Revelation 4:9

And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,

Revelation 4:9 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation is a highly symbolic and prophetic book written by the apostle John. In Revelation 4, John describes a vision of heaven and the throne room of God. He sees a glorious scene with God seated on the throne, surrounded by heavenly beings and elders. This verse is part of John’s description of the worship and adoration being offered to God by these heavenly beings.

Meaning

The “beasts” mentioned in this verse are commonly understood to refer to the four living creatures or cherubim described earlier in Revelation 4:6-8. These beings have unique forms and characteristics and are often associated with the worship and service of God. They are full of eyes, which symbolize their all-seeing nature and wisdom. They are also covered with wings, representing their readiness to serve and obey God.

The verse highlights the actions of the four living creatures. They are continually giving glory, honor, and thanks to God who is seated on the throne. The original language suggests an ongoing, repeated action—whenever they give glory, honor, and thanks—indicating that their worship is unceasing. This reflects their recognition and acknowledgment of God’s greatness, sovereignty, and eternal nature. Their worship is a response to who God is and what He has done.

The verse emphasizes that God, the one seated on the throne, “liveth for ever and ever.” This declaration underscores the eternal nature of God. He is the everlasting, unchanging God who exists beyond the constraints of time. It points to His immortality, His eternally existing state, and His ongoing reign and authority over all creation.

Biblical connections

This verse sets the stage for the response of the twenty-four elders in Revelation 4:10, who fall down before God and worship Him. The worship of the living creatures leads to the worship of the elders, showing that heavenly worship is unified and continuous. The threefold response of glory, honor, and thanks encompasses ascribing worth, reverence, and gratitude to God, reflecting the proper response to His holiness and eternal reign.

Application

This verse reminds believers of the worship and adoration that takes place in heaven, where God is constantly praised by heavenly beings. It also calls us to offer our own worship, honor, and thanksgiving to God. Recognizing God’s eternal nature and acknowledging His sovereignty over our lives can inspire us to live in awe and reverence before Him, offering our lives as a continual act of worship.

Revelation 4:9 presents a glimpse into the heavenly worship as the four living creatures give glory, honor, and thanks to God, who lives forever and ever. It encourages believers to join in the worship and offer their own praise and adoration to the eternal God who reigns over all things.