this, utter it even to the end of the earth; say ye, The LORD hath redeemed his servant Jacob. - Isaiah 48:20
Here is a verse that connects the verses Jeremiah 51:9 and Isaiah 1:27. They address forsaking Babylon and being redeemed. These are interrelated, or interconnected. These two elements of fleeing Babylon and becoming converts of Zion (and thereby becoming redeemed) are required criteria in order to be a member of the Multitude.
Of course, once they are converts of Zion, they will know the truth. They will then have the testimony of Jesus and will make their sacrifice in the end. When they truly realize where they have been (in apostasy) they will forsake Babylon and flee to the Zion where the 144,000 are.
The word redeemed as used in the above verse is a different word redeemed than the one used for the 144,000 and the Multitude. This word is exclusive to the Multitude. This word is defined as; to redeem (according to the Oriental law of kinship), i.e. to the next of kin (and as such to buy back a relative’s property, marry his widow, etc): avenger, deliver, purchase, ransom, redeem (-er), revenger. [xvii]
This word is used in the context of buying back property that belonged to someone else. It makes sense, for the Multitude was in the Harlot Church, they fled (escaped from spiritual Babylon), and were purchased back to the Lord through their repenting and accepting the punishment for their iniquity which includes the sacrifice of their lives.
Here are a few more verses that show that the Multitude will be making their way to Zion to seek out the 144,000, and most importantly, the LORD.
Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: [21] And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also. [22] Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD. [23] Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you. - Zechariah 8:20-23
This verse is very interesting. In verse 23 it states that ten men “shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, we will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.” What is this referring to? Perhaps the ten men are of the Multitude, and they take hold of the skirt (clothing) of him that is a “Jew” (spiritual Jew, one of the 144,000), saying that they (of the Multitude) will go with the Jew for they have heard that God is with the Jew. Remember, the 144,000 are in Zion. The Lamb (Jesus) is with the 144,000 (spiritually, as the rain) for the Lord dwells in Zion.
In those days, and in that time, saith the LORD, the children of Israel shall come, they and the children of Judah together, going and weeping: they shall go, and seek the LORD their God. [5] They shall ask the way to Zion with their faces thitherward, saying, Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten. [6] My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their restingplace. [7] All that found them have devoured them: and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.
[8] Remove out of the midst of Babylon, and go forth out of the land of the Chaldeans, and be as the he goats before the flocks. - Jeremiah 50:4-8
The children of Israel and the children of Judah (signifying the entire Israel, specifically; the ones that flee Babylon) are those who shall go and seek the LORD their God in Zion, saying “Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten.” The Multitude will go to Zion seeking the LORD, seeking to join themselves in a perpetual covenant with the LORD.
They go weeping and crying, obviously realizing that they have not been walking in His Truth for all this time. Verse 6 states that they have been lost, as their shepherds (pastors) have caused them to go astray. They have turned them away on the mountains (where they originally were in the truth when they first believed) and taken them down to hills. This is a spiritual signature of a degrading state.
The mountain, being high, represents the understanding of truth; going down to hills, which are lower than mountains, represents leaving truth and going down away from the truth. The verse in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 comes to mind; the falling away; apostasy.
Verse 8 gives us an additional connection to the previous verses. They are told to leave Babylon, and to “be as the he goats before the flocks.” What could this be speaking about? Perhaps, when they leave (flee) from Babylon, and go with their faces thitherward toward Zion, they are seeking the Lord.
It states in these verses that they have been lost sheep, and have forgotten their restingplace. What does this mean? First, we need to identify who the flocks would be. The Multitude flees from Babylon and goes to Zion; where the 144,000 are. I believe that we can conclude that the flocks are the 144,000. This verse is telling the Multitude to be as the he goats before the flocks. It is not saying that they are goats, for we also know about the separation of the sheep and the goats (the goats do not inherit the kingdom of God). This verse is telling them to be as the he goats. Let’s look at some definitions and see if we can ascertain what this verse is referring to.
Goats means; prepared, i.e. full grown; spoken only (in plural) of he goats or (figuratively) leaders of the people:-chief one, (he) goat, ram. [xviii] The under-definition means; prepare - make fit, be ready to become. [xix] These are interesting definitions.
If we look at the first definition we find the word prepared, or full grown. When we add the under-definition; again it says prepare, it also says “to make fit, be ready to become.” Doesn’t that sound exactly like what the Multitude does?
They will prepare (learn the truth of God by being fed by the 144,000) to make them fit and “be ready to become” something. What are they preparing to become? They will become martyrs, slain for the Word of God and the testimony which they hold.
The Multitude flees out of Judaea (also known as Judah, Jerusalem, Israel, Zion, and Jacob) which is the Apostate Church (also known as Mystery Babylon). They flee to the mountains (Zion) where they are fed by the 144,000. Finally realizing they were in apostasy, they seek the LORD God.
They weep and cry for their apostasy and become converts of righteousness. They become as the he goats (preparing, making themselves fit, and are becoming ready to be martyrs) before the flocks (the 144,000). This is where they will be fed and nourished on the Word of the Lord and His ways, as they prepare themselves for their ultimate sacrifice. We can now proceed to the next section that will tie everything together.
We are now going to take a look at chapter 5 of Ezekiel. This chapter in Ezekiel is positively loaded with the concepts that we have been looking at. It has within it the 144,000, the Apostate Church, and the Multitude. We will also see the 2/3 that are to be cut off and die, and the 1/3 that are brought through the fire and refined. There are also verses that tie in the Song of Moses and these will lead us into other passages that will give us a better overall understanding of this whole concept.
[i]. Strong’s 2449
[ii]. Strong’s 2453
[iii]. Strong’s 1093
[iv]. Strong’s 1272
[v]. Strong’s 4499
[vi]. Strong’s 4498
[vii]. Strong’s 5127
[viii]. Strong’s 6413
[ix]. Strong’s 6412
[x]. Webster’s New World Dictionary
[xi]. Strong’s 5800
[xii] . Strong’s 6299
[xiii]. Strong’s 4941
[xiv]. Strong’s 8199
[xv]. Strong’s 7725
[xvi]. Strong’s 646
[xvii]. Strong’s 1350
[xviii]. Strong’s 6260
[xix]. Strong’s 6257