The Promise of the First Fruits: Embracing the Reward of God’s Kingdom

God, in His infinite wisdom, reveals His truths progressively, refining and deepening our understanding as the end times draw near. These divine mysteries are unveiled to those who earnestly seek Him and align their hearts with His will. As Scripture teaches, "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter" (Proverbs 25:2). This verse reveals a profound truth: God is not withholding knowledge from His people; rather, He invites those who seek with sincere hearts to discover the riches of His wisdom. In doing so, He rewards their obedience and devotion, drawing them closer to His eternal plan.

Throughout the Bible, God promises to reveal His divine mysteries at the appointed time, particularly in the last days. Daniel 12:4 prophesies, "But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase." We are assured that, as we approach the end of time, knowledge and understanding will multiply. God’s mysteries will be unveiled at the perfect moment when His people are prepared to receive them. In Revelation 10:7, we see that when the seventh angel sounds the trumpet, the mystery of God will be completed: "But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, then the mystery of God is finished, as He preached to His servants the prophets" (Revelation 10:7). This marks the completion of God's hidden mysteries concerning the rapture and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan, culminating in the glorious return of Christ.

Jesus Himself affirms that these mysteries are revealed to the faithful and those who seek the truth with a pure heart. In Matthew 13:11, He says, "To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted." This distinction is not about preference, but about alignment with God’s will. Those who earnestly seek His truth with a pure heart will be given deeper understanding of His divine plan, while those who reject His wisdom remain blind to it. The blind will never understand, but their ignorance will become increasingly apparent to those who seek the truth.

In this session, I will explore several mysteries God has revealed to me, with the understanding that more will be unveiled as He leads. This is His purpose for my life, and I have chosen to embrace His calling with power and authority. One key area of focus will be the roles and relationships of the Bride and the Groomsmen of Christ. These individuals are set apart as the first fruits of His harvest. By studying Jewish wedding traditions, we can gain a deeper understanding of their identity, number, and their unique relationship with Christ.

I will also delve into the identity of the 24 elders, often thought to represent the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. However, there is more to their identity than commonly assumed. Revelation 4:4 describes these elders as sitting on twenty-four thrones, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads. In Revelation 5:9-10, they sing a new song, proclaiming, "Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth." These elders are chosen for a specific purpose, and their identity is tied to the first fruits of God’s kingdom. They represent not just Israel and the Church, but the faithful who are entrusted with great power and authority in God’s eternal plan.

I will also explore the significance of the number 288 and examine whether the 144,000 in Revelation 7:4-8 should be understood literally or symbolically. If so, this principle must also apply to the Gentile first fruits. I propose that this number is not merely literal but also carries symbolic significance, representing completeness and perfection in God’s plan for His people. The number 288, which is associated with the worship of God in the temple and the music ministry of the Levites (1 Chronicles 25:7), provides further insight into God’s first fruits and their role in the eternal worship of the Lamb. This suggests that the 144,000 represent half of the first fruits from both Israel and the Gentiles.

As we approach the second coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ, I believe God is revealing these profound truths to those whose hearts are open to His guidance. This revelation encourages us to spread the message of His judgment and mercy, as He has always done so in the past, to prepare for His Kingdom. It is my prayer that we all remain faithful and sensitive to His voice in this season, for those who listen will surely be rewarded with blessings that we cannot fully comprehend.

Revelation 1:3 reminds us, "Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near." May we remain diligent in seeking God’s truth, staying open to the mysteries He is unveiling, and living in obedience to His divine will.

In obedience, the Lord has led me to address two critical issues currently corrupting the Body of Christ. One of the most deceptive strongholds in our time is the pre-tribulation rapture and the doctrine of imminence. This doctrine is directly tied to the taking of the mark of the beast and the misunderstanding of angelic technologies during the great tribulation. When New Jerusalem descends, many will be caught off guard, misinterpreting this moment due to widespread deception. I will delve deeper into this in upcoming videos, as it demands a more thorough examination.

Another prevalent misunderstanding within the end-time community is the belief that only 144,000 are considered first fruits. Scripture, both symbolically and literally, makes clear that these first fruits are Jewish. A quick search on the 144,000 will reveal countless individuals from every background claiming to be part of this exclusive group. But how do we reconcile the Gentile first fruits? This confusion stems from a failure to understand the Two Sticks prophecies, which speak of Israel and the Gentiles becoming one new man. This misconception also overlooks God's generosity—He always gives double portions. The Gentile portion, in fact, is more set apart than the Jewish portion when viewed against the backdrop of the world’s population. Paul broke down the wall between Jew and Gentile in God’s kingdom, yet this stronghold still persists within the Church.

In the New Covenant, much like a wedding, there is one Bride, but many Groomsmen. This understanding is vital to grasping the roles of both Jewish and Gentile believers in God’s eternal plan. God is now revealing the truth through the number 288, which He has authorized me to share to the four winds, in order to bring clarity to the first fruits at the rapture and His love for His Bride.

In Jewish wedding traditions, the bridegroom is often surrounded by a distinguished group of groomsmen, who hold a place of honor and play an essential role in the ceremony. For example, King Solomon’s wedding featured 30 groomsmen (Song of Solomon 3:7-8), highlighting the significant number of companions who stand by the groom’s side. This tradition reflects the symbolic role of the 144,000 Jews in the biblical narrative. They are closely united with Jesus, much like groomsmen are with the bridegroom, but they are not the bride. Their role is protective and supportive, much like warriors standing guard—akin to Jesus's generals. Their task is to protect the women and children in the wilderness and to fend off the dragon, ensuring the safety and well-being of God's people during times of great tribulation.

The 144,000 are chosen from a population of around 12 million Jews, standing as faithful witnesses to God's redemptive plan during the tribulation. In contrast, the Gentile Bride is drawn from a much larger group—over 2 billion Christians. The Bride is distinct and represents the ultimate reward of the marriage. While the 144,000 are honored and special, they are companions, not the prize. Gentiles should not seek or claim a role that was meant for the Jews, as doing so overlooks God’s specific purpose for them. The Gentile Bride is the treasure of God’s plan—one unique, precious entity—while the 144,000, though beloved, are devoted to supporting the Groom in His divine mission. Together, they make up the unified body at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, during the consummation and conception of the Man-child.

The wedding imagery highlights the roles of the 144,000 and the First Fruits Gentile Bride, emphasizing the singularity of God's intended bride. In a Jewish wedding, the bride represents the most intimate relationship with the bridegroom, while the groomsmen, though essential, remain distinct. This mirrors the relationship between Christ, the First Fruits Gentile Bride, and the 144,000.

In the New Covenant, God’s intention is for there to be one Bride, a sacred and exclusive union between Christ and His people—a bond of one Husband and one Wife. The First Fruits Gentile Bride represents believers who share the closest bond with Christ, set apart in spiritual purity and devotion. This is clearly shown in Ephesians 5:31-32, where it says, "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church." Additionally, Revelation 21:2 describes the New Jerusalem as a bride adorned for her husband: "Then I, John, saw the Holy City, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband."

The 144,000, on the other hand, are honored companions—groomsmen—designated to witness and assist in the wedding. They are not the bride but serve a vital role in the divine plan. As witnesses to God's salvation, they play an essential part in fulfilling His purpose.

The mid-tribulation rapture signifies the moment when both the 144,000 Jews and the First Fruits Gentile Bride are taken up to be with Christ. Together, they reflect God's purpose for both Jews and Gentiles in the end times. This eternal union will bring Christ and His bride together in perfect harmony, forever. The 144,000 are reserved by God for a special purpose during the tribulation. This group functions as the "first fruits" of Israel, representing the beginning of God’s redemptive work among His people. The Gentiles have their own first fruits, distinct from Israel's. Paul declares that Gentiles have been grafted into Israel’s promises (Romans 11), signifying their full inclusion in God’s salvation plan. These Gentiles are sealed by God for their mission during the tribulation, spreading the gospel to the nations. This group of first fruits precedes the greater harvest, just as the 144,000 precede Israel’s full redemption.

The ultimate purpose of these first fruits, both Jewish and Gentile, is to bring about the unity of all believers in Christ. Ephesians 2:14-16 explains that Jesus has broken down the wall between Jew and Gentile, creating one new man. The first fruits from both groups highlight this unity and the fulfillment of God’s promise to bless all nations through Abraham’s seed (Genesis 12:3). Revelation 7 depicts a great multitude from every nation before God’s throne, illustrating the ultimate harvest of God’s people. The first fruits from Israel and the Gentiles contribute to this greater gathering, demonstrating God’s plan for a unified kingdom made up of all nations.

Both the 144,000 and the first fruits of the Gentiles are designated for a special purpose. These groups stand as a testimony to God’s divine plan for unity within His kingdom, a kingdom composed of people from every nation. Through His redemptive work, God unites His people, fulfilling His promises in Christ. But what exactly are the first fruits?

The concept of "first fruits" in Scripture carries profound significance in understanding God’s divine plan for salvation and His kingdom. In the Old Testament, the first fruits were the initial portion of the harvest, representing the best of the crop, offered to God in gratitude and consecration (Exodus 23:19; Leviticus 23:10-11). This practice laid the foundation for understanding God’s sovereignty over all creation and His desire for the best to be dedicated to Him.

Exodus 23:19 and Exodus 34:26 both emphasize the "first of the first fruits," saying, "You shall bring the choice first fruits of your soil into the house of the Lord your God." These passages highlight the importance of offering not just the first portion, but the very best and earliest yield of the harvest to God. Numbers 18:12 reinforces this, stating, "All the best of the fresh oil and all the best of the fresh wine and of the grain, the first fruits of those which they give to the Lord, I give them to you." These verses collectively reveal a principle of consecration: the most prized portion is reserved for the Lord, reflecting His supreme authority and worthiness.

When we transition to the New Testament, the term "first fruits" takes on an even deeper, spiritual meaning, particularly in relation to Jesus Christ and the resurrection. In 1 Corinthians 15:20-23, Paul writes, “But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep. For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive.” Here, Jesus is described as the "first fruits" of the resurrection, the first to rise from the dead, with the promise that all believers will follow. Jesus, as the first of the first fruits, is the pinnacle and highest example of consecration, leading the way for all who will follow in the resurrection.

This concept aligns with the idea of a “first fruit of the first fruits.” Just as in farming, where the first fruits represent the first portion of the harvest, there is also a deeper consecration found in the "first fruit of the first fruits." In agriculture, even before the main first fruits are gathered, there are some that ripen before the rest. These are the best and most prized portions set aside as an even higher offering—the "first of the first fruits," the most dedicated portion.

In the same way, while Jesus is the first of the first fruits, the 24 elders represent a special, consecrated group of believers who are set apart for service in God’s kingdom. In Revelation 4:10, we see the 24 elders surrounding the throne of God, where they “fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and will worship Him who lives forever and ever, and will cast their crowns before the throne.” The 24 elders bow to Jesus first because He is not only God but also the Begotten Son—the first of the first fruits, the one who precedes all others in honor, glory, and worship. This is why Scripture says we will rule and reign with Christ. He is the ultimate supreme first fruit, leading the way for the rest of the harvest.

This concept is mirrored in the structure of the kingdom of God. Revelation 14:4 refers to the 144,000 as “first fruits to God and to the Lamb,” a group designated for God’s special purpose. These first fruits represent those taken up in the rapture before the harvest. Among the first fruits are the first of the first fruits, who will be granted and rewarded leadership rule. These elders symbolize a group of individuals who are specially chosen for the most sacred service, leadership, and worship in God’s kingdom.

The number 288 in 1 Chronicles 25:7 adds another layer of understanding. The passage says, “The number of them, along with their relatives, who were trained in singing to the Lord, all who were skillful, was 288.” This number is a symbol of the dedicated servants of God, and when considering the 144,000, the 288 can be interpreted as a reference to the completeness of the first fruits. Therefore, these 288 skilled prophetic musicians of the Levites, under the direction of David, mirror the structure of the kingdom where the 288 or 288,000 first fruits are divided under the leadership of the 24 elders, each of whom oversees 12,000 first fruits. This reflects the divine order and leadership within God's kingdom, where each elder leads a portion of the first fruits in worship and service to God.

Mathematically, we can see the relationship between the first fruits and the first fruits of the first fruits. When interpreted literally and consistently, the 144,000 Jewish first fruits would also mean 144,000 Gentile first fruits, derived from both Jews and Gentiles. The 24 elders stand as the first fruits of the first fruits, a special group ordained for the highest levels of service and worship. Just as in farming, where the first fruits represent the beginning of the harvest and the best portion, the first fruits of the first fruits are reserved for the most sacred purposes.

The roles of biblical figures such as Moses, Abraham, and the apostles in God’s eternal Kingdom are significant, though Scripture does not provide a detailed outline. Instead, it offers insights into their unique contributions and positions within God’s divine plan. The 24 elders in Revelation 4–5 are leaders among the raptured first fruits—12 from Jewish believers and 12 from Gentile believers. These elders symbolize unity in Christ’s Kingdom, having both governing and priestly roles. Their thrones, white garments, and crowns indicate authority, while their priestly service connects them to the Order of Melchizedek. They represent those transformed at the rapture, never experiencing death.

The apostles hold a unique position, promised by Jesus to sit on 12 thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel during the “regeneration” when Christ reigns on earth. This reflects their foundational role in God’s plan and their special connection to Israel. As described in Ephesians 2:20, the apostles are the Church’s foundation, which may extend into a supervisory role in the eternal Kingdom. Their authority complements, but is distinct from, the leadership of the 24 elders.

Figures like Moses, Abraham, and the prophets also hold special places in the Kingdom. Abraham, as the father of many nations, serves as a spiritual patriarch for all believers, fulfilling God’s promise to bless all nations through him. Moses, as the mediator of the Old Covenant, may lead or teach those redeemed under that covenant. These figures, described as “heroes of the faith” in Hebrews 11, will be perfected alongside New Testament saints and serve in roles tied to their historical and spiritual significance, such as advisors or rulers. A key distinction exists between raptured saints, who are part of the first fruits and transformed without death, and resurrected saints, who also receive glorified bodies but serve in different capacities.

The concept of the first fruits in Scripture goes beyond the initial harvest of believers; it also encompasses the eternal Kingdom Christ will establish. These first fruits are destined to reign with Christ over the survivors of the Tribulation into the Millennial Kingdom, each holding a unique role in guiding the remnant who will enter the post-tribulation age. This remnant will represent a new generation, one that will flourish and spread across the earth, fulfilling God’s command to be fruitful and multiply.

God’s promise to Abraham, that his descendants would outnumber the sands of the sea (Genesis 22:17), speaks not only to a physical lineage but also to a spiritual multiplication that will span eternity. The surviving remnant is the first of many generations of believers who will repopulate the Kingdom. Their influence will not be confined to the earth but will stretch across the cosmos, as the remnant will spread God's Kingdom beyond our planet. Through them, God's dominion will continue to expand, repopulating the earth and establishing interstellar travel and colonies.

In Revelation 5:10, it is promised that the raptured saints, "will reign upon the earth." This dominion will be eternal, extending beyond the millennial reign of Christ. As rulers and leaders, the first fruits will help guide the remnant who survive the Tribulation, rebuilding and spreading God’s Kingdom across the earth, and eventually into the far reaches of space. This eternal expansion reflects the fullness of God's promise to Abraham: his descendants—both physical and spiritual—will multiply and fill not just the earth, but beyond.

The Kingdom that begins with the first fruits will never end. Its dominion will stretch from earth to the cosmos, with the remnant continuing the mandate to multiply, establish God's rule, and bring about the restoration of all things. The first fruits, reigning with Christ, will be the leaders of this eternal expansion, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham that his descendants will be a blessing to all nations—and to all of creation. Thus, God’s Kingdom will grow exponentially in both depth and reach, completing His eternal plan to reconcile all things to Himself.

The reward of being counted among the first fruits is not some distant hope or abstract concept—it’s real, it’s available now, and it’s open to anyone. The power of God is displayed in the simple truth that He has granted us free will. The playing field is level, and everyone has the same opportunity to claim the reward. This is the astonishing grace of God: He offers this invitation to all, but we must choose to take hold of it.

If we only had a glimpse of the magnitude of the reward, we would stop chasing after the distractions of this world. We would recognize that the Kingdom of God is far greater, more satisfying, and more lasting than anything this world offers. The reward we seek is not something earthly or temporary—it is becoming like Christ, being transformed into His image, and sharing in His glory and authority. We are being invited into something eternal. "Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is" (1 John 3:2). This promise is beyond anything we can comprehend—becoming like Jesus and sharing in His glory.

God sees everything—our thoughts, our desires, our hearts—but He allows us the choice to abide in Him. Jesus said, "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you" (John 15:7). The choice is ours. Those who choose to remain in Him will be given wisdom, understanding, and even a crown of glory, but we must desire it. We must long for it with everything we have. Jesus didn’t say, "Ask, and maybe you will receive"; He said, "Ask, and it will be given to you" (Matthew 7:7). The reward is given freely to those who earnestly seek it.

There is no guesswork in the Kingdom—each member is uniquely called and purposefully shaped. "The one who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and the one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him" (John 14:21). It’s a personal invitation—those who choose to walk closely with Christ will be given deeper understanding and entrusted with the mysteries of the Kingdom.

And what is the reward? It’s beyond imagination. It's not just about ruling the earth for a time, but about becoming co-heirs with Christ, sharing in His power and His glory for eternity. "Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?" (1 Corinthians 6:2). This is our future—reigning with Christ, not just for a thousand years, but forever. It is a role that transcends our understanding into eternity. The promise made to Abraham—that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky—will be fulfilled in ways we can’t yet fully grasp.

Now is the time to seize this reward. The Kingdom is not something far off in the distance; it’s here, it’s now, and it’s ours for the taking. Jesus is returning soon, and those who recognize His return and the magnitude of the gift He offers will be granted revelation. "To him who overcomes, I will grant to sit down with Me on My throne" (Revelation 3:21). The reward is not for the passive or the complacent—it’s for those who are actively seeking and living for His glory. These will be the ones who proclaim His truth, who will share His wisdom, and who will be transformed by His power.

This is not just about waiting for a future event; it’s about living in the reality of what is coming, grabbing hold of the promise now. This is the time to seek His Kingdom, to make it the center of everything we do, because the reward is so great we can’t even fathom it. It’s more than just being saved—it’s about being made like Jesus, sharing in His reign, and fulfilling the eternal plan of God. The door is open, and we are invited in. This is the moment to claim the reward, to grab hold of the promise, and to make it ours.

As I sit in His presence at 4 in the morning, listening to the still quiet voice of the Lord and sharing what He has placed upon my heart, I am deeply moved. His grace, His mercy, His unwavering faithfulness overwhelm me. I can scarcely comprehend the magnitude of His promises and the depth of His love. In this moment, the weight of all that He has revealed to me is more than I can bear, and my soul responds in reverence.

I cannot help but fall before Him, the One who sits on the throne, the One who reigns forever and ever. I know that every word, every thought, every gift I have is because of His will. And so, I cast my crown before Him—not as a symbol of personal achievement, but as an offering, a recognition that He alone is worthy.

"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God," I say, my voice filled with awe and gratitude. "Worthy to receive glory, honor, and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created."

And so, I worship Him, the Aleph and Tav, knowing that He is the beginning and the end of all things, and it is in Him that all things find their true purpose.

Amen!