Chapter 5 of Revelation continues the glimpse into heaven begun in Chapter 4. In John’s day, books were written on scrolls, rolled up, and sealed with clay or wax. (Have you ever received a special letter sealed with wax?) The scroll that John sees here contains the full account of what God has in store for the world. Only Christ is worthy to break the seal and open the scroll. Only Christ conquered sin, death, hell, and Satan, so only he can be trusted with the world’s future.
Jesus Christ is pictured as both a lion (symbolizing his authority and power) and a lamb (symbolizing his submission to God’s will). Christ the Lamb was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all; therefore, only he can save us. The role of Christ the Lion will be to lead the battle where Satan is finally defeated. Christ the Lion is victorious because of what Christ the Lamb has already done. We will participate in his victory not because of our effort or goodness, but because he has promised eternal life to all who believe in him.
Angels are spiritual beings created by God who help with his work on earth. They bring messages, protect God’s people, offer encouragement, give guidance, bring punishment, patrol the earth, and fight the forces of evil. There are good and bad angels, but because evil angels are allied with Satan, they have considerably less power and authority than good angels. Eventually, the main role of the good angels will be to offer continuous praise to God.
Remember, Jesus, not Satan, holds the future. Jesus Christ is in control, and he alone is worthy to set into motion the events of the last days of history.
Prayer:
Thank you, God, that you loved this world so much that you gave your only Son, Jesus, to die for us to conquer sin, death, hell, and Satan. Thank you, Jesus, that you are both the Lion and the Lamb who can save us and fight our battles for us. Please send your holy angels to protect, guide, and encourage us in these days and fight the forces of evil. Thank you, Jesus, that you hold the future, and you alone are worthy of our praise. In Jesus’ name. Amen.