They are not the highest order of the
redeemed. They are given palms and white
robes, but they are not called the "first
fruits unto God".
They are not given thrones or crowns, like
the Twenty-Four Elders. The Elders were
in heaven before the Tribulation.
These palm-bearer went through the
Tribulation, and many of them gave their
lives as martyrs.
They are not kings and priests, but servants,
"before the throne of God", and serve Him
day and night "in His temple". In the Fifth
Seal, they are called "fellowservants" with
those yet to be martyred.