Verse by Verse Bible Study with Dr. Wayne Barber · The John Ankerberg Show

Three Aspects of Pure Praise | Part 2

April 6, 2026·20 min·2 clips

Four mysterious living creatures in Revelation give glory and thanks to God, but what exactly are they grateful for?

This episode is part two of a series on 'Three Aspects of Pure Praise' from Revelation 4. Dr. Wayne Barber, guided by host John Ankerberg, delves into verses 9-11, focusing on the worship scene around God's throne. He begins by discussing the four living creatures (zoa) and their praise, which includes giving glory, honor, and thanks to God. Barber speculates on their gratitude, suggesting it stems from God as Creator. The analysis then shifts to the 24 elders, who respond spontaneously by falling down (pipto) and casting their crowns before the throne, illustrating humility. Barber emphasizes that true praise involves a reflexive, unplanned humility where believers decrease so God can increase. He connects this to everyday life, asking listeners who the 'big eye' is in their mornings—God or themselves. A personal anecdote follows about Barber's church growth and his initial frustration with lack of recognition, leading to a realization that heavenly praise seeks no earthly glory. The third aspect is the recognition that God alone is worthy (axios), as stated in verse 11, because He created all things for His intended purpose. Barber references Proverbs 16:4 to argue that even evil fits under God's control and purpose. He concludes that these three ingredients—intention, attitude, and recognition—define pure praise, and their absence makes praise fabricated. The episode ends with a prayer for conviction and commitment, and a call to visit jashow.org for more resources.

As heard by us

A slow, pointed study of praise that turns heavenly worship into a test of humility.

The episode traces Dr. Wayne Barber through the four living creatures, the crowns before the throne, and the call to honor the Creator, then brings that theme into ordinary life by asking who gets the credit when things go well.

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Why you'd press play

If you need a sermon that cuts through self-importance, start here.

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