1. Revelation 5:1-4 Key question: So what?

2. Revelation 5:1-4 Key answer: Because it is necessary!

3. Revelation 5:1-4 2 Peter 3:8-9 The reality is that God has no desire to judge the world. The further reality is that humanity is forcing the issue.

4. Revelation 5:1 The “scroll” contains or is representative of the judgments of God upon the earth. The fourth seal alone destroys ¼ of those alive on earth. This is significant to the popular “Pre-wrath” view of the Rapture.

5. Revelation 5:1 It is clear that these judgments are executed by God, as the Lamb alone has the right to open the seals. The judgments of Revelation 6 are from God and since ¼ of the earth is dead, they are very severe.

6. Revelation 5:1 In fact, it will be shown later that the devastation is even worse by the middle of the Tribulation.

7. Revelation 5:2-3 Notice that no one else, in heaven, on earth, under the earth, but the Lamb of God, is worth to open the seals. The judgment is judgment from God and Him alone.

8. Revelation 5:2-3 Notice also that this includes all of those living and dead, of all creation.

9. Revelation 5:2-3 In addition, the issue is whether anyone is “worthy”. This is a right that is earned, merited. It is a task that is necessary!

10. Revelation 5:1-4 What leads to John’s distress is that this is necessary. Spiritual people care about the rule of God.

11. Revelation 5:4 God the Father does not judge in this case (Jn. 5:22). And, no one is worthy to carry out the task… …except One!

12. Revelation 5:5 “Lion of the Tribe of Judah” Gen. 49:8-12; Heb. 7:14 Isa. 11:1-5

13. Revelation 5:5 “Root of David” 2 Sam. 7:12-16 Psalm 2:7 Rev. 22:16

14. Revelation 5:5 Jesus has the right to rule! “worthy” = nike = Overcomer! Psalm 110:1; Heb. 1:13; 5:7-9; 12:1-2 Rev. 2:25-27; 3:21!

15. The Sufferings of Christ The Cross of Christ has rightly been acknowledged for the payment for our sins and our justification. However, not enough attention has been given to what was accomplished in the sufferings of Christ and what is offered to believers as a result of that. 1 Peter 1:11

16. Revelation 5:6-7 The Lion emphasizes the rule of Christ. The Lamb emphasizes His death and earning of His right to rule. John 1:29

17. Revelation 5:6-7 “Horns” Symbolize strength and rule 1 Kings 22:11; Rev. 7:24; 13:1

18. Revelation 5:6-7 “Eyes…seven spirits of God” The Holy Spirit (Rev. 1:4; 4:5), along possibly with omniscience.

20. Revelation 5:6-7 “Took the scroll” Transfer of power to judge. John 5:22, 27

21. Revelation 5:8-9 24 elders This may lead us to believe they are from the Church Age and the Tribulation.

22. Revelation 5:8-9 They are prepared to sing praise and present the prayers of the saints.

23. Revelation 5:8-10 Kings and Priests Believers are invited to rule with Christ when they overcome in suffering as He did! Rom. 8:17; 2 Tim. 2:12; Rev. 2:25-27; 1 Pet. 2:9 Fulfillment of the Lord’s Prayer?

24. Revelation 5:10 The focal point of the destiny of believers is to reign on the earth, not simply go to heaven.

25. Revelation 5:8-12 Worthy It is the suffering and sacrifice of Christ that makes Him worthy to open the scroll, to judge, and to rule. It is when His Kingdom comes that Christ will receive the magnificent benefits due Him!

26. Revelation 5:13-14 Philippians 2:9-11!