Book of Revelation is in three parts (past, past/present, future)
Revelation 1:19 ''write down the things which thou hast seen(past Rev 1:1-18), the things which are (past/present Chapters 2,3 letters to the churches in Johns time and for us today to know) and the things that shall be hereafter' (Future Rev 4:1 - Rev 19:11-21;Chapter 20,21,22)
Rev 4:1 (start of tribulation) - Rev 11:3;11:7/ Rev 13:5; Rev 13:7 (middle) - Rev 19:11-21 (end of Trib)
Matthew 24:3-14 tells us signs of the end before Tribulation.
End: From a primary tello (to set out for a definite point or goal); properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e. (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination (literally, figuratively or indefinitely), result (immediate, ultimate or prophetic), purpose); specially, an impost or levy (as paid) -- + continual, custom, end(-ing), finally, uttermost. a. termination, the limit at which a thing ceases to be, (in the Greek writings always of the end of some act or state, but not of the end of a period of time
Matthew 24:15-16 is speaking to those in judea near the end of Tribulation. Mark 13:14
Matthew 24:15 When ye (who read this during trib) therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)"
Matthew 24:16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:" (THOSE IN JUDAEA DURING TRIBULATION)
Mark 13:14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains (mountains of Moab, Southern Jordan)
i am never sure when I can quote people; I did once here and haven't been flagged as far as I know. Anyway; there are answers related to Revelation with the foundations and such that would indicate the 12 Patriarchs (for 12 tribes of Israel) as well as the 12 Apostles (sans Judas Iscariot) with the last either being Matthias or Paul. There are some things you can search online on the subject.
It would seem that those who are kings and priests in Rev. 5:9-10 are those of the church and also those who are rewarded and receive crowns and are raptured. This is not; in my opinion all those confessing Christ at this time as some aren't truly saved and others may be left behind. That is controversial but even if they are raptured or martyred; the Tribulation saints will be overcomers and saved but some according to 1 Cor. 3:15 get in by the "skin of their teeth" and suffer loss. There are also specific crowns for various rewards; such as for martyrs; those patiently waiting for His coming; pastor/elder; etc.
The exhortation of Revelation 3:11 is something I mention frequently. We can "lose a reward to another". The opposite may hold true as well; should we be teachable and desire to grow in the Lord discipled by more mature believers we may be able to gain heavenly rewards. We also gain treasures in heaven through investing our time; talents and monies to those truly serving the Lord.
We learn a lot about the 24 elders Revelation 5:9-10.
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
And hast made us unto our God KINGS AND PRIESTS: and we shall REIGN ON THE EARTH.
1) We know they were redeemed.
2) They were made Kings and priests.
3) They shall reign on earth.
I believe this represents the Church.
Here's why.
They were redeemed out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Ephesians 1:7.
They were made kings and Priests.
1st Peter 1:9.
These kings and Priests shall reign on earth.
Revelation 1:5-6.
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Here are a few verses that might be of help to you . Isaiah chapter 11 verse 2 . Zechariah chapter 12 verse 10 and John chapter 14 verse 17 , chapter 15 verse 26 and chapter 16 verse 13 .
It tells us that out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:
This will be the expression of God's judgment whenever He judges. We see it throughout the book of Revelation. There will be lightnings and thunderings and sounds coming out from the throne.
It says, and there were seven lamps of fire before the throne, which are the (seven spirits of God).
We see these seven spirits back in Revelation 1:4. And if we follow it through in Chapter 4, along with Revelation 5:6, it tells us that these seven spirits of God are the seven eyes of God going throughout the world.
It is the seven fold complete ministry of the Holy Spirit held by both the Jews, and of course the scripture itself teaches that.
In Zechariah Chapters 4 and 10, it also tells us that the seven lamps are the seven eyes of the Lord, the all-seeing one.
So before the throne, the seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God (The 7 eyes of God).
In Revelation 5:6, we have a Lamb that had been standing there as it had been slain, having seven horns and (seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God), sent forth into all the earth.
Daniel Chapter 7 tells us that the horns represent power and authority. And of course the eyes, again, Zechariah tells us that the Messiah has seven eyes. I don't believe it is talking about the literal eyeball.
The word seven in scripture means complete. It means that He (God) is in complete authority, and He sees everything fully and completely.
Quote From Commentary by Matthew Henry -- found on this site:
"Four-and-twenty seats around the throne, were filled with four-and-twenty elders, representing, probably, the whole church of God. Their sitting denotes honour, rest, and satisfaction; their sitting about the throne signifies nearness to God, the sight and enjoyment they have of him. They were clothed in white raiment; the imputed righteousness of the saints and their holiness: they had on their heads crowns of gold, signifying the glory they have with him."
If half of the elders are from Old Testament and they are represantatives of saved people in the OT times, then this means that OT saints will take part in the rapture as well There is a debate about that (Verses Rev 5:9-10 do not hide anyhting in greek). One question though. When you say whole church do you mean people from OT as well? Because I think when we say church we mean the NT saints only. GBU
This chapter shows the abrupt shift in setting based on things that "must be hereafter" according to verse 1. John was taken up in the spirit (verse 2) to observe the throne; who sat on the throne; the 24 elders; and the sevenfold or seven Spirits of God (seven lamps of fire) burning before the throne. This would indicate the church raptured; and likely the 12 Apostles and 12 elders from the O.T. who were the sons of Abraham.
The four beasts before the throne show the continuing narrative in Ezekiel 1:5. These were and are still continually praising the Lord. The elders once again appear in verse 10 casting their crowns down and giving praise to God's attributes.
When we get to chapter 5; we see that the elders discuss being redeemed from every tribe tongue and nation (verse 9 and 10). So it would seem that they are representative of the whole church; or else a larger group was also included in the text and the way it is translated seems to hide it. I have heard that analogy; in any case clearly the reference to "kings and priests" such as represented in 1 Peter 2:9 and other scriptures makes it clear the whole victorious raptured group of saints from the church age are meant here. Other scriptures; however mention the warning of losing reward ( Rev. 3:11); and indicate crowns are rewards for specific things. Those who are raptured will recieve a crown for those eagerly looking forward to that Day ( 2 Tim. 4:8). Certainly; however those who make it in as through the fire ( 1 Cor. 3:15) will suffer loss; and many may not have crowns or be kings and priests during the Millennium. Those who have more fruit have bigger reward ( Luke 19:17-19); and some who hide their "talents" will lose even what they thought they had ( Luke 19:24). A similar parable shows that servant being cast into outer darkness; either the Tribulation or hell.
So we can barely enter heaven; or be a tare if not investing what He gave us and producing fruit. Food for thought!
In one of the prophets of old there is a description of what appears to be a vehicle, not of this world; I remember thinking at the time he couldn't describe it very well because he didn't understand what it was. Does anyone know to what chapter and verse I am referring?
I also have heard of two views. Many believe the elders, who are of the church, clothed in white raiment, (the promise to believers), and have crowns of gold upon their heads, (evidence of the reward to believers). We see the white raiment in Rev. 3:5, and crowns of gold in Rev. 2:20.
Many believe this is the representation of both the OT and the NT, the entire church, both Jew and Gentile, with the elders and the 24 courses, or 24 elders that are sitting.
The book of Revelation is a piece of Jewish Literature and understood by the symbols and the presentations that we receive from the Tanak, the Old Testament. There are 404 verses in Revelation, and there are over 800 allusions and direct quotes from the OT.
So there are 24 elders sitting on 24 thrones.
In 2 Chronicles Chap 24 and 25, this is where it is listed for us where David began the courses of priests, and he assigned 24 courses of priests, that they would serve throughout the year so that the priesthood is covered. And all the people are covered, and they are called courses, 24 courses of priests.
24 in Jewish Literature has to do with perfection in covering, 24 courses to cover all of the people, and to cover all of the calendar for the twelve months.
Rev. 4:9 tells us that there's a time frame here. In heaven, things happen in order. The four living creatures are the ones that lead all of heaven in their orchestra of praise to God. When the four living creatures give their glory, honor, and thanks to the one who sits on the throne who lives forever, then the 24 elders fall down before Him that sat on the throne, and they worship Him that lives for ever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things for your pleasure.
So the living creatures act, the 24 elders respond, and then the rest in heaven follow in the same way of worship and action!
Some say the Patriarchs, and The Apostles and some say these 24 elders are represents the Church elders as a whole. I hold the view that they are of the Church.
I'm not sure if you're asking a question here but here is my understanding of Revelation 4:5. This will be the expression of God's judgment whenever He judges. We see it throughout the book of Revelation. There will be lightnings and thunderings and sounds coming out from the throne.
And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God. We saw these seven spirits back in Revelation 1:4. Revelation 5:6 will tell us that these seven spirits of God are the seven eyes of God going throughout the world. It is the seven fold complete ministry of the Holy Spirit held by the Jews and of course the scripture teaches that.
In Zechariah Chapters 4 and 10, it also tells us that the seven lamps are the seven eyes of the Lord, the all-seeing one. So before the throne, the seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God.
Revelation 1:19 ''write down the things which thou hast seen(past Rev 1:1-18), the things which are (past/present Chapters 2,3 letters to the churches in Johns time and for us today to know) and the things that shall be hereafter' (Future Rev 4:1 - Rev 19:11-21;Chapter 20,21,22)
Rev 4:1 (start of tribulation) - Rev 11:3;11:7/ Rev 13:5; Rev 13:7 (middle) - Rev 19:11-21 (end of Trib)
Matthew 24:3-14 tells us signs of the end before Tribulation.
End: From a primary tello (to set out for a definite point or goal); properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e. (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination (literally, figuratively or indefinitely), result (immediate, ultimate or prophetic), purpose); specially, an impost or levy (as paid) -- + continual, custom, end(-ing), finally, uttermost. a. termination, the limit at which a thing ceases to be, (in the Greek writings always of the end of some act or state, but not of the end of a period of time
Matthew 24:15-16 is speaking to those in judea near the end of Tribulation. Mark 13:14
Matthew 24:15 When ye (who read this during trib) therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)"
Matthew 24:16 Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:" (THOSE IN JUDAEA DURING TRIBULATION)
Mark 13:14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains (mountains of Moab, Southern Jordan)
It would seem that those who are kings and priests in Rev. 5:9-10 are those of the church and also those who are rewarded and receive crowns and are raptured. This is not; in my opinion all those confessing Christ at this time as some aren't truly saved and others may be left behind. That is controversial but even if they are raptured or martyred; the Tribulation saints will be overcomers and saved but some according to 1 Cor. 3:15 get in by the "skin of their teeth" and suffer loss. There are also specific crowns for various rewards; such as for martyrs; those patiently waiting for His coming; pastor/elder; etc.
The exhortation of Revelation 3:11 is something I mention frequently. We can "lose a reward to another". The opposite may hold true as well; should we be teachable and desire to grow in the Lord discipled by more mature believers we may be able to gain heavenly rewards. We also gain treasures in heaven through investing our time; talents and monies to those truly serving the Lord.
Anyway; have a blessed Sunday of worship..
Agape. Rich P
We learn a lot about the 24 elders Revelation 5:9-10.
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
And hast made us unto our God KINGS AND PRIESTS: and we shall REIGN ON THE EARTH.
1) We know they were redeemed.
2) They were made Kings and priests.
3) They shall reign on earth.
I believe this represents the Church.
Here's why.
They were redeemed out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Ephesians 1:7.
They were made kings and Priests.
1st Peter 1:9.
These kings and Priests shall reign on earth.
Revelation 1:5-6.
And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
Hopefully this is helpful
It tells us that out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:
This will be the expression of God's judgment whenever He judges. We see it throughout the book of Revelation. There will be lightnings and thunderings and sounds coming out from the throne.
It says, and there were seven lamps of fire before the throne, which are the (seven spirits of God).
We see these seven spirits back in Revelation 1:4. And if we follow it through in Chapter 4, along with Revelation 5:6, it tells us that these seven spirits of God are the seven eyes of God going throughout the world.
It is the seven fold complete ministry of the Holy Spirit held by both the Jews, and of course the scripture itself teaches that.
In Zechariah Chapters 4 and 10, it also tells us that the seven lamps are the seven eyes of the Lord, the all-seeing one.
So before the throne, the seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God (The 7 eyes of God).
In Revelation 5:6, we have a Lamb that had been standing there as it had been slain, having seven horns and (seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God), sent forth into all the earth.
Daniel Chapter 7 tells us that the horns represent power and authority. And of course the eyes, again, Zechariah tells us that the Messiah has seven eyes. I don't believe it is talking about the literal eyeball.
The word seven in scripture means complete. It means that He (God) is in complete authority, and He sees everything fully and completely.
Hope this helps!
Amen, all praise, glory, and honor to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!!!
"Four-and-twenty seats around the throne, were filled with four-and-twenty elders, representing, probably, the whole church of God. Their sitting denotes honour, rest, and satisfaction; their sitting about the throne signifies nearness to God, the sight and enjoyment they have of him. They were clothed in white raiment; the imputed righteousness of the saints and their holiness: they had on their heads crowns of gold, signifying the glory they have with him."
If half of the elders are from Old Testament and they are represantatives of saved people in the OT times, then this means that OT saints will take part in the rapture as well There is a debate about that (Verses Rev 5:9-10 do not hide anyhting in greek). One question though. When you say whole church do you mean people from OT as well? Because I think when we say church we mean the NT saints only. GBU
The four beasts before the throne show the continuing narrative in Ezekiel 1:5. These were and are still continually praising the Lord. The elders once again appear in verse 10 casting their crowns down and giving praise to God's attributes.
When we get to chapter 5; we see that the elders discuss being redeemed from every tribe tongue and nation (verse 9 and 10). So it would seem that they are representative of the whole church; or else a larger group was also included in the text and the way it is translated seems to hide it. I have heard that analogy; in any case clearly the reference to "kings and priests" such as represented in 1 Peter 2:9 and other scriptures makes it clear the whole victorious raptured group of saints from the church age are meant here. Other scriptures; however mention the warning of losing reward ( Rev. 3:11); and indicate crowns are rewards for specific things. Those who are raptured will recieve a crown for those eagerly looking forward to that Day ( 2 Tim. 4:8). Certainly; however those who make it in as through the fire ( 1 Cor. 3:15) will suffer loss; and many may not have crowns or be kings and priests during the Millennium. Those who have more fruit have bigger reward ( Luke 19:17-19); and some who hide their "talents" will lose even what they thought they had ( Luke 19:24). A similar parable shows that servant being cast into outer darkness; either the Tribulation or hell.
So we can barely enter heaven; or be a tare if not investing what He gave us and producing fruit. Food for thought!
I knew King David establishment of the priest was associated with the 24 elders but never knew meaning. "perfection in covering." brings more clarity.
God bless you.
I also have heard of two views. Many believe the elders, who are of the church, clothed in white raiment, (the promise to believers), and have crowns of gold upon their heads, (evidence of the reward to believers). We see the white raiment in Rev. 3:5, and crowns of gold in Rev. 2:20.
Many believe this is the representation of both the OT and the NT, the entire church, both Jew and Gentile, with the elders and the 24 courses, or 24 elders that are sitting.
The book of Revelation is a piece of Jewish Literature and understood by the symbols and the presentations that we receive from the Tanak, the Old Testament. There are 404 verses in Revelation, and there are over 800 allusions and direct quotes from the OT.
So there are 24 elders sitting on 24 thrones.
In 2 Chronicles Chap 24 and 25, this is where it is listed for us where David began the courses of priests, and he assigned 24 courses of priests, that they would serve throughout the year so that the priesthood is covered. And all the people are covered, and they are called courses, 24 courses of priests.
24 in Jewish Literature has to do with perfection in covering, 24 courses to cover all of the people, and to cover all of the calendar for the twelve months.
Rev. 4:9 tells us that there's a time frame here. In heaven, things happen in order. The four living creatures are the ones that lead all of heaven in their orchestra of praise to God. When the four living creatures give their glory, honor, and thanks to the one who sits on the throne who lives forever, then the 24 elders fall down before Him that sat on the throne, and they worship Him that lives for ever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things for your pleasure.
So the living creatures act, the 24 elders respond, and then the rest in heaven follow in the same way of worship and action!
There's 2 popular views.
Some say the Patriarchs, and The Apostles and some say these 24 elders are represents the Church elders as a whole. I hold the view that they are of the Church.
God bless.
We cannot ASSUME where the what God means but I THINK we aught to take it the way we read it.
I'm not sure if you're asking a question here but here is my understanding of Revelation 4:5. This will be the expression of God's judgment whenever He judges. We see it throughout the book of Revelation. There will be lightnings and thunderings and sounds coming out from the throne.
And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God. We saw these seven spirits back in Revelation 1:4. Revelation 5:6 will tell us that these seven spirits of God are the seven eyes of God going throughout the world. It is the seven fold complete ministry of the Holy Spirit held by the Jews and of course the scripture teaches that.
In Zechariah Chapters 4 and 10, it also tells us that the seven lamps are the seven eyes of the Lord, the all-seeing one. So before the throne, the seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven spirits of God.