10. fall—immediately. Greek, "shall fall down": implying that this ascription of praise shall be repeated onward to eternity. So also, "shall worship . . . shall cast their crowns," namely, in acknowledgment that all the merit of their crowns (not kingly diadems, but the crowns of conquerors) is due to Him. read more
The glory of God 4:2-8 read more
These creatures seem similar to the seraphim (lit. burning ones) of Isaiah 6:2-3 in that they each have six wings. Their many eyes suggest alertness, comprehensive knowledge, and constant vigilance (cf. Ezekiel 10:12). "Around and within" probably means that they had eyes even on the undersides of their wings so they could move their wings without interrupting their vision. Their movements did not detract from their constant vigilance. They ascribe holiness to God day and night, namely,... read more
Whenever it is appropriate and possible the four living creatures give praise to eternal God. They glorify and honor Him for His perfections, and they thank Him for His great works, especially His creation (Revelation 4:11). read more
The worship of God 4:9-11 read more
The 24 elders likewise fall down before Him out of reverence. When the crowned elders prostrate themselves before God and cast their crowns at His feet, these rulers humbly acknowledge His sovereignty and His right to receive worship. Casting their crowns at His feet symbolizes the willing subjection of their power to His superior authority.When a victorious athlete returned home from the games and participated in a final celebration, he would ceremoniously offer the wreath or crown that he had... read more
4:8 creatures, (a-5) See Isaiah 6:2 ,Isaiah 6:3 . round (b-14) I judge that Ezekiel 10:12 shows that 'round' belongs to the eyes. not (c-25) I prefer 'cease not' to 'have no rest,' because in English 'having no rest' means constant fatigue. The Greek here means 'no intermission of action.' God (d-34) See Note l, ch. 1.8. was, (e-37) On the throne, 'who was' comes first. It is in time. see Note, ch. 1.4. read more
4:10 homage (f-15) See Note h, ch. 3.9. read more
The Glory of GodThe Church has been encouraged in the midst of her tribulation and temptation by the vision of the presence and support of Christ. Now (Revelation 4, 5) a further series of visions begins, in which are shown, under figures, the forces by which the life of the Church is affected, or, in other words, those who are for her and those who are against her. She is shown God and the Lamb, and she is shown the devil, the beast, the false prophet, and the apostate city. Then she is shown... read more
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Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Revelation 4:9
9-11. The ground of praise here is God's eternity, and God's power and glory manifested in the creation of all things for His pleasure. Creation is the foundation of all God's other acts of power, wisdom, and love, and therefore forms the first theme of His creatures' thanksgivings. The four living creatures take the lead of the twenty-four elders, both in this anthem, and in that new song which follows on the ground of their redemption ( :-). when—that is, whensoever: as often as. A... read more