On March 26, 1997, police discovered 39 souls in California who had committed suicide. They were members of Heavens Gate, a cult taught to put aside earthly things to prepare for heaven. When the Hale-Bopp Comet neared, in preparation for a trip to heaven, they packed their bags, ate a poisonous meal, and lay down to die. Author Mark Moring thought this was foolish, then realized, whether in truth or error, we all long for heaven.

Revelation Four moves from references to the days in which Apostle John lived (Revelation 1:19), and when Jewish kingdom churches were established after being dispersed through persecution (Acts 8:3-4; 11:19-20), to the future. “A door was opened in heaven,” and John was told, “Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter” (Revelation 4:1). While the Apostle Paul may have also been temporarily taken to heaven during one of the times he experienced death (II Corinthians 11:23), his reference to knowing a man “caught up to the third heaven” (II Corinthians 12:2) may have also referred to John. But, before details about the future tribulation were revealed, the Apostle John witnessed an amazing view of the Lord Jesus Christ sitting on His heavenly throne (Revelation 4:2). His deity is reflected in the description of Him ornamented with precious stones and a rainbow (vs. 3). His Omnipotence is represented by the presence of great lightning, thunder, voices, and the seven Spirits of God (vs. 5). To amplify His worthiness of all praise and honor, before His throne is “a sea of glass like unto crystal” and “four [imposing angelic] beasts” declaring night and day, “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty” (vs. 6-8). These angels “give glory and honour and thanks” to the Savior, then 24 martyred elders followed suit with “worship” and praise (vss. 9-10). We know Jewish saints will ultimately experience eternal life as they inherit the earth, but this quick peek into life after death for kingdom saints reveals part of what eternity will be like for them. It will include the joy of being in the presence of the Savior and giving Him humble, sincere worship with praise.

While the eternal hope for the Body of Christ is heavenly, there is quite possibly a parallel. We, too, will be united with Christ, and surely worshiping the Savior with thankful appreciation and praise. But why wait? Start that practice of thanksgiving and praise right now.