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revelation 4 commentary macarthur

by Gerard O'Conner Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

(Rev 4:1) – 1 After these things I saw, and behold, a door opened in heaven, and the first voice that I heard, a voice as of a trumpet speaking with me, one saying, Come up hither, and I will show thee the things which must come to pass hereafter. NET – 1 After these things I looked, and there was a door standing open in heaven!

Full Answer

What is the transition to Chapter 4 of the Book of Revelation?

The transition to the fourth chapter of the Book of Revelation. 1. Taking Revelation 1:19 as an outline of the book, chapter four begins the third section: the things which shall take place after this. a. The phrase after this ( meta tauta in ancient Greek) in Revelation 1:19 is repeated twice in Revelation 4:1.

What are the four units of the Book of Revelation?

Revelation 1:1-3:22 is the first unit. Revelation 4:1-7:8 is the second unit. Revelation 7:9-15:4 is the third unit. Revelation 15:5-17:18 is the fourth unit. The last unit of material John saw is contained in Revelation 18:1-22.

What is the significance of the four living creatures in Revelation?

The description of these four living creatures symbolizes the glory and majesty of Christ, who is high above all and sees all. He is King of kings and Lord of lords ( 1 Ti 6:15; Rev 19:16 ).

What happened to John the Lamb in Revelation 4?

Revelation 4 records the Lamb’s reception of the contract of judgment, which is indicated in the large scroll. Therefore, the scene John is shown occurred in the recent past. For it is only after the Lamb has been slain that He is worthy to open the seals.

What are the multitudes around God's throne?

Is the word "presbuteroi" used in Revelation?

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What is the interpretation of Revelation 4?

Revelation chapter 4 begins John's vision of the future. John sees a door open in heaven and is invited to “come up hither” and glimpse God's plan from a divine perspective. There he sees the throne of God, the earth in its celestial glory, and the many exalted beings singing praises to God and the Lamb.

What is the meaning of Revelation 4 11?

In the first of John's visions that are recorded in Revelation 4–11, he saw God the Father enthroned in heaven, exalted beings who worship Him, and a book sealed with seven seals. John saw that the One who could open the book was Jesus Christ.

Where are the 24 elders mentioned in the Bible?

the Book of RevelationThe Twenty-Four Elders appear in the Book of Revelation (4:4) of the Christian Bible. They are described as follow: before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal...

Who wrote Revelation Chapter 4?

John the ApostleRevelation 4 is the fourth chapter of the Book of Revelation or the Apocalypse of John in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. The book is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, but the precise identity of the author remains a point of academic debate.

Why did God create us?

Because Heavenly Father wanted us to have the chance to progress and become like Him, He created our spirits, and He provided a plan of salvation and happiness that necessarily includes this earthly experience.

What are the benefits of Worshipping God?

Worshipping God renews your heart. It opens you up to experience true joy through your trials and peace that passes all understanding. As you worship God more, you'll begin to cultivate a continual well of joy and peace in your life — no matter what circumstances you are going through.

Who are the 4 beasts in Revelation 4?

In Revelation 4:6–8, four living beings (Greek: ζῷον, zōion) are seen in John's vision. These appear as a lion, an ox, a man, and an eagle, much as in Ezekiel but in a different order. They have six wings, whereas Ezekiel's four living creatures are described as only having four.

What are the 7 Spirits in Revelation?

The sevenfold ministry of the Spirit Including the Spirit of the Lord, and the Spirits of wisdom, of understanding, of counsel, of might, of knowledge and of fear of the LORD, here are represented the seven Spirits, which are before the throne of God.

What does it mean to lay down your crown?

The act of laying down crowns before His throne signifies that those crowns came from the One seated on the throne.

What was John's vision in Revelation?

While on Patmos, God gave John a vision of the final days of earth, and a peak at heaven. In the vision, John saw the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down from heaven to the new earth, for the old earth had been destroyed.

Where was John when he wrote the Book of Revelation?

island of PatmosThe Book of Revelation was written sometime around 96 CE in Asia Minor. The author was probably a Christian from Ephesus known as "John the Elder." According to the Book, this John was on the island of Patmos, not far from the coast of Asia Minor, "because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus" (Rev. 1.10).

What does it mean that God is worthy?

The word “worship” comes from an Old English word that means “worthship.” It means, “to ascribe worth to someone.” We worship God because He is worthy. Our worship ascribes worth to Him because of who He is and what He does. These opening verses give us reasons why our God is worthy of our worship.

What does Revelation 4:4 mean? | BibleRef.com

Revelation 4:4 Parallel Verses [⇓ See commentary ⇓] Revelation 4:4, NIV: Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders.They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. Revelation 4:4, ESV: Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden ...

Revelation Chapter 4 Explained

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Revelation 4:4 - Meaning and Commentary on Bible Verse

Revelation 4:4. And round about the throne [were] four and twenty seats, &c.] In a semicircular form, as the rainbow also was; the thrones in the above form, came to both ends, or sides of it; just as when the sanhedrim, or great court of judicature among the Jews say F13, the "Nasi", or prince, sat in the uppermost seat, at his right hand was "Ab beth din", or the father or the sanhedrim, and ...

Revelation 4:4 - Verse-by-Verse Bible Commentary - StudyLight.org

Clarke's Commentary. Verse Revelation 4:4. Four and twenty elders — Perhaps this is in reference to the smaller Sanhedrin at Jerusalem, which was composed of twenty-three elders; or to the princes of the twenty-four courses of the Jewish priests which ministered at the tabernacle and the temple, at first appointed by David.. Clothed in white raiment — The garments of the priests.

What does Revelation chapter 4 mean? | BibleRef.com

1 After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne. 3 And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around ...

Revelation 4:4 Commentaries: Around the throne were twenty-four thrones ...

Revelation 4:4-5. And round about the throne — In a circle; four and twenty seats — Greek, θρονοι, thrones; and upon the thrones four and twenty elders — Signifying, perhaps, the most wise, holy, and useful of all the former ages, whether of the patriarchal, Jewish, or Christian Church, Isaiah 24:23; Hebrews 12:1.In the number, there seems to be an allusion to that of the ...

What are the multitudes around God's throne?

Multitudes surround God’s throne (1K. 1K. 22:19; Rev. Rev. 5:11 +; Rev. 7:11 + ), but in concentric positions. Those closest to God appear to occupy positions of special service, blessing, and favor. The elders occupy a position of prominence near the throne along with the four living creatures (Rev. Rev. 4:6-9 + ).

Is the word "presbuteroi" used in Revelation?

It is used to speak of older men in general, and the rulers of both Israel and the church. There is no indisputable use of presbuteroi outside of Revelation to refer to angels. (Some believe that “elders” in Isaiah Isa. 24:23 refers to angels, but it could as well refer to humans.)

What are the chapters in Revelation?

Chapters four and five form a unit, and should be regarded as one chapter. The actual events of Revelation begin in chapter six. Chapters four and five are a vision of Heaven and the very throne of God. Persecution and suffering are themes of the seven churches that Jesus addressed in chapters two and three, and this vision of Heaven serves to comfort and encourage Christians in the midst of it. We’re to live with eternity in view, and this vision of Heaven and of God’s glory, helps us to keep our focus where it needs to be as we go through the difficulties of this life. This book, from chapters six thru twenty, reveals the difficult times that Christians experience throughout the Church age (gospel era, Christian era). We see this especially in chapters six through sixteen, which involve the seven seals, seven trumpets, and the seven bowl judgments.

What does Peter say about the Church of Christ?

The Church of Christ must be present on earth in order to fulfill what we’ve been called to do: ( Rev 1:6) – 6 and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation.

What is the throne of God?

This is the very throne of God, which refers to His sovereign rule over the universe. There is no higher throne or authority, for He is the Creator and Ruler of all things. All are subject to Him. All are accountable to Him.

Who met with God on behalf of the people of Christ?

Like Moses, the Apostle John meets with God on behalf of the people of Christ. ( Ex 20:22) – 22 And Jehovah said unto Moses, Thus thou shalt say unto the children of Israel, Ye yourselves have seen that I have talked with you from heaven. “The children of Israel” today are the people of God in Christ — the New Israel.

Did John go up into the presence of God?

This is another allusion to what we see in the book of Revelation. John went up into the presence of God – by way of a vision – and based on everything that’s implied here throughout, we must conclude that “the people” (the Church), does not go up (via rapture) at this point, as Dispensationalism teaches. Exodus 20.

Was John in heaven?

I believe the meaning of this is that John was not in Heaven physically, but was there by way of a vision. In other words, it was the Holy Spirit who opened his eyes to this heavenly vision. And that makes sense, since it’s the Holy Spirit who opens our eyes to the truth.

Is the Church still present on earth?

With the whole context of these texts and the comparisons between them, “stood afar off” (from the presence of God) suggests that the Church is still present on earth. Moses – as Israel’s representative – was in the presence of God, while the people of Israel were down and away. Likewise, John – as the Church’s representative – was in the presence of God, while the Church is down (on earth) and away from Heaven.

What is the chapter 4 of the Bible?

1), so this part is introduced with a glorious appearance of the great God, whose throne is in heaven, compassed about with the heavenly host. This discovery was made to John, and in this chapter he, I. Records the heavenly sight he saw ( v. 1-7 ). And then, II. The heavenly songs he heard ( v. 8 to the end).

What does the song of the four living creatures mean?

6. And here, 1. They adore one God, and one only, the Lord God Almighty, unchangeable and everlasting. 2.

What does the Bible say about glory?

They owe all their graces and all their glories to him, and acknowledge that his crown is infinitely more glorious than theirs, and that it is their glory to be glorifying God.3. The words of adoration: they said, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, and honour, and power, v. 11. Observe, (1.)

What was the preparation made for the apostles having this vision?

The preparation made for the apostle’s having this vision.1. A door was opened in heaven. Hence we learn, (1.) Whatever is transacted on earth is first designed and settled in heaven; there is the model of all the works of God; all of them are therefore before his eye, and he lets the inhabitants of heaven see as much of them as is fit for them.

What did the people of the Bible discover before the throne?

They fell down before him that sat on the throne; they discovered the most profound humility, reverence, and godly fear. (2.) They cast their crowns before the throne; they gave God the glory of the holiness wherewith he had crowned their souls on earth and the honour and happiness with which he crowns them in heaven.

Is heaven the throne of God?

Heaven is the throne of God; there he resides in glory, and thence he gives laws to the church and to the whole world, and all earthly thrones are under the jurisdiction of this throne that is set in heaven. 2. He saw a glorious one upon the throne.

What is the vision of God in chapter 4?

The vision of God in chapter 4 and 5 is a vision of God preparing to unleash the judgments that begin in chapter 6 and flow through chapter 19. We’ve been focusing on the throne, and point one I gave you was the throne. It becomes apparent that the central point of focus in this vision of heaven is the throne.

What is the third heaven called?

The third heaven, the highest heaven, the abode of God, also called “paradise” which means, interestingly enough, “park,” suggesting the loveliness, the delightfulness of the place, the beauty of the abode of God, the Eden that is above, splendorous and wonderful. But apart from Ezekiel and Isaiah and Paul and John, trips to heaven don’t happen. ...

Who was taken up to heaven before he died?

The beloved apostle Paul, like Ezekiel and like Isaiah long before him and like John after him, was given the unique privilege of being taken up to heaven before his death. And the apostle Paul described that experience in his letter to the Corinthians in 2 Corinthians 12.

Is there mercy in Revelation chapter 4?

But in the case of Revelation chapter 4 , as the holiness of God move s out in its fury, there isn’t going to be that mercy. Mercy is going to come to an end, and grace is going to pass its time, and the sinful world in the final judgment is going to feel fury against sin without mercy.

What is the historical interpretation of Revelation?

The idealist approach interprets Revelation as a timeless depiction of the cosmic struggle between the forces of good and evil.

What is the historical view of Revelation?

The historicist approach views Revelation as a panoramic view of church history from apostolic times to the present —seeing in the symbolism such events as the barbarian invasions of Rome, the rise of the Roman Catholic Church (as well as various individual popes), the emergence of Islam, and the French Revolution.

What does Revelation mean in the Bible?

Unlike most books of the Bible, Revelation contains its own title: “The Revelation of Jesus Christ” ( 1:1 ). “Revelation” (Gr., apokalupsis) means “an uncovering,” “an unveiling,” or “a disclosure.”.

Why were the 7 churches singled out in Revelation?

The 7 churches to whom the letter was addressed were existing churches in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). Apparently, they were singled out because John had ministered in them.

What is the primary theological contribution of Revelation?

In few other books of the Bible is the ministry of angels so prominent. Revelation’s primary theological contribution is to eschatology, i.e., the doctrine of last things.

Who gave the truths about Jesus Christ?

This revelation was given to Him by God the Father, and it was communicated to the Apostle John by an angel ( 1:1 ).

Who is John the Apostle?

For example, important second century witnesses to the Apostle John’s authorship include Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, and Tertullian. Many of the book’s original readers were still alive during the lifetimes of Justin Martyr and Irenaeus—both of whom held to apostolic authorship.

What are the multitudes around God's throne?

Multitudes surround God’s throne (1K. 1K. 22:19; Rev. Rev. 5:11 +; Rev. 7:11 + ), but in concentric positions. Those closest to God appear to occupy positions of special service, blessing, and favor. The elders occupy a position of prominence near the throne along with the four living creatures (Rev. Rev. 4:6-9 + ).

Is the word "presbuteroi" used in Revelation?

It is used to speak of older men in general, and the rulers of both Israel and the church. There is no indisputable use of presbuteroi outside of Revelation to refer to angels. (Some believe that “elders” in Isaiah Isa. 24:23 refers to angels, but it could as well refer to humans.)

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