1. Revelation 14:13 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does the Holy Spirit affirm these words?

Revelation 14:13 (ESV)

13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”

The Lord had said that every matter is established by the testimony of two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6). People typically fear death and puzzle over what existence on the other side of death is like, to the point that a heavenly statement declaring the dead “blessed” seems a stretch. Therefore, the Spirit, who also is in heaven, confirms the accuracy of the initial voice. This message is too glorious to be doubted on earth!