READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary l First century Christians suffered greatly for their faith. There are places around the world today where Christians still suffer for their faith. We too may experience burnout and depression as we serve and people scorn and reject our service. Some may question if God is in control when we see what is happening in the world. God knows we are in need of encouragement. In Rev. 4, He invites John to look into the throne room through a vision.
There is a throne (Rev. 4:2-3). The throne is stable. There is no chaos. The throne is occupied by the One who is described in terms that portray beauty, glory and holiness. In midst of suffering, we are reminded that God is still on the throne. When discouraged and anxious, know that God is in control of the situation.
Surrounding the throne (Rev. 4:4-11). There are 24 elders, representing the 12 tribes and the 12 Apostles and signify all the people of God; Four living creatures representing the created order as alluded to by Ezekiel with symbols reflecting the four evangelists: Matthew the man, Mark the lion, Luke the ox and John the eagle. All were worshipping the Lord, in a ceaseless and surrendered manner. True authority belongs to God. Our response to God must be one of adoration and not anxiety. God’s throne is not shaken by diseases or disasters, wars or scandals.
Let the throne shape your perspective (Rev. 4:4-11). What we see shapes our perspective. Fix our eyes on the One who sits on the throne. In suffering, look up and not around. Let us focus on God and not our pain. Our fear will fade in God’s glory. Frame a lifestyle of surrender. As we serve, do so with an attitude of worship rather than weariness, for worship lifts us up. Our service must flow from awe of God rather than obligation. Let us lay down our pride and ego in surrender to Him who sits on the throne. Find faith in the One who reigns, for no one and nothing can dethrone Him. Darrell Johnson in “Discipleship on the edge” describes five highlights about the throne.
On – The Lord God, Creator of all things is on the throne.
From – God is awesome and powerful; the One who overcomes all evil and judges righteously.
Behind – the rainbow shows God’s mercy and grace as He welcomes us into His presence.
Before – the sea, often used to signify chaos, is calm and subdued.
Around – worship surrounds the throne.
When things fall apart in our families or ministries and prayers seem to be unanswered and serving is unappreciated, remember who is on the throne. God is and He is worthy of our worship.
Vision of God holding a Scroll (Rev. 5). The scroll contains God’s will. Who can make His will known? John weeps because it appears that there is no one who can open the scroll. John then sees a slaughtered lamb and not a strong lion. The Lamb is the crucified Christ. He conquers through suffering. He overcomes through self sacrifice.
What should our response be?
Worship boldly – Jesus is worthy of our worship. We worship in an act of surrender to the Lord. Worship is our weapon and witness to the world.
Endure faithfully – suffering is the path to glory. Our struggles will not be in vain as we are shaped in the image of the Lamb.
Serve sacrificially as Jesus did. Let us give our lives to Him.
God is on the throne. In whatever circumstances we face, look up. God reigns over all. He knows what we are going through. Worship Him for He is worthy!
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- Study Scripture
a. Read Revelation 4. What does John see when he is taken up into heaven? How is the throne described?
b. Read Revelation 5. What is the significance of the scroll and the Lamb? Why is the Lamb the only one worthy to open the scroll?
c. What themes of worship, authority, and redemption stand out to you in these chapters? - Recall Sermon
a. What was the central message of the sermon “Who’s on the Throne?”?
b. What truths about God and Jesus Christ were emphasised through the vision of the throne and the Lamb?
c. How did the sermon connect the idea of suffering for the church with the worship and reign of the Lamb? - Relate Personally
a. When you face suffering, stress, or discouragement in life or ministry, what “thrones” (sources of control or hope) are you tempted to look to?
b. What does the truth that “God is still on the throne” mean to you in this current season of life?
c. How has your worship been affected by your current circumstances – either positively or negatively? - Commit to Action
a. What is one specific way you can “look up” this week – shifting your focus from the chaos around you to the God who reigns above?
b. How can you intentionally live out worship as a daily response to God’s sovereignty, not just something you do on Sundays?
c. Is there an area where you need to surrender your “crown” (your control, pride, or plans) to the One on the throne? What step will you take?
