Revelation 4:5
Verse
Context
Worship of the Creator
4Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and on these thrones sat twenty-four elders dressed in white, with golden crowns on their heads. 5From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblings, and peals of thunder. Before the throne burned seven torches of fire. These are the seven Spirits of God.6And before the throne was something like a sea of glass, as clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and back.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Seven lamps of fire - Seven angels, the attendants and ministers of the supreme King. See Rev 1:4, and the note there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
proceeded--Greek, "proceed." thunderings and voices--The two oldest manuscripts transpose, "voices and thunderings." Compare at the giving of the law on Sinai, Exo 19:16. "The thunderings express God's threats against the ungodly: there are voices in the thunders (Rev 10:3), that is, not only does He threaten generally, but also predicts special judgments" [GROTIUS]. seven lamps . . . seven Spirits--The Holy Spirit in His sevenfold operation, as the light-and-life Giver (compare Rev 5:6, seven eyes . . . the seven Spirits of God; Rev 1:4; Rev 21:23; Psa 119:105) and fiery purifier of the godly, and consumer of the ungodly (Mat 3:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings, and voices,.... Which may be understood either of the doctrines of the Gospel which come out of Zion, and out of Jerusalem, the church of God, where he has his throne; and which are comparable to "lightning", both for the light and knowledge they give, and for the swiftness with which they were spread over the world, by the apostles of Christ; and to "thunderings", for the awfulness, authority, and majesty of them, especially as they were delivered out by the Boanergeses, or sons of thunder; and as the prophesies of the prophets are called "the voices" of the prophets, Act 13:27; so may the doctrines of the Gospel be called "voices", as they are the voice of God, and of Christ, and of his ministers; and are voices of love, grace, mercy, peace, pardon, righteousness, and eternal life. The allusion is to the giving of the law on Mount Sinai, when such things were seen and heard, Exo 19:16 or else the judgments of God, and the punishments inflicted upon his enemies, and the enemies of his church and people, and his awful threatenings of them, may be designed; see Psa 18:13; with which compare Rev 8:5. And there were seven lamps of burning fire before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God; in allusion to the seven lamps in the tabernacle and temple, which were trimmed by the priests, and always kept burning, and are expressive of the Spirit, and his gifts; and these being signified by the number "seven", denote the fulness and perfection of them; and being said to be "before the throne", show that there is always a sufficiency of them for the supply of the churches in all ages, to fit and qualify proper persons to minister the word, and administer ordinances; and these being called "lamps of burning fire", point at the light the Spirit of God in his gifts communicates to the churches; and that warmth and heat, comfort and refreshment; conveyed to them, through the preaching of the Gospel, and the dispensation of the ordinances of it, under his illuminating and quickening influences.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 The thunder that follows flashes of lightning is God’s call to attention (see 8:5; 11:19; 16:18). • in front of the throne were seven torches: In ancient times, torches were set before rulers to show their authority. These torches with burning flames represent the perfect Spirit of God.
Revelation 4:5
Worship of the Creator
4Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and on these thrones sat twenty-four elders dressed in white, with golden crowns on their heads. 5From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblings, and peals of thunder. Before the throne burned seven torches of fire. These are the seven Spirits of God.6And before the throne was something like a sea of glass, as clear as crystal. In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and back.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Burning Fire of the Spirit - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks11K55:28Holy SpiritMAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 3:23EPH 2:8REV 1:12REV 3:17REV 4:5In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the description of the throne of God in Revelation 4:5. They emphasize that their aim is to provide practical teachings that lead to real-life application. The speaker then discusses the various characteristics of the Son of Man, as described in Revelation, and how they relate to the examination and judgment of the churches. The main point of the message is to highlight what the Lord is truly looking for in his people, emphasizing that certain things that the churches thought were important were not actually what the Lord desired.
(Revelation - Part 1): John Saw Further in All Directions
By A.W. Tozer8.2K43:14Book Of RevelationREV 1:1REV 1:12REV 4:2REV 4:5REV 5:6REV 6:12REV 9:1REV 9:15REV 10:1REV 19:11REV 20:1REV 21:16REV 22:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Revelation and the visions that John saw. He describes how John saw various apocalyptic events, such as the sun turning black, the moon turning into blood, and stars falling to the earth. The preacher also mentions the opening of the bottomless pit and the release of four angels and 200 million horsemen. He highlights the different appearances of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit that John witnessed throughout the book. The sermon emphasizes the importance of reading and understanding the prophecies in the book of Revelation.
(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.
Church History - Session 6 (Prophecy in Daniel and Revelation Fullfilled)
By Edgar F. Parkyns1.4K1:06:221TH 5:11TH 5:4REV 4:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the opening of the seals in the book of Revelation. The people in the sermon believed that the seals represented a period of suffering, persecution, and attempts to exterminate the church. They saw the souls of those who were slain for their faith under the altar. The preacher also mentions the collapse of the Old Order and compares it to passages in Ezekiel and Isaiah. Additionally, the preacher talks about the four angels holding the winds and the black horse with scales in his hand, which represents scarcity and high prices for food.
(Second Coming of Christ) 07 the Day Christians Stand Before Jesus
By Aeron Morgan1.1K46:51Second Coming2CO 4:82CO 4:142CO 5:52CO 5:72CO 5:10REV 4:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of judgment and rewards in both earthly and heavenly realms. They explain that during the 70th week, a seven-year period, fearful events will occur on earth and rewards will be given to the faithless and disobedient. However, faithful and obedient believers who have loved and served Jesus Christ will also receive rewards in the heavenlies. The speaker emphasizes that judgment is not only about establishing guilt and punishment, but also about proving and testing one's life. They share the story of a missionary named John Shelbon and his wife who faced numerous difficulties and questioned why they were experiencing such hardships. The speaker suggests that although we may not understand the reasons behind certain challenges, there will come a time when the question of "why" will be replaced by the answer.
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.
The Burning Fire of the Spirit - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1First LoveThe Holy SpiritISA 61:3JHN 13:1ROM 5:51CO 3:13EPH 2:4PHP 3:71JN 4:19REV 1:4REV 2:4REV 4:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the seven Lamps of Fire before God's throne, representing the seven-fold ministry of the Holy Spirit and the need for the church to be judged in light of Christ's character. He warns of a crisis in the church where believers must evaluate their spiritual state and the authenticity of their relationship with Christ, particularly focusing on the concept of 'first love.' Sparks highlights that true love for Christ is characterized by persistence, purpose, and a willingness to suffer for Him, urging believers to rekindle their passion and commitment to the Lord. He calls for a deep introspection to ensure that the Holy Spirit's fire is actively burning in their lives, leading to genuine transformation and service. The sermon concludes with a prayer for increased love and faithfulness among believers.
Rev. 2:1. Watchman, What of the Night?
By Horatius Bonar0Light in DarknessChrist's PresenceMAT 28:20JHN 13:30HEB 4:14REV 2:1REV 4:5Horatius Bonar emphasizes the significance of Christ's presence among His churches during the dark times of the world, as depicted in Revelation 2:1. He describes the night that envelops both the Church and the world, highlighting the need for divine light and guidance. Bonar explains that Christ, as both Priest and King, walks among His churches, watching over them, supplying their needs, and mourning their sins. He reassures believers of His constant presence and the promise of victory for those who remain faithful. The sermon calls for acknowledgment of Christ's authority and the importance of shining His light in a dark world.
The Testimony of Jesus
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Nature of the ChurchThe Testimony of Jesus1TI 3:51TI 3:142TI 1:92TI 2:10HEB 1:21JN 4:20REV 1:9REV 3:1REV 4:5REV 5:6T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transformation of Christianity from its original spiritual essence to a more formal and institutionalized structure by the end of the apostolic age. He highlights the Apostle Paul's letters to Timothy as a call to recover the true nature of the Church, which is a spiritual entity governed by the Holy Spirit, rather than a mere organization. Sparks argues that the Church exists to embody the testimony of Jesus, demonstrating His living presence and victory over death. He stresses the importance of viewing the Church from Heaven's perspective, where it is seen as a unified body of believers rather than divided sects. Ultimately, the Church's mission is to express the nature of Christ and maintain the testimony of Jesus in a world that seeks to undermine it.
Rev. 3:1. the Fullness of the Holy Spirit
By Horatius Bonar0The Holy SpiritSpiritual EmpowermentMAT 5:14JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 15:301CO 12:7EPH 4:30HEB 9:14REV 3:1REV 4:5REV 5:6Horatius Bonar emphasizes the fullness of the Holy Spirit as depicted in Revelation, highlighting His roles as the Spirit of light, power, wisdom, spirituality, completeness, variety, and universality. He reminds us that the Holy Spirit is essential for understanding Christ and living a fruitful Christian life, as a religion without the Spirit is lifeless. Bonar warns against quenching the Spirit, urging the Church to embrace His gifts and presence to illuminate the world and fulfill the mission of spreading the gospel. The sermon calls for a recognition of the Spirit's love and the necessity of His work in our lives and the Church. Ultimately, Bonar encourages believers to welcome the Holy Spirit to restore the Church to its original power and glory.
July 31. 1678. the Seven Counsellors.
By Jane Lead0PSA 25:14PRO 11:141CO 2:101CO 2:14HEB 4:12HEB 12:291PE 1:7REV 3:18REV 4:5REV 5:6Jane Lead preaches about the importance of seeking counsel and guidance from the seven Principal Counsellors in the invisible realm to bring down the Kingdom of God on earth. She emphasizes the need for our Eternal Spirits to be used as agents in this divine matter and encourages private consultation with these wise Counsellors who have insight into the invisible world. Jane Lead also discusses the refining process required to be admitted into God's secret Council, where righteous judgment and decrees are established by the Holy Trinity. She highlights the significance of being refined to stand in the divine Cabala, to receive hidden knowledge and commands for the administration of God's Kingdom.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Seven lamps of fire - Seven angels, the attendants and ministers of the supreme King. See Rev 1:4, and the note there.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
proceeded--Greek, "proceed." thunderings and voices--The two oldest manuscripts transpose, "voices and thunderings." Compare at the giving of the law on Sinai, Exo 19:16. "The thunderings express God's threats against the ungodly: there are voices in the thunders (Rev 10:3), that is, not only does He threaten generally, but also predicts special judgments" [GROTIUS]. seven lamps . . . seven Spirits--The Holy Spirit in His sevenfold operation, as the light-and-life Giver (compare Rev 5:6, seven eyes . . . the seven Spirits of God; Rev 1:4; Rev 21:23; Psa 119:105) and fiery purifier of the godly, and consumer of the ungodly (Mat 3:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings, and voices,.... Which may be understood either of the doctrines of the Gospel which come out of Zion, and out of Jerusalem, the church of God, where he has his throne; and which are comparable to "lightning", both for the light and knowledge they give, and for the swiftness with which they were spread over the world, by the apostles of Christ; and to "thunderings", for the awfulness, authority, and majesty of them, especially as they were delivered out by the Boanergeses, or sons of thunder; and as the prophesies of the prophets are called "the voices" of the prophets, Act 13:27; so may the doctrines of the Gospel be called "voices", as they are the voice of God, and of Christ, and of his ministers; and are voices of love, grace, mercy, peace, pardon, righteousness, and eternal life. The allusion is to the giving of the law on Mount Sinai, when such things were seen and heard, Exo 19:16 or else the judgments of God, and the punishments inflicted upon his enemies, and the enemies of his church and people, and his awful threatenings of them, may be designed; see Psa 18:13; with which compare Rev 8:5. And there were seven lamps of burning fire before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God; in allusion to the seven lamps in the tabernacle and temple, which were trimmed by the priests, and always kept burning, and are expressive of the Spirit, and his gifts; and these being signified by the number "seven", denote the fulness and perfection of them; and being said to be "before the throne", show that there is always a sufficiency of them for the supply of the churches in all ages, to fit and qualify proper persons to minister the word, and administer ordinances; and these being called "lamps of burning fire", point at the light the Spirit of God in his gifts communicates to the churches; and that warmth and heat, comfort and refreshment; conveyed to them, through the preaching of the Gospel, and the dispensation of the ordinances of it, under his illuminating and quickening influences.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 The thunder that follows flashes of lightning is God’s call to attention (see 8:5; 11:19; 16:18). • in front of the throne were seven torches: In ancient times, torches were set before rulers to show their authority. These torches with burning flames represent the perfect Spirit of God.