Revelation 5:11

Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels and living creatures and elders encircling the throne, and their number was myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands.

Study Bible

Then I looked
This phrase indicates a transition in John's vision, a common occurrence in apocalyptic literature where the seer is shown successive scenes. The Greek word for "looked" is "εἶδον" (eidon), which implies not just a physical act of seeing but a deeper, spiritual perception. John is being granted a divine revelation, a glimpse into the heavenly realm, which is a privilege and responsibility. This act of looking signifies readiness and attentiveness to God's unfolding plan.

and I heard
Hearing in biblical terms often signifies understanding and receiving divine truth. The Greek word "ἤκουσα" (ēkousa) suggests an active listening, an engagement with the message being conveyed. In the context of Revelation, hearing complements seeing, as both senses are used to fully grasp the magnitude of the heavenly vision. This dual sensory experience underscores the importance of the message and the need for the church to be attentive to God's word.

the voices of many angels
The presence of "many angels" highlights the grandeur and majesty of the heavenly scene. Angels, or "ἄγγελοι" (angeloi) in Greek, are messengers of God, often depicted as worshippers and servants in the divine court. Their voices contribute to the celestial symphony of praise, emphasizing the holiness and sovereignty of God. The multitude of angels signifies the vastness of God's creation and the universal acknowledgment of His authority.

and living creatures
The "living creatures" are symbolic beings that represent aspects of creation and are often associated with the cherubim and seraphim found in Ezekiel and Isaiah. In Greek, "ζῷα" (zōa) refers to these creatures, which are full of eyes and have distinct appearances, symbolizing God's omniscience and the diversity of His creation. Their presence in the vision underscores the theme of worship and the acknowledgment of God's glory by all creation.

and elders
The "elders" are typically understood to represent the redeemed people of God, possibly symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles, thus encompassing the Old and New Covenants. The Greek term "πρεσβύτεροι" (presbyteroi) denotes leaders or representatives, emphasizing their role in worship and governance in the heavenly realm. Their inclusion in the vision highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history.

numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands
This phrase conveys an innumerable multitude, emphasizing the overwhelming and infinite nature of the heavenly host. The Greek "μυριάδες μυριάδων" (myriades myriadon) and "χιλιάδες χιλιάδων" (chiliades chiliadon) are expressions used to denote an uncountable number, reflecting the vastness of God's creation and the boundless praise He receives. This imagery serves to inspire awe and reverence, reminding believers of the majesty and supremacy of God, who is worthy of all worship and adoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of Revelation, who receives the vision and records it.

2. Angels
Heavenly beings who serve God and are present in the vision, worshiping around the throne.

3. Living Creatures
Four beings described earlier in Revelation, symbolizing aspects of creation and God's attributes.

4. Elders
Twenty-four elders representing the redeemed people of God, possibly symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles.

5. The Throne
The central place of God's authority and presence in heaven, around which the worship takes place.

Teaching Points

The Majesty of God’s Throne
The vision of countless angels and elders around the throne emphasizes God's supreme authority and the reverence He commands.

The Universality of Worship
The presence of myriads of angels and elders signifies that worship is a universal response to God's holiness and sovereignty.

The Role of Angels in Worship
Angels are depicted as active participants in worship, reminding us of the spiritual reality and the importance of worship in our lives.

The Community of Believers
The elders represent the community of believers, encouraging us to join in worship and live in unity as part of God's redeemed people.

The Assurance of God’s Sovereignty
The scene reassures believers of God's control over all creation, providing comfort and hope amidst earthly challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of myriads of angels and elders around the throne influence your understanding of worship?

2. In what ways can the worship scene in Revelation 5:11 inspire your personal or communal worship practices?

3. How does the presence of angels and elders around the throne encourage you in your faith journey?

4. What connections can you draw between the worship in Revelation 5:11 and the worship described in other parts of the Bible, such as Isaiah 6 or Daniel 7?

5. How can the assurance of God's sovereignty, as depicted in this heavenly scene, impact your response to challenges in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 7:10
This verse describes a similar scene with thousands serving God, highlighting the majesty and authority of God's throne.

Hebrews 12:22
This passage speaks of the heavenly Jerusalem and the innumerable angels, connecting to the vast number of worshipers in Revelation.

Psalm 103:20-21
These verses call on angels to praise God, paralleling the worship seen in Revelation 5:11.

Isaiah 6:1-3
Isaiah's vision of the Lord on His throne with seraphim worshiping Him connects to the heavenly worship scene in Revelation.