December 3: Revelation 4

by TNC

John’s Vision of the Throne Room

4 Then suddenly, after I wrote down these messages, I saw a heavenly portal open before me,[a] and the same trumpet-voice I heard speaking with me at the beginning[b] broke the silenceand said, “Ascend into this realm![c] I want to reveal to you what must happen[d] after this.”

2 Instantly I was taken into the spirit realm,[e] and behold—I saw a heavenly throne[f] set in place and someone seated upon it. 3 His appearance was sparkling like crystal[g] and glowing like a carnelian gemstone.[h] Surrounding the throne was a circle of green light,[i] like an emerald rainbow.[j] 4 Encircling the great throne were twenty-four thrones with elders[k] in glisteningwhite garments seated upon them, each wearing a golden crown of victory. 5 And pulsing from the throne were blindingflashes of lightning,[l] crashes of thunder, and voices.[m] And burning before the throne are seven blazing torches, which represent the seven Spirits of God.[n] 6 And in front of the throne there was pavement[o] like a crystal sea of glass.[p]

Worship around the Throne

Around the throne and on each side[q] stood four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind.[r] 7 The first living creature resembled a lion, the second an ox, the third had a human face, and the fourth was like an eagle in flight. 8 Each of the four living creatures had six wings, full of eyes all around and under their wings. They worshiped without ceasing, day and night, singing,

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty![s]
The Was,[t] the Is,[u] and the Coming!”[v]

9 And whenever the living creatures gave glory, honor, and thanks to the One who is enthroned and who lives forever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fell facedown before the one seated on the throne and they worshiped the one who lives forever and ever. And they surrendered their crowns before the throne, singing:

11 “You are worthy, our Lord and God,
   to receive glory, honor, and power,[w]
   for you created all things,
   and by your plan they were created and exist.”[x]