THE LION WHO IS THE LAMB

Do not miss the forest for the trees!  That expression reminds us that we can become so absorbed with details as to miss the big picture. That often happens when we study the last book of the Bible, getting bogged down in the details and forget it is, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ,” (1:1). In chapter five, we are reminded that He is the Lion who is the Lamb.

Consider, THE TITLE, (v. 1-2). We see a scroll. This is the title deed to the universe. It rests in the right hand of the Lord of Glory—our Father and our God. Who would be worthy to take that from His hand?

Note, THE TEARS, (v. 3-4). We hear the sorrow. “No one was found worthy,” Not an angel in heaven, a man on earth, or the dead under ground. This world is full of sorrow—the result of the curse of sin and death. Mere mortals are incapable of putting it right. Man broke it, but cannot fix it. Is there then no hope?

Observe, THE TRIUMPH, (v. 5-7). There is a Savior!  He is the Lion, (v. 5)—the LORD Jesus who is worthy!  In Him, the Old Covenant is fulfilled—all the promises made to Abraham and David. The focus is on His Sovereignty. He is the Lamb, (v. 6-7)—the Lord JESUS who is worthy! In Him, the New Covenant is provided—all the penalty of sin has been paid by His body and blood given for us. The focus is on His sacrifice. The Son rightfully takes the title deed from the Father, attested to by the Spirit, “the seven Spirits of God,” speaking of the Spirit’s perfection.  Salvation is the work of the Triune God!

Hear, THE TESTIMONY, (v. 8-14). There is a song. Twenty four elders, representing all God’s redeemed—the children of Israel in the twelve tribes and the church of God in the twelve apostles—offer worship to the Lion who is the Lamb. He is the answer to our prayers, (v. 8) and the object of our praise, (v. 9-14). The halls of heaven resound with this mighty melody. He alone is worthy of our worship!  

Let us begin warming up for that glorious time to come, as we gather with the Lord’s people in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s Day to sing the Lord’s praise!