Worship as Resistance: Reimagining the Throne Room of Revelation 4 (Revelation Series)

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Sep 4, 2023

The podcast explores worship as a political act and examines the counter cultural and resistant aspects of worship. It discusses John's commentary on political posturing and worship of the state in Revelation. The hosts also respond to pushback on the conversation around Christian therapists. They delve into the historical development of cognitive therapies, analyze symbols and imagery in the book of Revelation, and emphasize the importance of worship in proclaiming a counter narrative. The podcast also explores civil disobedience, the relationship between the church and the state, and the significance of the Lord's Prayer in worship.

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Introduction

00:00 • 2min

Generous Neighbors, Banana Borrowing, and Feedback on Christian Counseling

01:49 • 3min

Exploring the Historical Development of Cognitive Therapies and the Divide Between Secular and Religious Practices

05:09 • 14min

Symbols and Imagery in the Book of Revelation

19:38 • 21min

The Importance of Worship and Being a Part of a Larger Story

40:12 • 10min

Defying Government Ordinances and Worship as a Political Act

50:42 • 6min

Contrasting Examples and the Congruency of the Bible

56:15 • 5min

Exploring the Significance of the Lord's Prayer in Worship

01:01:11 • 5min

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford delve into Revelation 4, exploring how the throne room scene redefines worship as an act of political resistance against oppressive systems. By unpacking the rich Old Testament connections and the subversive use of imperial imagery, they challenge modern perceptions of worship and invite listeners to see it as a radical declaration of allegiance to God's kingdom.

Key Takeaways:

The Throne Room Imagery – Understanding how Revelation 4 draws from Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Daniel to present a powerful counter-narrative to Roman imperial propaganda.
Worship as Political Act – Exploring worship not just as musical expression but as a life orientation that challenges existing power structures and injustices.
Subversive Use of Imperial Language – How John's use of terms like "throne" and "lord and god" directly confronts the titles claimed by Caesar, presenting Jesus as the true sovereign.
The Role of the Church – Recognizing the church as a transnational and transethnic community that embodies the political reality of God's kingdom through worship.

Resources Mentioned:

Ezekiel 1 – Vision of the four living creatures and the throne.
Isaiah 6 – The seraphim proclaiming "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty."
Daniel 7 – Imagery of the Ancient of Days and the Son of Man.
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King – Illustration of acknowledging the true king.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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