Revelation 6:11

Robes. Textual evidence attests (cf. p. 10) the reading “a robe” (stolē). This is a different word from that translated “raiment” in chs. 3:5; 4:4. The stolē was a long robe worn as a mark of distinction (see on Mark 12:38). In vision John observes the “souls” being clothed, each one in a white robe. The representation seems to be designed to show that in spite of their ignominious deaths, and of the fact that their martyrdoms have not yet been avenged by God, the martyrs are already recognized by God as conquerors.

In John’s day such an assurance was particularly comforting to Christians who had seen their fellow believers destroyed in the persecution of Nero (A.D. 64), and who now faced martyrdom themselves in the persecution of Domitian (see Vol. VI, p. 87). In every age since that time the promises of God to His martyred saints have cheered those who themselves were about to give their lives for His name’s sake.

Rest. The command is given to those who in prophetic vision were agitated over the seeming long delay. In actual fact the martyrs have been at rest ever since they laid down their lives, and will continue to be at rest until the resurrection (cf. on ch. 14:13). Their “fellowservants” would carry on the struggle until they too were victorious in martyrdom.

For a little season. The time was not to be indefinitely delayed (see on ch. 1:1; cf. ch. 12:12). The great controversy with evil must be fought out to a glorious climax. Sin must be allowed to demonstrate its ugly character so fully that never again will there be a question as to God’s righteousness and justice (see on ch. 5:13).

Fellowservants. Gr. sundouloi, “fellow slaves” (cf. on v. 10).

Should be fulfilled. That is, the number should be completed (see RSV). This does not mean that Providence has decreed that a specific number should be martyred. It was necessary that a certain time elapse so that the true nature of Satan’s program of action might be fully demonstrated, and God thereby shown to be just and glorious.