Revelations 4 sets the stage for the rest of Revelation. It’s a transition from describing past and present events to what will happen in the future.

In this chapter, John hears the trumpet-like voice of Jesus again, calling him to come “up here,” which seems to mean heaven. He’s shown future events that will unfold (Revelation 4:1–2).

John then sees a vision “in the Spirit.” There are twenty-four thrones with elders dressed in white surrounding God’s throne. These elders might represent the tribes of Israel and the apostles. The description of the throne includes gemstones with symbolic meanings. There’s also a sea of glass and four incredible creatures (Revelation 4:3–6).

These creatures are like animals, and some say per my reading on it that they symbolize Jesus in the four Gospels. They constantly praise God, leading the twenty-four elders to worship by casting down their crowns (Revelation 4:7–11).