Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Revelation 14:7
Read Revelation 14:7 along with Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14. What does it mean to “fear God”? How does the concept of fearing God relate to the gospel, and what does the gospel have to do with keeping God’s commandments? (See also Rom. 7:7–13.) What is the connection between fearing God and glorifying Him?
The call to “ ‘fear God and give glory to Him’ ” ( Rev. 14:7, NKJV) is proclaimed in the context of the “everlasting gospel.” A realization of what Christ has done for our salvation results in a positive response to Him.
In the Bible, fearing God and giving glory to Him are closely related ( Ps. 22:23, Rev. 15:4). Together, they designate a right relationship with God ( Job 1:8) and obedience to Him.
To fear God does not mean to be afraid of Him but to take Him seriously and allow His presence in our lives. God’s end-time people are the ones who fear God (see Rev. 11:18, Rev. 19:5). God desires His people to love Him ( Deut. 11:13, Matt. 22:37), obey Him ( Deut. 5:29, Eccl. 12:13), and reflect His character ( Gen. 22:12).
It is important for God’s people to give Him glory because “ ‘the hour of His judgment has come’ ” ( Rev. 14:7, NKJV). The judgment in view here is the pre-Advent investigative judgment, which takes place prior to the Second Coming. The purpose of this judgment is to reveal whether or not we are truly serving God—a choice made manifest by our works (see 2 Cor. 5:10). At the conclusion of this judgment, the destiny of every person is decided ( Rev. 22:11), and Jesus will come to bring His reward to every person according to his or her deeds ( Rev. 22:12).
Judgment in Revelation 14 is a part of the gospel. To those who are in a right relationship with God, judgment is good news; it means vindication, salvation, freedom, and eternal life. However, it is bad news for the disobedient, unless they repent and turn to God by accepting this end-time, judgment-hour message. God does not want anyone to perish but all to come to repentance ( 2 Pet. 3:9).
You can study more about the pre-advent judgement here: https://www.amazingfacts.org/media-library/study-guide/e/4996/t/case-closed
Source reference: SDA 1Q19 Quarterly
The Langford Files 