Revelation 4 -- Praise To The Creator

This chapter shows us the importance of worship.  According to my commentary, “Tue spiritual worship is perhaps one of the greatest needs in our individual lives and in our churches.  There is a constant emphasis today on witnessing for Christ and working for Christ, but not enough is said about worshipping him … to use all that we are and have to praise God for all that He is and does.”

Everything centers on the throne in John’s vision of heaven.  “No matter what may happen on earth, God is on His throne and is in complete control… John is emphasizing the glory and sovereignty of God … There is no possible way for human words to describe what God is like in His essence.”

My commentary sees the image of the rainbow as it was seen in Noah’s day – as a sign of hope – that God is merciful, even when He judges, and it sees the creatures as symbolizing the wisdom of God and as proclaiming the holiness of God.

God the Creator seems to be the focus in chapter 4, it says, while in chapter 5 it’s God the Redeemer.

Daniel saw the thrones set up in heaven, but empty, in his vision, but now John sees the thrones occupied by 24 elders.  My commentary suggests that they may represent the people of God in heaven, enthroned and rewarded.

There were storm signals coming out of the throne – thunder and lightning – reminding us of God’s impending judgment and His awesome power, it says.  Also, the clear crystal sea supposedly symbolizes God’s holiness and the mingled fire, His holy judgment.

It may be hard for us to understand the importance of the constant praise for God here, for we often forget to praise Him on earth, but when the four creatures glorified God, the elders would fall before the throne and praise Him.  I just wondered why they would ever get back up and sit on their thrones again!

The praise given to the Creator here is the first step toward trusting the Redeemer, my commentary added.

Father, I fail miserably in praising You enough!  Over the years, I’m thankful that You’ve allowed me to see Your sovereignty and Your omniscience, and I know You are absolutely worthy of all praise, yet the things of this world turn my face from the things of heaven.  I can’t wait to one day be undistracted in my praise and worship of the One who loved me enough to create me and save me!

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford