John is Caught up into Heaven and Sees the Throne of God
Revelation 4

Lesson 5

background notes

doctrinal points

1. In Revelation 4 the Rapture of the Church is implied.
2. In Revelation 4 the throne of God is presented.

practical application

Praise the Lord, for the Sea of Glass like crystal.

questions

1. Recall the basic outline of John’s Revelation.
2. How does Revelation 4 fit into this outline?
3. According to the pretribulational view, what is the next event on God’s prophetic calendar?
4. How is the Rapture of the Church implied in Revelation 4?
5. What does the emerald around the throne symbolize?

answers

1. The things which are; The things which shall be hereafter (Revelation 1:19)
2. This chapter is the transition to events which will be in the future. Specifically, chapters 4-19 cover the Tribulation period.
3. The Rapture – the Lord’s return for His Church, followed by the 7 year Tribulation period.
4. John is suddenly transported to heaven and the Church is in heaven preparing for the Marriage of the Lamb.
5. That God keeps His covenants with His people forever.

discuss\ consider

1. Compare the vision of the four living creatures here to the cherubim in Ezekiel 10 and the seraphim in Isaiah 6. Cherubim and Seraphim are classes of high ranking angels.
2. Read the praises given to God in verses 8 and 11. What praises do these inspire in your heart?

challenge

In heaven we will find a sea of glass like crystal. This is not a sea that can get stormy and dangerous; this sea of glass portrays undisturbed peace forever. Look forward to that peace to come.

memorize

• “Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.” Revelation 4:1
• “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!” Revelation 4:8
• “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” Revelation 4:11