Revelation 4:1–11

Explore the Bible 
Assistant Professor of Christian Ministries, University of Mobile

Glimpse of the Throne

Revelation 4:1–11

God’s Glory (1–6a)

The future is more present than we think. Scripture is replete with images of a future yet present kingdom of God (2 Sam. 7; Ps. 2; Dan. 2, 7; Mark 1; Luke 10; 1 Cor. 6; Gal. 5; Rev. 21). That is to say, the Kingdom has been ushered in but awaits its final consummation at the second coming of Jesus. Theologians call this the “already-not-yet” view of God’s reign. John uses the apocalyptic symbol of an “open door in heaven” (Rev. 4:1) to underscore that access to the Kingdom has come. Believers enter the Kingdom through the Door, who is none other than Jesus Christ (John 10:9).

Following this image John has a Holy Spirit-inspired visionary experience before the throne of God (Rev. 4:2–11). Around God’s throne are 24 elders “clothed in white garments with golden crowns on their heads” (Rev. 4:4). While scholars dispute their identity, one thing is certain: they remain in God’s presence, encircling His throne and worshipping Him (Rev. 4:10). What a glorious privilege to see the throne room of God.

Christians — those who have entered through the Door — should follow the example of the elders. One of the ways to do so is by living in a manner that exemplifies their citizenship in the Kingdom (loving their neighbor, sharing the gospel, et al.), thus bringing God praise and glory.

God’s Holiness (6b–8)

Also around God’s throne are four living creatures that never cease to praise Him. Throughout the book of Revelation these beings “stand sentinel at the throne (5:6; 7:11; 14:3) and take the lead in pouring out divine judgment” (6:1, 3, 5–7; 15:7). Day and night these celestial creatures never stop saying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God almighty, who was and is and is to come” (Rev. 4:8). Most likely these creatures are representative of the entire created order bringing worship to God as described in “Revelation” by Grant R. Osborne.

God’s Sustaining Power (9–11)

When the creatures give glory, honor and thanks to God, the 24 elders fall down and cast their crowns before His throne, saying, “Worthy You are, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things and by Your will they existed and were created” (Rev. 4:11). The fact that God created and sustains all things makes Him worthy of all honor. And as a Creator, He sits enthroned over His creation, receiving praise from the elders and living creatures. No one else is worthy of worship.

Like these celestial beings, humans are to worship the Creator and Ruler of the universe. To worship anyone or anything else is idolatry. Rightly does Jesus quote Deuteronomy 6:13: “Worship the Lord your God and only serve Him” (Luke 4:8). Let us then seek to enter the Kingdom through Jesus Christ, so we might dwell in the presence of the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. There is no other way into God’s kingdom. Matthew expressly states we must “enter through the narrow gate,” for all other ways “lead to destruction” (7:13).

Those who have “already” entered must realize the Kingdom has “not yet” been consummated. Until then, there will be false rulers that vie for our worship. Christians must not succumb to such temptation. They must keep their eyes on Jesus so they will one day experience the worship of God’s throne here on earth, where people of every tribe and tongue will worship before the throne of the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev. 20–22). What an amazing day that will be.