Verse 11
This verse contains the second stanza of the song of praise begun in Revelation 12:10. "They" refers to believers whom Satan formerly accused before God. Jesus Christ’s death is the basis for believers’ ultimate victory over Satan even though he has accused us. Because of the proleptic nature of this song, the singers were probably referring to believers who would yet suffer martyrdom during the last half of the Tribulation. The word of God to which they bear testimony is another key to their success along with the Lamb’s blood (cf. Revelation 1:2; Revelation 1:9; Revelation 6:9; Revelation 20:4). They would consent to die rather than proving unfaithful to Christ.
"The blood of the martyrs, rather than signaling the triumph of Satan, shows instead that they have gained the victory over the dragon by their acceptance of Jesus’ Cross and their obedient suffering with him. This is one of John’s chief themes (Revelation 1:9; Revelation 6:9; Revelation 14:12; Revelation 20:4). [Note: Johnson, p. 517.]
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