After the first vision of the Son of Man among His lampstands, the second vision takes us to His throne in heaven. John is taken from the trials, trouble, and transgressions of the church on earth to the throne of God in heaven. We are encouraged that the Lord who walks among His lampstands also sovereignly rules them from the throne. And He alone is worthy to carry out the divine plans of redemption and judgment.
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Revelation 4-5 begins the second vision with the most glorious description of heaven's worship in all of Scripture. From this we see the glory of our triune God and the Lamb and are encouraged and instructed and convicted on how our worship on earth should be.
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Along the way, James M. Boice's hymn, "'Round the Throne in Radiant Glory" is explained.
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I. Setting in Heaven (Rev 4)—The Throne
---A. One Worshiped (vv1-6)
------(Trinity, Supremacy, Glory, Faithfulness, Almighty, Spirit, Purity)
---B. Worshipers (vv4-8)
------1. 24 Elders (v4): (Clothed white, wearing Crowns)
------2. 4 Living Creatures (vv6-8): (Rule, Strength, Intelligence, Protection)
---C. Worship (vv8-11)---Hymn #1 (Father) (v8)
------1. 4 Living Creatures (v8): (Holiness, Almighty, Eternal, Self-existent)
------2. 24 Elders (vv9-11)---Hymn #2 (Father) (v11)
------(Crowns, Worthy, Glory, Honor, Power, Creator, Sustainer, Redeemer)
II. Drama Before Throne (Rev 5)—The Scroll (Who is worthy?)
---A. The Scroll (vv1-4)
---B. The Lion (v5)
---C. The Lamb (vv6-7)
---D. The Worship (vv8-14)
------1. 4 Living Creatures & 24 Elders (vv8-10)---Hymn #3 (Son) (vv9-10)
------2. & Innumerable Angels (vv11-12)---Hymn #4 (Son) (v12)
------3. & All Creation (vv13-14)---Hymn #5 (Father & Son) (v13) |
