Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. (Rev. 4: 4)
In August 2008, Greek archaeologists discovered a priceless gold wreath dated about the time of Alexander the Great, fourth century BC. The crown of golden oak leaves was included along with human bones inside a golden cylinder, which itself was secured within a large copper vessel.
There are two types of crowns mentioned in the New Testament. One crown is a rulers crown a Diadema, the other is a victors crown known in the Greek as stevfano …Stephanos …meaning victors crown. In ancient days this crown was given to victors as symbols of success in military conflict and in athletic contests. Often the crown was constructed from the leaves of oak or pine trees.
In Revelation 4:4 mentioned above, the type of crown the 24 elders have is a “Stephanos”crown. Since the elders are sitting on thrones they are clearly in positions of authority. Soon each elder throws down his crown (Stephanos) before the One on the throne, symbolizing their dependence on Christ for their victory. Christ promised his saints positions of authority over his coming kingdom. “Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Matthew 19:28.
At the close of his life, the Apostle Paul describes what he had accomplished by God’s grace: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” He confidently adds, “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing”. (2 Tim. 4:7-8). This crown of victory is also termed Stephanos. In Revelation, Jesus urges us, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life”, a victor’s crown, Stephanos(Rev. 2:10).
I was reflecting this morning about two dear friends who have endured great pain and suffering throughout the last few years. I must admit I stand in total awe of the model of tenacity and perseverance they have continually demonstrated throughout their situation. I have watched them reach out to others and minister in the church while under the most trying of circumstances. I have also noticed how they have continued to spend themselves for the benefit of others, in spite of their own suffering; never making any excuses, just walking in continual obedience to God’s call. Recently, I was reminded of a past discussion with my friend where she was refusing to allow herself to be bound and ruled by her circumstances. She fought continuously to free her mind to the things of God, always focusing on His Word, His will, and His purposes, while striving to walk in His authority.
In my mind, I believe this beloved couple has already received the Stephanos, the victor’s crown, and that it is awaiting both of them.
Many of you may be experiencing some extremely difficult situations or setbacks in your lives at this very moment. However, I know in my heart that the Lord would have you be encouraged that “in all these things you are more than conquerors” when you stand in His authority.
We have the victory! We are already on victory ground. We don’t confess God’s Word to get victory. We confess His Word because we already have the victory.
We don’t fight for Victory! We fight from Victory!
With Jesus as our focal point, in spite of hardships and numerous trials, and because of Christ’s continual faithfulness we win a Stephanos… A crown of victory…Victory over oppression, victory over our circumstances, victory over darkness , victory over this world !
Stephanos!
