Revelation 5:7
And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
Revelation 5:7 (KJV)
Context
The book of Revelation is a highly symbolic and prophetic book written by the apostle John. It reveals the events and the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ over evil and the establishment of His kingdom. In this particular verse, John is describing a vision he had of the heavenly throne room.
In the preceding verses, John sees a scroll or a book in the right hand of the One seated on the throne. The scroll is sealed with seven seals, signifying its importance and the need for someone worthy to open it. The One seated on the throne represents God the Father. He is the Almighty, the ruler of all creation. The fact that the book is in His right hand symbolises His authority and sovereignty over the events and judgments about to unfold.
Meaning
The “He” who takes the book is Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the central figure of the Christian faith. In the following verses, Jesus is described as the “Lion of the tribe of Judah” and the “Root of David” (Revelation 5:5). This signifies His authority and fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah.
When Jesus takes the book, it signifies His worthiness and ability to carry out the divine plan of redemption and judgment. By taking the book, Jesus assumes the role of the executor of God’s will and the one who will bring about the events described in the book of Revelation. The act of taking the book from the Father’s right hand is a decisive moment in the revelation of God’s plan, indicating that the Lamb alone is worthy to open the scroll and its seven seals (Revelation 5:1-5).
The sealed book contains the judgments and future events that will unfold upon the earth. Its contents are of utmost significance for the culmination of God’s plan and the establishment of His kingdom. By taking the book, Jesus is taking the responsibility of bringing these events to pass. The right hand of God is a place of honor and authority, and the Lamb’s taking the scroll from it indicates His divine commission to execute the divine purposes.
Biblical connections
This verse emphasizes the intimate relationship between the Father and the Son, and the Lamb’s central role in salvation history. The Lamb, though appearing as slain, is alive and active, worthy to receive power and glory. This act fulfills the expectation of the one who is worthy to open the scroll, and it connects to the broader theme of Christ’s exaltation and His mediatorial work. The immediate context (Revelation 4-5) shows the throne of God, the twenty-four elders, and the four living creatures worshiping the Lamb, highlighting the unity of the Godhead in the work of salvation.
Application
Revelation 5:7 demonstrates the authority and power of Jesus Christ. As believers, we can find comfort and assurance in the fact that Jesus, the one who has conquered sin and death, is in control of the future. It reminds us that God’s plans and purposes will be fulfilled, and we can trust in His sovereignty. The verse assures us that history is not random but is moving toward the fulfillment of God’s promises, and it invites us to join the heavenly chorus in praising the Lamb who was slain and who lives to reign.
Reflection
Revelation 5:7 reveals Jesus Christ, the Son of God, as the one who is worthy to take the book from the right hand of God the Father. This act signifies His authority and responsibility to carry out God’s plan for the redemption and judgment of the world. As believers, we can find hope and assurance in the fact that Jesus is in control and His purposes will be fulfilled.
