by Neema Joshua | 1 June 2021 08:46 pm06
In the book of Revelation chapters 4 and 5, the Apostle John was granted a vision of heaven’s divine order. He saw the glorious throne of God, surrounded by 24 elders, four living creatures, and myriads of angels, all worshiping and glorifying the Lord.
This was not just a “heavenly film” for John’s eyes. It carries profound spiritual truths for all believers—revealing the different levels of intimacy with God and the spiritual qualities required to stand close to Him.
1. The 24 Elders – Spiritual Maturity and Perseverance
Clothed in white garments and crowned with golden crowns (Revelation 4:4), they symbolize those who have matured in faith, walking with God consistently until the end.
They are “elders” not by age in the flesh but by their fullness of days in salvation. Examples include Abraham (Genesis 26:5), Enoch (Genesis 5:24), and Simeon (Luke 2:25–32), who remained steadfast in righteousness throughout their lives.
God Himself is called the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:9), meaning those near Him must be spiritually “full of days,” no longer immature in faith (Hebrews 5:12–14).
Lesson: If your Christian life is shallow—seeking only to escape judgment—you may enter heaven, but you will not dwell in the innermost intimacy with God.
2. The Four Living Creatures – The Closest to the Throne
In front of the throne stood four living creatures, each with four faces (Revelation 4:6–8; Ezekiel 1:4–28). They represent the highest degree of closeness to God, symbolizing four essential spiritual attributes:
a) The Face of the Lion – Holy Boldness
The lion, “mighty among beasts, retreating before nothing” (Proverbs 30:30), signifies boldness and courage.
Jesus, the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5), never feared men when proclaiming the truth (Matthew 10:28).
Likewise, Christians must stand boldly for the Gospel, for our adversary prowls like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8).
b) The Face of the Calf (Ox) – Sacrificial Service
The ox symbolizes strength in service and willingness to bear burdens. It was a common sacrificial animal, pointing to self-denial and daily surrender.
Paul said, “I die daily” (1 Corinthians 15:31).
Jesus, the ultimate Lamb of God, gave His life for others (John 10:11; Mark 10:45). Believers must embrace sacrificial living—offering time, resources, and energy for God’s kingdom (Romans 12:1).
c) The Face of the Eagle – Spiritual Vision and Discernment
The eagle has exceptional vision, able to see nourishment and danger from afar. Spiritually, this represents discernment and the ability to recognize the true food of God’s Word.
Jesus said, “Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will gather” (Luke 17:37), pointing to those spiritually alert who can discern where Christ is truly at work.
Without such vision, many are deceived by false prophets and shifting doctrines (Matthew 24:24).
d) The Face of Man – Godly Wisdom and Understanding
Humanity uniquely reflects God’s wisdom, creativity, and capacity for knowledge (Proverbs 4:7; Matthew 22:37).
Like Bezalel, who was filled with the Spirit to craft the tabernacle (Exodus 31:1–4), Christians are called to use their God-given intellect and skills for His glory—not imitating worldly systems, but creating Spirit-filled works.
3. How to Draw Close to God
To stand close to God’s throne, cultivate all four attributes:
Courage like the lion.
Self-sacrifice like the ox.
Spiritual vision like the eagle.
Wisdom and understanding like a man.
When these qualities are present, Satan has no opening to devour or deceive us, for every “side” of our spiritual being is guarded.
Final Call
Are you ready to be among those who stand closest to God?
The time is short—Jesus is coming soon.
Repent, believe in Christ, and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38). Grow in faith, boldness, sacrifice, discernment, and wisdom. “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8).
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2021/06/01/53710/
Copyright ©2025 Wingu la Mashahidi unless otherwise noted.