“And from the throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. Seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God” (Revelation 4:5).
Lightning is among the many wonders of our natural world. A lightning strike with an accompanying peal of thunder may be breathtaking or terrifying, depending on your proximity. Thus, it serves as an excellent representation of God’s immense power. That reference here in Revelation 4:5 is followed by a second appearance of “the seven Spirits” mentioned earlier in Revelation chapter one. Both examples likely allude to the Holy Spirit in all His fullness.
“Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal…” (Revelation 4:6).
These displays of thunder and lightning were accompanied by something like a crystal sea of glass. So this brief description of God’s throne features elements that reflect His power, as well as His characteristic qualities of peace, tranquility, and purity.
The latter portion of verse six then introduces us to four living beings…
“…And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, were four living creatures full of eyes in front and in back. The first living creature was like a lion, the second living creature like a calf, the third living creature had a face like a man, and the fourth living creature was like a flying eagle.
The four living creatures, each having six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day or night, saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!’” (Revelation 4:6-8).
One commentator addresses the significance of these living creatures…
“Perhaps it is safest to say that the four faces are important because they present all of animate creation, in its utmost excellence – the lion is the mightiest of wild animals, the ox strongest of domesticated animals, the eagle king of all birds, and man is highest of all creation.” (1)
This passage tells us that these beings were characterized by lives of continual worship. In fact, their worship of God prompted these twenty-four elders to worship Him as well…
“Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
‘You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created
and have their being'” (Revelation 4:9-11).
Since a crown symbolizes victory or authority, these elders honored God by giving Him what He had already given them. In a similar manner, we honor God when we give Him the lives He has given us.
Image Attribution: Felix Mittermeier, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
(1) Guzik, David. Enduring Word. (2023, April 27). Enduring Word Bible Commentary Revelation Chapter 4. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/revelation-4/