REVELATION CHAPTER FOUR
Revelation Chapter Four Explained — The Throne Room Vision
The Door, the Voice, and the Call Upward
INTRODUCTION
The Appearance of the One on the Throne
The Atmosphere Around the Throne — Fire, Lightning, and Voices
Entering the Throne Room of Revelation
“After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven…” — Revelation 4:1
Revelation Chapter Four is a divine shift — a glorious portal into the realm of the Spirit, where time folds, heaven opens, and Jesus Christ is unveiled in majesty and symbolism. Up to this point, the Book of Revelation has dealt with the churches — their strengths, weaknesses, warnings, and rewards. But now the scene changes completely.
The Church age is not over — but John is summoned above it, to see what lies beyond the veil of the natural. He is called up “hither” to behold not just events, but a Person enthroned, surrounded by heavenly signs that speak of His glory, authority, and divine order.
Revelation 4 is not merely poetic or apocalyptic — it is heaven’s blueprint for how God rules, how worship ascends, and how divine government is established through Christ.
Here we do not just see the throne — we see the One seated on it, the elders, the living creatures, the lamps, the sea of glass, the rainbow, the lightnings, and much more. These are not just decorations in heaven — they are prophetic signs, each one revealing a facet of Jesus Christ and His Kingdom.
In this chapter, we are not invited to interpret symbols intellectually — we are invited to behold the Lamb in Spirit. The door in heaven is not just for John — it is for all who are in the Spirit and have ears to hear what the Spirit is saying. Revelation 4 is not the beginning of the end — it is the unveiling of the beginning of glory. It is where judgment begins — not as wrath, but as righteous order flowing from the throne.
This is where we must go if we are to overcome.
This is what we must see if we are to reign with Him.
This is who we must know — not just the Christ of the cross, but the Christ of the throne.
The signs in Revelation 4 form a language of the Spirit:
A door opens — calling us upward
A throne appears — establishing government Revelation Chapter Four
A voice like a trumpet sounds — awakening the soul
Living creatures worship — releasing prophetic revelation
Crowns are cast — surrender and rulership intertwined
These symbols are not separate from Christ — they reveal Him. He is the center. He is the light. He is the glory shining like precious stones. He is the King seated on the throne.
In this chapter, we’ll explore 28 heavenly signs and symbols, and we will see how they reveal the fullness of Christ, the pattern of worship, the structure of government, and the destiny of the overcomers.
So come up higher. The door is open. The throne is waiting.
Let us behold the Lord in the fullness of His heavenly glory.
SECTION ONE
THE CALL UPWARD
The Door, the Voice, and the Spirit
(Revelation 4:1–2)
“After this I looked, and behold, a door was opened in heaven…” — Revelation 4:1
The fourth chapter opens with a divine invitation. Everything begins with a look, a door, and a voice. These are not casual details — they are living symbols that reveal how the believer moves from the earthly to the heavenly, from the seen to the unseen, from the outer court into the very throne room of God.
Let’s break down the first seven signs found in verses 1–2. Revelation Chapter Four
1.
A Door Opened in Heaven
This door is not physical — it is spiritual. It represents a new access point into God’s divine realm. The veil is pulled back, not just to John, but to all who are in the Spirit. This door is not about escape — it’s about entrance into revelation.
This is the door Jesus opened in Revelation 3:8 to the faithful church.
It speaks of intimacy, revelation, and heavenly perspective.
The Spirit is always calling us through this door — upward, deeper, higher.
Prophetic meaning:
This is the doorway into the throne dimension — the realm where the Lamb reigns and where overcomers are seated. It is open, meaning nothing blocks those whose hearts are hungry.
2.
A Voice Like a Trumpet
“…the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me…”
The voice of the Lord is not passive — it is commanding, penetrating, unmistakable. Like a trumpet, it cuts through confusion, noise, and earthly distraction. It awakens the spirit and calls the heart to higher things.
Trumpets in scripture signal divine announcements, gatherings, and warfare.
This voice speaks directly — not vaguely — to those who are tuned in. Revelation Chapter Four
It is a prophetic sound, drawing the hearer out of earth-bound limitations.
Prophetic meaning:
This is the prophetic call that always precedes a revelation of the throne. It awakens the overcomer to step beyond religion and enter the realm of Spirit authority.
3.
“Come Up Hither”
This is a summons from heaven. It is not a suggestion — it is a royal invitation. The Lord says:
“Come up higher. Leave your natural view. Ascend in Spirit.”
He calls John out of time and space, not to escape reality but to see reality from God’s view. This is the call for every son and daughter — to rise above circumstances, doctrines, and limitations into the heavenly reality of Christ.
“Come up” is the call to walk in Spirit realm understanding.
It is the beginning of prophetic clarity and Kingdom authority.
It leads into the order and government of the throne.
Prophetic meaning:
The Lord is calling the Church upward, not outward. Not into the clouds — but into the Spirit. This is the transition from Church age to Kingdom age, from natural understanding to divine revelation.
4.
“Things Which Must Be Hereafter”
This marks the transition from current church matters to future purposes — not just future events, but heavenly intentions. It is not about timelines — it is about seeing God’s plan unfold in spiritual order.
“Hereafter” means after the Church is positioned — now comes government and glory. Revelation Chapter Four
It transitions the reader from man-centered focus to God-centered revelation.
The Spirit begins to unfold what the Father is about to do in heaven and earth.
Prophetic meaning:
This is about seeing from the eternal now. What must be “hereafter” is already visible to those in the throne realm. It’s a shift from what man plans to what God has purposed.
5.
Immediately I Was in the Spirit
John doesn’t travel — he transitions. He is immediately in the realm of the Spirit. This is not emotional — it is spiritual. It is the realm where natural understanding is eclipsed by Spirit truth.
The carnal mind cannot enter here — only by the Spirit can this be accessed.
It is sudden, not gradual — those with ears to hear can be caught up instantly.
“In the Spirit” is not a mood — it’s a place of authority, perception, and truth.
Prophetic meaning:
This is the true rapture — not being removed from the earth, but being caught up into the mind of Christ. This is where sons are born — in the realm of the Spirit.
6.
A Throne Was Set in Heaven
This is the central revelation of the entire chapter. Not beasts, not angels, not crowns — but a throne. The government of God is the centerpiece of all spiritual reality. Everything flows from this throne.
It is set — not moved, not shaken. It speaks of eternal authority.
The throne represents justice, judgment, mercy, dominion.
It is where decrees are issued, worship ascends, and power flows. Revelation Chapter Four
Prophetic meaning:
You must see the throne to see rightly. Until the throne is the center of your vision, all else will be off balance. The throne is not just in heaven — it is to be established in us.
7.
One Sat on the Throne
Here is the beauty of all things: the Person of Christ enthroned. Not a force. Not a feeling. Not even “God” in abstraction — but One. One who rules, one who reigns, one who is worthy.
This is Jesus — the glorified Lamb, now seated in fullness.
We do not just see the throne — we see the King of Glory.
He is not pacing, not worried — He is seated, in full dominion.
Prophetic meaning:
Your future, your authority, your destiny begins with this vision:
Christ is on the throne — now. Not just coming. Already reigning.
Everything else flows from this truth.
In these first 2 verses, the heavens open, the Spirit speaks, and the throne is revealed.
Now we are ready to move into Section Two:
“The Appearance of the One on the Throne — Stones, Rainbows, and Glory”
SECTION TWO
THE APPEARANCE OF THE ONE ON THE THRONE
Stones, Rainbows, and Glory
(Revelation 4:3–4)
“And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardius stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.” — Revelation 4:3
John begins to describe what he sees — not with physical features, but with symbolic revelation. He doesn’t say, “He had eyes like this, or hair like that.” No — he sees stones, color, and light. Because the glory of the enthroned Christ cannot be captured by fleshly terms — it must be understood spiritually.
These next five signs describe the nature, covenant, and glory of the enthroned Christ.
8.
Appearance Like Jasper
Jasper is a clear, radiant, crystal-like stone — often greenish or bluish-white — associated in scripture with brilliance and beauty.
It reflects the glory, transparency, and purity of God’s nature.
Jasper is mentioned in Revelation 21 as part of the New Jerusalem, meaning the image of God is the foundation of the city of God.
Prophetic meaning:
This stone speaks of the full light of God revealed through Christ — no shadows, no darkness. This is the glory of the Father seen in the face of Jesus. The One on the throne is clear, clean, radiant, full of truth and light.
9.
Appearance Like a Sardius Stone
Sardius (or carnelian) is a deep red stone, symbolizing sacrifice, love, and redemption through blood.
Red reminds us of the cross, the Lamb slain, and the cost of the throne.
It reveals that righteous judgment flows from a heart of mercy. Revelation Chapter Four
Prophetic meaning:
The throne is not cold or distant — it is built on blood and covenant. The One who reigns is the same who bled. Sardius speaks of the intimacy of redemption — the price paid to bring us into this realm.
10.
A Rainbow Round About the Throne
This is not Noah’s rainbow — partial and horizontal. This is a full circle — a complete encircling of the throne with color and covenant.
The rainbow is the sign of mercy and faithfulness (Genesis 9).
It encircles the throne — meaning everything God does is within covenant boundaries.
This speaks of mercy triumphing over judgment.
Prophetic meaning:
This is the throne of covenant. Yes, it’s a throne of judgment — but all judgment comes through mercy and promise. The rainbow reminds us that God never forgets His mercy, even when executing justice.
11.
In Sight Like Unto an Emerald
An emerald is a green stone, and green symbolizes life, growth, and restoration. While the rainbow shows many colors, it’s primarily described as emerald — life dominates.
Green is the color of resurrection and eternal freshness.
The throne is not old or distant — it is ever-living and ever-renewing.
Prophetic meaning:
God’s throne is not a place of dread for the righteous — it is lush, life-giving, and full of hope. Even in glory, God reveals Himself as life abundant.
12.
Twenty-Four Elders Seated Around the Throne
“And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting…” Revelation Chapter Four
These elders represent heavenly government, divine order, and redeemed leadership.
12 patriarchs + 12 apostles = full covenant representation.
They are seated — not striving — ruling in rest.
They surround the throne — showing unity in divine purpose.
Prophetic meaning:
This is not just hierarchy — it is divine harmony. These elders speak of the priesthood of the redeemed, the government of God manifesting in mature sons, ruling in unity with the Lamb.
Now the scene intensifies. Around the throne, we move from beauty to power and fire.
SECTION THREE
THE ATMOSPHERE AROUND THE THRONE
Lightning, Fire, and the Seven Spirits of God
(Revelation 4:5–6)
“And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.” — Revelation 4:5
At this point in the vision, we begin to feel the movement of heaven. The throne is not a static seat — it’s a living source of glory, power, and decree. From it flow sights and sounds that signify divine action, judgment, and the fire of the Holy Ghost.
13.
Lightnings Proceed from the Throne
Lightning in Scripture speaks of sudden illumination, divine visitation, and judgment.
It pierces darkness with instant clarity.
In the Old Testament, lightning often accompanied God’s presence (Ex. 19:16, Psalm 77:18).
It is the symbol of power released from heaven.
Prophetic meaning:
Lightning shows us that God’s throne is not passive — it is active. It sends forth revelation, judgments, and awakening power. This is not a quiet religion — this is the living government of the universe releasing flashes of truth into the realm of men.
14.
Thunderings from the Throne
Thunder represents the voice of God in fullness and authority. It is not the still small voice — it is the majestic roar of divine government. Revelation Chapter Four
Thunder is used repeatedly in Revelation to indicate God speaking from His throne.
It is the fearful, undeniable sound of heaven’s decrees.
Prophetic meaning:
This is the voice that shakes everything not built on the Rock. The thunder doesn’t just speak — it reverberates through the heavens and earth. When God thunders, everything unshaken must fall.
15.
Voices Proceeding from the Throne
These are not random sounds — these are the voices of divine council, intercession, and prophetic decree.
Heaven is not silent. Around the throne, there are continual utterances, declarations, and songs.
These voices reflect the many-membered witness — the voice of the Spirit through the Church. Revelation Chapter Four
Prophetic meaning:
We are not waiting to hear from heaven — heaven is always speaking. These voices call the earth to attention. They align creation with the Word of God and carry the divine intent of the throne.
16.
Seven Lamps of Fire Before the Throne
“…which are the seven Spirits of God.”
Here we see the seven-fold fullness of the Holy Ghost, as described in Isaiah 11:2 — the Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord.
These lamps are not candles — they are burning fires.
They burn before the throne, revealing that the Spirit is always pointed toward the Son. Revelation Chapter Four
The fire speaks of illumination, purification, and passion.
Prophetic meaning:
This is not seven separate Spirits, but the seven-fold expression of the one Holy Ghost. This is the fire that prepares sons, purifies hearts, and empowers the saints to reign. It burns in holiness — and it’s centered on the throne.
17.
A Sea of Glass Like Crystal Before the Throne
“And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal…”
This vast expanse represents the floor of heaven — but not one of chaos or turbulence. It is still, clear, and crystalline.
It reflects peace and purity — no defilement stands before the throne.
It’s transparent, meaning nothing is hidden in His presence.
It also represents the mingling of humanity and divinity — the saints standing before God on a foundation of peace.
Prophetic meaning:
This is a picture of divine stability. The sea of glass speaks of the finished work — no more striving, no more mixture. Before God’s throne is perfect peace. All things are seen, all things are clear, and all things rest under His rule.
These six symbols reveal that heaven is not static. It is alive with fire, sound, and glory. And from that center flows the government of the Lamb.
Now, we are ready to encounter the Four Living Creatures — one of the most powerful and mysterious signs in all of Scripture. Revelation Chapter Four
SECTION FOUR (ENHANCED)
THE LIVING CREATURES AND THE FOUR FACES OF CHRIST
Revealing the Nature of Christ in Symbol and Worship
(Revelation 4:6–8)
“And in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four living creatures full of eyes before and behind.”
This is one of the most powerful visions in all of Scripture — not because of what these creatures look like, but because of what they reveal. They are not beasts of fantasy, but living expressions of the nature of Christ. Every movement, every face, every eye and wing speaks of who He is and how He reigns.
Their position is stunning: they are not just near the throne — they are described as being in the midst of the throne and also around it. This shows that they are not merely servants before God but extensions of the throne itself. The throne’s authority, nature, and worship flow through them.
As J. Preston Eby powerfully puts it: Revelation Chapter Four
“The four living creatures are full of the vision of God! All things are clear and open unto them by the spirit of wisdom and revelation from God.”
These are not just symbolic beings — they are the manifestation of Christ’s fullness and the mature expression of His people, the many-membered body of the Overcomer.
18.
The Four Living Creatures Around the Throne Revelation Chapter Four
They reflect the nature of Jesus in His Kingly, Priestly, Human, and Prophetic roles.
They symbolize the overcomer company — those conformed to Christ’s image.
These creatures are alive with worship, vision, and function — they are Spirit-filled and throne-empowered.
Eby adds:
“They are not merely positioned near the throne — they are an extension of the throne. They function as the expression of the throne’s life.”
19.
The First Living Creature Was Like a Lion
Christ as King – Apostolic Authority Revelation Chapter Four
The lion speaks of boldness, dominion, and governmental power.
This is the King of Judah, roaring in truth and righteousness.
In the Body, this is the apostolic dimension — the lion leads, governs, establishes.
Prophetic meaning: This is the nature of divine rule in Christ and in the saints. You cannot overcome without the lion nature — bold, fearless, and kingly.
20.
The Second Was Like a Calf (Ox)
Christ as Servant – Priestly Endurance
The ox is the burden-bearer — strong, silent, sacrificial. Revelation Chapter Four
It plows the ground, labors in secret, and lays down its life.
In the Body, this represents the priesthood of servanthood — patient, pure, tireless.
Prophetic meaning: This is the face of surrender, obedience, and perseverance. The sons of God carry the burdens of nations — as Christ carried the cross.
21.
The Third Had a Face as a Man
Christ as Son – Wisdom and Compassion
The man face reveals the intelligence, sensitivity, and maturity of Christ.
This is Jesus as the Son of Man — fully God, fully human.
It speaks of relationship, wisdom, and priestly intercession.
Prophetic meaning: This is Christ as the reconciler — the bridge between heaven and earth. The man-face is the maturing church walking in mercy, compassion, and divine identity.
22.
The Fourth Was Like a Flying Eagle
Christ as Prophet – Vision and Revelation
The eagle flies high and sees far. It moves in the wind of the Spirit.
It represents divine insight, prophetic flow, heavenly movement.
In the Body, it speaks of the prophetic dimension — revelation, vision, Spirit-led life.
Prophetic meaning: This is the Church soaring in Spirit. The eagle sees above systems, speaks from heaven, and moves without fear. This is the face of the overcoming prophet company.
23.
Full of Eyes Before and Behind
Eyes speak of spiritual discernment, prophetic perception, and full awareness.
These creatures see the past, present, and future. They are never blind.
Eby writes:
“These eyes are not natural, but spiritual — the inward faculties of divine perception developed in the sons of God.”
Prophetic meaning: The overcomers will walk with eyes open — nothing hidden, nothing distorted. They will see with the mind of Christ.
24.
Each Had Six Wings
Wings signify movement, mobility, and reverence.
Six wings echo the seraphim of Isaiah 6 — worship, holiness, and swift obedience. Revelation Chapter Four
Prophetic meaning: These wings show the balance of humility and readiness. Sons who cover themselves before the Lord will fly freely in His will. This is Spirit-led action born out of holy worship.
25.
They Cry Day and Night: “Holy, Holy, Holy”
Their worship never ends because the revelation never stops.
Every moment in God’s glory produces another cry of “Holy!”
Eby adds:
“This is the sound of pure Spirit — not words, but spirit and truth worship. It is the echo of the unveiled heart before the unveiled Christ.”
Prophetic meaning: Worship flows not from routine but revelation. The closer you are to the throne, the more your life becomes a song of surrender, awe, and purity.
These four faces are not decorations — they are a mirror of Jesus, and a blueprint for the Overcomer.
The Lion calls us to rule.
The Ox calls us to serve.
The Man calls us to walk in wisdom.
The Eagle calls us to soar by the Spirit.
This is the full nature of Christ — and it is being formed in a people.
“As we behold the glory of the Lord, we are changed into the same image…” (2 Cor. 3:18) Revelation Chapter Four
SECTION FIVE
THE ELDERS CAST THEIR CROWNS
Worship That Flows from Revelation
(Revelation 4:9–11)
“The four living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne…
the twenty-four elders fall down before Him…and cast their crowns before the throne…”
— Revelation 4:9–10
After the unceasing cry of “Holy, holy, holy” from the living creatures, we see the response of the elders — a prophetic company representing governmental order, mature worship, and divine agreement.
26.
The Living Creatures Give Glory, Honor, and Thanks
The worship of the living creatures is not forced — it is the natural response to unveiled glory. Revelation Chapter Four
Glory — giving Him His rightful place.
Honor — submitting to His lordship.
Thanks — acknowledging His goodness and mercy.
Prophetic meaning: The deeper the revelation, the purer the worship. True worship begins when man disappears and God alone is exalted.
27.
The Elders Fall Down Before Him Who Sits on the Throne
Worship is not just singing — it’s posture. They fall down. These are elders — dignified, robed, crowned — yet they go to the floor. Because in the presence of true glory, there is no hierarchy.
They are seated in heavenly places, but still bow.
They carry crowns, but lay it all at His feet. Revelation Chapter Four
They show us that ruling with Christ requires continual humility before Him.
Prophetic meaning: The greatest authority flows from brokenness before the throne. Worship here is the expression of surrender and reverence.
28.
They Cast Their Crowns Before the Throne
This is the high act of worship — not just bowing, but laying down authority. Crowns represent rulership, reward, and identity — and they throw it all at His feet.
They recognize every victory, every reward, every honor comes from Him.
They reign, but they don’t cling.
Their crowns become offerings, not possessions. Revelation Chapter Four
Prophetic meaning: The overcomer does not glory in the crown — but in the One who gave it. True sons cast down their own right to rule — so that only Jesus is seen as worthy.
Their Song: “Thou Art Worthy, O Lord…”
(Revelation 4:11)
This is not a new worship set — it’s the eternal declaration of why He is worthy.
“Thou art worthy, O Lord,
to receive glory and honor and power:
for Thou hast created all things,
and for Thy pleasure they are and were created.”
This reveals the ultimate truth of all creation:
He is worthy — not just because of what He’s done, but because of who He is.
He created all things — all things exist for His pleasure, not ours.
The purpose of creation is not salvation, not service — but His delight and glory.
Prophetic meaning: Worship reaches its highest when we cease to be the focus. When it’s not about blessing, reward, breakthrough — but about Him alone. This is the worship of the throne room.
This is not just a scene to read — it’s an invitation to live here.
To dwell before the throne…
To throw down our crowns…
To cry “Worthy!”…
To walk in full circle surrender and glory.
This is what the Spirit is preparing the overcomers for.
CONCLUSION
A Door Still Open — A Throne Still Set
Revelation Chapter 4 is more than a vision — it’s a divine invitation. The door that opened to John is still open to you. The voice like a trumpet still calls:
“Come up here!”
This chapter is not about future events — it is about a present reality. A throne is set in heaven — unshakable, eternal, glorious. And One sits on that throne — Jesus, the Lamb of God, the Lion of Judah, the High Priest, the Risen Man, the Soaring Prophet.
We have beheld 28 heavenly signs — each one burning with meaning, each one revealing a facet of Christ.
We saw the door, the Spirit, and the voice.
We saw the throne, the stones, and the rainbow.
We saw the fire, the sea of glass, and the seven Spirits.
We beheld the four living creatures — the lion, the ox, the man, and the eagle.
We watched the elders fall and the crowns be cast.
We heard the cry:
“Thou art worthy, O Lord!”
THE FULLNESS OF JESUS REVEALED
These signs are not random symbols.
They are revelations of Jesus — unveiled in power, glory, order, and worship.
The Lion shows He rules.
The Ox shows He serves.
The Man shows He feels.
The Eagle shows He sees.
He is not just Savior. He is King, Priest, Son, and Prophet.
And more than that — He is forming this four-fold nature in His body.
The throne is not only a place you gaze upon…
It is a place you are called to sit with Him.
THE OVERCOMER’S CALL
To overcome is not just to endure.
To overcome is to ascend.
It is to respond to the trumpet voice…
To walk through the open door…
To stand before the throne…
To fall in holy awe…
To cast every crown…
To cry “Holy” day and night…
And to rise in His image.
This is the calling of the overcomer:
To see Jesus.
To reflect Jesus.
To reign with Jesus.
FINAL WORD
“To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne…” — Revelation 3:21
You are not called to wait for heaven.
You are called to live from the throne.
So lift your eyes. The door is open. The throne is waiting.
The One seated there is calling you higher.
Come up here — and behold the glory.
Written by Carl Timothy Wray
For the glory of Jesus Christ — the One revealed in the signs and symbols of heaven
