December 27th~Worth-ship

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