With Revelation 4, we’re moving beyond the seven letters to the seven churches. John receives a heavenly vision showing him “what must take place after this” (4:1). “After this” refers to John’s future, that is both the immediate and forever future of the seven churches in Asia Minor. What John describes in chapters 4-22 was in his future and some will be in our future. But much of what John hears and sees occurs during the church age–the time from Jesus’ ascension to his return. For more on this, listen to the extra sessions on Revelation from the Wilkesboro Baptist media page.

While we often think of the strange imagery of Revelation when we think of the book, the first vision after the messages to the churches comes from heaven’s throne room. Revelation 4-5 present an extended vision intended to humble and wonder John as well as encourage the church. The vision is spectacular and invites us to trust the sovereign Lord on his throne.

Here are some things I’m praising and praying for from Revelation 4:

• Praise God for his worth, honor, and glory. As you read Revelation 4, pause to say or sing what the living creatures say (4:8) and what the elders say (4:11). Praising God helps us reset our heart and mind around what is true and ultimate. We get ourselves in trouble spiritually when we center our lives on unworthy things rather than on God.
• Pray that God would give us a greater vision of himself. There is no doubt our vision and perspective on God is less than is true. God is more glorious than we can imagine. Pray we will hear and see the truth from Scripture and see him for who he is.
• Pray for our church to properly submit to and worship God. Our future is the subordinated worship of Revelation 4-5. Our present worship ought to reflect what we see in this chapter. Anticipate the goodness of God and glory of gathered worship this Sunday. Come prepared to pray, praise, sing, and serve. Pray we will give God proper and glorious worship.
• Pray for sinners to recognize their need for Jesus’ redemption. To be a part of the elders who sit on thrones and to be present at God’s throne is not automatic. Not everyone will be there. Revelation bears this out as those who reject God will face judgment. Only those who are redeemed (5:9) make it to heaven’s throne room. Pray for sinners to be convicted, to have faith, and to repent.

Thank you for joining us in prayer each week as we prepare for worship on Sundays.

Photo by Daria Tumanova on Unsplash