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Revelation 5 – The Worthy Lamb Opens the Plan
Heaven weeps not because God’s plan is lost, but because no one is found worthy to open the scroll. Then enters the Lamb that was slain, standing as though He had been killed, it seems contradictory on the surface, but holds a deeper truth when understood rightly, this is power through sacrifice. This is Jesus, the Lion who conquered by laying down His life as the Lamb.
The sealed scroll is God's redemptive plan and only Jesus can open it because only He fulfilled it. The worship that erupts in heaven isn’t about fear it’s about the Lamb who made us kings and priests through His blood.
This chapter is a declaration: Jesus is the center of God’s purpose. The Cross wasn't a reaction it was the plan. Redemption has a name, and that name is Jesus.
Revelation 5 unveils the heart of redemption: the sealed scroll in God’s hand can be opened by no one except the Lamb who was slain. The finished work of Jesus is center stage, only His sacrifice is worthy to reveal God’s plan and bring His purposes to fulfillment. The Bride’s identity is forged here: made kings and priests, redeemed from every nation by the blood of Jesus. False religion is silenced as all of heaven and earth worship the Lamb, declaring that victory and destiny belong to Him alone, not to human effort, rituals, or worldly power.
“of him that sat on the throne”
The Book (scroll) is in the Father’s hand, this shows that the source of all revelation, authority, and final judgment rests with God the Father. Only the Father has full knowledge of the “hour” Matthew 24:36: “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” Jesus was referring the moment of atonement on the cross.
“right hand”
Right hand in Hebrew/Greek is the position of authority, power, and honor (Psalm 110:1). The Father entrusts the revelation to the Son as the only worthy one.
“sat”
Sat, Greek: kathēmenos, to be seated, to dwell, to rule from a place of authority and rest. God’s throne is “fixed” and His presence abides eternally (Revelation 21:3, “the tabernacle of God is with men”). God in us the hope of glory! We are the dwelling place of God!
“a book written within and on the backside”
A scroll Jesus Himself) Written inside (the fullness of the covenant and redemption plan within Jesus) and on the outside (all is complete, nothing left out or hidden; total fulfillment in Jesus). This points to the finished, comprehensive revelation of God’s plan, nothing more can be added (compare Revelation 22:18–19).
“sealed”
Sealed, Authenticated, protected, marked with the King’s signet, cannot be opened except by the authorized One. In ancient times, a sealed scroll could only be opened by the heir or the king himself.
“seven seals”
Seven, The number of fullness, perfection, spiritual completion. Only Jesus (the Lamb) is worthy to break the seals and reveal the mystery of redemption and judgment (see Revelation 5:5–7).
The scroll is the Father’s “title deed” to creation and redemption, entrusted to the Son. “Sealed” matches the New Covenant seal on the believer’s forehead (see Ephesians 1:13, Revelation 7:3); only those sealed by the Spirit are marked as God’s. Jesus, as the slain Lamb, is the only one worthy to open the book "Jesus opening Himself up for us", showing He fulfilled the Old Testament prophecy (Isaiah 29:11–12, What was once closed is now open in Jesus”).
Revelation 1:1 – The revelation comes from the Father, given to the Son.
Matthew 24:36 – Only the Father knows the hour.
Psalm 110:1 – The right hand is the seat of power.
Ephesians 1:20–22 – Christ at the right hand of God.
Revelation 22:18–19 – Nothing added or taken from God’s finished book.
Ephesians 1:13 – Believers are sealed with the Spirit.
Isaiah 29:11–12 – The sealed book, opened only by the worthy.
The scroll in the Father’s hand shows that all of God’s eternal plan is complete and secure in Him. The seven seals reveal it is perfectly finished, awaiting only the worthy One, Jesu the Lamb, to open and fulfill. Those sealed by Him bear the King’s sign of approval, just as the scroll is sealed with divine authority. This is the proof and security of our redemption in Jesus!
Colossians 1:27
“To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
1 Corinthians 3:16
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?”
1 Corinthians 6:19
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?”
Ephesians 2:21–22
“In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.”
Ezekiel 37:27
“My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”
Leviticus 26:11–12
“And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you.
And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.”
John 14:23
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.”
2 Corinthians 3:18
“But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
Romans 8:9–11
“But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.
Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
And if Christ be in you… the Spirit is life because of righteousness.”
Revelation 21:3
“And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”
God’s ultimate purpose has always been to dwell with His people, not in a building made with hands, but within the hearts of believers. Through Jesus’ finished work, we are now the temple and dwelling place of God’s Spirit, this is our hope and the revealed glory!
of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside
"of Him" The Book is in The Fathers hand that gives Jesus the Revelation as we see in Revelation 1:1 - Indicate to " the hour only the Father knows!"
'right hand' place of authority and honour!
"sat" fixed abode, to dwell, refer to God's throne in us!
"sealed" authenticated, signet ring, proof! We see the seal on the believers foreheads as the Kings sign of approval!
Ezekiel 2:9–10 — “…a roll of a book… written within and without…”
Daniel 12:4 — “…shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end.”
Revelation 5:1
1 God Judgement -The Living Word -The Chastisement Seals!
1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.
"Throne" / "He that sitteth on the throne"
Rev 3:21 – Jesus promises the overcomers to sit with Him on His throne.
Rev 4:2, 5:1, 6:16, 7:15, 20:11, 22:1 – Throne becomes central to heavenly scenes.
The promise to reign with Christ is fulfilled in the vision.
book written within:
Jesus the Living Book, Jesus is the book held in the hand of God in Revelation 5 the living scroll in whom the full message of salvation is written. The mystery of redemption is written within Him, for He is the Word made flesh. The scroll is said to be written within and on the backside, and this “backside” points to His visible suffering the physical wounds He bore for our healing. As Isaiah declared, “By His stripes we are healed, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him.” The seven seals upon the scroll symbolize the seven-fold assaults on His body the price paid to make the Gospel known. Only the Lamb who was slain is worthy to open the book, only Jesus was sinless and became sin for us, only He alone could bore the seals in His flesh and fulfilled its message with His blood.
Connecting Revelation 5, Isaiah 53, and the passion of Jesus
Revelation 5:1
Colossians 2:3 “In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”
Stripes on His back – scourging
Bruised and beaten – face and body
Crown of thorns – head
Pierced hands and feet
Beard plucked
Spit upon and mocked
Spear in His side
See Addendum- Isaiah 53:5:
The seven seals is physical marks of redemptive suffering that sealed the scroll of Jesus life. No one could “open” the fullness of salvation until those seals were broken through His death and resurrection. Only the Lamb Can Open the Scroll.
Revelation 5:9:
“Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain...”
The Lamb is worthy because He was slain the breaking of the seals is His suffering. His resurrection is the opening of the scroll and the revelation of God’s redemptive mystery now unsealed and proclaimed to the world.
Jesus is the Living Scroll:
The Book
Jesus Himself is the embodiment of God’s redemptive Word (John 1:1,14)
Written within
The hidden mystery of salvation inside Jesus (Col. 1:26–27)
Written on the backside
The visible suffering of His wounds, stripes, bruises (Isaiah 53:5)
Sealed with 7 seals
Seven physical punishments marking His body (Rev. 6:1, Isaiah 50:6)
Opened by the Lamb
Jesus opens the way of salvation through His death and resurrection
After His resurrection, He alone is worthy to open the scroll, because He bore it in His body. His wounds become witnesses and proof of His authority to open redemption to the world.
No man is worthy:
God searched all creation and couldn't find a man without sin, no man, angel, or created being could open the sealed book of destiny and redemption. This emphasizes humanity’s total inability to redeem itself.
Only the Son (Jesus) can open it:
The Lamb of God, the only sinless one, the perfect sacrifice, stands alone as the One worthy to approach the Father and break the seals.
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
“Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).
“Strong” (firm and sure):
Holy Spirit making this proclamation is a symbol of divine authority and certainty. The call goes out powerfully, this is not a timid question, but a bold, heaven-shaking challenge.
“Proclaiming” (authority to be listened to and obeyed):
This voice carries commanding authority, it’s not a suggestion. All of heaven and earth must pay attention, because this moment concerns all creation.
“Loud” (great voice, compass large space, stature and age):
The loud voice is comes from the creator, God of age, God encompass all space, God of stature!
The “loud voice” is not just a volume but a cosmic declaration. It comes from the Creator Himself, the God of all ages, who spans eternity (“the Ancient of Days”), fills all space (“heaven is my throne, earth is my footstool”), and holds all authority and stature. This voice shakes heaven and earth because it is the voice of the One who called all things into being and whose word cannot be ignored ( Psalm 29:3–9, Isaiah 66:1). This is Jesus the all-encompassing, ageless voice of God, the Creator and Judge, announcing a work only He can accomplish. It signals that what is about to happen is of eternal importance and cannot be resisted or ignored by any power in heaven or earth.
Psalm 29:3–4: “The voice of the Lord is upon the waters: the God of glory thundereth… The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.”
Isaiah 66:1: “Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool…”
Daniel 7:9: “…the Ancient of days did sit…”
Revelation 1:10: “I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet…”
“Worthy” (befitting, deserving, fit):
The question is about purity and worth of atoning blood, who is fit to open the seals and inherit the kingdom? Only Jesus, the Lamb who was slain. God Himself came in the form of the Son in flesh!
“Loose” (unbind, release, break, dissolve, overthrow):
To “loose the seals” means to release the mystery of God’s plan, to break the power of sin and death, to overthrow the bondage holding creation captive.
Hebrews 2:14–15
“…that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”
Romans 8:19–21
“…the creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed… because the creation itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption…”
Revelation 5:5
“…the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.”
The angel’s mighty cry reveals the desperate need for a worthy Redeemer. Jesus alone is worthy, not because of might, but because of His perfect love and obedience. He alone can open the way to God’s glory with His blood, fulfill all prophecy, and unleash the victory of salvation for all creation.
Who is worthy to open the book
God finds no man without sin, only the Son can be the offer.
"strong" firm and sure!
"proclaiming" authority to be listen to and obeyed!
"loud" or great voice, compass large space, stature and old age!
to loose the seals thereof?
The seal is the glory of God open to man.
"worthy" befitting and worthy!
"loose" unbound, release from, break, dissolve, to overthrow!
Isaiah 29:11–12 — “…the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed…”
Daniel 7:16 — heavenly attendants questioned about visions.
Revelation 5:2
2 God Spirit Voice- Who is Worthy to Atone!
2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?
“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.”
Revelation 5 and Isaiah 6
In Revelation 5, a strong angel cries, “Who is worthy to open the book?” and no one is found. Silence and sorrow fill heaven. In Isaiah 6, the Lord’s voice thunders, “Whom shall I send?” and Isaiah trembles, aware of his unworthiness. In Revelation, the Lamb steps forward, He is worthy, for He was slain and has redeemed. In Isaiah, a seraph touches Isaiah’s lips with fire, he is cleansed, and responds, “Here am I, send me.” The call in heaven finds its answer in the Lamb. The call from God finds its shadow in Isaiah, a type of Jesus, willing and sent. In both, the answer to heaven’s cry is the mission of redemption.
Isaiah is a willing servant, but still a man needing cleansing (Isa. 6:5–7). Jesus, the true Holy Servant (Acts 3:13), is the only one truly worthy not just to go on behalf of God, but to open the scroll, redeem mankind, and reveal the fullness of God’s plan.
Ezekiel 22:30 :
“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me... but I found none.”
God looked for someone to intervene but none were worthy until Jesus.
Isaiah 59:16 :
“And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore his arm brought salvation unto him…”
God's own arm (symbol of Jesus) brought salvation because no one else could.
In Revelation 5:2, the angel’s question “Who is worthy?” is not just dramatic it's a heavenly echo of God's eternal question throughout Scripture: “Who will go for us? Who can redeem? Who can open the way?” The answer is the same in every age: only Jesus, the slain Lamb, steps forward.
“To open the book, neither to look thereon”
No man, no angel, prophet, or saint was found worthy to even look upon the book, let alone open it. This “look” is not just physical sight; it’s the spiritual power to face, understand, and bear the weight of the world’s sin and the unveiled glory of God.
The Greek (blepō/blepsein) implies:
To perceive with the senses, to discern deeply, to understand by experience, to face and weigh carefully. In other words, to “look thereon” is to confront the totality of human brokenness and the holy demands of divine justice. Only One could withstand that gaze, Jesus who took the full measure of sin and the full revelation of God’s glory upon Himself at the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21, Hebrews 1:3, John 1:14).
Exodus 33:20: “Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.”
John 1:18: “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son… he hath declared him.”
2 Corinthians 5:21: “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin…”
Hebrews 1:3: “Who being the brightness of his glory… when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.”
to open the book, neither to look thereon
No man can carry the weight of sin of the world and look upon the Glory of the Lord.
"look" power to see, perceive by senses, to know by experience, power of understanding ,to weight carefully, facing it , turn to any quarter! This look is not any type of look, this is facing a spiritual force that as broken and dismantled mankind for thousands of years, this is why only God in the form of the Son Jesus could deal with the magnitude of the situation of sin and death.
"read" to distinguish between, accurately, to acknowledge! This is no normal reading, only a true and righteous just heart can read like this, Jesus and Him crucified accurately measured and weight and judged our sin in grace and then in His purity paid and covered it with his blood!
Isaiah 59:16 — “…he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor…”
Ezekiel 22:30 — “…I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge… but I found none.”
Revelation 5:3
3 Only the Son—Who is in the Bosom of the Father was able to Atone!
3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.
In-in-under:
God's sovereign rule over these three “realms”or“dimensions.” God’s Authority in Heaven, Earth, and Under the Earth
Heaven is The Spiritual Realm, God’s primary dwelling place, the invisible realm of angels and spiritual beings.
Psalm 103:19:
“The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
1 Kings 8:27:
“...doth heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee...”
God’s ultimate authority and throne is in heaven, the spiritual dimension where His presence is fully manifest.
Earth is The Natural Realm, the physical world where humans live, the visible creation.
Deuteronomy 10:14:
“Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the LORD’s thy God, the earth also...” God is “in” the earth in the sense of sustaining, governing, and interacting with His creation (Psalm 139:7–10). Yet He transcends it; heaven is His primary realm.
Under the Earth is The Realm of the Dead and the Spiritual Underworld, this includes Sheol (the grave), death, and places of spiritual bondage.
Psalm 86:13:
“For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.” (“lowest hell” = Sheol, underworld)
Jonah 2:2:
“Out of the belly of hell cried I...” — showing God’s authority even there.
Job 26:6:
“Hell is naked before him, and destruction hath no covering.”
Isaiah 14:9:
“Hell from beneath is moved for thee...”
Deuteronomy 32:39:
“See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand.”
Implies authority over life and death over earth and under earth.
Psalm 139:8:
“If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.”
God’s presence fills all realms.
Job 1:6; 2:1
The “sons of God” (angels) present before the Lord in heaven, showing the spiritual court where God exercises authority.
The phrase “in the earth” or “in the world” often implies presence within the created natural order, meaning God can and does dwell within creation’s confines (Psalm 139:7–10). However, God is also “above” or “over” the earth (Psalm 103:19), ruling from heaven, transcendent but also immanent.
No man can “enter” heaven naturally (John 3:13), but Jesus did, the only one to enter from heaven into the earthly realm and then descend into the underworld (1 Peter 3:18–20; Ephesians 4:9).
Jesus is the only One who has traversed these realms fully: Came from heaven (John 6:38), Lived and died on earth, Descended under the earth (Sheol/Hades) after death (Acts 2:27; 1 Peter 3:18–20). Rose and ascended back to heaven (Acts 1:9) This unique passage affirms His authority over all three realms.
Heaven
Spiritual realm, God’s throne
Psalm 103:19; 1 Kings 8:27
God’s dwelling, angelic beings
Earth
Physical world, natural realm
Deut. 10:14; Psalm 139:7–10
God sustains and governs creation
Under the Earth
Realm of the dead, Sheol, Hades
Psalm 86:13; Jonah 2:2; Job 26:6
God’s power over death, Jesus descent
God’s sovereignty encompasses all realms, spiritual, natural, and subterranean. The only One who fully travel across them is Jesus, the eternal King, who went from heaven, into earth, and beneath the earth and conquering death and hell by His resurrection. Only the Son who is in the bosom of the Father has the authority to ascend to heaven and reveal heavenly mysteries. He alone came down from heaven, lived on earth, and ascended again to the Father’s side.
“No man was found worthy…”
What no human could accomplish, overcoming sin, fulfilling the Law, and opening the way to God, Jesus alone has done. He alone is found “worthy,” a term rich with meaning: Worthy (Greek: axios) = having true weight, value, and price in God’s eyes. In ancient times, worthy referred to a coin or offering “measured and found sufficient,” or a person “fit” for the honor or burden placed upon them.
In Revelation, “worthiness” is the key:
The Lamb is “worthy” (Rev. 5:9, 5:12) because His sacrifice fully satisfies the demands of righteousness and justice. Only Jesus’ blood could “weigh enough” to redeem us ( 1 Peter 1:18–19).
Why “weight” and “measure” matter:
God’s judgments and blessings are always measured (Rev. 6:6, “a measure of wheat…”; Rev. 11:1, “rise and measure the temple…”). Our worthiness comes not from ourselves, but from the imputed value of Jesus’ blood (Romans 3:24–26).
Revelation 5:9, 12 – “Worthy is the Lamb… for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us…”
1 Peter 1:18–19 – “Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things…but with the precious blood of Christ…”
Romans 3:24–26 – “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus…”
Revelation 6:6 – “A measure of wheat for a penny…” (God always deals in true weights and balances—see also Proverbs 11:1).
Jesus is the only One who “measures up.” By His worth, we are now declared righteous and made “worthy” to stand before God. Revelation’s repeated use of “weight” and “measure” underscores that our value and acceptance are not based on our own effort, but on the priceless offering of Jesus. Through Him, what we could never do, we now become, holy, pure, and worthy in God’s sight.
no man was found worthy
What we could not do, He has made us to become! Holy and pure before Him, worthy and righteous now in Jesus.
"worthy" having weight, worth in value of Jesus blood to pay for sin, befitting, merited, agreement, harmony! This is why we see in Revelation weight and measure a lot, it refer to worthiness and ability!
Revelation 5:4
4 Wept Much-Sinful Man Cannot Atone!
4 And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.
The Scroll and the Inability of Sinful Man (Revelation 5:3) This verse highlights the total spiritual inability of fallen man to access, understand, or
“No man was found worthy”
Sinful man cannot accomplish the atonement
No human, no matter how righteous by earthly standards, can offer what is required to redeem mankind. Only a sinless, divine Jesus could fulfill this. We see in the scriptures “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 and “There is none righteous, no, not one.” Romans 3:10
“To read the book”
Sinful man cannot comprehend the atonement
The mystery of redemption is sealed to human wisdom and understanding. Without the Spirit, even the greatest minds remain blind to its meaning. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God... because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14
“Neither to look thereon”
Sinful man is not pure enough to behold the holiness of the atonement
Even to gaze upon the fullness of God’s redemptive plan requires holiness. The unclean cannot even look at what only the Lamb is worthy to open. “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart…” Psalm 24:3–4
Only Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, was worthy: To do the atonement, to understand and declare it, and to reveal it to us. This is why the scroll of redemption remained sealed until the Lamb that was slain stepped forward. Jesus unique intimacy with the Father can be seen in: Only the Son who is in the bosom of the Father has the authority to ascend to heaven and reveal heavenly mysteries. He alone came down from heaven, lived on earth, and ascended again to the Father’s side.
In Revelation 5:3, it says: “And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.” This reveals two important truths:
The Book (Scroll) Cannot Be Opened by Human Effort
The full revelation of God’s redemptive plan is sealed, hidden, secure, and beyond human comprehension or power to unlock. No angel, no human, no created being can break the seals or understand the complete divine mystery on their own.
Jesus Must Reveal Himself
The scroll represents Jesus Himself and His work of salvation written within and on His body (the “backside” wounds). Jesus cannot be “opened” like a book by human effort; He must be revealed by God through the Spirit and prophetic vision.
“The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David”
This reveals Jesus as both the conquering King and the promised Messiah, fulfilling every Old Testament expectation.
Lion of the tribe of Judah
Jesus is the prophesied descendant of Judah (Genesis 49:9–10), the true King with the authority and power to save. The lion is a symbol of boldness, victory, and divine royalty, Jesus conquered not by violence, but by the cross.
Genesis 49:9–10 – “Judah is a lion’s whelp… The sceptre shall not depart from Judah… until Shiloh come.”
Hebrews 7:14 – “For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda…”
The Root of David
Jesus is both the descendant (shoot) and the origin (root) of David’s royal line, He is both before David and born from David, fully God and fully man.
Isaiah 11:1, 10 – “And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots…”
Revelation 22:16 – “I am the root and the offspring of David…”
“Prevailed” (Conquered):
Jesus is “worthy” because He overcame through obedience, humility, and self-sacrifice at the cross, not with earthly power, but by giving His life as the Lamb. His victory (“prevailed”) fulfills all God’s redemptive promises.
“Elders” — the Global Church:
The “elders” represent the Church in authority, those given rank, spiritual office, and the privilege of administering the affairs of God’s kingdom on earth (Matthew 19:28, 1 Peter 2:9). The 24 elders point to the unification of Old (12 tribes) and New (12 apostles) covenants in Jesus, now seated in council with Him.
The “Lion=Jesus” is the hero, the “Root” is the fulfillment, and the “Elders=Church/Bride” are the testimony, the global church exercising God’s rights through Jesus, as kings and priests.
Jesus, the Lion of Judah and Root of David, has prevailed where all else failed. By His cross, He is revealed as the only worthy King, uniting and empowering the global church (“elders”) to share in His authority and carry out the kingdom’s justice on earth. This is the message at the heart of Revelation: Jesus victorious, the Church enthroned, and every promise fulfilled in Him.
the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David
Jesus Son of man, the blood line of David prevailed! Jesus was worthy and conquered the cross!
"elders" rank of office, great council, manage affairs, administered justice, Sanhedrin! Do You see? The 24 elders is the global church exercising God's rights of his kingdom on earth!
"Lion" brave and mighty hero!
"root" sprout from David!
Genesis 49:9–10 — Judah as a lion; the scepter will not depart.
Isaiah 11:1, 10 — “…there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse… a root of Jesse…”
Revelation 5:5
5 Jesus Won – Son of David Atone!
5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
Old Testament scriptures parallel and foreshadow this moment, where a victorious figure from Judah or David’s line brings redemption or opens divine purpose.
“Judah is a lion’s whelp... The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come...”
“Lion of the tribe of Judah” comes directly from this prophecy. Judah is prophetically linked to kingship, authority, and Messiah.
“Shiloh” is understood to mean “the one to whom it belongs” a messianic title. Fulfilled in Jesus, who now holds the scepter (authority) and opens the sealed scroll.
“And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots...” and “In that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people…”
“Root of David” is drawn directly from Isaiah’s prophecy. Emphasizes Jesus as both offspring and origin of David and fully man, fully divine. This Root will rule with righteousness and judge the earth and clearly fulfilled in the Lamb who is also the Lion.
“Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion... Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee... I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance…”
The Son is enthroned with power and victory. He is the one to rule, inherit, and break open the nations just as the Lamb opens the sealed book.
“And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall shut...”
Symbolic of authority to open that which no one else can. Jesus applies this to Himself in Revelation 3:7, and again in 5:5, He opens what no man could.
“Lion of the tribe of Judah”
Genesis 49:9–10
Messiah’s kingly line and conquering authority
“Root of David”
Isaiah 11:1, 10
The promised Branch from Jesse’s line, divine and royal
“Hath prevailed”
Psalm 2:6–9; Isaiah 22:22
The Son receives dominion and opens what none can
John is invited to see into the deepest reality, he doesn’t just look with natural eyes, but perceives spiritually, becoming truly acquainted with the mystery God reveals.
Ephesians 1:18 — “The eyes of your understanding being enlightened…”
1 John 1:1 — “Which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled…”
Jesus is at the absolute center, of the throne (God’s authority), the four living creatures (Spirit-filled Church), and the elders (the Bride in council). This shows Jesus united with His Church in authority and purpose.
Revelation 7:17 — “The Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them…”
Ephesians 2:6 — “And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”
Ephesians 5:30 — “For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.”
The throne speaks of power, government, and dominion. The earth is His footstool, He rules over all, and by uniting us with Him, He extends that rule to the Bride.
Psalm 110:1 — “The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.”
Isaiah 66:1 — “Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool…”
These are not monsters, but living beings, representing the living Church, empowered by the Spirit and full of the Word, bearing witness to Jesus on earth.
Ezekiel 1:5 — “Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures…”
Revelation 4:6 — “Four beasts full of eyes before and behind…”
Jesus is not apart from His Church, but enthroned among the elders, those given spiritual rank and the authority to govern in the Spirit as a “spiritual Sanhedrin.” This is the New Testament reality: the global Church sits in council with Jesus, representing Him on earth.
Revelation 4:4 — “And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting…”
1 Corinthians 6:2 — “Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world?”
The Lamb “as it had been slain” reveals Jesus, God in the flesh, as the only worthy sacrifice, He alone could take the punishment for sin and open the way to God.
Isaiah 53:5 — “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities…”
1 Peter 1:19 — “But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot…”
Horns are symbols of power, kingship, and authority. Jesus, the slain Lamb, now wears all crowns as King of Kings, He is mighty to save, and through Him we are more than conquerors.
Habakkuk 3:4 — “He had horns coming out of his hand: and there was the hiding of his power.”
Revelation 17:14 — “He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.”
The seven eyes are perfect spiritual sight, wisdom, and understanding, the fullness of the Spirit resting on Jesus, seeing every need for judgment and grace.
Isaiah 11:2 — “The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him… of wisdom and understanding… of counsel and might… knowledge and the fear of the Lord.”
Zechariah 4:10 — “They are the eyes of the Lord, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”
The seven Spirits (the fullness of the Holy Spirit) are sent into all the earth, Jesus, by His atonement, released the Spirit to bring liberty, revelation, and empowerment to every believer.
John 16:7 — “If I depart, I will send him [the Comforter] unto you.”
Luke 4:18 — “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor… to set at liberty them that are bruised…”
Revelation 5:6 unveils Jesus as the slain Lamb, perfectly enthroned with and within His Church, the living Sanhedrin. Through His sacrifice, Jesus alone is worthy to take the scroll, wielding all power (horns), perfect wisdom (eyes), and sending forth His Spirit to unite and empower the Bride on earth. We share in His victory and authority, not separate from Him, but as one body, one council, and one throne.
it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes,
Jesus the lamb received His crown as King of kings and the shofars blast His victory!
"beheld" to see, perceive in mind, become acquainted with!
"lo" see! "John sayin I looked and looked"
"midst" middle and amongst! "state of importance to occupy the throne in middle or amongst, the Word represented in Jesus"
"throne" having a footstool! "earth is my footstool"
"beast" a living being!
"and in the midst of the elders" This indicate Jesus and His Church as on united by His Word on the throne. Do you see it?
"elders" Spiritual Sanhedrin, meaning judges and council! Refer to the Church representing God on earth, this reveal the power of the church given by Jesus. Stop saying do not judge, it's from hell, you are called to judge. Judgement is love!
"slain" put to death by violence, mortally wounded! The lamb represent Jesus- God in the flesh.
"horns" symbol of strength and courage, mighty and valiant, author of deliverance! Jesus mighty to save!
"eyes" to know, the mind can see! Jesus perfect "7" in mind to see salvation and measures needed to be taken for judgement in grace.
"sent forth" appointed place, to be in liberty! Jesus send a appointed time to bring liberty.
Exodus 12:5–6 — the Passover lamb without blemish, slain.
Isaiah 53:7 — “…he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter…”
Zechariah 3:9 — “…upon one stone shall be seven eyes…”
Zechariah 4:10 — “…the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”
Revelation 5:6
6 Gospel and Church Testify – Lamb Atoned-Crowned as Kings with the Seven Fold Nature of Holy Spirit-New Earth has Come!
6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.
it had been slain:
Isaiah 53:7
“He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.” This is the clearest Old Testament prophecy connecting the Messiah to a lamb being slain. The language of "slaughter" directly connects with the image in Revelation 5:6 “a Lamb as it had been slain.”
Exodus 12:5–6 – The Passover Lamb
“Your lamb shall be without blemish... And ye shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month: and the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.” This points to the Passover lamb, a prophetic shadow of Jesus. Jesus is called “Christ our Passover [who] is sacrificed for us” (1 Cor. 5:7). The slain lamb in Revelation fulfills the image of the sacrificial lamb in Exodus.
seven horns - seven eyes,- seven Spirits - sent all the earth:
Jesus power and omniscient Spirit, first to judge and then to extend grace to the earth:
Revelation 5:6 — Seven Horns and Seven Eyes
“...a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.”
This describes Jesus, the slain yet exalted Lamb, empowered by the fullness of the Spirit of God. The seven horns and seven eyes symbolize both perfect authority and perfect spiritual perception and divine judgment and divine grace operating together.
See: Addendum-The Lamb’s Crown
In Scripture, a horn often symbolizes power, kingship, or dominion (Daniel 7:24; Psalm 132:17). Seven horns means complete, divine power, Jesus authority to judge righteously. John 5:22 “For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son.”
Eyes in prophetic language speak of knowledge, discernment, and spiritual awareness (Zechariah 4:10). The seven eyes are defined in the verse: “the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth” that is, the fullness of the Holy Spirit working through Jesus.
These are not seven different Spirits, but rather the sevenfold nature of the Holy Spirit, as described in Isaiah 11:2: “And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of:
the Lord
wisdom
understanding
counsel
might
knowledge
and of the fear of the Lord.”
These express how Jesus, through His Spirit: Judges the earth with righteous power and discernment, extends grace through the Spirit's counsel, knowledge, and fear of the Lord.
Seven Horns
Perfect power and authority
Jesus judges righteously (John 5:22; Psalm 2:9)
Seven Eyes
Perfect spiritual perception
Jesus sees every heart and motive (Rev. 2:23)
Seven Spirits of God
Fullness of the Holy Spirit (Isa. 11:2)
Jesus operates in grace, wisdom, and truth
The Lamb who was slain now stands in perfect power and perfect Spirit. He judges the world not like men do, but through divine justice and mercy. His Spirit searches all things, convicts the heart, and brings healing. The sevenfold Spirit sent forth into all the earth is the living proof that grace and truth came by Jesus (John 1:17).
The word “came” (Greek: erchomai) means to appear, to arise, to come into being. This is the eternal Word of God manifesting as a man, Jesus enters history, fulfilling the promise of redemption.
John 1:14 “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
Hebrews 2:14 “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same…”
Galatians 4:4 “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law…”
“Took” (Greek: lambano) means to take up, carry, take upon oneself, to associate with. Jesus willingly took up the cross, bore our sin, and became fully identified with our humanity, so that He could fulfill the will of the Father and complete the atonement.
Isaiah 53:4 “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows…”
2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
John 10:17–18 “I lay down my life, that I might take it again… No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself…”
The “right hand” is the place of highest honor, authority, and power, Jesus is entrusted with all judgment, all dominion, and the completion of God’s redemptive plan.
Psalm 110:1 “The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.”
Hebrews 1:3 “…when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.”
Ephesians 1:20–22 “…and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power…”
The “book” here (scroll) is more than just a document, it is the legal record, the title deed, and also, as you insightfully point out, the bill of divorce. By taking this scroll, Jesus is both fulfilling and annulling the old covenant, signing the new covenant in His own blood.
Jeremiah 3:8 “And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce…”
Hebrews 8:13 “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.”
Colossians 2:14 “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us… and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.”
Revelation 5:7 shows Jesus, the incarnate Word, coming forward at the appointed time to receive from the Father’s hand all authority, judgment, and redemption. He takes up the scroll (the full record of God’s will, both promise and judgment), not only as Redeemer but as the One who fulfilled, annulled, and replaced the old covenant with a new one signed in His blood.
took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
Jesus took the Revelation from God's hand to receive the name above all and all kingdoms and authority!
"came" appear, arise, come into being! Jesus salvation message is found even in the use of meaning of words, we see Jesus here born as man and rose in power.
"took" to take up, to carry, to take upon, to associate! Jesus took up His cross, took sin upon Himself and associate with us in flesh to do atonement!
"book" Bill of divorce! This is the annulment of the old covenant signed with Jesus blood Himself.
Daniel 7:13–14 — “…one like the Son of man came… and there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom.”
Psalm 110:1 — “…Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.”
Revelation 5:7
7 Obedience Atoned- Lamb took the Judgement but also Received Authority!
7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne:
At first, the scroll was held in the right hand of the Father the hand of authority, justice, and divine expectation. But no one in heaven or earth was worthy even to touch, let alone open, the scroll. This represents the full weight of judgment and redemption, the sealed purpose of God that demanded both sacrifice and righteousness. Then, in fulfillment of the promise, the Son said, “Send Me” (Isaiah 6:8; Psalm 40:7–8; Hebrews 10:5–10). He came as the Lamb, suffered humiliation, and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice. Having triumphed through obedience unto death, He returned not only as the Lion of Judah, but in greater glory, now fully worthy to take the scroll. He is no longer just the Redeemer, but the owner of the scroll. He is the living embodiment of both judgment and mercy, the fulfillment of all the Father’s will. In doing so Jesus unified Himself with the Father and included us in the act. The scroll is the very Revelation Jesus received from God the Father in Revelation 1:1, what is the Revelation then? Jesus opened the scroll and read "Judgment upon you!" The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him "Jesus" to show His servants...
“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.”
This is a prophetic picture of Jesus voluntary mission: Though Isaiah is responding in his own context, this verse echoes the heavenly call, ultimately fulfilled by Jesus, the only one who could truly go and accomplish redemption.
7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me,
8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.
This messianic prophecy shows the Son’s willingness to obey the Father's will. The "volume of the book" connects directly to the scroll in the Father's hand in Revelation 5. Jesus is the person the scroll speaks of and He fulfills it by coming to do the will of God.
5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
8 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law;
9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
This is the New Testament fulfillment of both Isaiah 6 and Psalm 40. Jesus became the Lamb, not through coercion, but through willing obedience. This is why He is found worthy to take the scroll, for He fulfilled the will written within it, not just in word, but in blood.
In Revelation 5:7, we witness the Messiah unifying Himself fully with the Father, stepping forward to take the book from His hand not by force, but by right of sacrifice. This moment reveals not only His authority but His complete oneness with the Father's will (Psalm 40:7–8; Hebrews 10:7–10). Through the cross, Jesus not only fulfilled divine justice but also secured our reconciliation with God (Colossians 1:20; John 17:21–23). The Lamb is worthy to open the book, not just to read its judgments, but to transform them through grace. What was sealed in mystery and wrath is now unveiled through the lens of mercy, because the Lamb who was slain has overcome. In His hands, the scroll becomes the unfolding of redemption, where justice and grace are no longer in conflict, but perfected in the finished work of Jesus.
“Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.”
This Messianic psalm reveals Jesus deep unity with the Father’s will. He comes willingly, with the law (truth) in His heart, to fulfill God’s redemptive plan. Hebrews 10:5–10 later applies this directly to Jesus and connects it to His sacrifice as what ultimately unites us to God.
Jesus prays to the Father that His followers would be united to Him and to the Father just as He and the Father are one. This is the clearest statement of Jesus desire to bring us into divine union through His sacrifice and resurrection.
“...when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin… he shall see his seed… by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.”
Jesus, as the Suffering Servant, offers Himself and thereby justifies many bringing them into righteousness before God. This is how unity is achieved through the bearing of sin, and the impartation of righteousness.
“But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ… For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.” (vv.13, 18)
Through the blood of Jesus, we are brought near, both Jew and Gentile. He reconciles us to God, removing the barrier of sin and division, and granting access to the Father.
“And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself…” and “...yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable…”
Jesus unifies all things to Himself and to God. Through His death, He brings peace, reconciliation, and union between God and man.
These scriptures reveal that Jesus did not act independently, His mission was to fulfill the Father’s will, and in doing so, to draw us into the same unity that He shares with the Father. This is the heart of the Gospel: Jesus, by sacrifice, becomes the bridge of perfect unity between God and man. A pivotal moment of divine unity:
Revelation 5:7 “And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.” This act is deeply symbolic: The Lamb (Jesus) approaches the Father (the One on the throne) and takes the scroll, a sign of Perfect unity of will (Psalm 40:7–8), Fulfillment of divine purpose (Isaiah 53:10), Full authority granted through obedience and sacrifice (Hebrews 10:9–10)
Psalm 40:7–8
"Lo, I come... I delight to do thy will..."
Jesus comes forward in Revelation 5:7, not as a rival, but as the perfect Servant-Son, ready to fulfill the will of the Father by taking the scroll and executing its purpose.
Hebrews 10:7–10
"I come to do thy will, O God... by which will we are sanctified..."
Jesus takes the scroll because He alone fulfilled God’s will through sacrifice. His unity with the Father’s purpose makes Him worthy to open and execute redemption.
John 17:21–23
"...that they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee..."
Jesus taking the scroll shows oneness with the Father. And by taking it on our behalf, He is also drawing us into that divine unity (through the Spirit).
Isaiah 53:10–11
"...he shall see his seed... and justify many..."
Because Jesus suffered in obedience, He is now exalted to take the scroll of destiny. The act of taking the scroll is a result of His self-offering.
Ephesians 2:13–18 & Colossians 1:19–22
"...made peace through the blood of his cross..."
The scroll represents the full plan of redemption. Jesus takes it because His cross-work has reconciled and qualified Him to bring heaven and earth together under God’s reign.
In Revelation 5:7, the Lamb taking the scroll from the right hand of the Father is the ultimate sign of divine unity. It confirms that Jesus, by His sacrifice, has aligned Himself perfectly with the will of the Father (Psalm 40:7–8; Hebrews 10), and in doing so, has secured our unity with God (John 17:21; Col. 1:20). This moment isn’t just authority being passed, it’s a declaration of completed redemption, where judgment and grace meet in the hand of the Lamb. Now, the plan of God can move forward, because the One who fulfilled it is now ready to reveal and execute it.
The word “vial” in Revelation (Greek: phialē / φιάλη) is not what most modern readers imagine, a narrow-necked bottle or test tube. Instead, it refers to a broad, shallow bowl or sometimes a deep saucer. This is actually very symbolic and intentional!
Meaning in the Ancient World:
Phialē was a libation bowl in Greek and Roman worship. It was used to pour out drink offerings (wine, oil, or blood) on an altar, never for drinking, always for pouring out. The broader the bowl, the more surface area, so the contents could be poured out quickly, dramatically, and completely. A deep saucer can hold more, but still has an open top, nothing hidden or restricted, easy to pour out at once.
Symbolism in Revelation:
The vials are not for storage, they are for outpouring. God’s judgments or blessings are poured out in full, nothing held back.
Broader = Less Depth: When the bowl is wide and shallow, it empties all at once. This pictures the sudden, visible, and total outpouring of God’s action, no gradual drip, but a “sudden flood.”
Smaller = More Depth: If the bowl is smaller but deeper, it might hold less but is more concentrated. In ancient context, this could represent a more focused or intense act, but in Revelation the imagery is mostly of full, public, and complete pouring out.
Spiritual:
The “vials” are open, exposed, transparent, nothing is hidden. God’s dealings are visible, fair, and final.
The shallow bowl is emptied fully, just as Christ poured out His life (Philippians 2:17, Isaiah 53:12) and just as God’s judgments and blessings are poured out completely, no mixture, no holding back.
Leviticus 4:7, 4:18, 4:25 — The priest would pour the blood at the base of the altar from a bowl.
Psalm 75:8 — “For in the hand of the Lord there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he poureth out of the same…”
Revelation 16 — Each angel pours out a phialē (vial/bowl) upon the earth, no restraint, all is poured.
In Revelation, a vial is not a bottle but a broad, shallow bowl, a vessel designed for total outpouring. Its shape ensures that what’s inside is poured out quickly and completely, symbolizing the full, open, and final nature of God’s judgments or blessings. The design itself points to a spiritual reality: nothing is held back, nothing hidden, all is exposed and given in fullness, just as Jesus poured out His life for us.
This “bowl” image is all about completeness, the whole content is poured out at once, representing the finished, decisive acts of God.
Broad and shallow: The contents are poured out quickly, publicly, and all at once. Judgment on the world (those who reject God) is often described in Revelation as sudden, open, and without mixture of mercy. The “broadness” speaks of how many are affected (wide in scope), while the “shallowness” hints at no deep work within, these are judgments for those who remained on the outside, never entered into Jesus. This is consistent with passages like Revelation 16, where the vials are poured out in a way that’s visible to all, with devastating effect (see also Matthew 7:13–14, “broad is the way…”).
Small but deep: Fewer in number, but there is depth, the dealings of God in the heart of a believer are personal, intense, and transformative. The “deep” bowl could represent God’s refining fire or discipline in the lives of His children, sometimes intense, but always with purpose (Hebrews 12:6–11, Malachi 3:2–3). This is not judgment for condemnation, but for purification, deeper relationship, and fruitfulness (1 Peter 4:17, “judgment must begin at the house of God…”). The “depth” symbolizes that God goes deep into the heart, working below the surface (see Psalm 42:7, “deep calleth unto deep”).
Hebrews 12:6–7 – “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth… if ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons…”
Malachi 3:2–3 – “He is like a refiner’s fire… He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver…”
1 Peter 4:17 – “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God…”
Psalm 42:7 – “Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts…”
Revelation 16 – The vials are poured out broadly, affecting the unrepentant.
The shape and depth of the bowl or vial in scripture point to the nature of God’s dealings:
Broad and shallow for the world’s judgment (public, complete, without inner transformation).
Small but deep for believers (private, profound, refining work that goes beneath the surface).
This is a powerful picture of how God’s actions are always just and purposeful, different for those who are His and those who refuse Him.
The word is “lambanó” (λαμβάνω) which means:
to take (receive into one’s hands)
to claim (as in to rightfully possess)
to accept what is offered (not by force, but by appointment)
to admit, to receive, to welcome (voluntarily and without violence)
No Violence:
Jesus “takes” the book not by conquest, but by worthiness, He has prevailed by self-sacrifice, not by force.
Isaiah 53:7 “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth… he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter…”
John 10:18 “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself…”
Removes Sin:
In taking the book, Jesus “removes” the barrier of sin, He is the only One who can “take away the sin of the world.”
John 1:29 “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”
Hebrews 9:26 “…but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”
Claims Victory by Admission of Guilt:
He “claims” the right to open the scroll because He admitted guilt, not of His own sin, but by taking our guilt upon Himself.
2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin…”
Isaiah 53:6 “…the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
God Receives the Offering:
The Father “receives” the atonement, accepting the Lamb’s sacrifice on behalf of all.
Ephesians 5:2 “…Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.”
“Taken” in the hands of Jesus, means more than physical action; it is a spiritual transaction. He removes sin without violence, claims victory by taking our guilt, and the Father receives the offering in full. This word, seen throughout the Bible, is a thread that weaves together the story of atonement, redemption, and the worthiness of the Lamb.”
having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
Jesus is King!
"taken" without notion of violence, to remove ,to claim, to admit ,to receive what is offered! Jesus removed sin without violence, He claimed the guilt of sin, admit to the guilt of ours and God could receive what was offered as atonement!
"beast" living being, living Word of the gospel!
"elders" presbyteros, court seated on thrones! The church!
"harps" praises of God!
"prayer" proseuche (pros-yoo-khay) place set apart, supply of water, washing of hands, synagogue! Wonderful to see that prayer is the very same word refer to synagogue "house of prayer" where hands are washed from guilt and living water are gained form Jesus!
Psalm 141:2 — “…let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense…”
Exodus 30:34–36 — incense offered before the Lord.
Revelation 5:8
8 Lamb took Judgement-Living Word in Church -Heaven Open and New!
8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
The Worship of the Lamb
“The four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb…”
Four Beasts (Living Creatures) Represent the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) or the full testimony of Jesus declared to the world (Ezek. 1:10, Rev. 4:7). They declare the character and mission of Jesus.
Twenty-four Elders Represent the redeemed Church, built upon the foundation of the twelve tribes (Old Covenant) and twelve apostles (New Covenant) a symbolic image of the full Body of Jesus (Eph. 2:20, Rev. 21:12–14).
They fall before the Lamb Signifies the Church and the Word surrendering in total worship to Jesus, the sacrificed and victorious Son of God.
Harps is a symbol of worship and praise, representing joy, celebration, and harmony with God’s will (Ps. 33:2).
Golden vials of odors (incense) The prayers of the saints (Ps. 141:2). This shows the Church is full of devotion, intercession, and spiritual communion, flowing from the finished work of Jesus. The whole Body of Christ, Word and people all unite in holy worship, completely centered on the Lamb who was slain. Their prayers are not dead rituals but living communion. Prayer becomes the symbol of open heaven and torn vail.
Jesus has made all things new, a new covenant, a new heaven and a new earth, all established in one moment at the Cross!
“Song”
Greek: “ôdē” a lay, a poem to tell a story, or a song of praise about a person’s deeds. In this context, it’s the Church’s spiritual anthem, telling the story of redemption and celebrating the Worthy One.
Psalm 40:3: “And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God…”
“New”
Greek: kainos, new in kind, unprecedented, unheard of, unused, fresh. The work of Jesus at the cross created a reality the world had never known, a new covenant, new life.
Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I will do a new thing…”
2 Corinthians 5:17: “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away…”
“Worthy”
In harmony, befitting, of weight and value; what is agreed upon as sufficient to satisfy. Jesus alone was found worthy to pay the price, His worth is measured in the perfection of His life and sacrifice.
Philippians 2:9–11: “…God also hath highly exalted him…”
Revelation 5:12: “…Worthy is the Lamb that was slain…”
“Take”
To claim, carry away, take for oneself. Jesus not only took the book, but He carried away our sin and burdens.
John 1:29: “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”
Isaiah 53:4: “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows…”
“Redeemed”
To buy in the marketplace, to attend to the price, to claim ownership through purchase. Jesus “paid the price” and “attended the market” for our souls, redeeming us out of the bondage of sin.
1 Corinthians 6:20: “For ye are bought with a price…”
Galatians 3:13: “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law…”
“To God”
The redemption is “to God,” meaning Jesus restored us to the Father and fulfilled what was due in God’s justice.
Romans 3:24–26: “Being justified freely by his grace… through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus…”
“Kindred” (tribe)
Refers to all persons descending from the tribes of Israel. Jesus unites Jew and Gentile into one family, the true children of Abraham.
Galatians 3:28–29: “There is neither Jew nor Greek… ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed…”
“Tongue”
Peoples distinct by language or culture. Jesus’s redemption gathers all nations, tongues, and peoples into one Body, His Church.
Revelation 7:9: “…a great multitude… of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues…”
The “new song” sung in heaven is the anthem of redemption, a spiritual poem, a praise song that had never been heard before, because what Jesus did at the cross had never been done before. He alone was worthy, of sufficient weight, value, and agreement, to take the scroll (God’s redemptive plan), claim us as His own, and carry away our sin. He bought us out of the market of slavery, not with gold or silver, but with His blood. And He made us one family, every tribe, language, and nation, united as the children of God.
And they sung a new song
Jesus is made all things new, a new covenant with a new heaven and new earth in one moment on the cross!
"song" lay (poem to tell story), ode(poem to praise a person)
"new" uncommon, unheard of, recent, unused! Jesus atonement was a song and poem of praise worthy to be uttered, for His act of love was unheard of!
"worthy" in agreement or harmony, value ,weight! Jesus weight and a agreement was made what was to be paid for ours sins to bring harmony!
"take" to claim, carry away! Jesus carried our burdens and took away our sins!
"redeemed" to be in the market place, to attend it, buy or sell!
"to God" due to Him! Jesus gave to God what was due to Him, buying the redeemed by His blood!
"kindred" persons descending from tribes of Israel! Jesus made the Church of one kind - children of Abraham!
"tongue" people distinct from other! Jesus made a one nation under God!
Psalm 96:1 — “O sing unto the LORD a new song…”
Isaiah 42:10 — “…Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth.”
Exodus 15:13 — “…thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people which thou hast redeemed.”
Revelation 5:9
9 Salvation Song-Worthy Atonement- Heaven and Earth Merged- Redemption!
9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
New Song
Symbolizes a new life and a new covenant. The old song was the law; the new song is grace, redemption, and resurrection (Ps. 40:3; 98:1).
“Thou art worthy”
Only Jesus is worthy because He fulfilled the law, conquered death, and opened the mystery of God’s redemptive plan (Rev. 5:5–7).
“Redeemed us to God by thy blood…”
The foundation of the Gospel. His blood has bought people from every nation, showing unity in diversity (Eph. 2:13–14). Universal redemption, Emphasizes the global scope of Jesus salvation (John 12:32), not just Israel, but every kindred, tongue, people, nation. The new song is not just music, it's the lived reality of salvation. The redeemed now sing with their lives, declaring freedom through the blood of Jesus and proclaiming a new identity in Him.
See Addendum- Blood
we shall reign on the earth.
Jesus gave us earthly reign with Him! We are called to change this dark world with His light.
And hast made us unto our God kings and priests:
We are kings to rule and priests to be in service in His spiritual temple!
Exodus 19:6 — “…ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.”
Isaiah 61:6 — “…ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD…”
Daniel 7:27 — “…the kingdom… shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High…”
Revelation 5:10
10 We are God Kings and Priests-Reign on the Earth!
10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
A Royal Priesthood
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Kings and Priests
Echoes Exodus 19:6 and 1 Peter 2:9: the identity of the Church under the new covenant. As priests, we minister in the Spirit, intercede, and walk in communion with God. As kings, we walk in authority, victory, and dominion not worldly rule, but spiritual reign through Christ (Rom. 5:17).
“We shall reign on the earth”
Not a future political rule, but the present spiritual reign through Jesus victory, transforming hearts and lives now (Rom. 8:37; 2 Cor. 2:14; Eph. 2:6). The redeemed are not passive. In Jesus, they are active participants in His kingdom ruling by grace, serving by love, and shining as lights in the earth (Matt. 5:14–16).
This passage declares the full revelation of Jesus work:
He was slain (v.9) – The sacrifice.
He is worthy (v.9) – The risen King.
We are redeemed (v.9) – The fruit of His blood.
We are transformed (v.10) – The new identity.
We reign (v.10) – The present power of the Gospel.
Through the Lamb, Heaven and Earth unite in worship, and the Church becomes the living testimony of His kingdom.
the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
Jesus kingdom expand, His word of truth is effective and powerful through His Church!
Daniel 7:10 — “…ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him…”
1 Chronicles 29:11–12 — “…thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory…”
Revelation 5:11
11 Heaven Declare – The Word in Body of Christ-Only Holy Perfection!
11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
This vast number symbolizes the innumerable heavenly host (Heb. 12:22), a perfected multitude beyond count, praising the Lamb. Not just angels, but all of creation joined with the elders (the Church) and living creatures (the Word) in unified worship. The overwhelming number reflects the completeness and fullness of God's redemptive reach through Jesus. The entire redeemed order, heaven and earth is united in awe, testifying that the Lamb’s work is finished and universally praised (Phil. 2:10–11)
Revelation 5:12
12 Church Declare -Gifts to the King -Full Inheritance!
12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
These are the spiritual gifts and praises presented to Jesus, our crucified and risen King. The Lamb receives what He rightfully earned through sacrifice. This is not just adoration but recognition of His full inheritance (Rev. 11:15).
Psalm 148:7–13 — all creation commanded to praise the Lord.
Isaiah 45:23 — “…unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.”
Psalm 103:19–22 — “…all his works in all places of his dominion, bless the LORD…”
Revelation 5:13
13 Unification of Heaven and Earth- The Lamb is King-Eternal!
13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
Universal worship, All creation joins in recognizing both the Father on the throne and the Lamb as co-equal in glory and majesty. This confirms that the Lamb is divine, yet distinct in role, He is the King who was the sacrifice, now exalted (Isa. 9:6; John 1:29; Heb. 1:8). The unity of “Him who sits on the throne” and “the Lamb” reflects the oneness of God revealed in Jesus (John 10:30). This is the cosmic confession of Jesus' Lordship. Heaven, earth, and even the depths acknowledge His finished work, echoing Philippians 2:10–11 “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…”
“Fell down”
To fall, to be removed from the power of death, to show astonishment and surrender. The Church (“elders”) recognizes that in Christ, they have been delivered from the reign of death. Their fall is not defeat, but a surrender to the true King who conquered death.
Romans 6:9 — “Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.”
Philippians 2:10–11 — “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow… every tongue should confess…”
“Worshipped”
To bow, to kiss the hand in reverence, to show profound honor to one of superior rank. The Bride (the Church) gives Jesus the deepest reverence, recognizing Him as the supreme authority and beloved King.
Psalm 2:12 — “Kiss the Son, lest he be angry…”
John 9:38 — “And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.”
“That liveth”
True, everlasting life—one who enjoys, sustains, and is the source of vital power and living water. Only Jesus possesses “true life”—He is the Living One who sustains all, never again to die, the fountain of living water for the Church.
Revelation 1:18 — “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore…”
John 11:25 — “I am the resurrection, and the life…”
“For ever and ever”
For the ages of ages; unbroken, endless, eternal. Jesus’ reign and life are eternal—there is no end, no interruption, no defeat. His victory is complete and everlasting.
Hebrews 7:24–25 — “He continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood… he ever liveth to make intercession…”
Revelation 11:15 — “…he shall reign for ever and ever.”
The twenty-four elders (the unified Church) fall down in awe, worshipping Jesus with profound love and honor, acknowledging that all power, life, and dominion are His—now and for all eternity.
He is the One who lives forever, and His victory over death is the song of the redeemed.
And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him
"fell" to be removed from power of death, astonishment!
"worshiped" kiss the hand, profound reverence, superior rank!
"liveth" true life, enjoy life, living water, vital power, fresh, strong and efficient!
"for ever" unbroken age!
Revelation 5:14
14 The Word in Church with the King Eternal!
14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.
The four living creatures (representing the Gospels/Word of God) declare “Amen” truth confirmed, final seal of approval. The 24 elders (the Church) respond with worship, falling down, total surrender. Their joint response reveals that the Word (truth) and the Church (faith) are in agreement, both declaring loyalty and eternal praise to Jesus, the Living One. This is the climax of true worship: the Word and the Spirit in harmony, declaring Jesus everlasting life and reign. The Church doesn’t just admire Him, they are forever committed, joined to Him in identity and purpose. Revelation 5:11–14 Worship of the Redeemer and the Reign of the Lamb This final portion of chapter 5 paints a picture of explosive, unified worship:
A perfected multitude (v11) joins in.
A perfect sevenfold song of all spiritual wealth is given to Jesus (v12).
All creation confesses His Kingship and sacrifice (v13).
The Word and Church unite in loyal, eternal adoration (v14).
Jesus, the Lamb, is both sacrifice and sovereign, worthy of all worship, and in Him, God’s redemptive plan is complete!
The Church is called to behold the Lamb, trusting not in her own strength but in His perfect sacrifice. As His Bride, we find our worth, calling, and authority in what Jesus has accomplished. We are invited to join the new song, celebrating our redemption, our priesthood, and our royal identity in Him. Overcoming means resting in the finished work of the cross, worshiping Jesus above all, and living out the freedom and authority He has given to His beloved people.
OT Connection:
Ezekiel 2:9–10 — “A roll of a book… written within and without… there was written therein lamentations, and mourning, and woe.”
Isaiah 29:11–12 — “The vision… as the words of a book that is sealed…”
Meaning:
A sealed scroll represents a divine message or decree that cannot be read or fulfilled until the right person opens it. In the OT, sealed or double-sided scrolls are linked with judgment, mystery, and prophecy.
OT Connection:
Isaiah 29:11–12 — “The book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned.”
Daniel 12:4 — “Shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end…”
Meaning:
No one in heaven or earth was worthy or able to open God’s sealed book until the appointed One appeared.
OT Connection:
Ezekiel 21:6–7 — “Sigh therefore… with the breaking of thy loins… for the tidings… every heart shall melt…”
Daniel 10:2–3 — Daniel mourns in fasting, longing for understanding of visions.
Meaning:
God’s people have always wept for the revelation and fulfillment of God’s promises and justice.
OT Connection:
Genesis 49:9–10 — “Judah is a lion’s whelp… the sceptre shall not depart from Judah…”
Isaiah 11:1,10 — “A rod out of the stem of Jesse… the root of Jesse…”
Meaning:
Messianic prophecy: The Lion and the Root are both OT titles for the Christ, the victorious One from Judah and David’s lineage.
OT Connection:
Exodus 12:3–13 — The Passover Lamb, slain for deliverance.
Isaiah 53:7 — “He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter…”
Zechariah 4:10 — Seven eyes of the Lord; Zech 3:9 “upon one stone… seven eyes…”
Meaning:
Jesus is both the suffering Lamb and the fully-empowered, Spirit-filled King.
OT Connection:
Daniel 7:13–14 — “One like the Son of man came… and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom…”
Meaning:
The Lamb’s worthiness and authority to receive and fulfill God’s plan echoes the Son of Man being given authority in Daniel.
OT Connection:
1 Chronicles 25:1–6 — Harp music in temple worship.
Psalm 141:2 — “Let my prayer be set forth… as incense…”
Exodus 30:1–8 — Incense offered on the golden altar before God.
Meaning:
Temple worship, music, and incense all prefigure the heavenly worship and the value of prayer.
OT Connection:
Psalm 40:3 — “He hath put a new song in my mouth…”
Exodus 19:6 — “A kingdom of priests, and an holy nation…”
Isaiah 42:10 — “Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth…”
Meaning:
Redemption and priestly calling were always God’s purpose for Israel—now fulfilled universally in Christ.
OT Connection:
Daniel 7:10 — “A thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him…”
Psalm 68:17 — “The chariots of God are twenty thousand…”
Meaning:
Heavenly hosts worshiping God is a consistent theme in the Psalms and prophets.
OT Connection:
Psalm 148:7–13 — “Praise the Lord from the earth, ye dragons… kings of the earth… young men and maidens… let them praise the name of the Lord…”
Psalm 103:20–22 — “Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion…”
Meaning:
All creation joins in worship, just as prophesied in the Psalms.