Revelation Chapter 5

Revelation 5 shows the Lamb as the only One worthy to open the scroll. Heaven worships Christ because He has redeemed His people by His blood.

LambSealed scrollWorthyHeavenly sanctuaryRedemption

Revelation 5:1-4

The Sealed Scroll

Revelation 5:5-7

The Worthy Lamb

Revelation 5:8-10

The New Song

Revelation 5:11-14

Universal Praise

Revelation 5:1

John sees a scroll in the right hand of the One seated on the throne. It is written within and on the back and sealed with seven seals. The writing on both sides suggests a record so full that scarcely any space remains, while the seven seals show that it is completely sealed until the worthy One opens it.

The SDA Commentary identifies the scroll as containing a record of significant events in the great controversy, including the rejection of Christ. As the seals are opened, John is shown successive phases in the history of the church and the conflict between good and evil. The scroll should therefore be read as heaven's authoritative record and disclosure of that controversy, not as a timetable invented by human speculation.

Only the Lamb can open the scroll. His worthiness means that He is the conqueror in the controversy and the Lord of history. The frightening scenes that follow remain under the authority of the One who was slain and now stands before the throne.

For the church, the sealed scroll teaches patient trust. History is not ownerless or unreadable to God. Its record rests in His hand, and Christ alone discloses its meaning and carries the controversy toward the final vindication of God's character.

Study Links

Cross References

Daniel 7:9-14Daniel 12:4Isaiah 29:11Ezekiel 2:9-10Luke 4:17-21Hebrews 9:15Revelation 6:1Revelation 10:2

Symbols

Sealed scroll

Heaven's sealed record of significant events in the great controversy, opened only by the victorious Lamb who is Lord of history.

Revelation 5:1-9Daniel 7:9-14Daniel 12:4Isaiah 29:11Ezekiel 2:9-10Luke 4:17-21Hebrews 9:15

Right hand

Authority, power, possession, and royal trust.

Psalm 110:1John 3:35Hebrews 1:3Revelation 5:1

Word / Phrase Notes

Right hand

A sign of authority, power, and royal trust.

Psalm 110:1Daniel 7:13-14Revelation 5:1

Sealed scroll

Heaven's sealed record of significant events in the great controversy, disclosed by Christ as Lord of history.

Daniel 12:4Isaiah 29:11Revelation 5:1