Twenty-Four Mysteries

Scripture: And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!” Revelation 19:4

Observation: These 28 beings appear throughout the visions of Revelation. The 24 elders are not described or defined. The four living creatures are described as clearly being non-human, with bodily characteristics of animals and humans the make it clear they are some kind of special angel or heavenly creation of God. In almost every reference, the 24 elders especially are worshiping God ... they stand before the throne, and mutually declare God's greatness and power, and glory, giving him praise. They have a special place of honor, and a special purpose within heaven. However, at no time does John make any attempt to further identify the 24. It seems they could only be a select group from one of four other groups:

1) Individuals who pre-existed the Christian era (whom John would have known of)
2) Martyrs of the early church (whom John would have personally known)
3) Future leaders of the church (as this is a prophetic vision)
4) Non-humans created for this purpose (whom John would likely therefore have commented on as he did the four creatures)

Application: In thinking this through, the lesson becomes clear ... it doesn't matter where these 24 people came from, what their backstory is, or how the "earned" the position of elder before the throne of God. It doesn't matter because, however they came to be, it is a decision made by God, through his love, grace, and wisdom, and thus far beyond our understanding. Even if they "earned" the position, they ways of earning it would likely not make sense to us, as we continually think of earthly process and compliance as the means for earning reward. Jesus taught us that doesn't work with God.

For all I know, these elders are unnamed Jews who rebuilt the temple of Jerusalem ... or some of David's might men ... or ancient believers outside of the Jewish line that are never heard of in the Bible ... or the leaders of the reformation ... or the best popes ... or former prophets. Who knows.

But here is the truth: It is very unlikely these positions were "earned" in any manner that I could understand, just like the "earning" of salvation is a bewildering mystery. I am even now reminded of a non-believer who said that one of the incomprehensible things about Christian faith was that you could do anything you want, then on your deathbed decide you believe in Jesus, and receive thus receive eternal life in heaven. The connection between one act and the amazing award makes no sense in human understanding.

The origin of the 24 elders is a mystery. However, God's rewards are only a mystery if you apply human qualities to God. When you realize the magnitude of God's love, grace, mercy, judgment, and wisdom ... salvation through faith in Jesus makes sense.

Prayer: Lord, I humbly thank you. I know I am unworthy of any love, any grace, any mercy, and any reward from you. Yet you choose to bestow blessing and promise upon me. Jesus is my lord and savior, and I will follow and obey him. I won't obey him perfectly, and sometimes I won't even obey him well, but I will strive to do so daily. Thank you for loving me first. Amen.