Revelation 5
In this passage we see a scroll of judgment (with seven seals, held in the right hand of God) and a glorious, redemptive agent of God. The exalted agent of God is none other than the crucified Jesus, the Lamb and Lion of God. This Jesus, because of His conquering obedience to the will of God, is now (being) enthroned and therefore is worthy to take the book and break the seals.
Read Revelation 5:1-7:
- In the days of wax seals, what do you think it meant in John’s culture for someone to be “worthy” to break the seal on a scroll and open it?
- Why do you think John began to weep (verse 4) when nobody was found worthy to open the scroll?
- How is the “worthy” one described in verse 5? What do you find significant about these titles?
- What stands out to you in John’s description of the worthy one in verse 6? Why do you think the elder’s description in the previous verse is so different?
- “Why should our exalted Lord appear in Glory with his wounds?” — C.H. Spurgeon
Read Revelation 5:8-14:
- Why is the Lamb worthy to take the scroll and open its seals?
- According to the “new song” that’s sung in this passage, what is the dual role for those who are redeemed for God?
- What do you find most encouraging in what is said and sung about the Lamb in these verses?
Taking it home:
- In verse 8 we’re told that the prayers of God’s people are incense that is offered to Him. How might you pray differently in light of this?
- What can we begin to do this week to more faithfully act out the role we’ve been ransomed for?
Other Scriptures to Engage with this week:
Hebrews 2:6-18 • Psalm 2 • Luke 12:22-31 • Psalm 50 • 1 Peter 2:4-10 • Ephesians 1:3-14.