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Revelation 5:1-10

The scene is still in heaven. The timing, I believe, is right after the rapture. 4.1 which says “after these things” is a transition, which I believe, is the end of the church era and the beginning of the tribulation. There are different views of the rapture, tribulation and Revelation overall. This is known as the study of Eschatology. The study of the end times. This blog is not a theological study. It is a devotional study written by an amateur theologian. But my devotional views are inevitably shaped by my eschatology.  My simple approach to the Bible generally and Revelation specifically, is to take it literally unless it obviously is not.  Pretty straightforward. Therefore, I lean toward the literal and sequential view of rapture, tribulation, second coming, millennial kingdom on earth, destruction of Satan and the earth and then the final state of eternity in heaven. In order to validate my views theologically, it would take a long treatise of the threads of eschatology throughout the Bible. That’s not my purpose here. Can I get an Amen!  The few readers I have now would shrink even further if I detailed my theological views.  So, regardless of the your views, I hope that we can agree on the devotional value of Revelation. Our recurring question will be considering future events, how should we now live?

Scenes from heaven

In chapter 4 the focus was the throne and the One on the throne, God. The theme of chapter 5 is ‘who is able to open the book’ and the main character is the ‘Messiah’. The book is described in such a way as to indicate a legal document; a deed or a contract, etc. ‘Who is able to open the book’? This is the question. The scene has overtones of a courtroom scene. One of the elders told John, “the Lion of Judah and Root of David (two OT descriptions of the messiah) who overcame (fulfilled His purpose & mission on earth) is able’ to open it. So, although described as a Lion, John looked and saw a lamb. Then There are two contradicting descriptions; the Lamb has marks of being slain, but stands alive. Secondly, a lamb with 7 horns; a meek animal with the symbols of power to fight. We have a picture of our Lord Jesus, a person of many contradictions. Both a lion and a lamb; both dead yet alive; both meek and powerful; both a servant and the King. All of heaven sang to Him; “worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and nation…” V9,10. The tension is building toward the opening of the seals. These seals will unleash drama upon the earth like never seen before. Stay tuned.

Lord, these scenes from heaven produce a wonderment and awe within me. You are worthy of praise, honor and glory! Thank you! You are my King, my Savior and my God. Thank you Jesus for purchasing me with your blood. You alone are worthy of all glory and honor! Amen.