A Sea of Glass, Living Creatures

Imagine seeing a new material and new animals that you have never seen before and trying to describe it all to others who have never seen anything like them either. This is exactly what John was attempting to do in today’s passage.

What can we make of the “sea of glass?” Fortunately, God uses consistent imagery and language from Genesis to Revelation to convey ideas to us. Ezekiel had a similar vision in which he saw similar creatures under a firmament—or sky (Genesis 1:7, 8). This firmament is described as being “like the color of an awesome crystal,” and seated upon the firmament is “the likeness of a throne, in appearance like a sapphire stone.” On this throne sits God, surrounded by the rainbow of His glory. (See Ezekiel chapter 1.) From this we can conclude that the sea of glass represents purity in heaven and that the kingdom of God is vast like a sea. A glassy sea indicates a peaceful sea—that is, a kingdom of peace.

We find references to the “sea of glass” in only one other place in Scripture: Revelation 15:2, which says, “And I saw something like a sea of glass mingled with fire, and those who have the victory over the beast, over his image and over his mark … standing on the sea of glass, having harps of God.” This text takes our minds to the time just after the Second Coming, when the redeemed, victorious in their faith in Jesus, are taken to heaven to live and reign “with Christ a thousand years” (Revelation 20:4).

Now, what of the four living creatures? More on these tomorrow, but it’s important to note that “living creature” is the more accurate translation of the Greek word z?on. The z?on is considered a thinking animal, such as man, as opposed to th?ríon, a wild beast.

What a marvelous scene John beheld as God revealed in figures and illustrations the great controversy and what lies ahead. Do you look forward to one day standing on that see of glass beholding the Redeemer’s face as He speaks to us with the voice of the sound of many waters? (Revelation 14:2).

Loving Lord, we cannot fully comprehend what is present at Your throne. Help us to grasp as much as we can, taking Your Word on faith and trusting in Your care for each of us.

For Further Study: Psalm 29:3; Psalm 104:3, 4; Psalm 148:4

Key Bible Texts

And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. (Revelation 4:6 KJV)