John had just heard from Jesus Christ about the numerous weaknesses that beset the seven churches of Asia. Given such weaknesses, there surely was little room for optimism concerning the future. In that context John was summoned to heaven to see for himself who was on the throne of the universe. The sheer majesty he sees in heaven concerning him who is seated on the throne makes clear that he need not be concerned about how weak churches on earth will survive. Even if there would appear a Caesar who claims divine names and attributes for himself (as had happened), no lord on earth came anywhere near to measuring up to the Lord of heaven and earth. Here is so much comfort and reassurance for God’s weak and troubled children in this life!
1 After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.”