The Continuous Service of the Twenty-Four Elders Before God's Throne

Yes, the twenty-four elders are personally and literally present in heaven, serving before the throne of God day and nightARSH November 26, 1861, page 204.10+1.

Presence Before the Throne

The twenty-four elders are a specific group of individuals who were redeemed from the earth and now hold a position of honor in the heavenly sanctuaryARSH November 26, 1861, page 204.10+1. They surround the throne of God and are actively involved in the ongoing work of redemptionSSP 104.1+1.

• Continuous Service: These elders, along with the four living creatures, do not rest but continuously offer worship and perform their sacred duties in the presence of the AlmightyEVRR163+1.

• The Nature of Heaven: In the dwelling place of God, there is no night, meaning their service is perpetual and unceasing Revelation 22:5DAR 389.2.

• Ministering with the Lamb: As the Lamb ministers before the throne, these redeemed elders bow in adoration, offering the prayers of the saints as a sweet fragrance of incenseSSP 104.1+1.

Their Role and Identity

The elders are described as kings and priests who assist Christ in His mediatorial workCIS 80.1+1.

• Redeemed from Earth: They are individuals gathered out of every kindred, tongue, people, and nation, serving as eternal witnesses to the power of God's graceARSH November 26, 1861, page 204.10+1.

• A Symbol of the Priesthood: They represent the antitype of the twenty-four courses of the earthly Levitical priesthood, serving as chiefs or governors in the heavenly temple 1 Chronicles 24:1-19CIS 80.1.

• Participants in Judgment: During the judgment scene, their thrones are placed in the most holy place as they act as assistants to Christ in the sanctuary Daniel 7:9DAR 387.1.

The scriptures and heavenly visions confirm that they are always before the throne of God, serving Him day and night in His temple Revelation 7:1512MR 305.3+1.