Revelation 4:2
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.”2At once I was in the Spirit, and I saw a throne standing in heaven, with someone seated on it.3The One seated there looked like jasper and carnelian, and a rainbow that gleamed like an emerald encircled the throne.
Sermons
T. Austin-Sparks
Chuck SmithChuck Smith
Al Whittinghill
Willie Mullan
Roy HessionSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I was in the Spirit - Rapt up in an ecstasy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And--omitted in the two oldest manuscripts, Vulgate, Syriac. I was, &c.--Greek, "I became in the Spirit" (see on Rev 1:10): I was completely rapt in vision into the heavenly world. was set--not was placed, but was situated, literally, "lay." one sat on the throne--the Eternal Father: the Creator (Rev 4:11): also compare Rev 4:8 with Rev 1:4, where also the Father is designated, "which is, and was, and is to come." When the Son, "the Lamb," is introduced, Rev 5:5-9, a new song is sung which distinguishes the Sitter on the throne from the Lamb, "Thou hast redeemed us to God," and Rev 5:13, "Unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb." So also in Rev 5:7, as in Dan 7:13, the Son of man brought before the Ancient of days is distinguished from Him. The Father in essence is invisible, but in Scripture at times is represented as assuming a visible form.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And immediately I was in the Spirit,.... As he had been before, Rev 1:10; it seems he had been some little time out of his ecstasy, how long cannot be said, and now, upon this new scene of things, returned to it; upon the opening of the door in heaven, and hearing the former voice, and the things it said, the Spirit of God at once possessed and filled him, in an extraordinary manner; and his soul or spirit was immediately taken from the consideration of all sensible objects, and was fixed and intent upon the things presented to it in the vision, so that it was as if it was out of the body. The Arabic version reads, "then therefore I went in the Spirit"; in obedience to the voice that called him up, in which he was assisted by the Spirit of God, who lifted him up as he did Ezekiel, when he saw what follows: and behold, a throne was set in heaven; not for the final judgment, on which the son of man will sit, when he comes to judge the quick and dead, for he is not the person that fills this but this is a symbol of the power, authority, and dominion now exercised by God, not over the world in general, who has prepared his throne in the heavens, and governs among the nations, according to his sovereign will and pleasure, but which he exercises in his church, signified by "heaven". The allusion is to the temple, and the throne of God in it, Isa 6:1. The temple was an emblem of the Gospel church, Jerusalem, or the Gospel church state, and was to be called the throne of the Lord, Jer 3:17, and now his throne is set there. Here he exercises a jurisdiction and government; he is King and lawgiver in it; he has enacted laws, and he writes them on the hearts of his people, and puts his Spirit within them, and makes them both able and willing to obey them. And one sat on the throne; not the trinity of persons in the Godhead, which some think are signified by the three precious stones in Rev 4:3, the jasper, sardine, and emerald; for, as distinct from him that sat upon the throne, the Lamb is said to be in the midst of it, and the seven spirits of God are said to be before it: nor is Jesus Christ intended, and his two natures; his divine nature by the jasper, and his human nature by the red and blood coloured sardine; since he, the Lamb, is represented as in the midst of the throne, and is often distinguished from him that sat upon it; see Rev 5:6; but God the Father is designed, who sits on the throne, though not to the exclusion of the Son and Spirit, yet in distinction from them. This clause is left out in the Ethiopic version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:2 By being in the Spirit, John could experience spiritual realities (see 1:10; 17:3; 21:10; Ezek 11:1) and grasp insights about God’s presence, the heavenly realm, and God’s intentions in history.
Revelation 4:2
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.”2At once I was in the Spirit, and I saw a throne standing in heaven, with someone seated on it.3The One seated there looked like jasper and carnelian, and a rainbow that gleamed like an emerald encircled the throne.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Revelation - Part 7): The Rainbow Round the Throne
By A.W. Tozer5.5K48:46Book Of RevelationGEN 1:1PRO 25:11ISA 6:1MAT 16:16JHN 7:17REV 4:2REV 4:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of God being wholly other and transcendent, beyond human comprehension. He mentions a review of his book, "The Knowledge of the Holy," where the reviewer disagrees with the idea that when talking about God, one lacks ideas and mental understanding. The speaker also talks about the importance of obedience to fulfill the purpose for which humans were created. He emphasizes that by being willing to do God's will, one can come to know who God is and who they are. The sermon concludes with a reference to the creatures around God's throne in the book of Revelation, highlighting the glory of Jesus Christ and the importance of loving Him deeply.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks2.3K59:10Seeing JesusEZK 1:1JHN 20:22REV 4:2REV 21:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not giving up on God's purpose, even in difficult circumstances. He uses the example of Jeremiah, who initially resolved to stop speaking about God's message but couldn't hold it in because the fire burned within him. The speaker also refers to Ezekiel's vision of the glory of the Lord, which gives hope and encouragement in times of despair. The sermon concludes with a prayer for a new revelation of God's throne and a plea for the message to become more than just words, but a source of life and strength.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 7-9
By Chuck Smith2.0K1:26:00Through The BibleREV 4:2REV 5:1REV 6:9REV 7:9REV 7:14REV 7:16In this sermon on the book of Revelation, the speaker begins by recapping the previous chapters. He describes the heavenly scene where John sees the throne of God and the worship of the twenty-four elders. The speaker then focuses on the scroll with seven seals, which represents the title deed to the earth. He explains that Jesus is the only one worthy to open the seals and redeem the earth. The sermon concludes with a mention of the angels holding back the winds of the earth and the impending judgment of God.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 4-6
By Chuck Smith1.9K45:25Through The BibleMAT 6:33ROM 3:23REV 1:19REV 3:21REV 4:2REV 4:5REV 5:3In this sermon on Revelation chapter 4, the speaker begins by explaining the significance of the phrase "after these things" which marks the start of the third section of the book. The scene described is one of awe, with God sitting on the throne and being worshiped by cherubim and twenty-four elders. A scroll is introduced, and a strong angel asks who is worthy to open it, but no man is found worthy. This realization brings John to tears, as the scroll represents the title deed to the earth and the possibility of redemption. However, an elder reassures John that the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, is worthy to open the scroll and loose its seals.
A Heart in Harmony With the Throne of God
By Al Whittinghill1.8K49:10Throne Of GodISA 57:15REV 4:2REV 15:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of worshiping God and recognizing His sovereignty. He highlights the difference between seeing God as the sovereign Lord in chapter four and as the suffering lamb in chapter five. The preacher explains that in chapter four, God's power and eternity are praised, but in chapter five, the praise intensifies because of the atonement and the shedding of Jesus' blood. The sermon also mentions the significance of the throne, the presence of the elders, and the imagery of lightnings, thunderings, and voices.
(Revelation) the Scene in Heaven
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:12:33Throne Of GodMAT 6:331CO 9:92TI 4:7HEB 12:1REV 4:2REV 5:5REV 7:14REV 21:23REV 22:12REV 22:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of working diligently and being fully committed to serving God. He refers to the six wings of the heavenly creatures mentioned in Isaiah chapter six, highlighting their swiftness and completeness. The speaker emphasizes the need to have the characteristics of these creatures, such as being bold like a lion and being diligent like a man. He also mentions the transcendent nature of God's throne and how studying the book of Revelation can bring new understanding and blessings.
The Lamb in the Midst of the Throne
By Roy Hession1.2K47:04Lamb Of GodGEN 1:1LEV 19:14REV 4:2REV 4:11REV 5:9REV 5:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on two chapters from the book of Revelation: chapter 4 and chapter 5. In chapter 4, John sees a vision of the Creator and witnesses the worship that is accorded to God in heaven. The preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's right to rule over all creation. In chapter 5, John sees a vision of the Redeemer, who holds a book that contains God's program for putting down evil and establishing His kingdom on earth. The preacher highlights the significance of finding someone worthy to open the seals of the book and administer God's plan.
Who Is Worthy
By Paris Reidhead1.1K34:25Jesus ChristMAT 6:33REV 4:2REV 5:2REV 5:5REV 5:9REV 5:13In this sermon, the preacher acknowledges the impossibility of fully expounding upon the glorious portion of Scripture in just twenty minutes. However, he aims to highlight certain key points from the Book of Revelation that can serve as guiding peaks for further exploration. The fourth chapter depicts God seated on a throne in the midst of a sea of glass, with a lamb beside Him, allowing access to His glory. The fifth chapter introduces a book with seven seals, and a proclamation is made to find someone worthy to open it and reveal God's plan. The preacher encourages the audience to not only listen to his message but also to read and meditate upon the Book of Revelation to truly grasp its profound truths.
God's Throne: The Beauty of God (Rev. 4)
By Mike Bickle2849:39The Beauty of GodEnduring TemptationREV 4:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the unparalleled beauty of God as depicted in Revelation 4, urging believers to seek a deeper understanding of His glory. He highlights that God's descriptions in Scripture are often understated, inviting us to explore the hints of His beauty throughout the Bible. Bickle draws parallels between God's beauty and His mercy, power, and the intimate relationship He desires with His people, encouraging a lifelong pursuit of encountering God's presence. He stresses that recognizing the beauty of God equips believers to withstand temptation and persecution, especially as we approach the end times. Ultimately, Bickle calls the church to be intentional in focusing on the beauty of the Lord, making it a central theme in their lives and ministries.
The Beauty of God in His Heavenly Court (Rev. 4)
By Mike Bickle261:00:18The Beauty of GodWorship in the Heavenly CourtREV 4:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the beauty of God as revealed in His heavenly court, particularly through Revelation 4. He describes the perfection of God's beauty, which is expressed in His person, His royal court, and the honor and majesty that surrounds Him. Bickle highlights the significance of the 24 elders and the living creatures, illustrating how God's beauty is reflected in His relationship with humanity and the divine order. He encourages believers to engage with the beauty of God through worship and prayer, fostering a deeper understanding of His character and presence.
The Father's Throne and Jesus' Exaltation
By Mike Bickle241:06:20WorshipExaltation of JesusREV 4:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of worship in the context of God's end-time purpose as revealed in Revelation 4 and 5. He explores the beauty of God's throne and the exaltation of Jesus, highlighting how God intentionally displays His beauty to inspire worship. Bickle explains that Jesus, as a human, is destined to receive all authority and power over the earth, fulfilling God's promise to exalt Him as King. The sermon encourages believers to understand their role in this divine plan and to worship with a deeper awareness of God's glory and purpose.
Ten Expressions of God's Beauty
By Mike Bickle161:05:22God's BeautyWorshipPSA 27:4REV 4:2Mike Bickle explores 'Ten Expressions of God's Beauty,' emphasizing the multifaceted nature of God's beauty as revealed in Scripture. He highlights three primary passages: Revelation 4, Revelation 1, and Song of Solomon 5, which collectively illustrate God's beauty through light, color, and the character of Jesus. Bickle encourages believers to become lifelong students of God's beauty, drawing inspiration from King David's desire to gaze upon God's beauty. Each expression reveals different aspects of God's nature, from His majestic presence to His intimate relationship with humanity. Ultimately, Bickle invites the congregation to deepen their understanding and appreciation of God's beauty in their lives.
The Doctrine of the Wheels, in the Visions of Ezekiel, Opened and Explained.
By John Gill0Church UnityThe Role of MinistersECC 1:4ISA 32:15EZK 10:13MAT 24:31ACT 20:24ROM 11:331CO 12:212TH 3:1HEB 1:14REV 4:2John Gill expounds on the significance of the wheels in Ezekiel's visions, interpreting them as representations of the churches of Christ under the Gospel dispensation. He emphasizes the dynamic relationship between the wheels (churches) and the cherubim (ministers), highlighting their interdependence and the necessity for harmony in their functions. Gill discusses various interpretations of the wheels, including their symbolism of the world and God's providence, and he stresses the importance of the Spirit's presence in both ministers and churches for effective ministry. He concludes with a call for prayer for the outpouring of the Spirit to ensure the vitality and unity of the church.
Notes on the Revelation
By John Nelson Darby0The Structure of RevelationChrist's Authority and JudgmentREV 1:8REV 4:2REV 5:6REV 6:11REV 7:14REV 11:15REV 12:10REV 17:5REV 19:1REV 20:10John Nelson Darby discusses the structure of the Book of Revelation, dividing it into three main parts: the personal glory of Christ, His judgment of the seven churches, and events following the church's removal. He emphasizes the continuity of responsibility from the early church to the present, highlighting the significance of the throne in heaven and the roles of cherubim and seraphim in God's governance. Darby also explores the implications of the judgments and the nature of the everlasting gospel, asserting that the church's current state reflects a departure from its original calling. He concludes with a focus on the ultimate triumph of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I was in the Spirit - Rapt up in an ecstasy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And--omitted in the two oldest manuscripts, Vulgate, Syriac. I was, &c.--Greek, "I became in the Spirit" (see on Rev 1:10): I was completely rapt in vision into the heavenly world. was set--not was placed, but was situated, literally, "lay." one sat on the throne--the Eternal Father: the Creator (Rev 4:11): also compare Rev 4:8 with Rev 1:4, where also the Father is designated, "which is, and was, and is to come." When the Son, "the Lamb," is introduced, Rev 5:5-9, a new song is sung which distinguishes the Sitter on the throne from the Lamb, "Thou hast redeemed us to God," and Rev 5:13, "Unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb." So also in Rev 5:7, as in Dan 7:13, the Son of man brought before the Ancient of days is distinguished from Him. The Father in essence is invisible, but in Scripture at times is represented as assuming a visible form.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And immediately I was in the Spirit,.... As he had been before, Rev 1:10; it seems he had been some little time out of his ecstasy, how long cannot be said, and now, upon this new scene of things, returned to it; upon the opening of the door in heaven, and hearing the former voice, and the things it said, the Spirit of God at once possessed and filled him, in an extraordinary manner; and his soul or spirit was immediately taken from the consideration of all sensible objects, and was fixed and intent upon the things presented to it in the vision, so that it was as if it was out of the body. The Arabic version reads, "then therefore I went in the Spirit"; in obedience to the voice that called him up, in which he was assisted by the Spirit of God, who lifted him up as he did Ezekiel, when he saw what follows: and behold, a throne was set in heaven; not for the final judgment, on which the son of man will sit, when he comes to judge the quick and dead, for he is not the person that fills this but this is a symbol of the power, authority, and dominion now exercised by God, not over the world in general, who has prepared his throne in the heavens, and governs among the nations, according to his sovereign will and pleasure, but which he exercises in his church, signified by "heaven". The allusion is to the temple, and the throne of God in it, Isa 6:1. The temple was an emblem of the Gospel church, Jerusalem, or the Gospel church state, and was to be called the throne of the Lord, Jer 3:17, and now his throne is set there. Here he exercises a jurisdiction and government; he is King and lawgiver in it; he has enacted laws, and he writes them on the hearts of his people, and puts his Spirit within them, and makes them both able and willing to obey them. And one sat on the throne; not the trinity of persons in the Godhead, which some think are signified by the three precious stones in Rev 4:3, the jasper, sardine, and emerald; for, as distinct from him that sat upon the throne, the Lamb is said to be in the midst of it, and the seven spirits of God are said to be before it: nor is Jesus Christ intended, and his two natures; his divine nature by the jasper, and his human nature by the red and blood coloured sardine; since he, the Lamb, is represented as in the midst of the throne, and is often distinguished from him that sat upon it; see Rev 5:6; but God the Father is designed, who sits on the throne, though not to the exclusion of the Son and Spirit, yet in distinction from them. This clause is left out in the Ethiopic version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:2 By being in the Spirit, John could experience spiritual realities (see 1:10; 17:3; 21:10; Ezek 11:1) and grasp insights about God’s presence, the heavenly realm, and God’s intentions in history.