The Vision of the Throne of God - 4:1-11
1. Open door in the sky (portal).
The windows of Heaven were opened for John!
The trumpet voice commanded him to ascend into God's presence.
About to receive further information about the future.
2. Transported instantly before the throne.
Sees the Lord of Glory seated on the throne.
3. The figure was to glorious in beauty to fully express.
The green gemstone colour speaks of God's eternal glory.
The green rainbow is reference to the eternity of God also.
It also suggests that His promises can be relied upon.
4. The twenty-four elders.
These represent the twelve patriarchs and the twelve apostles.
Their clothes and crowns represent imputed righteousness and salvation.
5. The Trinity speaks from the throne.
The seven spirits are the angels over the seven churches.
6. The sea of glass.
Scripture uses such imagery to speak of masses of people.
This sea is not restless but peaceful and calm.
The four living creatures (seraphim).
Eyes all around their heads.
7. Lion. Calf. Man. Eagle.
Why can't they simply be angelic beings?
Ezekiel had a similar vision of the glories of Heaven.
8-9 They had six wings.
These creatures offer everlasting prise to God.
Their song consists of praising God for His eternal nature.
10. The twenty-four elders also glorify God through song.
They cast their crowns before the Lord.
This is a sign of their submission.
Their righteousness and salvation comes from Him anyway.
11. They know that the glory belongs to God.
They know that He created and sustains all things.
Believe the twenty-four elders rather that Charles Darwin.