Introduction:

1. The book of Revelation seems so mysterious many avoid it like the plague.

2. Such a choice robs the believer of a tremendous source of courage.

3. We will focus on the central truth of the whole book.

Discussion:

I. The Setting

A. In chapters 1-3, John introduces the purpose of the Revelation.

B. In chapters 6-22, the Lord reveals the ultimate fate of His people and their persecutors.

C. In chapters 4-5, He reveals the majesty, power, and worthiness of the Father and the Christ.

II. John’s Lamentation (Revelation 5:1-4)

A. A Roman will was written on a scroll and sealed with a seal such as these mentioned.

B. One had to be authorized to break the seal.

C. When no one was found worthy to open it, John “began to weep loudly” (ESV).

III. John’s Consolation (Revelation 5:5-8)

A. The Lion and the Lamb of Judah:

1. Christ overcame: Nikao- to conquer

2. A lion symbolized power; likewise, the horn was a symbol of power.

3. The eyes indicate vision and wisdom.

4. The number seven represented completeness.

B. The Lion of Judah is all powerful and all knowing.

IV. Worthy is the Lamb (Revelation 5:9-14)

A. Biblical history foreshadowed the One whose right it is to rule (Genesis 49:9-10; Ezekiel 21:25-27).

B. Isaiah 42:8-10 spoke of a new song to be sung for a greater deliverance than under Moses.

C. His credentials make no sense to the world, but they are the truest symbol of power.

D. Why was the Lamb worthy to open the book?

1. First, He was slain but lived again, the ultimate show of power (Romans 1:4).

2. Second, His sacrifice purchased a people for God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 15:19-26, 51-55; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Hebrews 2:14-15).

3. Third, He made the redeemed kings and priests (cf. Exodus 19:6; Isaiah 61:6; 1 Peter 2:9).

1. Are the symbols in Revelation difficult to understand? Sure they are.

2. Is the overarching message difficult to understand? Not in the least.

3. No matter the evils perpetrated in this world, Christ will always deliver His own from distress.

4. What message could better empower the suffering saint to overcome than this?!

5. The only question to ask is, how will we respond?