Revelation 4

Revelation 4 — The Throne of Grace Revealed Through the Cross

Revelation 4 lifts the veil between heaven and earth, not to show us a distant or future reality, but to reveal what was accomplished when Jesus died and rose again. The “open door in heaven” is the torn veil of the temple and the access granted through the finished work of the cross. This chapter is not a scene of coming judgment, but a heavenly celebration of Jesus victory, enthroning Him in glory, surrounded by redeemed worshipers. The throne is not a place of terror, but of grace established in righteousness, surrounded by the rainbow of mercy, and shining with the light of life. The 24 elders represent the entire covenant people of God, crowned, seated, and reigning in Jesus. The four living creatures reflect the full revelation of Jesus through the Gospels, always declaring “Holy, holy, holy,” because the gospel never rests, and Jesus holiness never fades. Revelation 4 is the heavenly vision of a Church already raised, already reigning, and already worshipping the One who is worthy, not someday, but now. It declares that through Jesus, we have entered the true Holy of Holies, and we reign with Him from a place of spiritual victory.

Chapter 4 — Jesus and Bride

Revelation 4 opens heaven’s door, inviting the Bride to see reality from God’s perspective. Here, the throne stands at the center, surrounded by worship, light, and the declaration that God reigns. The finished work of Jesus is the true basis for entering this throne room, the Lamb has opened the way, tearing the veil and welcoming the Church into God’s presence. The Bride’s identity is secured in worship, not striving; she is a participant in the heavenly chorus, joined with saints and elders, no longer separated by the old covenant or religious systems. False religion is dethroned as all eyes turn to the One seated in glory, where the focus is not on fear, but on the beauty and majesty of God revealed through Jesus.

Revelation 4:1

1. A Opened Door!

1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

"Open door / shut door"

Rev 3:7–8 – “I have set before thee an open door.”

Rev 4:1 – “A door was opened in heaven.”

Indicates spiritual access to heavenly mysteries and presence.

door was opened in heaven:

This is closely related to the veil that was torn,” God came and live among us in the hearts of man” Rev 19 Jesus open the door that we may have access to the Father again. We where displaced from the garden but regain the authority that was given away to Satan because of Adam and Eve. Jesus is saying now “I am the door” and “I am the way!” Restoration on the way and full access to the Father with no limitations.

Come up hither:

"Come up hither" is an invitation from Holy Spirit to ascend spiritually into deeper revelation, into heavenly truth, or into fellowship with Jesus Himself. Jesus is taking to John with a powerful voice in announcement, taking John into the spirit to reveal how He would be the Lamb of atonement.

Revelation 4:1  "After this I looked, and, behold,.. Come up hither

Jesus invites John (symbolic of the Church) into a higher spiritual realm to see divine plan that took place on the cross.

Revelation 11:12  "And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither

In the resurrection because of the cross they have spiritual vindication, now Jesus calling His witnesses to heavenly glory, the same place John is taken to in Rev4:1. In verse 1 John is been show what will come and in Rev 11 what is now to be entered into.

Colossians 3:1–2  "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."

The message shows heavenly mindset, Jesus has raised us into a new position on the cross.

Ephesians 2:6  "And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:"

Spiritually, we’ve already been lifted up, Jesus brought us into His own position of victory and authority.

Philippians 3:14

The Christian life is a continual upward journey but a spiritual call to grow into Christ’s fullness.

Hebrews 12:22  "But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels..."

We are already spiritually brought into a heavenly dimension of Zion, the dwelling place of God in us, united with Him as one.

and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter:

Jesus saying to John “I will show you my finish work I will do on the cross!”

Revelation 4:2

2. The Throne is Set!

2 And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.

"Throne" / "He that sitteth on the throne"

Rev 3:21 – Jesus promises the overcomers to sit with Him on His throne.

Rev 4:2, 5:1, 6:16, 7:15, 20:11, 22:1 – Throne becomes central to heavenly scenes.

The promise to reign with Christ is fulfilled in the vision.

I was in the spirit:

John not in a specific time line but see the spiritual manifestation of what is coming and later on what happened when Jesus died and rose again. The vision is the cross and Jesus victory!

a throne was set in heaven:

Jesus Kingdom establish because of the atonement. This indicate the purpose and result of the atonement is Jesus has all authority now and is King of Kings!Y ou can see this part of scripture: In the Spirit realm they where getting ready and Jesus throne was established, positioned with purpose or authority, installed to appointed (as in putting someone on a throne)

The phrase "a throne was set" comes from passages like Daniel 7:9

"I beheld till the thrones were cast down [or set in place], and the Ancient of days did sit..."

Meaning of "set" in this context:

The word "set" means:

Placed firmly or established
Positioned with purpose or authority
Installed or appointed (as in putting someone on a throne)

In Hebrew (Daniel 7:9), the original Aramaic word often translated as “cast down” or “set” is רְמִיו (remi) — which can mean thrown, placed, or established. Despite the KJV saying "cast down," modern translations like the ESV or NIV more accurately reflect the meaning as "set in place" or "put in position."

So spiritually and symbolically:

"A throne was set" means a place of authority and judgment was established.
It implies that God’s rule was prepared, revealed, or initiated, often pointing to the reign of Christ or divine judgment being made manifest.

Revelation 4:3

3. His Pure Judgement in Love and Mercy!

3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

like a jasper and a sardine stone:

Jasper (Clear or Diamond-like – Glory and Purity)

Represents God’s glory, light, and purity.

Revelation 21:11: “Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;”
Symbolizes the glory of God shining in the New Jerusalem (the Bride = Church).

Exodus 28:20: Jasper was one of the stones in the high priest’s breastplate, linking it to priesthood and representation before God.

Sardine Stone (Red – Judgment and Sacrifice)

Speaks of judgment, redemption, and the blood of Jesus. Its deep red color links it to Jesus sacrifice and the price of atonement.

Also found in the high priest’s breastplate (Exodus 28:17–20), representing one of the tribes, often believed to be Reuben (“behold, a son”), pointing to Jesus as the Son.

Together (Jasper and Sardine)

Together they give a full picture of God’s character: Jasper represent His glory and holiness. Sardine represent His justice and sacrificial love. Spiritually, the jasper and sardine stone show us the beauty of God’s glory and the depth of His redeeming love through Jesus. When John sees God like this, it reveals both who He is in essence (holy and pure) and what He has done (redeemed us by the blood).

a rainbow round about the throne:

"A rainbow round about the throne" (Revelation 4:3)
This is deeply meaningful and connects to God’s promise to Noah. The rainbow around God’s throne reminds us of the first rainbow God gave to Noah after the flood.

Genesis 9:13–16:
“I do set my bow in the cloud... and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant...”

This rainbow shows us that:

God surrounds Himself with His own promise of mercy. When judgment comes from His throne, it is always surrounded by grace.

It's as if God is saying: “I AM what this rainbow represents faithful, merciful, and full of covenant love.” Even when seated as Judge, He reminds Himself of His own nature: “I will not bring judgment without grace.” The rainbow around the throne is a powerful sign that God’s judgment is always balanced with mercy. Just as He promised Noah, He surrounds His rule with His covenant of grace and He cannot deny His own promise.

like unto an emerald:

An emerald is a green gemstone, green in the Bible often symbolizes: Life, Renewal, Peace and Fruitfulness

The Green Rainbow = Mercy and New Life

The rainbow isn’t described as multi-colored but here it is the  emerald-like, meaning green, symbolizing everlasting life and peace coming from God’s throne John is focused on. It shows that even God's judgments are wrapped in hope, not destruction.

Green as Covenant of Life

This ties back to Noah’s rainbow is a promise not to destroy. The green hue emphasizes God's covenant to bring restoration and life, not just punishment.

A Throne of Grace

The throne, surrounded by green light, indicate God rules in mercy and gives life, not just wrath or law. As in Hebrews 4:16: “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace...” The phrase “like unto an emerald” shows that the rainbow around God’s throne is not just a sign of mercy, but also of everlasting life, peace, and renewal. God’s rule is full of grace, and even in judgment, He surrounds Himself with the promise of life, not death.

Revelation 4:4

4. Redeemed and Overcomers -Unified Church!

4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.

The “24 elders” in John’s vision is a representation of the whole Church. This vision reveal the deeper message of the 24 in Revelation, the New Testament’s teaching about the Church, and how the vision is put together. Prophetic visions in the Bible are not meant to be taken literally, but as pictures that point to deeper truths and God’s greater purpose. When these visions are not seen in a spiritual way, the meaning of Scripture can easily be misunderstood or taken out of context. Many faithful Bible readers throughout history have understood prophetic visions, especially in books like Revelation, Daniel, Ezekiel, and Zechariah, to be symbolic, spiritual representations of God's truth and not literal events or objects. Revelation vision is similar as when you have a dream with different short visions and must be interpreted spiritually and put together to form a message in whole.

four and twenty seats:

The Number 24 the Fullness of the Covenant People

12 tribes = Old Covenant people

12 apostles = New Covenant foundation

24 elders = totality of God's people across both covenants-The Church

Ephesians 2:6 “And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:”

The Church today is the spiritual Israel and includes both Jews and Gentiles who are in Jesus:

Ephesians 2:14–16 – One new man from the two

Romans 11:17 – Gentiles grafted into Israel’s promises

Galatians 3:29 – “If ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed…”

four and twenty elders:

The 24 elders: "The Church - Body of Jesus"

Sit on thrones (symbol of reigning)

Wear crowns (victory)

Offer prayers (priestly intercession)

These roles fit the identity of the Church perfectly, the royal priesthood of 1 Peter 2:9. The idea that the 24 elders in Revelation represent a symbolic group (rather than literal individuals or angelic beings) is based on several biblical clues, both internal (from Revelation itself) and external (from the broader biblical narrative and Jewish traditions).The 24 elders represent the entire Church, seen glorified in heaven in John's prophetic vision, before the judgments begin, the Church is already spiritually raised and seated with Jesus (Ephesians 2:6). This reveals the Church in its completed, victorious form, reigning with Jesus and not as future rulers, but as worshipers who have overcome by His grace.

The Number 24 Symbolic Significance:

In the Old Testament we find in 1 Chronicles 24:1–19: King David appointed 24 divisions of priests to serve in the temple. These priests represented the whole priesthood before God.

Revelation uses similar imagery:

24 elders symbolize a complete priesthood of all God’s people in Jesus. 1 Peter 2:9  "You are a royal priesthood…"  This fits other parts of Revelation: Revelation 21:12–14  New Jerusalem has 12 gates (tribes) and 12 foundations (apostles). The symbolic interpretation of the 24 elders being representatives of the complete people of God (Old and New Covenant believers) rests on consistent biblical patterns and symbolic connections not just one verse, but a rich network of related scriptures.

clothed in white raiment:

Clothed in White Raiment is a Sign of the Redeemed. White robes are a repeated symbol for the righteousness of the saints, not angels.

Revelation 3:5 "He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment..."

Revelation 19:8 "...fine linen is the righteousness of saints."

These 24 elders are seen by John as the representation of global redeemed humans, not angelic beings, since angels are not usually described as "clothed in white raiment" in this specific sense. The Church is the Assembly of the Redeemed. In Revelation 5:9, the elders sing: “Thou hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” This describes the global, blood bought body of Jesus who is the Church universal. They don’t sing as individuals or Old Testament saints, but as those gathered from all nations, clearly New Covenant believers and not angelic beings!

heads crowns of gold:

Crowns of Gold on Their Heads- The word for "crowns" here is stephanos (victory crown), not diadema (royal crown). In the New Testament, stephanos is always promised to faithful believers, not angels.

See: Addendum - Crowns 

2 Timothy 4:8 "a crown of righteousness, which the Lord...shall give me at that day"

James 1:12  "he shall receive the crown of life"

1 Peter 5:4 "a crown of glory that fadeth not away"

These elders are the representation of all overcomers, believers who have finished their race. The Church Is Described as Kings and Priests:

Revelation 1:6  "And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father..."

Revelation 5:9–10 "Thou hast redeemed us... and hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth."

Revelation 4:5

5. A Decree-Judgement-Restoration!

5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

See: Addendum - thunders and lightnings

out of the throne:

This indicate to the throne and the throne is the kings and only the King can make proclamation, the throne also represents His whole kingdom and His full authority!

proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:

Voices = Divine utterance or heavenly decrees (Psalm 29:3–9 shows God’s voice as thunder).

Thunders = God’s authority and judgment (Exodus 19:16, Job 37:5).

Lightnings = Revelation, sudden judgment, or manifestations of God's glory.

1st Lightning=the decree then

2nd Thunder =Judgement and

3d Voices=relationship restoration and communication

1st: Lightning = The Decree (Heaven’s Decision or Revelation)

A flash of divine will is the sudden release of truth, a decree from God’s throne, revealing His purpose or exposing sin.

Psalm 97:4 “His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.”

Job 37:3 “He directeth it under the whole heaven, and his lightning unto the ends of the earth.”

Ezekiel 1:13–14  Lightning appears among the living creatures and signs of divine movement and revelation.

Lightning is the initial divine declaration, a flash of holy light that reveals or initiates action from heaven.

2nd: Thunder = Judgment (Power Released in Response to the Decree)

The response to God’s decree. Thunder represents the weight, authority, and execution of that word is often through chastisement or sovereign intervention.

1 Samuel 7:10 “The LORD thundered with a great thunder… and discomfited them.”

Psalm 29:3  “The God of glory thundereth: the LORD is upon many waters.”

Revelation 8:5 (echoing Sinai) “And there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings…”

Thunder follows lightning, it is the manifestation and judgment that proceeds from the decree. God's holiness demands a response to what is revealed.

3rd: Voices = Relationship Restoration (Communication & Covenant)

After the decree and judgment, comes the voice  God's personal invitation, restoration, or revelation of Himself. Voices signify communion, prophetic utterance, or the Spirit speaking to man.

Exodus 19:19 “Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice.”

Ezekiel 1:25 “There was a voice from the firmament…”

John 10:27 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”

Revelation 14:2 “I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters…”

After the decree and judgment, God speaks in intimacy. The voice restores relationship and it’s the communication of grace, the invitation to follow and know Him. Final we see the spiritual flow of Lightning, Revelation & Decree: "Let there be light!" Thunder – Judgment & Authority: "The voice of His majesty shakes the heavens." Voices – Restoration & Communication: "He walks in the garden and speaks to man again."

seven lamps -seven Spirits of God:

This reveals the Spirit in which the Kingdom of God operates. These seven lamps are not separate spirits, but a sevenfold expression of the one Holy Spirit (see Isaiah 11:2), representing completeness, fullness, and perfection in how God moves within His people. The seven lamps are first seen in Revelation 1, where they appear among the candlesticks and the churches. There, they represent Jesus walking among His people, filled with the Spirit. In Revelation 4:5, these same lamps now appear before the throne, symbolizing that the same Spirit who works in Jesus and among the churches is now fully revealed in the heavenly vision.

Here’s the revelation: As the Body of Jesus, we represent the seven churches of Asia in Revelation 1. But the vision given to John is not just about ancient churches it’s a spiritual picture of us, the redeemed, filled with God's Spirit. In Revelation 4:5, the Holy Spirit reveals the seven lamps again but this time as the manifestation of the Holy Spirit inside His Temple: us! Just as Jesus walks among the candlesticks (Rev 1), now the sevenfold Spirit of God burns before the throne, showing that His light shines from heaven through His people, and that we are the very place His glory dwells.

Revelation 4:6

6. Wisdom of the Four!

6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

God's all knowing nature that is given through the Gospel of Jesus. Proverbs say those that find Christ find wisdom “the beginning of wisdom is…”

in the midst of the throne:

“In the midst of the throne” indicate prophetic indication of represented form of God presence as Jesus the Word

The four living creatures:

The Four Living Creatures represent the Four Gospel : In Revelation 4:6-8, John sees four living creatures around God's throne, who is Jesus the living Word "the four Gospels"  I want you to note that the four Gospels in there part connect to the Word of God in whole. The four gospels taught us about the fulfilled plan of God salivation plan, in laments terms the Gospel sums up all that was said in done from Genesis to the end of all  prophets. We can make the conclusion now that the 24 elders a prophetic representation of the fulfilled Word in the Church and Jesus unified with His Bride "Church!"

See: Addendum - The four living creatures

eyes before and behind:

See: Addendum - eyes before and behind.

Revelation 4:7

7. The Gospels of the Throne-Room!

7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.

The phrase “like a” shows that these are symbols of prophetic meaning, not literal animals. They represent spiritual qualities of Jesus and His Body. Together, the four living creatures reveal the full spectrum of Jesus’ nature through the gospel, and by extension, what is being formed in His people, the new creation because of the written word that became living word .

"Like a " - indicate similar to or representative of!

Phrase: "Like a" Meaning

The phrase “like a” means: Not literal, but symbolic or representative of Similar in nature or appearance to use in prophetic language to convey spiritual truths using earthly images

Each creature represents a different aspect of Jesus nature and the spiritual ministry of the Church:

Lion – Kingship, boldness, and authority
– Symbolic of Jesus as King (Matthew)
– The Church carries His royal authority
Calf (Ox) – Sacrifice, servanthood, strength
– Jesus as Servant (Mark)
– The Church walks in sacrificial love
Man – Wisdom, relationship, humanity
– Jesus as the Son of Man (Luke)
– The Church lives in His image
Eagle – Heavenly insight, spiritual vision
– Jesus as Divine Son from heaven (John)
– The Church soars in revelation and Spirit

Revelation 4:8

8. The Gospels - Sufficient -Full of Wisdom-Effective!

8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

Revelation 4:8 speaks of the Living Word that will be in His Church day and night, Jesus will be the light in His own temple. The indwelling of God in us!

“The four beasts”

 = The Gospels

These four living creatures represent the four Gospel accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), through which Jesus is revealed in fullness. They surround the throne because the Gospels center entirely on Jesus, the Word made flesh.

“Each of them six wings about him”
Wings symbolize movement and power. Six wings reflect completeness and sufficiency, the Gospels are fully equipped to carry the message of salvation to the ends of the earth. Like Isaiah’s seraphim (Isaiah 6:2), this shows that the message is heavenly, divine, and unstoppable.

“Wings” 

Point to the Messiah, salvation, hope, or new life- God’s protection, His deliverance, and the coming of Jesus as the One who carries salvation:

Healing and Salvation under His Wings

Malachi 4:2  “But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.”
Prophetic of Jesus bringing salvation and healing through His coming. “Wings” symbolize the covering of His righteousness.

Refuge and Hope

Psalm 91:4  “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”
Points to Jesus as the refuge. His “wings” represent safety, trust, and hope in the salvation He brings.

Protection Leading to Deliverance

Psalm 17:8  “Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings.”
Foreshadows how Jesus gathers His people into salvation. His wings = protection leading to new life.

4. Deliverance from the Enemy

Psalm 36:7  “How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.”
Under His wings = salvation and lovingkindness in the Messiah.

5. Flight to New Life

Isaiah 40:31  “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Symbolic of resurrection life in Jesus, rising on wings = lifted to new life in Him.

6. The Messiah Gathering His People

Matthew 23:37  “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem… how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!”
Jesus Himself uses “wings” as the picture of His salvation, longing to bring His people into His protection, but they resisted.

7. Exodus Deliverance (Picture of Jesus’ Salvation)

Exodus 19:4  “Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.”
God carrying Israel on “wings” is a type of Jesus salvation, lifting His people out of bondage into covenant relationship.

 Wings as Covering Presence

Ruth 2:12  “The Lord recompense thy work… a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.”
Ruth’s redemption under God’s “wings” anticipates Jesus as Redeemer, who brings salvation to Jew and Gentile.

In Scripture, “wings” symbolize more than just protection, they are the imagery of Jesus carrying salvation (Mal. 4:2), gathering His people (Matt. 23:37), lifting them into new life (Isa. 40:31), and providing refuge (Ps. 91:4). The picture is always one of flight into hope, safety, and redemption.

“Full of eyes within”
Eyes represent discernment, wisdom, and divine insight. The Gospels are not blind, they see deeply into the heart of God and man. Their wisdom is Spirit-breathed, revealing Jesus in prophetic, historical, and spiritual clarity.

“They rest not day and night”
The Gospel is unceasing, eternal, and effective. It never fades, never tires, and never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). The Word is always working and convicting, healing, revealing, and bringing people to Jesus in every generation. A Deeper Meaning can be found in “Rest Not Day and Night” At first glance, this sounds like creatures worshipping nonstop. But prophetically, it speaks of something eternal, alive, and constant, the Living Word of God in action. These living creatures represent the fullness of Jesus, and their unending praise points to something far deeper than mere repetition:

“They rest not” 

Symbolizes the ceaseless life and activity of the Word of God in us. The Word doesn’t grow tired. It never stops working transformation in us. It’s alive, moving, sanctifying us day and night.

“Day and night” 

In the natural world, this reflects time cycles. But in the New Covenant, time is transcended.

Revelation 21:25  “And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.”

Revelation 22:5 “And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light…” So why is there “no night”? Because Jesus IS the Light, and He lives inside us the Word made flesh (John 1:14).

Jesus in Us is The Word That Never Sleeps

The phrase “rest not day and night” now takes on personal meaning: The Living Word in us never stops. His Spirit in us is continually active, speaking, guiding, illuminating. We are His Bride, and the Spirit is fully committed to forming Jesus in us without ceasing. Jesus the tree of life has not merely set Himself in the garden, now He has set eternal life within us. The Word himself to bare fruit all year round and birds can come and make rest in it. The Bride bring rest to a dark world through the Spirit of God. This is the very reason why your life matter  "on earth as in heaven." We represent Jesus to the world in righteousness and truth. I hope your life make Him proud! “Rest not day and night” refer to a symbol of the ever-living Word, now dwelling in us. Jesus, the eternal Light, is unceasingly present in His Bride, and there’s no more separation between day or night, sacred or secular, only union.

John 16:13
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

Galatians 4:19
“My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you.”

Genesis 2:9
“And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.”

Revelation 22:2
“In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”

John 17:3
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”

Psalm 1:3
“And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

John 15:5
“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Matthew 13:32
“Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.”

Isaiah 60:1–2
“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.”

Matthew 5:14
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.”

Matthew 6:10
“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”

Ephesians 4:24
“And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.”

2 Corinthians 3:2–3
“Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”

John 14:23
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.”

John 1:14 “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
Colossians 1:27 “Christ in you, the hope of glory”
Hebrews 4:12 “The Word of God is living and active…”
Philippians 1:6 “He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it…”

“Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty”
The Gospel proclaims the absolute holiness of God, fulfilled and displayed in Jesus. His holiness is past, present, and future“ which was, and is, and is to come,” an eternal declaration of Jesus unchanging nature and divine glory.

Isaiah 6:2–3  Seraphim with six wings cry “Holy, holy, holy” in God’s presence.

Matthew 24:14  “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached... and then shall the end come.”

Isaiah 55:11  “My word... shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please...”

Hebrews 4:12 “The word of God is quick, and powerful... and is a discerner of the thoughts...”

Revelation 1:8 “I am Alpha and Omega... which is, and which was, and which is to come.”

The four living creatures represent the living power of the Gospels, full of wisdom, perfectly equipped, and unceasing in their mission to reveal Jesus. Their cry of “Holy, holy, holy” is the echo of every true Gospel message, declaring the glory of Jesus, the eternal and Almighty One. Through these heavenly witnesses, the Word flies with divine strength and opens the eyes of those who will hear.

Revelation 4:9

9. The Gospels Exalt Jesus!

9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

“Those beasts give glory”

The Gospel witness, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John testify continually of Jesus glory, His divine kingship, and redemptive work. Their giving of glory, honor, and thanks represents the ongoing exaltation of Jesus through the Gospel message, showing Him as the Lamb, the King, and the eternal Lord, the written word that was fulfilled by the Living Word.

“To him that sat on the throne”

This centers on the Lamb (see 5:6), this verse also reflects the unity between the Father and Jesus in divine relationship. Jesus is exalted through the Spirit-breathed Gospel, and in doing so, all praise ultimately returns to the One seated on the throne.

“Who liveth for ever and ever”

This phrase declares the eternal life and unchanging nature of God, now seen fully in Jesus (Rev 1:18; John 11:25–26). The Gospels don’t only recall Jesus’ earthly life, they proclaim Him as the Living One who conquered death and now reigns eternally.

John 5:39  “Search the scriptures; for... they are they which testify of me.”

Luke 24:27  Jesus shows how all the Scriptures speak of Him, beginning with Moses and the prophets.

Revelation 1:18  “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore...”

2 Corinthians 4:6   “The light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

The four living creatures represent the Gospel message going out in power, always declaring Jesus' glory, kingship, and eternal victory. Their continual worship points to the Church’s call to keep Jesus at the center of all testimony. Every time the Gospel is shared or received, glory is given to the One who lives forever, the eternal Jesus, risen and reigning.

Revelation 4:10

10. The Bride Submit to Jesus!

10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

“The four and twenty elders”

These elders represent the redeemed people of God, symbolically drawn from the 12 tribes of Israel (Old Covenant) and the 12 apostles (New Covenant), forming the complete Bride, His Church. They portray the spiritual worshippers, the saints who are made kings and priests by Jesus (Rev 1:6).

“Fall down before him... and worship him”

The Bride submits fully to Jesus, recognizing His eternal life, authority, and worthiness. This is the Church’s humble posture: not self-exalting, but falling in love and reverence at the feet of the Lamb. The wife in submition and honor to her Husband Jesus. 

“Cast their crowns before the throne”

Crowns signify rewards, honor, and spiritual authority given by grace. Yet the Church knows that all glory belongs to Jesus alone. Casting crowns means laying down our works, righteousness, and achievements, confessing, “Thy grace is sufficient” (2 Cor 12:9). It is an act of deep dependence and surrender, acknowledging that Jesus alone reigns through us, not we ourselves. This is a bride in complete unity, let see: 

The Bride in Complete Unity

This is the Bride in complete unity with her Husband, Jesus. She shares His life, His name, His inheritance, and His glory (Romans 8:17; John 17:22). She is clothed in His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10), crowned with His favor, and entrusted with His authority (Ephesians 2:6). Yet she walks in holy submission to Him, resting under His wing of protection and love (Ruth 2:12; Psalm 91:4). Her beauty is not her own, but the reflection of her Husband’s radiance (Ephesians 5:27). In her submissive nature she does not lose dignity, but gains fullness,  for in yielding to her Bridegroom, she reigns with Him as heir of all things (Revelation 21:2; 2 Timothy 2:12). Thus the Bride is both glorious and humble, rigorous in truth yet tender in spirit, shining with the reflected majesty of her Lord while hidden under His covering of grace.

See: Addendum- Crowns

2 Corinthians 12:9  “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

John 3:30  “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

Revelation 5:10  “And hast made us unto our God kings and priests...”

Romans 12:1  “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy... which is your reasonable service.”

Philippians 3:8  Paul counts all things loss “that I may win Christ.”

The 24 elders symbolizing the whole redeemed Church and bow in worship, showing the Bride’s love and surrender. By casting their crowns, they declare that Jesus is their source, strength, and reward. It’s a picture of true discipleship: laying everything at Jesus’ feet and living in the truth that His grace is sufficient for all.

Revelation 4:11

11. The Bride His Delight, Purpose, and Love!

11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

“Thou art worthy, O Lord”
The Bride acknowledges Jesus as the only One worthy of all worship. This is the voice of the Church recognizing Jesus divine identity, not only as Redeemer, but as Creator and Sustainer of all.

“To receive glory and honour and power”
The Church gives back to Jesus what is already His: glory (His radiance), honor (our reverence), and power (our dependence on His strength). This is the true heart of worship: surrendering to His authority in every area of life.

“For thou hast created all things”
Jesus is not just the Savior; He is also the Author of creation (John 1:3, Col 1:16). The Bride acknowledges Him not only as Redeemer, but as the beginning of all things, meaning we were made by Him and for Him.

“And for thy pleasure they are and were created”
This reveals our true identity: we exist for His delight, purpose, and love. It is an echo of Ephesians 2:10 - “we are His workmanship,” formed not for our glory but to walk in what He planned from the beginning. The Church lives to reflect the pleasure of God in Jesus, a life shaped by grace, not performance.

John 1:3   “All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made...”

Colossians 1:16   “All things were created by him, and for him.”

Ephesians 2:10   “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus...”

Isaiah 43:7   “...everyone that is called by my name... I have created him for my glory.”

Psalm 100:3   “It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves.”

The Church ends this heavenly scene by lifting up pure adoration, recognizing Jesus as both Creator and Redeemer. The Bride sees herself not as self-made but as His workmanship, created and sustained by Him for His delight. This is the heart of worship, living in grateful surrender, knowing we are His, and made for His glory.

To My Bride 

The Church is invited to step through the open door, lifting her eyes from earthly struggles to the reality of God’s rule and grace. As His Bride, we overcome by worshiping in Spirit and truth, drawing near through the finished work of Jesus. Our place is not outside, but before the throne, resting in His presence, reflecting His glory, and living out our calling as a kingdom of priests. Revelation 4 calls us to leave behind lesser allegiances and join the eternal song, finding our identity and hope in the One who sits on the throne forever. Jesus our beautiful Husband!