4:3
The appearance of the one sitting upon the throne is described as having the appearance of “jasper and ruby”, and there is a rainbow that shone like “emerald”. The precise identification of precious stones named in the Bible is difficult as they did not have precise scientific definitions in those days. However, the key message is the splendour of the situation.
4:4
There were twenty four thrones surrounding the throne, with twenty four elders on them, each dressed in white and wearing a crown of gold. As you can probably guess, there are various ideas about why the number 24, and who the elders were. In all of Revelation I don’t think it is particularly fruitful to get hooked up on all the details, rather the general impression is often the key message. The 24 may represent 12 from Old Testament (based on the 12 tribes) and 12 from the New Testament (eg 12 apostles). Some think the elders are some form of angels, and the number 24 comes from 1 Chron 24:4. We should remember that Jesus says we will sit on thrones with Him, and even says this in Rev 3:22.
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