DIVINE HEADQUARTERS?

A THRONE AND STUFF

The Doxology and “Holy, Holy, Holy” may be the best commentary on Revelation 4. The details are not nearly as important as some make them. The picture inspires deep awe and reverence. It proclaims the eternal God, Creator and Ruler is on the throne of the universe and very much in control.

John saw an open door, showing the way to an inside revelation of the nature of the world. Is the door still open? In one sense it certainly is. The Bible itself is an open door of revelation to God. Reading this passage gives us a glimpse of heaven. Is it to be taken literally? Is there an actual throne room standing at this moment as John recorded? Many would say yes. But if it was a symbolic vision, the truth is no less radiant. Grasp the feeling from reading the passage, the feeling of holy awe and submission. That's the most important take-away.

The study guide's author emphasizes the words “after this” twice in the paragraph, considering that it pointed to a continuous future history. The problem I have with this is the first time was John's indicating the next step in his vision. The second time gives way, not to a historical sequence, but to an eternal vision, leading me to believe the angel is saying the equivalent of “let me show you more.”

Why does John suddenly say he was in the spirit? Wasn't he in the spirit when he saw the open door and heard the angel? Perhaps it was part of the holy awe that transfixed him on viewing the throne. But the focus is NOT on the throne, but on the One seated on the throne. There is the inspiration of precious stones and a rainbow. I have no idea how a rainbow can look like an emerald.

224 lesser thrones. Scholars have more agreement here that in most of Revelation. Two groups of 12, the Old Testament tribes and the NT disciples. They are sharing the rule. How does that work. I have no clue. Perhaps it indicates that God does not forget to honor his faithful leaders.

Lightnings and thunder speak of God's power. The seven torches coordinate with the temple lampstands indicating His presense. Many believe the seven are another way of indicating the Holy Spirit.

The sea of glass has one interpretation that stands out to me. It separates us from the throne. God is the Wholly Other, there is none like Him. We may know Him, love Him, walk closer and closer with Him, but we shall never be His equal!

The four critters are Cherubim, or Kherubs. Obviously not baby angels, as the medieval painters thought. They are divine beasts with heads different from their bodies. Traditionally, each of these four heads represents on of the four gospels. If Revelation was written near 100 AD as most scholars believe, John could well be referring to the gospels here. There presence before the throne and constant praise would then demonstrate that the message of the gospels, the Gospel, comes straight from the heart of God and praises Him as that message is preached and taught.