1. Revelation 5:9 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why is reference made to every tribe and language and people and nation?

Revelation 5:9 (ESV)

9 And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation,

The Lamb’s work on the cross was not intended to benefit only God’s OT people of Israel. In step with God’s promise to Abram (Genesis 12:2–3) and the expectations as voiced in Psalm 87:1–7, the Lamb shed his blood to purchase people from every human grouping on earth. By including this in their song, the elders give voice not only to the intended scope of Jesus’ work but also to the fact that in time to come the gospel will work effectively in every corner of human existence.