The Lamb Standing Series

Introduction

Continue- journey to the cross/resurrection of Jesus Christ.

As Easter approaches- understand what God did for us

Heb 2:17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people.

The cross of Christ- powerful symbol of truth.

Rev 5:1-10 (read from the Message Bible)

Revelations- revelation of Jesus Christ

He is seen as

-Lamb that died for our sins

-King that will judge wicked/reward righteous

Rev 5:1-2

Scroll- revelation of what God has determined for the future course of the world/humanity …

judgment of the world/triumph of God’s people

Significance of the scroll- God has a plan for the universe/His purposes are/will be fulfilled.

Eph 1:9 God has now revealed to us his mysterious plan regarding Christ, a plan to fulfill his own good pleasure. NLT

It was sealed so only the right person could open it.

Mat 27:66 And they went and made the grave secure, and along with the guard they set a seal on the stone. NASU

Tomb- sealed so no man- claim- He had been raised.

There was no seal/guard that could keep the only one worthy to open this scroll, in the grave.

Rev 5:3-4

The question is not, Who should reveal the destinies of the Church (this any inspired prophet might do)? but, Who has the WORTH to give man a new title deed to his lost inheritance? (DeBurgh.)

Who can …

rule this world?

establish justice and righteousness?

bring peace and love?

restore what was lost at the fall?

Can Republicans? Democrats? UN?

US Military? China’s billion man army?

Can man solve his problems, or does he need a Savior?

Rev 5:5

Lion of the tribe of Judah …

Christ-pictured-Lion-king of beasts-one who will rule.

Jacob prophecies- Messiah- come from tribe of Judah.

Ge 49:9-10 NLT

9 Judah, my son, is a young lion that has finished eating its prey …

10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from his descendants,* until the coming of the one to whom it belongs,* the one whom all nations will honor.

Root of David …

God promised David that one from his blood line would forever sit on the throne and rule.

Isa 11:10 In that day the heir to David’s throne* will be a banner of salvation to all the world. The nations will rally to him, and the land where he lives will be a glorious place.*

The names for Jesus speak of the fact that …

the coming of Jesus was foretold years before

He was appointed to come by God,

He came in the manner He did …

so there would be someone worthy to take and open the scroll.

Rev 5:6-7

Instead of Jesus coming like a Lion, we see a lamb.

A lamb in which you can see the marks of crucifixion.

Crucified- but standing in heaven alive- resurrection.

The lion … refers to His second coming;

The lamb … refers to His first coming.

The lion is symbolic of His majesty;

The lamb is symbolic of His meekness.

As a lion He is a Sovereign;

As a lamb He is a Savior.

As a lion He is a Judge;

As a lamb He is judged. (Barclay)

Lamb standing, as if slain – a picture of His blood continually poured out for the sins of mankind.

Each generation can come to Christ/find eternal life.

Seven horns- represent the power/strength of a ruler.

Seven eyes- complete and perfect knowledge/wisdom.

Jn 1:17 For the Law was given through Moses; grace/truth were realized through Jesus Christ.

Rev 5:8

Elders- perhaps represent the church- saved by God.

Harp speaks of worship- language of heaven- worship

Here is the truth that heaven and earth and all that is within them is designed for the praise of Jesus Christ; and it is our privilege to lend our voices and our lives to this vast chorus of praise. (Barclay)

Bowls of Incense- our prayers are a part of the work of God both in heaven/earth.

Psa 141:2 May my prayer be counted as incense before You; The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering. NASU

Rev 5:9

There is always a new song for- new mercies of God.

Psa 98:1 O sing to the Lord a new song, For He has done wonderful things, His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory for Him.

The praise is offered because Jesus died to …

restore man’s lost relationship w/God

set man free from the law of sin and death

make eternal life available to all mankind

Rev 5:10

Men have always been sons of God by creation, now there is a new door of grace opened up where we