There are two distinct groups of spiritual children of God that have been developing side by side during the Gospel Age. One group is referred to in Luke 12:32 as a “little flock,” the other is referred to in Revelation 7:9 as the “great multitude,” “great company” or “great crowd” depending on what translation you use. It’s not that some are meant to be part of the little flock and others part of the great company; rather, everyone is invited to be part of the little flock, which the Father delights in giving the kingdom to, and to share in the inheritance with Jesus Christ as his Bride. As Paul stated in Ephesians 4:4; “you were called in one hope of your calling.”
Everyone starts their Christian journey on the same narrow way, and those who are fully dedicated to God are born of the Spirit through the truth. So, they all become “new creatures” – spiritual beings – while their old human nature is set for destruction due to their own choices and commitments. If they’re going to grow, it has to be as spiritual beings. The idea of achieving human perfection, whether physical, mental, or moral, in the next age is off the table for these dedicated individuals since they’ve already offered that up to God as their sacrifice. If they don’t evolve into “new creatures” – spiritual beings – then they’re left with no other option: death is the only way out.
To develop into new creatures, we have to let go of our old nature, along with all its hopes and aspirations. But consistently doing this on our own free will isn’t easy, and it gets tougher as we approach the end of the journey. Only a small group of those who genuinely commit to this path manage to stick it out until the finish – just a “little flock.” For many, motivation starts to wane, and they need a little push from the one who as Hebrews 7:22 tells us becomes our “guarantee” to help us keep our commitments, or else the outcome is pretty grim. Out of love, special challenges are sometimes sent to those who are dedicated, to help detach their hearts from worldly things and bring them closer to God, fulfilling their promise of sacrifice. Only a few are able to patiently walk the path of sacrifice, finding joy in the chance to gain such a significant reward at a relatively low cost.
The larger group, as we read in Revelation 7:14, go through intense trials, a “great tribulation” which the “little flock” escapes. Jesus tells his disciples in Luke 21:36:
“Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Although some in both groups may face similar hardships. For one person, it’s a tough struggle because they dwell on the past and its worth in this world; for another, it’s just a light burden because they forget what’s behind and focus on the prize of their high calling. Revelation 3:21 tells us
“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
The “great company,” who are cherished by the Lord and have been shaped by His guiding hand, are described in Revelation 7:14 as “standing before the throne of God, serving Him day and night in His temple.”
Both groups grow as spiritual beings, but the little flock reaches the highest level of spiritual existence – the divine nature. So, let’s strive to offer the Lord what pleases Him: a joyful, steady, and willing sacrifice. As 2 Corinthians 9:7 states; “God loves a cheerful giver.” And we’re reminded in Ecclesiastes 9:10; “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.” Would a bridegroom desire a bride who comes with a different attitude? No, staying faithful through challenges shows her love and commitment.
At first glance Hebrews 12:5, 8, appears to be out of harmony with this thought,
“My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him … But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.”
The Greek word rendered “chastening” is defined according to Strong’s as, “Education or training; by implication, disciplinary correction — chastening, chastisement, instruction, nurture.” But chastening becomes a part of discipline only when the subject is an unwilling one.
After all, what father doesn’t discipline his child? If you’re not experiencing discipline, which everyone goes through, then you’re not really his child. Verse 9, 10 reads:
“Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. ”
We all need the discipline, training, and challenges that our heavenly Father gives to His spiritual children. This prepares us for the important roles we will soon take on. If we’ve never experienced this discipline or training, we can be certain that we’re not truly His children. Even Jesus, who was perfect, went through this process. Should we expect to avoid it? The only way to escape is to reject it, turn away from it, and ignore our commitment, which leads to serious consequences as mentioned in verse 9 and clearly stated in Hebrews 10:26-27:
“For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.”
The training that all spiritual followers receive is the same as what Jesus experienced. This includes facing the hardships of the world, being ignored, feeling cold indifference, dealing with misunderstanding and disbelief, and being looked down upon, persecuted, or rejected, even by those close to us. We also struggle with natural human desires that clash with our commitments, along with sinful temptations that we must constantly resist, even when they demand attention from our new nature. Additionally, we encounter unique and subtle temptations from the enemy that we must confront and overcome through faith in God’s promises. These promises need to be actively sought out and remembered to protect us from unexpected challenges. Jesus faced and triumphed over such tests of faith, and with his help, we can also prevail in our times of need. While we may not be perfect like him, 2 Corinthians 12:9 tells us “his grace is enough for us”, enabling us to overcome the world and its influences. Indeed, we can achieve all things through the strength that Christ freely provides to those who seek it.
Discipline can often feel harsh and challenging, but it’s essential for preparing us for our future roles as Priests of God. It also helps us to share in the sufferings of Christ in the present. Our Lord endured this to the very end—facing death without complaint. Isaiah 53:7 tells us:
“He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; he was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth.”
He was guided, not forced, toward his fate. He generously allowed those who were sick and suffering to draw from his energy and strength, taking on their burdens to facilitate their healing. In Gethsemane, aware that his time had arrived, he surrendered himself to those who would betray him. He willingly faced the scorn of others and chose to forgo their approval so he could dedicate his efforts to fulfilling his Father’s purpose, finding his true sustenance in doing that will, no matter the cost. Every act of sacrifice he made, from start to finish, was done with joy, without complaint, and even with a sense of pleasure. Why? Because he focused not on what he had left behind, but on what lay ahead. He rarely spoke of the past, but he had plenty to say about the future.
Following in his footsteps means embracing self-sacrifice just as he did, with a joyful and willing heart, eager to fulfill the Father’s will. On the other hand, obeying with reluctance, dragging our feet, and constantly looking back with regret over what we’ve left behind—while still clinging to worldly desires—shows a struggle that may lead to being part of the “great company.” However, this path carries the risk of being “cast away” from the anointed body and possibly missing out on a place in the “great company” altogether. To secure a spot there, one must pay attention to the necessary discipline, cleansing their robes to make them pure. Each saint initially receives a robe that is clean and flawless, reflecting Christ’s righteousness. Those who don’t strive to overcome and keep their garments free from worldly stains will face the challenge of cleansing them, and they must recognize and embrace this process; otherwise, they may not be suitable for either group.
In the case of Jesus and those who willingly surrender themselves, this is referred to as the “SACRIFICE” of the flesh or human nature, and they’re known as “OVERCOMERS.” The Apostle Paul urged the brethren in Rome in chapter 12 to
“…present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
Those who hesitate and wait for challenges before taking action are said to suffer the “DESTRUCTION of the flesh” or human nature. The first group, guided by Jesus, conquers the world, while the second group may initially be defeated by it but is ultimately saved by the Lord through their struggles. The rewards for these two groups, as described by the Lord, will be different. The “overcomers,” referred to as a “little flock,” will reign with Him, be part of the spiritual temple, and receive crowns. In contrast, the “great company” will serve God in His temple (the Body of Christ), worship Him before His throne, and receive “palms” of victory in the end, even though they will not wear crowns.
We find ourselves in a truly delicate situation. It’s my hope that everyone becomes fully aware of the serious responsibilities and challenges we face on this Judgment Day for the Church and for all who bear the name of Christ. While discipline may feel sorrowful in the moment, it ultimately yields the peaceful fruits of righteousness for those who embrace it. Stay strong. Don’t let anyone take away your crown. Be mindful that the fleeting pleasures of today should not distract you from the incredible reward that God wishes to grant you. Set aside any burdens and view your current sacrifices as a source of joy. With a willing heart, strive to affirm your calling and election; work on your salvation while God, through His truth and guidance, works within you.
Hebrews 12:12 encourages us to “strengthen your tired hands and weak knees,” make a desperate and continuous effort to render such a sacrifice as will be acceptable and well pleasing to God through Jesus. Verse 13 adds to “make straight paths for your feet ” – i.e., arrange your circumstances, as far as possible, so as to help and not hinder you. Make your circumstances favor self-denial in this way as much as possible.
What benefits come to the Little Flock, those who willingly make sacrifices? They run with joy, knowing they have the Father’s approval. They’re motivated by the glory of the prize they always keep in sight. In contrast, the Great Company struggles along, many facing similar challenges. They are troubled by fears, burdened by doubts, and saddened by what they have lost. They can’t fully see the glory ahead and are pushed by their circumstances and fears to fulfill their commitments.
The Great Company will not be worthy to be part of the Bride of Christ. That close intimate relationship is meant only for those who have shown their dedication through joyful and willing sacrifices, even to the point of death. However, the Great Company, having been disciplined, corrected and cleansed, will be cherished and respected, gaining a highly regarded status, as they were properly guided by the discipline they received.
Let us support our efforts with prayers during this challenging time. May the Lord grant us the grace to allow Him to work in us, guiding us to do what pleases Him. Without divine grace, we can’t make our “calling and election sure.”