The 24 elders in Revelation chapter 4 represent all of the redeemed of humanity in heaven. In The Revelation Record, Dr. Henry Morris provides more information about the elder’s identity. He writes: “But why twenty-four elders? The term ‘elder’ has both an administrative and a chronological connotation (note I Peter 1:1, 5). That the elders in Revelation are individual men and not just symbolic of all believers is indicated by the individual conversation reported of individual elders (Revelation 5:5; 7:13). They do represent all believers of all ages, but they are also individual men, the elders of all redeemed humanity…Finally, since the Lord did not choose to specify their identity, his method of selecting them is on the basis of merit, and thus he cannot reveal their identity until after the assignment of rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ.” This is a fabulous explanation of the 24 elders’ identity, which raises another very important question about heaven: Will there be gradations, higher ranks, or perhaps an advanced quality of existence given to some in heaven and not necessarily to others? Although it’s a lengthy quote, the late Reformed American theologian, R.C. Sproul speaks to this query, saying: “This may come as a surprise to many people, but…there are degrees of reward that are given out in heaven… (READ MORE)

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