Revelation 4:1
Verse
Context
The Throne in Heaven
1After this I looked and saw a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had previously heard speak to me like a trumpet was saying, “Come up here, and I will show you what must happen after these things.”
Sermons
David Wilkerson
David Ravenhill
Leonard Ravenhill
Compilations
Todd Atkinson
Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A door was opened in heaven - This appears to have been a visible aperture in the sky over his head.
John Gill Bible Commentary
After this I looked,.... After John had seen the vision of Christ, in the midst of the golden candlesticks, with seven stars in his right hand; after he was bid to write what he had seen, and what were, and should be hereafter; and after he had by order written the seven epistles to the seven churches, he looked about him to see what else he could, having his desires and expectations raised of seeing more, and other things, for the eye is never satisfied with seeing; though this is to be understood, not of looking with the eyes of his body, but with the eyes of his mind; of his beholding things in a visionary way, as the prophets did, whence they are called "seers", and their prophecies "visions": how long this was after the first vision is not certain, it may be but a few minutes; and it is to be observed, that as the first chapter of this book, with the vision in it, is the preface or introduction to the church prophecy delivered out in the seven epistles; so this and the following chapter, with the vision therein, contain the preface or introduction to the book prophecy exhibited in the opening of the seven seals of the sealed book: and behold, a door was opened in heaven: not in a literal sense, as the heavens were opened at Christ's baptism, and at Stephen's martyrdom, but in a figurative sense; and the phrase is to be understood of a discovery of things that were, or were to be in the church of God, which in this book is oftentimes signified by "heaven": and it must be conceived as done in a visionary way, just as Ezekiel, in the visions of God, was brought to Jerusalem, and the temple there, and in at a door was shown all the abominations committed in the court and temple; so John, in a visionary way, through an opened door, had a scene of things in the church presented to him, as follows: and the first voice which I heard was, as it were, of a trumpet talking with me; this voice is not called the first voice with respect to any other voices that were to follow; but it designs the former voice, the voice that John heard behind him, when he saw the first vision; and this, as that, was clear, loud, and sonorous as a trumpet, so that he thoroughly heard, and rightly understood what was said; it was the same Person that made the following representation of things as did then, even he who is the Alpha and the Omega, the Lord Jesus Christ, the author of the whole revelation; the "first" is left out in the Arabic version: the allusion is to the blowing of trumpets at the opening of the door of the temple; "every day there were one and twenty soundings of a trumpet in the temple, three , "at the opening of the doors", and nine at the daily morning sacrifice, and nine at the daily evening sacrifice (f).'' And one of them was called the great door of the temple; and he that slew the daily sacrifice, did not slay till he heard the sound of that door when it was opened (g); so here at the opening of the door in heaven, in the church, of which the temple was a type, the voice of the Son of God is heard as the sound of a trumpet, talking loudly and familiarly to John: which said, come up hither; from the isle of Patmos, where he was, up to heaven; not into the third heaven, where Paul was caught up, but rather up into the Gospel church, the Jerusalem which is above; though this, as before, is to be understood in a visionary way, in like manner as Ezekiel was lifted up by the Spirit between the earth and the heavens; and so John, in a vision, was called up from Patmos into the air, where he had a representation of the church made unto him: and I will show thee things which must be hereafter; in the world, in the Roman empire, and in the church of God, to the end of the world; not but that there were some things shown him, as before, in the church prophecy, which had been, and were, and which was done to give him a complete view of things from first to last: and these things were shown in the following visions of the seals, trumpets, and vials, and by the Lord Jesus Christ, who talked with him, and to whom this revelation was given to show unto his servants; and it was of things that "must" be, because determined and resolved upon in the unalterable purposes and decrees of God. (f) Misn. Succa, c. 5. sect. 5. (g) Misn. Tamid, c. 3. sect. 7.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here an account of a second vision with which the apostle John was favoured: After this, that is, not only "after I had seen the vision of Christ walking in the midst of the golden candlesticks," but "after I had taken his messages from his mouth, and written and sent them to the several churches, according to his command, after this I had another vision." Those who well improve the discoveries they have had of God already are prepared thereby for more, and may expect them. Observe, I. 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. (2.) We can know nothing of future events but what God is pleased to discover to us; they are within the veil, till God opens the door. But, (3.) So far as God reveals his designs to us we may and ought to receive them, and not pretend to be wise above what is revealed. 2. To prepare John for the vision, a trumpet was sounded, and he was called up into heaven, to have a sight there of the things which were to be hereafter. He was called into the third heavens. (1.) There is a way opened into the holiest of all, into which the sons of God may enter by faith and holy affections now, in their spirits when they die, and in their whole persons at the last day. (2.) We must not intrude into the secret of God's presence, but stay till we are called up to it. 3. To prepare for this vision, the apostle was in the Spirit. He was in a rapture, as before (Rev 1:10), whether in the body or out of the body we cannot tell; perhaps he himself could not; however all bodily actions and sensations were for a time suspended, and his spirit was possessed with the spirit of prophecy, and wholly under a divine influence. The more we abstract ourselves from all corporeal things the more fit we are for communion with God; the body is a veil, a cloud, and clog to the mind in its transactions with God. We should as it were forget it when we go in before the Lord in duty, and be willing to drop it, that we may go up to him in heaven. This was the apparatus to the vision. Now observe, II. The vision itself. It begins with the strange sights that the apostle saw, and they were such as these: - 1. He saw a throne set in heaven, the seat of honour, and authority, and judgment. 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. This throne was not empty; there was one in it who filled it, and that was God, who is here described by those things that are most pleasant and precious in our world: His countenance was like a jasper and a sardine-stone; he is not described by any human features, so as to be represented by an image, but only by his transcendent brightness. This jasper is a transparent stone, which yet offers to the eye a variety of the most vivid colours, signifying the glorious perfections of God; the sardine-stone is red, signifying the justice of God, that essential attribute of which he never divests himself in favour of any, but gloriously exerts it in the government of the world, and especially of the church, through our Lord Jesus Christ. This attribute is displayed in pardoning as well as in punishing, in saving as well as in destroying sinners. 3. He saw a rainbow about the throne, like unto an emerald, Rev 4:3. The rainbow was the seal and token of the covenant of the providence that God made with Noah and his posterity with him, and is a fit emblem of that covenant of promise that God has made with Christ as the head of the church, and all his people in him, which covenant is as the waters of Noah unto God, an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and sure. This rainbow looked like the emerald; the most prevailing colour was a pleasant green, to show the reviving and refreshing nature of the new covenant. 4. He saw four-and-twenty seats round about the throne, not empty, but filled with four-and-twenty elders, presbyters, representing, very probably, the whole church of God, both in the Old Testament and in the New Testament state; not the ministers of the church, but rather the representatives of the people. Their sitting denotes their honour, rest, and satisfaction; their sitting about the throne signifies their relation to God, their nearness to him, the sight and enjoyment they have of him. They are clothed in white raiment, the righteousness of the saints, both imputed and inherent; they had on their heads crowns of gold, signifying the honour and authority given them of God, and the glory they have with him. All these may in a lower sense be applied to the gospel church on earth, in its worshipping assemblies; and, in the higher sense, to the church triumphant in heaven. 5. He perceived lightnings and voices proceeding out of the throne; that is, the awful declarations that God makes to his church of his sovereign will and pleasure. Thus he gave forth the law on mount Sinai; and the gospel has not less glory and authority than the law, though it be of a more spiritual nature. 6. He saw seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are explained to be the seven Spirits of God (Rev 4:5), the various gifts, graces, and operations of the Spirit of God in the churches of Christ; these are all dispensed according to the will and pleasure of him who sits upon the throne. 7. He saw before the throne a sea of glass, like unto crystal. As in the temple there was a great vessel of brass filled with water, in which the priests were to wash when they went to minister before the Lord (and this was called a sea), so in the gospel church the sea or laver for purification is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, who cleanses from all sin, even from sanctuary-sins. In this all those must be washed that are admitted into the gracious presence of God on earth or his glorious presence in heaven. 8. He saw four animals, living creatures, between the throne and the circle of elders (as seems most probable), standing between God and the people; these seem to signify the ministers of the gospel, not only because of this their situation nearer to God, and between him and the elders or representatives of the Christian people, and because fewer in number than the people, but as they are here described, (1.) By their many eyes, denoting sagacity, vigilance, and circumspection. (2.) By their lion-like courage, their great labour and diligence (in which they resemble the ox), their prudence and discretion becoming men, and their sublime affections and speculations, by which they mount up with wings like eagles towards heaven (Rev 4:7), and these wings full of eyes within, to show that in all their meditations and ministrations they are to act with knowledge, and especially should be well acquainted with themselves and the state of their own souls, and see their own concern in the great doctrines and duties of religion, watching over their own souls as well as the souls of the people. (3.) By their continual employment, and that is, praising God, and not ceasing to do so night and day. The elders sit and are ministered unto; these stand and minister: they rest not night nor day. This now leads to the other part of the representation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1–5:14 This section introduces the visions and judgments to come. John presents God in his heavenly court—the scene of the drama of Revelation (4:1-11)—and the Lamb, who has a central role (5:1-14). John contrasts the majesty of God with the so-called majesty of Caesar. God’s power and splendor is unequaled by the ceremonial court of any earthly ruler. 4:1-11 The description of God’s throne room stretches the imagination. It builds on the visions of Isa 6:1-4, Ezek 1:4-28, and Dan 7:9-10, where God is seen enthroned in power and majesty. God’s throne dominates Revelation, and the worship in the rest of the book flows from this scene. God’s magnificence, grace, and glory are fundamental to the church’s worship. 4:1 Then . . . I saw: This introductory phrase (see also 7:9; 15:5; 18:1; cp. 19:1) does not signal chronological sequence but the beginning of a new visionary experience. • Come up here: The voice of the Lord invites John to look at things from God’s perspective.
Revelation 4:1
The Throne in Heaven
1After this I looked and saw a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had previously heard speak to me like a trumpet was saying, “Come up here, and I will show you what must happen after these things.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Full Time Ministry
By David Wilkerson7.6K55:59ApathyISA 28:16REV 1:9REV 1:19REV 3:20REV 4:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God's word to comfort and encourage His people, even in times of fear and insecurity. The sermon is based on Isaiah 28, where the nation is under judgment and has made an agreement with hell and death. The preacher highlights the need for believers to have a "Patmos experience," where they shut out distractions and seek the voice of the Lord. He challenges the congregation to have a media fast and become full-time ministers unto the Lord, just like John on the island of Patmos.
(Deeper Waters) Session 3 - the Habitation of God
By David Ravenhill6.6K1:21:22GEN 8:13EXO 25:8ISA 6:3MAL 3:62CO 6:14EPH 1:17REV 4:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing his arrival at a new home and how he can immediately discern certain characteristics about the people living there. He then moves on to discuss the book of Revelation, specifically focusing on chapter 4. He explains that John, the author of Revelation, was in the Spirit on the Lord's day on the island of Patmos when he heard a voice like a trumpet calling him to come up to heaven. The speaker emphasizes the unchanging nature of God and highlights the continuous worship of the heavenly beings who proclaim the holiness of God day and night.
Mounting Up With Eagles Wings - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill6.2K21:41Spiritual ElevationOvercomingIdentity in ChristISA 40:31EPH 2:6REV 4:1Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the significance of spiritual elevation and divine revelation, drawing parallels between biblical figures like Moses and John, who received profound insights while in isolation or adversity. He illustrates how believers, like eagles, are called to rise above worldly concerns and challenges, embracing their identity as children of God destined for heavenly places. Ravenhill encourages the congregation to focus on the eternal and to find strength in God's promises, rather than being consumed by earthly troubles. He concludes with a powerful reminder of the ultimate victory and worship that awaits believers in heaven, where every creature will glorify God.
Young Donald Mcphail Prays (Compilation)
By Compilations3.1K08:33CompilationJER 29:13EZK 1:1MAT 16:18ACT 2:3REV 4:1In this sermon, the preacher recounts his experience of struggling to preach in a church and feeling bound by the powers of hell. He then decides to seek the help of praying men from Baravas, including a young boy named Donald McPhail who had a powerful experience with the Holy Spirit. When they come to pray with him, the preacher notices that Donald is closer to God than he is. The sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's power and not dictating terms of revival, as well as the transformative impact of being baptized in the Holy Spirit.
(Come Up Higher) Seeing Things From God's Viewpoint
By Zac Poonen2.3K56:11REV 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for believers to set their minds on heavenly things rather than being influenced by the world. He highlights the importance of discerning between soulish emotions and the leading of the Holy Spirit. The preacher also addresses the issue of finding God's will, stating that becoming more like Christ makes it easier to discern His will. Additionally, he addresses the problem of borrowing money due to worldly influences and encourages believers to take responsibility for their actions and seek forgiveness from God.
Heavenly Worship Theology by +Todd Atkinson
By Todd Atkinson2.2K00:00GEN 28:12PSA 139:23JHN 1:51JHN 14:2PHP 3:20COL 3:1HEB 8:5REV 4:1REV 5:13
This sermon delves into the book of Revelation, emphasizing the vision of heaven shown to John and the purpose of understanding heavenly worship. It explores the concept of heaven and earth merging through worship, highlighting the thin line between the two realms and the transformative power of joining in heavenly worship. The sermon encourages believers to embrace the ache for heaven as a form of worship and to see themselves as part of the same reality as heaven, ultimately aiming for unity and oneness in worship.
Revelation Overview Pt. 2
By Chuck Smith2.1K1:18:16Revelation1KI 19:18MAT 6:33REV 1:19REV 3:7REV 3:20REV 4:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Revelation, specifically Revelation chapter 2. The key to understanding the book is found in Revelation 1:19, where it is instructed to write the things that have been seen, the things that are, and the things that will be after these things. The speaker emphasizes that we are currently in the final period of church history, represented by the church of Laodicea. The sermon also highlights the importance of remaining faithful and not defiling one's garments, as those who overcome will be clothed in white and have their names confessed before God.
The Things Which Must Be Hereafter
By Carter Conlon1.9K56:21UnsavedPSA 68:18MAT 6:33EPH 1:13PHP 4:7REV 4:1REV 19:11REV 22:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a living testimony for God in our generation. He encourages believers to go where there is difficulty and opposition, boldly proclaiming the testimony of Jesus Christ. The speaker also expresses a belief in a future revival in the nation of Burundi, envisioning it as a role model of God's glory in Africa. He warns against being blinded by scriptural knowledge without a true relationship with Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a plea for supernatural love and a testimony of God's grace and glory in the last hour of time.
The Higher Call of Christ, Part One
By K.P. Yohannan1.9K26:00CallingMAT 6:33JHN 21:18ACT 12:21PE 4:12REV 1:9REV 4:1In this sermon, Brother K.P. Johannon focuses on the scripture portion in Revelation 4:1. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and following the Lord's values in order to break free from earthly limitations. He shares a powerful testimony of a missionary who faced persecution and physical harm while spreading the Gospel. Brother K.P. challenges listeners to consider the higher call of Christ and how they are running the race set before them. He warns against a life that may appear fruitful but is ultimately filled with empty works that will be burned up.
(Revelation) Revelation 4:1-5:14
By Zac Poonen1.9K1:01:42The Sovereignty of GodObedience to GodREV 1:3REV 4:1Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of obedience over mere understanding in the prophetic book of Revelation, particularly in chapters 4 and 5. He highlights that the primary focus should be on obeying God's word rather than getting lost in the symbols and interpretations of prophecy. Poonen illustrates how John’s vision of God's throne and the worship of the Lamb reveals God's sovereignty and holiness, urging believers to maintain a heavenly perspective amidst earthly challenges. He also explains the significance of Jesus as our kinsman redeemer, who overcame sin and is worthy to open the scroll of redemption. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life of worship and obedience, recognizing the authority of Christ and the power of prayer in fulfilling God's purposes.
Principles of Serving God
By Zac Poonen1.8K46:03PrinciplesPHP 3:13REV 4:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Revelation chapter 4 and the invitation given to John to "come up higher" and see things from God's perspective. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking fellowship with God before going out to serve Him. They caution against being solely focused on the needs around us, as it can lead to a decrease in the quality of our work. The speaker encourages listeners to prioritize doing what God tells them to do, rather than getting caught up in the pressure to meet the needs of the world.
(Beginning a New Year) the Spirit and the Throne
By Zac Poonen1.7K1:02:19DiscipleshipThe Holy SpiritGEN 1:21SA 2:30ISA 6:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 14:26ROM 8:281CO 12:32TI 3:13REV 4:1Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of being lifted by the Holy Spirit to truly understand God's Word and experience His fullness. He reflects on Revelation 4:1, where John is called to come up higher, illustrating that earthly distractions prevent us from grasping divine truths. Poonen warns against the dangers of relying on our own understanding and encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to see the throne of God, which provides perspective and strength for the challenges ahead. He stresses that true discipleship requires humility and a willingness to surrender everything to Jesus, who must be the center of our lives. As we enter a new year, Poonen calls for a renewed commitment to making Jesus Lord in every aspect of our lives.
(Revelation) the Godhead
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:09:04GodheadISA 6:1MAT 6:33JHN 1:32ACT 28:25REV 4:1REV 5:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Revelation and its relationship to future events on earth. He emphasizes that the book will start to unfold after the church has been taken up to heaven. The preacher also mentions the second coming of Christ and the resurrection of the dead in Christ. The sermon then transitions to discussing the scene in chapter 4 of Revelation, which takes place in heaven. The preacher concludes by introducing chapter 5 and briefly mentioning the Godhead.
It All Starts With Loving Him
By K.P. Yohannan1.6K25:35Loving GodJAS 1:23REV 4:1In this sermon, Brother K. P. U. Hannan discusses his journey as a servant of the Lord and his deep concern for the body of Christ in these last days. He emphasizes the temptation and pull of the world that can call believers away from their love and obedience to Jesus. He highlights the importance of loving Christ and obeying his commandments. The sermon also references the book of Revelation and the perspective it gives on the church and God's eternal kingdom.
(Revelation) the Fury of the Storm
By Willie Mullan1.4K52:12FuryMAT 6:33REV 3:10REV 4:1REV 5:6REV 6:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the opening of the seven-sealed book in the book of Revelation. As the book is opened, terrible things begin to happen on earth as God works to reclaim and restore the world. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding that the events described in the book are not happening in the present, but will occur in the future. The sermon also highlights the need for believers to pray and seek God's grace for their loved ones who will go through difficult times during these events.
Gospel According to Matthew Iii
By Stephen Kaung1.3K1:10:01MatthewMAT 24:1MAT 24:37MAT 25:31REV 4:1REV 5:9REV 20:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the themes of creation and redemption in the book of Revelation. He explains that after completing redemption, Jesus ascended to heaven and received the title deed of the world from God. The preacher emphasizes that God has never given up ownership of the world, despite Satan's usurpation. The sermon also discusses the parables of the kingdom of heaven, highlighting the importance of being prepared for the return of the Son of Man and the final judgment.
(Revelation Thoughts From the Book) 5. the Glorious Culmination
By Roy Hession1.3K55:29CulminationMAT 6:33REV 4:1REV 5:11REV 6:6REV 15:7REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher provides a quick overview of the book of Revelation. He outlines the structure of the book, which includes the seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven vials of God's wrath. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the vision of the throne and the one sitting on it, representing God's sovereignty. The preacher acknowledges that not every symbol in the book is fully understood, but encourages listeners to seek understanding and find stability in their faith.
The Spirit and the Throne
By Zac Poonen1.3K1:02:44GEN 1:11SA 2:30ISA 6:1MAT 11:28MRK 8:341CO 12:3JAS 4:10REV 2:4REV 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of making Jesus Lord of our lives, highlighting the need to surrender all areas to Him, including pride, reputation, and past mistakes. It stresses the significance of recognizing God's authority and seeking the baptism of the Holy Spirit to empower us for God's work. The message urges humility, repentance, and a deep desire to prioritize God above all else, acknowledging that true transformation and spiritual growth come from surrendering completely to Jesus as Lord.
Galatians 3:13
By Harry Ironside1.0K38:06Christian LifePRO 27:1JHN 1:11JHN 14:23REV 1:3REV 4:1REV 22:7REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of receiving Jesus into one's heart and establishing a blessed and holy fellowship with Him. The sermon is based on the book of Revelation, which contains important instructions for believers in the closing days of the present dispensation of God's grace. The preacher highlights the blessings pronounced upon those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. He also shares his personal testimony of coming to faith in Jesus and the joy and blessing that came from being delivered from the curse of the law through faith in Christ. The sermon discusses the events connected with Jesus' second coming and the long period between his first and second coming, as described in the book of Revelation. The divisions of the book are explained, and the vision of the Son of Man in the midst of the candlesticks is mentioned as representing Jesus in his churches on earth.
Revelation 1 - Part 1
By Robert F. Adcock71442:05MAT 6:33LUK 11:28REV 1:3REV 4:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Revelation and its significance for believers. He highlights the opening verse of Revelation 4, which describes John's experience of receiving a divine message. The preacher emphasizes that this experience is something that all believers can anticipate happening even today. He encourages the congregation to read the book of Revelation, as it provides a renewed confidence in God's sovereignty and control over all things. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of obeying the word of God and finding blessing in doing so.
Survey of the New Testament 05 Peter Thru Revelation
By Neil Fraser59646:35HEB 2:31PE 2:211PE 5:3JUD 1:3REV 1:19REV 4:1REV 5:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being a stranger in the world as a Christian. He emphasizes the importance of Christians remembering their earthly citizenship and being subject to the governing authorities. The preacher also addresses the idea of punishment and how Christians should respond to their enemies with love. He then introduces the concept of the "faith once for all deliverance" and encourages the congregation to study the Bible diligently. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's guidance and the hope for a new life in Christ.
Revelation Pt 3
By Billy Strachan5811:03:31RevelationMAT 4:17JHN 1:1ACT 2:38REV 4:1REV 6:1REV 10:1REV 22:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the idea that no man is an island and emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things. He describes a vision of the fourth angel sounding and causing a disturbance in the sun, moon, and stars. This event leads to cataclysmic events on Earth, including the burning of a third of the trees and grass. The preacher also mentions the opening of the seventh seal, which reveals seven trumpets that will bring further judgments upon the people. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to be evangelistic and share the knowledge of what is to come in order to win souls.
Revelation 4 & 5
By John McGregor44741:02RevelationREV 2:10REV 4:1REV 4:3REV 4:5REV 4:11REV 5:8REV 5:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Revelation, specifically chapters 4 and 5. He emphasizes the idea of access into heaven, highlighting the significance of the open door mentioned in Revelation 4:1. The preacher also mentions the activities and adoration happening in heaven, emphasizing the worship and praise poured out to God. He encourages the listeners to focus on God and look up amidst the difficulties of life, just like John did when he saw the open door in heaven.
Father
By Peter Hammond32548:16Christian LifeMAT 6:33JHN 10:27GAL 5:16HEB 12:1REV 1:1REV 4:1REV 5:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not missing out on the future with God. They express their determination to do everything they can to be present and obedient to God's will. The preacher also highlights the significance of living in the spirit, spending time alone with God, and knowing His voice and will. They encourage the audience to focus on God and His Son, Jesus, and to be united with Him. The sermon references the book of Revelation, specifically chapters 4 and 5, which describe the glories that await the church and the enthronement of Jesus.
April 30 2000 Evening Service
By David Ravenhill381:11:17Holiness and WorshipChristian LifeAbiding Presence of GodEXO 25:8JHN 14:23REV 4:1David Ravenhill emphasizes the importance of creating an environment conducive to the abiding presence of God, contrasting the fleeting touch of God with the desire for a permanent relationship. He challenges the congregation to consider what it means to truly dwell with God, highlighting the need for holiness, surrender, and a heart of worship. Ravenhill uses various cultural examples to illustrate how our environments shape our relationship with God and stresses that God desires to dwell in a clean and holy habitation. He calls for a radical obedience and a willingness to yield the throne of our lives to God, ensuring that He is honored and worshiped in all aspects of our lives.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A door was opened in heaven - This appears to have been a visible aperture in the sky over his head.
John Gill Bible Commentary
After this I looked,.... After John had seen the vision of Christ, in the midst of the golden candlesticks, with seven stars in his right hand; after he was bid to write what he had seen, and what were, and should be hereafter; and after he had by order written the seven epistles to the seven churches, he looked about him to see what else he could, having his desires and expectations raised of seeing more, and other things, for the eye is never satisfied with seeing; though this is to be understood, not of looking with the eyes of his body, but with the eyes of his mind; of his beholding things in a visionary way, as the prophets did, whence they are called "seers", and their prophecies "visions": how long this was after the first vision is not certain, it may be but a few minutes; and it is to be observed, that as the first chapter of this book, with the vision in it, is the preface or introduction to the church prophecy delivered out in the seven epistles; so this and the following chapter, with the vision therein, contain the preface or introduction to the book prophecy exhibited in the opening of the seven seals of the sealed book: and behold, a door was opened in heaven: not in a literal sense, as the heavens were opened at Christ's baptism, and at Stephen's martyrdom, but in a figurative sense; and the phrase is to be understood of a discovery of things that were, or were to be in the church of God, which in this book is oftentimes signified by "heaven": and it must be conceived as done in a visionary way, just as Ezekiel, in the visions of God, was brought to Jerusalem, and the temple there, and in at a door was shown all the abominations committed in the court and temple; so John, in a visionary way, through an opened door, had a scene of things in the church presented to him, as follows: and the first voice which I heard was, as it were, of a trumpet talking with me; this voice is not called the first voice with respect to any other voices that were to follow; but it designs the former voice, the voice that John heard behind him, when he saw the first vision; and this, as that, was clear, loud, and sonorous as a trumpet, so that he thoroughly heard, and rightly understood what was said; it was the same Person that made the following representation of things as did then, even he who is the Alpha and the Omega, the Lord Jesus Christ, the author of the whole revelation; the "first" is left out in the Arabic version: the allusion is to the blowing of trumpets at the opening of the door of the temple; "every day there were one and twenty soundings of a trumpet in the temple, three , "at the opening of the doors", and nine at the daily morning sacrifice, and nine at the daily evening sacrifice (f).'' And one of them was called the great door of the temple; and he that slew the daily sacrifice, did not slay till he heard the sound of that door when it was opened (g); so here at the opening of the door in heaven, in the church, of which the temple was a type, the voice of the Son of God is heard as the sound of a trumpet, talking loudly and familiarly to John: which said, come up hither; from the isle of Patmos, where he was, up to heaven; not into the third heaven, where Paul was caught up, but rather up into the Gospel church, the Jerusalem which is above; though this, as before, is to be understood in a visionary way, in like manner as Ezekiel was lifted up by the Spirit between the earth and the heavens; and so John, in a vision, was called up from Patmos into the air, where he had a representation of the church made unto him: and I will show thee things which must be hereafter; in the world, in the Roman empire, and in the church of God, to the end of the world; not but that there were some things shown him, as before, in the church prophecy, which had been, and were, and which was done to give him a complete view of things from first to last: and these things were shown in the following visions of the seals, trumpets, and vials, and by the Lord Jesus Christ, who talked with him, and to whom this revelation was given to show unto his servants; and it was of things that "must" be, because determined and resolved upon in the unalterable purposes and decrees of God. (f) Misn. Succa, c. 5. sect. 5. (g) Misn. Tamid, c. 3. sect. 7.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here an account of a second vision with which the apostle John was favoured: After this, that is, not only "after I had seen the vision of Christ walking in the midst of the golden candlesticks," but "after I had taken his messages from his mouth, and written and sent them to the several churches, according to his command, after this I had another vision." Those who well improve the discoveries they have had of God already are prepared thereby for more, and may expect them. Observe, I. 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. (2.) We can know nothing of future events but what God is pleased to discover to us; they are within the veil, till God opens the door. But, (3.) So far as God reveals his designs to us we may and ought to receive them, and not pretend to be wise above what is revealed. 2. To prepare John for the vision, a trumpet was sounded, and he was called up into heaven, to have a sight there of the things which were to be hereafter. He was called into the third heavens. (1.) There is a way opened into the holiest of all, into which the sons of God may enter by faith and holy affections now, in their spirits when they die, and in their whole persons at the last day. (2.) We must not intrude into the secret of God's presence, but stay till we are called up to it. 3. To prepare for this vision, the apostle was in the Spirit. He was in a rapture, as before (Rev 1:10), whether in the body or out of the body we cannot tell; perhaps he himself could not; however all bodily actions and sensations were for a time suspended, and his spirit was possessed with the spirit of prophecy, and wholly under a divine influence. The more we abstract ourselves from all corporeal things the more fit we are for communion with God; the body is a veil, a cloud, and clog to the mind in its transactions with God. We should as it were forget it when we go in before the Lord in duty, and be willing to drop it, that we may go up to him in heaven. This was the apparatus to the vision. Now observe, II. The vision itself. It begins with the strange sights that the apostle saw, and they were such as these: - 1. He saw a throne set in heaven, the seat of honour, and authority, and judgment. 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. This throne was not empty; there was one in it who filled it, and that was God, who is here described by those things that are most pleasant and precious in our world: His countenance was like a jasper and a sardine-stone; he is not described by any human features, so as to be represented by an image, but only by his transcendent brightness. This jasper is a transparent stone, which yet offers to the eye a variety of the most vivid colours, signifying the glorious perfections of God; the sardine-stone is red, signifying the justice of God, that essential attribute of which he never divests himself in favour of any, but gloriously exerts it in the government of the world, and especially of the church, through our Lord Jesus Christ. This attribute is displayed in pardoning as well as in punishing, in saving as well as in destroying sinners. 3. He saw a rainbow about the throne, like unto an emerald, Rev 4:3. The rainbow was the seal and token of the covenant of the providence that God made with Noah and his posterity with him, and is a fit emblem of that covenant of promise that God has made with Christ as the head of the church, and all his people in him, which covenant is as the waters of Noah unto God, an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and sure. This rainbow looked like the emerald; the most prevailing colour was a pleasant green, to show the reviving and refreshing nature of the new covenant. 4. He saw four-and-twenty seats round about the throne, not empty, but filled with four-and-twenty elders, presbyters, representing, very probably, the whole church of God, both in the Old Testament and in the New Testament state; not the ministers of the church, but rather the representatives of the people. Their sitting denotes their honour, rest, and satisfaction; their sitting about the throne signifies their relation to God, their nearness to him, the sight and enjoyment they have of him. They are clothed in white raiment, the righteousness of the saints, both imputed and inherent; they had on their heads crowns of gold, signifying the honour and authority given them of God, and the glory they have with him. All these may in a lower sense be applied to the gospel church on earth, in its worshipping assemblies; and, in the higher sense, to the church triumphant in heaven. 5. He perceived lightnings and voices proceeding out of the throne; that is, the awful declarations that God makes to his church of his sovereign will and pleasure. Thus he gave forth the law on mount Sinai; and the gospel has not less glory and authority than the law, though it be of a more spiritual nature. 6. He saw seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are explained to be the seven Spirits of God (Rev 4:5), the various gifts, graces, and operations of the Spirit of God in the churches of Christ; these are all dispensed according to the will and pleasure of him who sits upon the throne. 7. He saw before the throne a sea of glass, like unto crystal. As in the temple there was a great vessel of brass filled with water, in which the priests were to wash when they went to minister before the Lord (and this was called a sea), so in the gospel church the sea or laver for purification is the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, who cleanses from all sin, even from sanctuary-sins. In this all those must be washed that are admitted into the gracious presence of God on earth or his glorious presence in heaven. 8. He saw four animals, living creatures, between the throne and the circle of elders (as seems most probable), standing between God and the people; these seem to signify the ministers of the gospel, not only because of this their situation nearer to God, and between him and the elders or representatives of the Christian people, and because fewer in number than the people, but as they are here described, (1.) By their many eyes, denoting sagacity, vigilance, and circumspection. (2.) By their lion-like courage, their great labour and diligence (in which they resemble the ox), their prudence and discretion becoming men, and their sublime affections and speculations, by which they mount up with wings like eagles towards heaven (Rev 4:7), and these wings full of eyes within, to show that in all their meditations and ministrations they are to act with knowledge, and especially should be well acquainted with themselves and the state of their own souls, and see their own concern in the great doctrines and duties of religion, watching over their own souls as well as the souls of the people. (3.) By their continual employment, and that is, praising God, and not ceasing to do so night and day. The elders sit and are ministered unto; these stand and minister: they rest not night nor day. This now leads to the other part of the representation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1–5:14 This section introduces the visions and judgments to come. John presents God in his heavenly court—the scene of the drama of Revelation (4:1-11)—and the Lamb, who has a central role (5:1-14). John contrasts the majesty of God with the so-called majesty of Caesar. God’s power and splendor is unequaled by the ceremonial court of any earthly ruler. 4:1-11 The description of God’s throne room stretches the imagination. It builds on the visions of Isa 6:1-4, Ezek 1:4-28, and Dan 7:9-10, where God is seen enthroned in power and majesty. God’s throne dominates Revelation, and the worship in the rest of the book flows from this scene. God’s magnificence, grace, and glory are fundamental to the church’s worship. 4:1 Then . . . I saw: This introductory phrase (see also 7:9; 15:5; 18:1; cp. 19:1) does not signal chronological sequence but the beginning of a new visionary experience. • Come up here: The voice of the Lord invites John to look at things from God’s perspective.