162 Revelation: An Occupied Throne

Much of the book of Revelation is about the future – the unfolding of God’s judgment and Satan’s last-ditch effort to thwart that plan.  But before the visions of beasts and dragons, the Antichrist, and the Great Tribulation, God gave John a vision that would put all of that into perspective. He gave John a vision of heaven. Indeed, of the very throne room of God Himself.

His point is this:  “Yes, the days ahead will be challenging – even for the redeemed.  But know this and mark it well: there is a throne, and it is occupied!

Nothing or no one will preempt His sovereign plan.  Everything is under control.  That’s the theme of this chapter. 

John tries to describe what he sees, but it is almost beyond explanation. It’s like looking into the sun on a summer day.

Around the throne, John sees a rainbow, the symbol of God’s covenant. It speaks of the fact that God will be faithful and merciful to His people - even through the storm to come.  Which leads us to your first point:

1. There is no storm where He is not faithful.

Around the throne are 24 elders likely representing the redeemed of all mankind. There are also 4 creatures covered with eyes – cherubim – surrounding the throne. The number 4 may refer to the four corners of the earth, and their eyes speak to God’s total awareness of and complete control over all that He has made.

2. There is no situation where He is not sovereign.

Note that the text clearly says that One was sitting on the throne. Mark it well: God is not pacing about heaven hoping things are going to work out.  He is never panicked. He’s not even nervous.  

Nor is He some sort of celestial cheerleader rooting us on and pulling for us in “the game of life” hoping that we win.  No!  He is our God, bringing all things together in the counsel of His will…working all things together for the good of those who love Him.

What are they doing in the throne room of God? They are worshiping. The elders are casting their crowns before the Lord and the cherubim never stop saying “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord.”

Worship is our destiny. If God is worthy of our worship then, is He any less worthy of worship now?

3. There is no setting when He is not worthy.

Text: Revelation 4 

Originally recorded on February 13, 2000, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN.