Revelation: Coming SoonSample

After hearing the letters to the churches, John will now see through an open door into heaven (v. 1). Jesus invites him to see what will soon take place—the future. But before that, he views the present scene of heaven. John sees a throne (v. 2). This will now be the dominant theme of the book of Revelation. The word “throne” appears 53 times in the New Testament, 38 of which are in this book. The living God is the One sitting on this throne. John uses the language of fine jewels to describe what he sees (v. 3). This is a picture of splendor.

The rest of the chapter further draws our focus to the throne, as we are told about the responses of those around it. First, in verse four, the 24 other thrones surrounded the throne. Sitting on them are the 24 elders who wear white clothes (as we saw in 3:5) and a crown (we saw that in 2:10). These elders are probably a reference to the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 New Testament apostles. Together they stand for the Old and New Testament people of God. The scene is one of glory (v. 5), but around the throne, all is calm. Rather than roaring seas, which would make you think of chaos and trouble, there is “what looked like a sea of glass” (v. 6). It echoes the scene that Daniel saw (Dan. 7). On earth, things often seem chaotic. Still, in reality, all is calm because the Lord, who sits on the eternal throne, is so in control that nothing can disturb Him.

In verses six through eight, we see four living creatures. That there are four suggests all
of nature (because four is used in the Bible concerning the winds of the corners of the earth). We are probably meant to see them representing all the created beings. In other words, all creation humbly bows before the throne and sings the song of verse eight. This highlights the holiness of God, the only characteristic of God that is repeated in a threefold way. It reminds us of what Isaiah saw (Is. 6:1-3) and underlines that God is uniquely and totally holy. The song also highlights the eternal nature of God “who was, and is, and is to come.” As we see all creation in worship of the holy and eternal God (v. so the 24 elders do the same (v. 10). They cast their crowns before the One seated on the throne. They do in heaven what Adam and Eve wouldn't do in the Garden of Eden. In Genesis chapters one and two, humankind was created to rule under the rule of God, but Adam and Eve rebelled against Him. But here in Revelation chapter four, we see these elders, representing the church, not holding onto rule for themselves. They acknowledge the One on the throne, doing so not only in action but also verbally (v. 11). The effect of the Fall is reversed for all eternity.

Reflect: What impact does this scene in heaven have on you? Are you thrilled that the Lord is on the throne? Will you worship Him in total surrender?