A Throne in Heaven (2) - All The LORD is near Daily Devotionals for 2024

Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven, and One sat on the throne.
Revelation 4:2

A Throne in Heaven (2)
Moreover, "One sat on the throne." This glorious Person is not described, but precious stones are used as symbols to set forth His glory. We must remember that God is seen in connection with the throne. It is not the heart of the Father revealed by the Son who dwelt in the Father's bosom that is before us, but the glory of God set forth in Christ on a throne in connection with the government of the universe. The precious stones are symbols setting forth the radiance of divine glory in government. It is seen in heaven though not yet manifest on earth. On earth we see the misgovernment of man and the longsuffering of God. Had the radiancy of the throne manifested itself upon a sinful world, it would have involved judgment for all. The vision carries us beyond the day of grace to a time when the Church will have been caught up to heaven, to be followed by the radiancy of the throne shining forth in judgment upon the earth.

Further, John sees "a rainbow around the throne, in appearance like an emerald" (v. 3). From Genesis 9 we know that the rainbow speaks of the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature upon the earth. It speaks of blessing for earth secured by divine promise, but of blessing after judgment. The rainbow comes after the storm, even as God's promise of blessing follows when the judgment of the flood is past. The rainbow encircling the throne is the sure sign that beyond the judgment of the nations will be blessing for the earth.

Hamilton Smith
This song be ours, and this alone, to celebrate the name of Him that sits upon the throne, and to exalt the Lamb.

To Him whom men despise and slight to Him be glory given; The crown is His, and His by right the highest place in heaven.

T. Kelly