Revelation 5:1-10 – The Lamb Who Is Worthy

BIBLE TEXT

Revelation 5:1-10

SUMMARY

In John’s vision the conquering Lion of Judah is equated to a slaughtered Lamb. This Lamb is the only one worthy to open a sealed scroll given by God.

ANALYSIS

John hears a heavenly elder speak about the Lion of Judah, an expression that recalls God’s promise to send a powerful king from David’s line, who would build the kingdom of God (Genesis 49:9-10). When John turns to see the Lion, however, he sees a Lamb, standing as if it had been slaughtered. The image of the slaughtered Lamb recalls the Passover, when the blood of lambs protected people from the power of the destroyer (Exodus 12:1-13). It also recalls how God’s servant in the book of Isaiah was like a lamb that bore human sin (Isaiah 53:6-7). God keeps the promise concerning the Lion by sending the Lamb, for it is through Christ’s sacrifice that the power of God is unleashed. The heavenly company gives praise because the blood of the Lamb builds God’s kingdom by ransoming people of every tribe and nation for lives of service to God.