Before the Throne

“The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne. ”

Who are these twenty-four elders seated around the very throne of God? Day and night they respond to the declaration of the four living creatures who give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, saying, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!” And each time they hear it, they rise from their seats and fall down, prostrate, to worship Him who lives forever and ever. Casting their golden crowns before the throne, they proclaim, “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory, and honor, and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what pleased you.”

That there are twenty-four elders, we are inclined to picture both the Old and New Testament saints; twelve to represent the children of Israel, and twelve to represent the Apostles. That they are clothed in white represents the righteousness of the saints who have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb. That they wear golden crowns upon their heads illustrates that they have overcome in life and death and have received their reward. That they respond in reverence at the mention of God’s holiness demonstrates that they serve as worshippers and co-rulers in God’s presence.

Is this purely symbolism? Or is this an accurate depiction of the throne of God in heaven? To be sure, John was not a writer of poetry or prose, he did not intend to write figuratively or seek to sensationalize. His personal testimony was, “that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us.” So, when John precedes his description of the throne room saying, “Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven,” we can be sure he has used the nearest language humanly possible to portray the most incredible, unearthly, eternal things a man could ever witness.

Take time to read the revelation of God’s eternal throne. Ponder it; imagine it in all its splendor, majesty, and power. With certainty, you will want to join with the elders in worshipping the Lord God Almighty!

Read: Revelation 4

Listen: Crowns Down