Revelation 5
Berean Standard Bible Par ▾ 

The Lamb Takes the Scroll

1Then I saw a scroll in the right hand of the One seated on the throne. It had writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. 2And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?”

3But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or look inside it. 4And I began to weep bitterly, because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or look inside it.

5Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

6Then I saw a Lamb who appeared to have been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which represent the seven spiritsa of God sent out into all the earth. 7And He came and took the scroll from the right hand of the One seated on the throne.

8When He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9And they sang a new song:

“Worthy are You to take the scroll and open its seals,

because You were slain,

and by Your blood You purchased for God

those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.

10You have made them to be a kingdom

and priests to serve our God,

and they will reign uponb the earth.”

The Lamb Exalted

11Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels encircling the throne, and the living creatures and the elders. And their number was myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands. 12In a loud voice they were saying:

“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,

to receive power and riches

and wisdom and strength

and honor and glory and blessing!”

13And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying:

“To Him who sits on the throne

and to the Lamb

be praise and honor and glory and power

forever and ever!”

14And the four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.c

Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible.

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Revelation 5 Summary
The Lamb Exalted

Verses 1–4 – The Sealed Scroll and John’s Tears
John sees a scroll in the right hand of the One on the throne. It is written on both sides and locked shut with seven seals—a complete, unbreakable sealing. A mighty angel asks who can open it, but no creature in heaven, earth, or the grave can step forward. Feeling the weight of history hanging in suspense, John bursts into tears because the scroll—God’s plan for setting things right—seems destined to stay closed.

Verses 5–7 – The Lion and the Lamb
One of the twenty-four elders comforts John. The elder points to “the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David,” titles that promise royal strength and messianic victory. John turns and instead sees a Lamb bearing the marks of sacrifice, standing alive at the center of the throne. Possessing seven horns (perfect power) and seven eyes (perfect insight), the Lamb takes the scroll from the Father’s hand, proving Himself worthy.

Verses 8–10 – The New Song of Redemption
The four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fall before the Lamb. Each holds a harp and a golden bowl of incense—symbolic instruments of praise and intercession. They sing a fresh song, celebrating the Lamb’s blood that purchased people from every culture. The redeemed are declared a kingdom and priests who will reign on earth.

Verses 11–12 – Angelic Chorus Magnifies the Lamb
John hears layer upon layer of angels—“myriads of myriads.” Their thunderous anthem heaps seven praises on the Lamb: power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, blessing. Heaven’s choir swells in unison at the sight of divine triumph.

Verses 13–14 – Universal Worship Ends the Vision
All creation joins the anthem—every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea. Their loud declaration grants eternal praise to both the Father on the throne and the Lamb. The living creatures answer, “Amen,” and the elders collapse in worship, sealing the scene with reverent silence.


Revelation 5 presents a compelling scene of heavenly worship and redemption. In this chapter, the apostle John narrates his vision of the heavenly throne room where a dramatic display unfolds concerning a seven-sealed scroll, an emblem of the impending judgments of God. The pivotal moment arrives when the Lamb, identified as Jesus Christ, is found worthy to open the scroll, leading to a grand outburst of worship and adoration.

Authorship and Setting

Revelation was penned by the apostle John while exiled on Patmos (Revelation 1:9). Chapter 5 unfolds immediately after John is ushered into the heavenly throne room in chapter 4. The setting is a royal courtroom, where legal documents, judgment, and enthronement all converge.

The Heavenly Courtroom Imagery

• Ancient kings kept legal scrolls in their right hand to show personal authority (compare Isaiah 44:6).

Ezekiel 2:9-10 also pictures a two-sided scroll of lament and judgment, foreshadowing Revelation’s sealed document.

• Seven seals mirror Roman wills that required the witness of seven officials—no one could tamper with a deed unless every seal was broken.

The Sealed Scroll: Meaning and Background

1. God’s redemptive agenda and final judgments are inside.

2. Written “on both sides” speaks of completeness—nothing more can be added.

3. Daniel 12:4 told Daniel to seal up his prophecy until the end; John’s vision begins to unseal it.

The Lion and the Lamb: Messianic Titles

• “Lion of Judah” stems from Genesis 49:9-10, signaling a conquering ruler.

• “Root of David” comes from Isaiah 11:1, 10, showing the Messiah both descends from David and is David’s source.

• The unexpected switch from Lion to Lamb fuses strength with sacrificial love (John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:7).

• Seven horns = complete authority (1 Samuel 2:10; Psalm 89:17). Seven eyes = complete awareness, tied to Zechariah 4:10’s “seven eyes of the LORD.”

The Role of the Twenty-Four Elders

• Likely represent the total people of God—twelve tribes plus twelve apostles (Matthew 19:28; Revelation 21:12-14).

• Sit on thrones, wear crowns, and offer worship, modeling believer-priests who reign with Christ.

Harps and Bowls of Incense: Worship Tools in Ancient Israel

• Harps were key in temple praise (1 Chron 25:6).

• Incense symbolized prayers rising to God (Psalm 141:2; Luke 1:10).

• Golden bowls echo tabernacle utensils (Exodus 25:29). Heaven’s worship fulfills earthly patterns.

Songs in Revelation: Structure and Purpose

Revelation is punctuated by hymns (Revelation 4:8-11; 11:17-18; 15:3-4; 19:1-8). The “new song” of 5:9-10 is:

1. Centered on the Lamb’s sacrifice.

2. Global in scope—“every tribe and tongue.”

3. Forward-looking—“they will reign.”

The pattern guides corporate worship today: focus on Christ, welcome all peoples, anticipate His kingdom.

Angel Numbers: Ten Thousand Times Ten Thousand

Daniel 7:10 records a similar count around God’s throne.

• In Greek, “myriads” means an uncountable multitude, stressing immeasurable heavenly support for God’s plan.

Links to Old Testament Prophecy

• Scroll: Ezekiel 2:9-10; Daniel 12:4.

• Lion/Root: Genesis 49:10; Isaiah 11:1-10.

• Lamb: Exodus 12; Isaiah 53:7.

• Kingdom of priests: Exodus 19:6; Isaiah 61:6.

• Universal praise: Psalm 148; Isaiah 45:23.

These links show Revelation completing a narrative begun in Genesis and threaded through the prophets.

Archaeological Insights on Scroll Seals

• First-century legal scrolls were papyrus or parchment, rolled from both ends toward the middle, often stamped with wax seals impressed by signet rings.

• Roman wills excavated at Oxyrhynchus reveal the seven-seal practice echoed here. The parallel underscores the absolute security of God’s decree.

Practical Implications for Believers Today

1. Confidence: History is not random; the scroll is in trustworthy hands.

2. Comfort: The Lion conquers by becoming the Lamb—power expressed through sacrifice.

3. Mission: Redemption extends to “every tribe and tongue,” propelling cross-cultural outreach (Matthew 28:19-20).

4. Worship: Heavenly liturgy lifts harps, incense, and unified voices; earthly worshippers can mirror that blend of music, prayer, and Scripture.

5. Identity: Believers are already “a kingdom and priests,” invited to live out that calling in daily life (1 Peter 2:9; Romans 12:1).

The Redemption Theme—Past, Present, Future

• Past: “You were slain” (Revelation 5:9) recalls the cross.

• Present: “You purchased… those from every nation” describes ongoing salvation.

• Future: “They will reign” points to the coming kingdom (2 Timothy 2:12).

The Lamb’s work spans time, drawing readers into God’s big story.

Why the Universe Joins the Chorus

• Creation has groaned since the fall (Romans 8:19-22). The scroll’s opening signals relief on the horizon.

• Every creature—from angelic hosts to sea life—recognizes the moment, echoing Psalm 150:6: “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.”

Closing Reflection

Revelation 5 shifts the focus from earth’s troubles to heaven’s throne, reminding believers that ultimate authority rests with the Lamb who conquered through sacrifice. As the seals prepare to open, worship fills the air, anchoring faith in the One who holds the scroll—and the future—in nail-scarred hands.

Connections to Additional Scriptures
Isaiah 11:1-10
Prophecy about the Root of Jesse, connecting to Jesus as the Root of David.

John 1:29
John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God, linking to the Lamb imagery in Revelation.

Philippians 2:9-11
Describes the exaltation of Jesus, paralleling the worship He receives in Revelation 5.
Teaching Points
The Sealed Scroll
Revelation 5:1 describes a scroll in the right hand of God, sealed with seven seals. This scroll represents God's comprehensive plan for judgment and redemption.

The Search for Worthiness
In verses 2-4, a mighty angel asks who is worthy to open the scroll, but no one in heaven or on earth is found worthy, causing John to weep.

The Lion and the Lamb
Verses 5-6 reveal that Jesus, the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Root of David, is worthy. He appears as a Lamb that was slain, symbolizing His sacrificial death and victory.

Heavenly Worship
In verses 8-14, the heavenly beings and elders worship the Lamb, acknowledging His worthiness to open the scroll and His redemptive work for all nations.
Practical Applications
Recognize Christ's Sovereignty
Acknowledge Jesus as the only one worthy to execute God's plan, reinforcing His central role in our faith.

Embrace Worship
Follow the example of the heavenly beings by incorporating worship into daily life, recognizing Jesus' sacrifice and victory.

Trust in God's Plan
Even when the future seems uncertain, trust that God's plan is perfect and will be fulfilled through Christ.
People
1. The One Seated on the Throne
This refers to God the Father, who is depicted as sitting on the throne in heaven. The imagery of God on the throne is a central theme in Revelation, symbolizing His sovereignty and authority over all creation.

2. The Lamb
This is Jesus Christ, referred to as the "Lamb who was slain." The Lamb is central to the vision in Revelation 5, as He is the only one found worthy to open the scroll and its seven seals. The term "Lamb" (Greek: ἀρνίον, arnion) emphasizes Jesus' sacrificial role in redemption.

3. The Twenty-Four Elders
These are heavenly beings who sit around the throne. They are often interpreted as representing the redeemed people of God, possibly symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles, thus encompassing the entirety of God's people.

4. The Four Living Creatures
These are angelic beings that surround the throne. They are described with features resembling a lion, an ox, a man, and an eagle, and they continuously worship God. Their presence signifies the worship and adoration of all creation.

5. The Strong Angel
This angel proclaims with a loud voice, asking who is worthy to open the scroll. The role of this angel highlights the importance and solemnity of the task of opening the scroll.

6. Every Creature in Heaven, on Earth, under the Earth, and in the Sea
This phrase encompasses all of creation, which joins in worship and praise of the Lamb and the One seated on the throne. It signifies the universal acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and the redemptive work of Christ.
Places
1. The Right Hand of Him Who Sits on the Throne
This refers to the position of authority and power where a scroll is held. The "right hand" (Greek: δεξιὰν, dexian) symbolizes strength and honor. The throne itself is a central place in the heavenly vision, representing God's sovereign rule.

2. The Throne
The throne is the central place in the heavenly vision, symbolizing God's authority and majesty. It is the focal point of the worship and events described in this chapter.

3. The Scroll with Writing on Both Sides
While not a physical location, the scroll is a significant object in the heavenly setting. It is sealed with seven seals and is held in the right hand of the one on the throne, indicating its importance and the divine authority required to open it.

4. The Lamb Standing in the Center of the Throne
The Lamb, representing Jesus Christ, is described as standing "in the center of the throne" (Greek: ἐν μέσῳ τοῦ θρόνου, en mesō tou thronou), indicating His central role in the divine plan and His shared authority with God.

5. The Four Living Creatures and the Twenty-Four Elders
These beings are positioned around the throne, participating in the worship and adoration of the Lamb. Their presence highlights the heavenly court and the worshipful atmosphere of the scene.
Events
1. The Scroll with Seven Seals
Revelation 5:1 describes a scroll in the right hand of the One seated on the throne. The scroll is written on both sides and sealed with seven seals. The Greek term for "scroll" is "βιβλίον" (biblion), indicating a document of significant importance.

2. The Search for One Worthy to Open the Scroll
In Revelation 5:2-3, a mighty angel proclaims with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?" No one in heaven, on earth, or under the earth is found worthy to open the scroll or even to look at it.

3. John Weeps Because No One is Worthy
Revelation 5:4 shows John weeping bitterly because no one is found worthy to open the scroll or look inside it. The Greek word for "weep" is "κλαίω" (klaio), indicating deep sorrow.

4. The Lion of the Tribe of Judah is Worthy
In Revelation 5:5, one of the elders tells John not to weep, for "the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed." He is worthy to open the scroll and its seven seals. The reference to the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" connects to Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah.

5. The Lamb Appears
Revelation 5:6 describes a Lamb standing in the center of the throne, looking as if it had been slain, with seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. The Lamb symbolizes Jesus Christ, and the imagery of seven horns and eyes represents complete power and knowledge.

6. The Lamb Takes the Scroll
In Revelation 5:7, the Lamb comes and takes the scroll from the right hand of the One seated on the throne. This act signifies the authority and worthiness of the Lamb to execute God's plan.

7. Worship of the Lamb
Revelation 5:8-10 describes the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders falling down before the Lamb, each holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. They sing a new song, proclaiming the Lamb worthy to take the scroll and open its seals because He was slain and purchased people for God with His blood.

8. Angelic Praise
In Revelation 5:11-12, John sees and hears the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, encircling the throne and the living creatures and elders. They sing in a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!"

9. Universal Worship
Revelation 5:13-14 concludes with every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea, praising the One seated on the throne and the Lamb. They ascribe blessing, honor, glory, and power to them forever and ever. The four living creatures say "Amen," and the elders fall down and worship.
Topics
1. The Scroll with Seven Seals
Revelation 5:1 describes a scroll in the right hand of the One seated on the throne, sealed with seven seals. The Greek word for "scroll" is "βιβλίον" (biblion), indicating a written document, and "σφραγῖδα" (sphragida) for "seal," symbolizing authority and secrecy.

2. The Search for One Worthy
In verses 2-4, a mighty angel proclaims with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?" The Greek term "ἄξιος" (axios) for "worthy" emphasizes the need for someone with the right authority and moral standing.

3. The Lion of the Tribe of Judah
Verse 5 introduces the "Lion of the tribe of Judah," a title for Jesus, rooted in Genesis 49:9-10. The Greek "λέων" (leon) for "lion" signifies strength and kingship, and "Ἰούδα" (Iouda) refers to the tribe of Judah, highlighting Jesus' messianic lineage.

4. The Lamb Standing as if Slain
In verse 6, John sees a "Lamb standing as if it had been slain," with seven horns and seven eyes. The Greek "ἀρνίον" (arnion) for "lamb" symbolizes sacrifice and innocence, while "σφαγμένον" (sphagmenon) for "slain" indicates a sacrificial death.

5. The New Song of the Elders and Living Creatures
Verses 8-10 describe the elders and living creatures singing a new song, praising the Lamb for being worthy to open the scroll. The Greek "ᾠδή" (ode) for "song" suggests a hymn of worship, and "καινός" (kainos) for "new" implies a fresh, unprecedented act of redemption.

6. The Worship of the Lamb by the Heavenly Host
In verses 11-12, countless angels join in worship, proclaiming the Lamb worthy of power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and blessing. The Greek "μυριάδες μυριάδων" (myriades myriadon) for "myriads of myriads" emphasizes an innumerable multitude.

7. Every Creature Joins in Praise
Verse 13 depicts every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and in the sea praising the One on the throne and the Lamb. The Greek "κτίσμα" (ktisma) for "creature" underscores the universal scope of creation's worship.

8. The Four Living Creatures and the Elders' Response
Finally, in verse 14, the four living creatures say "Amen," and the elders fall down and worship. The Greek "ἀμήν" (amen) is a term of affirmation, and "προσκυνέω" (proskuneo) for "worship" conveys an act of reverence and submission.
Themes
1. The Worthiness of the Lamb
Revelation 5 emphasizes the worthiness of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, to open the scroll and its seven seals. The passage highlights that no one in heaven or on earth was found worthy except the Lamb. This theme underscores the unique and supreme authority of Christ. The Greek word used for "worthy" is "ἄξιος" (axios), indicating deserving or suitable, which emphasizes the Lamb's unique qualifications.

2. The Scroll with Seven Seals
The scroll represents God's divine plan and judgment, sealed with seven seals, symbolizing completeness and perfection. The scroll's contents are inaccessible until the Lamb opens it, signifying that only through Christ can God's purposes be fully revealed and enacted.

3. The Worship of the Lamb
The chapter describes a scene of worship directed towards the Lamb, with the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders falling down before Him. This theme highlights the divinity and centrality of Christ in worship. The Greek word "προσκυνέω" (proskyneō) is used for worship, indicating an act of reverence and adoration.

4. The New Song
A new song is sung by the heavenly beings, celebrating the Lamb's redemptive work. The song acknowledges that the Lamb was slain and purchased people for God from every tribe, language, people, and nation. This theme emphasizes the universal scope of Christ's redemption and the inclusivity of the gospel.

5. The Lamb's Redemptive Sacrifice
The Lamb is described as having been slain, which points to Christ's sacrificial death on the cross. This theme is central to the Christian understanding of salvation, highlighting the atonement and the price paid for humanity's redemption. The Greek word "σφάζω" (sphazō) is used for "slain," indicating a violent death, which reflects the sacrificial nature of Christ's crucifixion.

6. The Universal Reign of the Lamb
The passage speaks of the Lamb making believers a kingdom and priests to serve God, and they will reign on the earth. This theme points to the future reign of Christ and His followers, emphasizing the hope and promise of eternal life and authority with Him.

7. The Heavenly Chorus
The chapter concludes with a vast multitude of angels, numbering myriads of myriads, joining in worship. This theme illustrates the overwhelming and universal praise directed towards the Lamb, highlighting the cosmic scope of His authority and the joy of His victory. The Greek term "μυριάς" (myrias) is used, meaning ten thousand, indicating an innumerable host.
Answering Tough Questions
1. How can Jesus be both the Lamb receiving the scroll (Revelation 5:7) and also God on the throne if they appear as separate entities?

2. Why does the Lamb have seven horns and seven eyes (Revelation 5:6), and is there any scientific or historical precedent for such a creature?

3. If the scroll in Revelation 5 is so central to end-time events, why is there no corresponding mention or artifact in other historical texts or archaeology?

4. How do we reconcile the universal worship of the Lamb (Revelation 5:13) with other parts of the Bible that emphasize worship of God alone (e.g., Exodus 20:3)?

5. If the natural order on earth is altered by the events following the sealed scroll, why is there no historical or scientific evidence of such worldwide cataclysmic occurrences?

Bible Study Discussion Questions

1. How does the imagery of the Lamb and the Lion provide a comprehensive understanding of Jesus' character?

2. How does the scene of worship in Revelation 5 shape your personal understanding of worship?

3. How might the redemption of people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" influence our perspective towards diversity and unity in the Church?

4. How does the concept of "worthiness" depicted in this chapter apply to our lives?

5. Why do you think John wept when no one was found worthy to open the scroll?

6. Why is the Lamb described as having been slain yet standing? How does this paradox resonate with the gospel message?

7. What does the response of the elders, the four living creatures, and the myriad of angels teach us about our response to Christ’s work?

8. How does the "new song" sung in verses 9-10 inspire your personal praise to Jesus?

9. How might this vision of heavenly worship affect how you approach worship in your local church setting?

10. If you were in John’s position, witnessing these events, how would you react?

11. How can Revelation 5 bring comfort and hope in the face of present-day tribulations?

12. The scroll represents God's divine plan. How do you handle situations when God's plan seems obscure or challenging?

13. The worthiness of the Lamb is tied to His sacrifice. How does this concept influence your understanding of your worthiness or identity in Christ?

14. The Lamb is identified with the seven Spirits of God, denoting the fullness of God's Spirit. How does this notion inform your understanding of the Holy Spirit's work?

15. Considering the universal worship in Revelation 5, how can we promote a culture of praise and worship in our daily environments?

16. The elders and creatures in heaven immediately fell in worship when the Lamb took the scroll. How can we cultivate such an immediate and profound response to God’s actions in our lives?

17. How can we reconcile the images of God's judgment (implied by the sealed scroll) with His love and mercy (shown by the Lamb's sacrifice)?

18. How can this chapter's emphasis on Christ's redemption help those who feel unworthy or distant from God?

19. How can the portrayal of unified worship in heaven guide the way for unity among believers on earth?

20. How might this depiction of the Lamb's worthiness influence the way we share the gospel with others?



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