Do you ever think of what heaven will be like when you first see it? I bet if you’re like me you can’t wait to get there. Imagine standing there and taking in all the glorious features. Can you see the throne that Jesus sits on? Overwhelmed doesn’t begin to describe how we will feel when we see Jesus face to face. Our breath will be taken away as we take in the majesty of his presence.
Revelation 4:2-4
A throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne. And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald. Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads.
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Every throne room every king has had in history will pale in comparison to the throne of the risen king. We don’t know what it really looks like because John is using the best words he can think of to give us a picture. He describes Jesus’ appearance as looking like Jasper and Carnelian. Jasper is green colored quartz, and Carnelian is stone that can range from red to white. On top of that, there is a rainbow with an emerald-like hue to it. Emerald is one of the shiniest of the precious stones. Jesus’ throne will be the best of the best. When we see that throne, we will be filled with both awe and reverence.
A Victor’s Crown
Situated around the throne are 24 smaller thrones and sitting on them are the twenty-four elders. Almost immediately when people read this, they want to know who these 24 elders are? Let’s start with who they aren’t. They aren’t angels. We can be sure in saying this because the elders are wearing crowns. Those crowns are for victors, people who have overcome the enemy. So that leaves two choices of who these people are. Some say that is a representation of the church and others say it is the 12 Apostles along with other saints over history. I lean towards the latter.
Worship the Lord
The important thing about seeing the throne is what it stirs up in us. As you read on in Revelation 4, you will see that the Elders cast their crowns down and fall on their faces and worship the Lord. When we see Jesus sitting on the throne, our ONLY desire will be to fall down and worship. Everything in our heart will be moved to give him all of the glory. Can you see the throne now?