Big word in Revelation – Scroll.
Revelation 5
What is the scroll?
1. The following chapters will show it reveals what is going to happen.
2. It has writing on both sides of the scroll, front and back.
3. It is in the hand of Him who sits on the throne in heaven.
Application = The future of the world (including your world, where you are right now, difficult that it might be) is complete already, (God is not working it out as you/we go along), it is written, with no space for additions (as though God never expected a certain turn of events) and it is in His hands who sits on the throne, who is in control of this out of control world.
Who can open the scroll?
1. No one. No man, angel, demon can even dabble with the future.
2. Except the Lamb who looks like a Lion. The Jewish Lion of Judah is the Christian Lamb-Messiah. Except the Lion who looks like a Lamb.
Application = God will not allow the future to roll forward without a Saviour. The saving work of Christ is hugely significant for our today and tomorrow. He was slain but He is not dead, He is standing and He has 7 horns symbolising not only completeness but strength. The cross and resurrection of Christ never lose their power.
The atmosphere of the scrolls opening?
1. Prayer, v8
2. Worship, v9-10, 12-13
Application = Know this: your prayers are never forgotten, they never fall to the ground to die, heaven has your prayers, v8, so pray with me “let your kingdom come!” Whatever happens, sing worship to Jesus. Whatever happens ‘Amen it’, “let your will be done!” Whatever happens surrender all, v14
Missions Paul 