In the Throne Room
Revelation 4:6
Kenute P. Curry
Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal. And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, were four living creatures full of eyes in front and in back (4:6).
Sea of glass – The Sea is metaphorical, since there is no sea in heaven (Revelation 21:1). What John saw at the base of the throne was a vast pavement of sapphire glass shining brilliantly like sparkling crystal (Exodus 24:10; Ezekiel 1:22, 26). It also represents pristine purity. It will also be the victory stand for martyrs in Revelation 15:2.
4 Living creatures – These creatures are said to be in the center and around the throne; their station is in the inner circle nearest the throne. Ezekiel 1:12, 17 suggest they are in constant motion about it. “Living creatures” combines two Greek words; the word “ζάω záō, Gk” and the word “ζῶον zṓon, Gk” - hence the phrase “Living Creatures.” Ezekiel’s description (Ezekiel 1:4-25) and that in Revelation 4 describe the impending judgment of Almighty God that is about to be unleashed upon the earth. Ezekiel 10:15 identifies these 4 living creatures as “cherubim,” an exalted order of angels associated with God’s holy power (1 Samuel 4:4; 2 Samuel 6:2, 22:11; Psalm 80:1; 99:1; Isaiah 37;16). They are also mentioned in Genesis 3:24; 1 Kings 6:23-28; Ezekiel 28:14, 16).
These are the guardians of the throne of God and accompany it wherever it goes – Clarence Larkin.
Covered with eyes in front and in back – This symbolizes their awareness, alertness, and comprehensive knowledge. They are not omniscient, but nothing pertaining to their duties escapes their scrutiny.
Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version of the Bible, © 1979, 1980, 1982, 1990, Thomas Nelson, Inc., Publishers.
©2013 Kenute P. Curry. All rights reserved.
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