Worthy Is the Standing Lamb
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Worthy Is the Standing Lamb
1. God Has a Plan
Revelation 5 opens with an awe-inspiring image: God seated on the throne, holding a scroll in His right hand. This scroll is written on both front and back, an unusual feature in ancient writing, signaling that it is complete and full. Sealed with seven seals, it holds the revelation of what is to come.
This scroll represents God’s sovereign plan for the future—His promises, prophecies, and judgment. Every prophecy made in the past has either been fulfilled or is waiting to be fulfilled. The Messiah was foretold, He came. His death and resurrection were foretold, and they came to pass. So we can trust that what remains will also come true.
But a problem arises: no one is found worthy to open the scroll. Not Abraham, not David, not Peter, not Paul—no angel or human figure. John, witnessing all this, weeps loudly. If the scroll cannot be opened, God's plan cannot move forward.
2. The Lamb Has Overcome
Suddenly, one of the elders says, "Weep no more! Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered." John hears this and looks toward the throne to see a lion. But what he sees instead is a Lamb, standing as though slain.
The image of the Lamb is a profound one. Though it might appear weak or vulnerable, this Lamb has conquered. It bears the marks of crucifixion—the scars that prove the price paid. This is Jesus Christ. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Jesus is pictured as a Lamb 29 times in the book of Revelation. Why? Because His sacrificial death is central to God’s plan. His blood was necessary to overcome death, sin, and Satan. The Lamb is not a symbol of defeat but of victory.
He is not lying in a tomb. He is standing in heaven.
3. Heaven Is Accessible
As the chapter continues, heaven erupts in worship. A new song breaks forth:
"Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation."
This is heaven's reality: people from every background, ethnicity, and language gathered around the Lamb in worship. Worship in heaven is multicultural. And while we may not yet experience that kind of unity fully here on earth, one day we will.
The song of heaven continues with a sevenfold declaration:
"Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing."
Seven is the number of completeness in Scripture. This is perfect praise for a perfect Savior.
Finally, all creation joins in:
"To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever."
This eternal chorus affirms that one day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. For some, it will be an act of joyful faith. For others, it will be a grudging acknowledgment. But no one will be able to deny His worthiness.
Responding to the Lamb
What about you? From what angle will you acknowledge Him? Will it be from faith or from forced resignation?
Heaven is accessible—but only through the blood of the Lamb and faith in Him. If you've never trusted Jesus, today is the day. Acknowledge your sin and separation from God. Put your faith in the Lamb who was slain, who now stands victorious in heaven.
He is worthy of all honor, glory, and blessing. Will you worship Him today?
SERMON DETAILS
Speaker: Jeff McNicol
Series: Revelation
Sermon Title: Worthy Is the Standing Lamb
Date: Mar 31, 2024
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
Revelation 5:1-13
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