Choral Symphony No. 1. Abridged.

CHORAL SYMPHONY No. 1. Abridged.

Revelation 5:11-14.

REVELATION 5:11. The Lamb engages the praises of an innumerable company of angels around the throne, and the living creatures (also known as ‘beasts’), and the elders.

This is a continuation of the liturgy of Revelation 4:8-11 - but now the Lamb has been revealed, it is not sufficient for the congregation to sing their responses alone: we are joined by a myriad choir of angels. We are reminded of the multitude of the heavenly host that appeared to the shepherds when Jesus was born (cf. Luke 2:13-14).

REVELATION 5:12. They are worshipping “the Lamb that was slain.” To Him they designate the same glory and honour and power as they had already ascribed to the Creator (cf. Revelation 4:11). Later, the Lamb will be designated ‘Lord of lords, and King of kings’ (cf. Revelation 17:14.)

The “power” is the same ‘dynamite’ power, strength and ability which empowers the people of God. We are a resurrection people, with royal resurrection blood coursing through our veins.

To this attribute is added “riches” - wealth, opulence, abundance - He is the Lord from whom our blessings flow (cf. Philippians 4:19).

“Wisdom” is also His prerogative: if we have any wisdom at all it is derived from Him.

“Strength” conveys might, and ability, which He in turn conveys to His people.

“Honour” puts a high value on Him, respecting His dignity, and regarding Him highly.

The “glory” of the Lamb is the glory of the Father. ‘We beheld His glory’ (cf. John 1:14).

“Blessing” - we bless the one who blesses us, from whom all blessings flow (cf. Ephesians 1:3).

REVELATION 5:13. Indeed, the cosmic choir is joined by a terrestrial choir. Whereas the whole creation has been groaning (cf. Romans 8:22), now creation joins in heaven’s song (cf. Psalm 148).

REVELATION 5:14. The last “Amen” of this particular choral symphony comes from the four living creatures: and again, the twenty-four elders fall down and worship before the throne.