Articles
God Is On His Throne
God Is On His Throne
The first three chapters of Revelation show us the church was going through much tribulation and persecution in the time of John. The persecution came from forces far greater in power and might than the church (a spiritual kingdom). God encourages them by holding forth the many ‘if you overcome’ promises. Now in chapter four God shows them that things in heaven haven’t changed. The situation on earth may seem bleak, but God is still God and still rules from heaven.
The throne scene itself is seen in glory, power, and might - lightning, thunder, and fire. We are allowed to see the ’24 elders’. These possibly represent those of God’s people who had already died. They were now before the presence of God and worshiped Him night and day. We see the truth of Paul’s statement: “to die is gain”.
Along with the elders, there were four living creatures, the likes of which do not exist on earth. With all their power, might, and wisdom, they spend all of their time worshiping God. God is worthy of such worship. He is holy to perfection. He is the creator, sustainer, and ruler of all of creation.
The brethren on earth must face the wrath of Rome and its emperor. Rome and the ungodly will face the wrath of God Almighty. This presented a test for the people of God; do they fear man or do they faithfully worship God? Faithfulness in their time often brought martyrdom but that wasn’t the end of their story. In chapter 7 we will see a great multitude that comes out of such tribulation on earth to enter into the presence of God.
God rules.
God even rules over Rome.
God will bring judgment upon all evil including Rome.
To die faithful to God brings eternal life in His presence.
Jesus said: "do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matt. 10:28).
Be thou faithful unto death (2:10). There is nothing on earth that is worth losing our relationship with God over.
Hugh DeLong
