Revelation 4:4: “And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment: and they had on their heads crowns of gold.”
These 24 elders who wear golden crowns are redeemed men because Revelation 5:9 tells us they sing the song of the redeemed. They all have harps and golden vials (censors) which are the instruments used in the ministry of the golden altar which was also adorned with a golden crown.
The golden censors were full of sweet incense “which are the prayers of saints.” (Revelation 5:8) I believe the 24 elders wearing the golden crowns represent the praying and worshipping church. It is the praying saints who wear golden crowns.
This is very encouraging for those who realize what an awesome privilege we have in the ministry of prayer. Because of their commitment to the ministry of prayer, these 24 elders are given the privilege of surrounding the Throne of all thrones.
How awesome is this throne and the One who sits upon it! Don’t forget to look up Revelation 4:2-5.
Men encourage your wives and families to be altars of sweet incense. They will then be crowned with a golden crown just as the altar of incense was crowned. Those who apply themselves to this ministry are the ones who are given the crowns of gold.
Revelation 7:25: “And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.” This is talking about Jesus Christ Himself. What a might prayer warrior He was, and still is, as He ever lives to make intercession for us. Hebrews 7:25 says: “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost (completely) that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.”
The crown of gold that surrounded the top of the golden altar of incense is worn by Christ and all those who join Him in this beautiful, royal ministry of prayer.
Although this crown cannot be visibly seen by the natural eye, one can be aware of the regal, royal presence of God that accompanies the prayer warriors. Prayer crowns them with confidence, peace, and quiet assurance. There is a profound serenity about their lives.
Be encouraged.
Colin Campbell