Behold, the Lamb of God

by Rev. Kirby Williams

John's vision of heaven's throne focuses on the risen Lamb of God.

Text: Revelations 5:1-7
Date: 02/21/2010, the Evening service.
Series: "Revelation" Part 13

As John's vision of the throne of God continues, our focus is drawn to a mysterious scroll in the right hand of God, Himself. The scroll is sealed with seven seals and a mighty angel cries out to find someone in all the cosmos who is powerful enough to open the scroll and read it's contents. We are introduced to "the Lamb" who is the only One powerful enough to accomplish this great task. This study will delve into the meaning of this enigmatic scroll and the seven seals, as well as the underlying definition of true power and worthiness through sacrifice and obedience.

1. Introduction
2. Exposition of the text, Rev. 5:1-7.
1. Context.
2. The scroll of "uncaused causes", vs 1.
1. The "One on the throne".
1. John's "Jewishness".
2. The powerful right hand.
2. The scroll written on both sides.
1. About scrolls.
2. "Opisthographs"
3. The Eternal Decree.
3. The seven seals.
1. The significance of a seal.
2. The significance of seven seals.
3. The problem with seven seals.
1. The "scholarly" response.
2. The "common-sense" response.
3. The Lamb who will open the scroll, 2-6.
1. The search for an "Opener", vs. 2-3.
1. The strong angel, vs. 2.
2. The qualification of the "Opener", vs. 2-3.
1. The significance of the word order.
2. The character of the "Opener".
2. The necessity of the "Opener", vs.4.
3. The identity of the "Opener", vs. 5.
1. The comfort of the elder.
2. The "Lion of Judah", Gen. 49:9-10.
3. The "Root of David", Isa. 11:1.
4. The Conqueror.
4. The coming of the Lamb, vs. 6.
1. Victory in sacrifice, John 1:29.
2. Grounded in the Old Testament, 1Cor. 5:7.
1. The Paschal lamb of the Passover, Ex. 12.
2. The Suffering Servant of Isaiah, Isa. 53:7.
5. The location of the Lamb.
6. The appearance of the Lamb.
1. Slain, but resurrected.
2. The seven horns.
3. The seven eyes.
1. The Spirit from the Father.
2. The Spirit from the Son.
4. The One Who is infinitely worthy, vs. 7.
3. Application
1. Re-defining our concept of power.
2. Re-defining what is truly worthy.
4. Conclusion