Revelation 1-5

Jesus the Lamb.

From the beginning, we are told that Revelation is from Jesus about events that are soon to take place.  We are told that it is intended to reveal that Jesus is King of kings and that he is worthy of praise and honor.  Seven congregations of God’s people are specifically identified and these seven congregations are encouraged to remain faithful to Jesus who has overcome and won the victory.  Jesus has been victorious.  Jesus has overcome.  Jesus is the only one who is worthy to take the scroll from God’s hand.  While this writing challenges us in terms of language, symbolism, and explanation, the intent must not be lost.  The writing is to reveal God’s purposes through Jesus and calls on all who read it to respond in faith and trust.  Let’s imagine the scene around God’s throne.  Let’s imagine what it would have been like to hear the voices and to see the Lamb approach God.  Let’s imagine the intensity of that moment and let’s allow the images to affect how we live today.  “To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power for ever and ever!”