BONUS SESSION

Songs in Revelation

The Holiness of God

Scripture Focus:

Revelation 4:1-11

Session Truth:

John’s glimpse into the throne room of God reveals the depths of God’s holiness.

Session Goals:

To grasp the holiness of God, and how we can live out the reality of God’s holiness.

Session in Context

After introducing the seven churches, John goes on to describe the throne room of God, and the holiness of the King! These images draw the reader into a place of worship and peace.

Key Scripture Ideas

Introduction (Revelation 4:1-2a)

John’s visionary journey makes a shift from the earthly to the heavenly. Once again, he heard a voice like a trumpet; and once again, he was in the Spirit (cf. Revelation 1:10).

Holiness Enthroned (Revelation 4:2b-6a)

John’s heavenly description begins with a throne. The One seated on the throne is God, but John refrains from using a name or even describing Him in creaturely (human) imagery.

It is interesting that the only two descriptors of the King are that of jasper and carnelian. The jasper most likely referred to a translucent gem resembling crystal and, as Bruce Metzger suggests, this would be a poetic way of drawing attention to the holiness and glory of God (Breaking the Code: Understanding the Book of Revelation [Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1993], 48). The carnelian, on the other hand, was a deep and fiery red, like a ruby. This could be a reference to God’s wrath or to the fire of purification. Regardless, it makes reference to the holiness of God.

The rainbow around the throne points back to God’s covenant with Noah after the Flood (Genesis 9:11ff.). This is a clear reminder that the King is not only mighty, but also merciful.

It is possible the 24 elders represent the 12 patriarchs of the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 disciples of Christ. However, their identity is not what is important, but rather their role. They are those who worship the King (cf. 1 Chronicles 24—25). They are symbolic of all believers.

The lightning and thunder coming from the throne, as well as the imagery of the sea of glass, are further reminders of God’s power, majesty, and holiness. The seven blazing lamps represent the seven spirits of God. The seven serve to represent the sevenfold character of the one Holy Spirit, rather than representing seven separate spirits.

Holiness Proclaimed: Act 1 (Revelation 4:6b-8)

The four living creatures described in verses 6-8 are similar to those found in Ezekiel 1 and Isaiah 6. They function to provide yet another picture of God’s sovereignty, majesty, and holiness.

Like the 24 elders, these strange creatures are more important for what they do rather than how they look. Day and night they lead the congregation in worship, and their message is clear: The One seated on the throne is the Almighty God who was holy, is holy, and always will be holy.

This song highlights the otherness or transcendence of God. This God is set apart, pure and without fault. Therefore, He is worthy of being praised.

Holiness Proclaimed: Act 2 (Revelation 4:9-11)

The song of the four living creatures moves the 24 elders to action. Their only appropriate response is to prostrate themselves before the King. This is the ultimate symbol of humility and worship.
Their song underscores God as creator and sustainer of all things.

Conclusion

John’s glimpse into the heavenly realm reminds us that, regardless of circumstances, God is King. He is creator and sustainer, sovereign and majestic, and He is holy. The response of the four living creatures and 24 elders should be our response. We should be holy because the Lord is holy.

1 engage interest

Symbols, Signs, and Similes

Have several describe favorite places using only symbols, signs, and similes, avoiding literal descriptors. See if the class can guess the places they describe.

2 explore the word

Introduction (Revelation 4:1-2a)

Is there any connection between the door in Revelation 3:20 and the door in Revelation 4:1?

What did John mean by saying he was “in the Spirit”? (v. 2a)

Holiness Enthroned (Revelation 4:2b-6a)

Who was the One seated on the throne? (v. 2b) Why didn’t John give His name?

What do you think the white garments and gold crowns represent on the 24 elders? (v. 4)

Holiness Proclaimed: Act 1 (Revelation 4:6b-8)

How do you see these four creatures representing God? (v. 7) What animals would you use to describe attributes of God?

What comes to mind when you hear the song of the four living creatures in verse 8b?

Holiness Proclaimed: Act 2 (Revelation 4:9-11)

The four living creatures gave glory, honor, and thanks to God. How do we give God the same?

Why do 24 elders fall to the ground and lay down their crowns? (v. 10)

3 examine life

Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty

Have the class read or sing the four stanzas together.

Glory, Honor, and Thanks

Give the class a blank piece of paper and have them write the words, “Glory, Honor, and Thanks.” Ask the class to list three things each they can do to bring God glory, honor, and thanks. Ask the class to share their responses.

4 exercise your faith

Be Holy as God Is Holy

Read Leviticus 19:2 to the class. Break into groups of two or three. Spend the last few minutes of class in prayer. Focus on (1) praising God for His holiness and (2) asking God to help us live out holy lives.

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