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QUESTION 22
In Revelation 4:6 we read about four and twenty elders. I am told that they represent the Church and Israel. Who are they?

ANSWER:
The Book of Revelation contains much that is symbolic, and must be seen as representing something else.

The scene in Revelation 4:2 is that of a throne set up over the earth from which came all the judgments up to Revelation 19. That this is a judgment throne is clear. "And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:..." Revelation 4:5. The four and twenty elders are there. The number twenty four is significant. In 2 Chronicles 24:24 we learn this is a full course of priests who functioned at one time in the things of God. Since Revelation 1:6 describes the believers of the Church as a priesthood, it is in the best context to believe that these four and twenty elders represent the full Church, as a kingdom of priests. In Revelation 4:1 John is being caught up in the air, and this is a type of rapture of the Church. Israel is not in view here. Her blessings are all earthly (Genesis 17:7-8), the church's are heavenly. (Ephesians 1:3. The rapture has nothing to do with Israel. She is waiting for her King to come and set up a kingdom on the earth. The church is waiting for her Lord to take her away with Him. (John 14:2-3).

What about you? Have you repented of your sins? Have you trusted Christ as Saviour yet? Where will you spend eternity? Jesus is the only door. "I am the door, by me if any man enter in he shall be saved." John 10:9.

All comments and questions to: Harold Smith

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Updated July 2009, by Shelly Allen