Revelation 3:1-6:17
We entered a definite transition period in John’s vision (between Revelation 3, 4), turning from the
messages to the seven churches to “what must happen after these things” (4:1). John got a
glimpse of the Lamb of God opening a scroll with seven seals, events which mark
the beginning of the end of life on earth, the wrath of God poured out in
judgment for the sins of men.
It is interesting to note the two names for our Lord in this vision — the
Lamb of God (5:6,
12)
and the Lion of Judah (5:5). The Lamb had been sent by God to be sacrificed
for the sins of the world (John 1:29, 36). By doing so, He earned the name that is above
every name, that at His name every knee will bow and every mouth will confess
that Jesus is Lord of all (Philippians 2:9-11). Because of His sacrifice as the
Lamb, Christ is seated at the right hand of God and given authority to rule
over all the earth. He will put all things in subjection under His feet (Ephesians 1:20-23). In other words, Christ’s
role as the Lamb, at His first coming, earned Him the reign as the Lion at His second
coming. His assignment now is not to save the world from sin but to judge the
world be- cause of sin. Therefore, He opened the scroll.
As these things unfold, John witnessed an incredible worship service
in heaven. To the One seated on the throne, the four living creatures
repeatedly said, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, the One who always
was, who is, and who is still to come” (4:6-8). Likewise, the twenty-four elders fell down and
worshiped. As they laid their crowns before the throne, they said, “You are
worthy,
O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created
everything, and it is for Your pleasure that they exist...” (v.9-11).
Then, as the Lamb took the scroll, everyone began to sing, “You are
worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For You were killed
and Your blood has ransomed people for God” (5:9, 10). Finally, every creature in heaven
and on earth, including millions of angels, joined in a chorus. “The
Lamb is worthy, the Lamb who was killed. He is worthy to receive power and riches
and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing” (v.11-14). What an
incredible scene!
Daily Reflection
To worship means “to adore, to pay divine honors to, to reverence with
supreme respect and veneration” (Webster’s 1828 Dictionary). Literally,
worship is “worth-ship,” that someone is deserving of such high praise. No one
is more worthy of your praise than the One who bore your shame on the cross and
paid the penalty for your sins. Because of His sacrifice, you are free from the
judgment and wrath of God. Though you will one day worship Him in person, you
can begin by worshiping Him now.
What are some ways that you can worship the Lamb of God today? What do
you have to offer Him that is worthy of all that He has done?
Whatever you endure on earth for His sake, He is worth it! Whatever He
asks for you to do, He is worth it! Because of what He did for you, He is
worth all that you do for Him and more. Praise the Lord! He is worth your
worship!
BiAY.org | Day 361 — 4 Days to Go
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