Revelation 5 Commentary
We are introduced to two contrasting images. First: The Lion of the tribe of Judah. Second: The Lamb.
Who qualifies to open the sealed scroll? The Lion of the tribe of Judah. But it’s actually the Lamb who steps forward and takes the scroll. The scripture makes the point that the Lamb of God is no different from the Lion of the tribe of Judah.
Then the Lamb has seven horns. It’s a symbol of total authority. Take note of the number ‘seven’. Seven churches. Seven seals. Seven horns. Seven spirits. Then you know John isn’t talking about the Lamb with seven horns! But it’s easy to pick some facts even from these complex images. The Holy Spirit or simply the Spirit (the seven spirits of God) is the Spirit of Jesus.
Revelation uniquely celebrates the risen Jesus. He is the final authority in creation. Yes, the same slain Lamb.
The same maligned saint, the same persecuted saint, and the same saint with little strength (from the ‘seven churches’) is the victorious child of God together with his or her victorious Lamb – the Lion of the tribe of Judah.
“Whoever is victorious,” the LORD Jesus would often say of the saint, during the church age. Victory is in holding on to the name of Jesus even when it pains. Victory is saying Jesus is LORD even when it means death. Victory means saying no to Balaam and Jezebel’s teachings.
The Lamb was slain in a transaction that brought back men and women from every tribe, language, nation, and race. These people become a kingdom of priests to serve our God. And guess what, they also shall rule the earth. John has referenced God’s original plan for mankind.
Check this song: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Count these items; they are seven. Could this be the seven seals on the scroll? Verse 12.
Power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise – Exclusive ownership!
Revelation makes you wipe your eyes. Have you seen correctly? Is this the same Jesus who humanity spat on? The name humanity won’t honor, how dare!
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