Topical Bible: The Sea: (Smooth As Glass) the Peace of Heaven

◄ The Sea: (Smooth As Glass) the Peace of Heaven ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the imagery of the sea often carries profound symbolic significance. One of the most evocative depictions is found in the Book of Revelation, where the sea is described as being "smooth as glass." This imagery is emblematic of the peace and tranquility that characterize the heavenly realm, contrasting sharply with the tumultuous and often chaotic nature of earthly seas.

Biblical Reference

The primary reference to the sea being "smooth as glass" is found in Revelation 4:6 : "Before the throne was something like a sea of glass, as clear as crystal." This description is part of John's vision of the heavenly throne room, where the sea of glass serves as a symbol of divine peace and order. The clarity and stillness of this sea reflect the unchanging and serene nature of God's presence.

Symbolism and Interpretation

In biblical literature, the sea often represents chaos, danger, and the unknown. In the ancient Near Eastern context, large bodies of water were associated with disorder and threat, as seen in the chaotic waters subdued in the creation narrative (Genesis 1:2). However, in Revelation, the sea of glass signifies the complete opposite: it is a depiction of perfect peace and divine sovereignty.

The transformation of the sea from a symbol of chaos to one of peace in Revelation underscores the ultimate victory of God over all forms of disorder. In the heavenly realm, there is no longer any threat or turmoil; instead, there is a profound sense of calm and stability. This imagery reassures believers of the ultimate peace that awaits them in God's presence, where all fears and anxieties are stilled.

Theological Implications

The sea of glass in Revelation invites reflection on the nature of God's kingdom. It is a place where the struggles and uncertainties of earthly life are replaced by the assurance of God's eternal peace. This vision offers hope and encouragement to believers, affirming that despite the trials and tribulations of the present world, there is a future reality where God's peace reigns supreme.

Furthermore, the sea of glass serves as a reminder of the transformative power of God's grace. Just as the chaotic sea is transformed into a serene expanse, so too can the lives of believers be transformed by the peace of Christ. This transformation is not only a future promise but also a present reality for those who place their trust in God.

Conclusion

The imagery of the sea as smooth as glass in Revelation is a powerful symbol of the peace of heaven. It reflects the ultimate triumph of God's order over chaos and offers a vision of the eternal tranquility that awaits believers. This depiction serves as a source of hope and encouragement, reminding Christians of the peace that surpasses all understanding, both now and in the life to come.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 4:6
And before the throne there was a sea of glass like to crystal: and in the middle of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 15:2
And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Down the Islands
... of crippled and sinking, shattered and triumphant ships, in what a sea, must the ...
very highlands, past which we are steaming through water smooth as glass. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/kingsley/at last/chapter ii down the islands.htm

Climbing the Mountain
... There is nothing MO much to be feared as that smooth glass-faced rock on ... As the poor
sea boy, climbing the giddy mast, dares not look ... In joy and peace and thee ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/climbing the mountain.htm

The Two Sons.
... the other counts himself safe because he has not a smooth tongue ... It is meant that
in this glass all the self-righteous to ... if I saw you about to put to sea in a ...
//christianbookshelf.org/arnot/the parables of our lord/x the two sons.htm

A Last Look-Out
... The staff is needed for the foot, and the glass is wanted for the ... shock of a disaster,
or the terror of a wreck at sea, because one ... And I'll smooth it with hope ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/a last look-out.htm

Angelic Comforters.
... of sickness they are there unseen to smooth our pillow ... at Bethlehem"He who walked
on the Sea of Tiberias ... As grain by grain drops in Time's sand-glass, it gives ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/macduff/memories of bethany/xxii angelic comforters.htm

Sojourners with God
... Blessed are they who, by the magic glass of a ... mountains look on Marathon, And Marathon
looks on the sea.'. ... Only our journey is smooth and noiseless, like the old ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/sojourners with god.htm

The Great Assize
... To smooth and lengthen out the boundless space,. And spread an area for all human
race. ... John: "Before the throne there was a sea of glass, like unto crystal ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 15 the great assize.htm

Conclusion
... clamored for those who would speak unto them "smooth things" (Is ... The sands in the
hour glass of this Day of ... overthrow of Pharaoh and his hosts at the Red Sea. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the redeemers return/conclusion .htm

All the Bells were Ringing the Angelus. ...
... light through the blue and red stained-glass windows grew ... letters of fire out of
the sea of music ... pleasure,"and therefore, to somewhat smooth the circumstance ...
//christianbookshelf.org/corelli/the master-christian/i all the bells were.htm

Mr. Fearing Comforted
... he could tread the billow and find it like glass beneath his ... God has not made for
his people a smooth path to ... of the Universe who had bidden him walk the sea. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/mr fearing comforted.htm