Tag: Revelation 4:1-5
The Throne in Heaven
Scripture reading for December 4: Revelation 4
“After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first Voice, which I heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with One seated on the throne. And He Who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald. Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads. From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblings and peals of thunder, and before the throne were burning seven torches of fire, which are the seven spirits of God,. . .” Revelation 4:1-5
John, Jesus’ disciple and apostle, got to see a door standing open in heaven and was invited by Jesus to come through the door. The purpose Jesus revealed to John was that he was to see the events that would unfold on earth and in heaven after this time. We are told in Scripture not to seek out those who use the occult to know the future because only God knows what is to come. Here Jesus by grace invited John to come up through the door to heaven. I believe that Jesus, Himself, is the Door (John 10:7) and Good Shepherd Who leads us. (John 10:3, 11) John responded by faith accepting Jesus’ invitation.
Upon entering the door, John beheld the throne of heaven and the One seated there. He was shown the tremendous glory and color and light that radiated from the throne, comparing it to precious jewels that sparkled with amazing color. He also noted the rainbow around the throne that was like an emerald. This rainbow speaks of God’s promise to never destroy the earth with water and God’s mercy to Noah and those on the ark. Around the throne were twenty-four other thrones with elders seated, clothed in white and crowned. This fulfilled Jesus’ promise to His disciples that He would be seated on a glorious throne and they would have twelve thrones to judge the tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28) From this throne came lightning and thunder, reminders of God’s judgment and holiness. There were also seven torches of fire, speaking of the Holy Spirit and cleansing judgment. This throne is the center of all authority and power.
As you read this description of heaven, how do you process your own readiness to respond to Jesus’ invitation to come up there? Have you entered a relationship with Jesus Christ as the Door and Shepherd?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for extending the invitation to come through heaven’s Door to all people. Help me today to focus on Jesus Christ and share this wonderful news of a Savior and Shepherd. Amen.