Rev. David Holwick
Study Notes
July 1991
Revelation 5
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I. Placement of chapter.
A. Majestic scene in Rev 4 gives way to animated scene in Rev 5.
1) Appears to be an enthronement ceremony.
B. Mounting excitement over victory of the Lamb.
C. Delay in opening scroll adds to dramatic effect and focuses
attention on action of the Lamb.
II. The scroll with seven seals.
A. Nature of scroll.
1) Probably a scroll rather than a codex (KJV). Gk- biblion
2) Description echoes Ezekiel 2:9.
a) But Ezekiel's scroll was not sealed.
b) Use of Ezekiel by John. 2 views:
1> By adding seven seals John modifies Ezekiel to make
it a contract-deed.
2> John changes Ezekiel's prophecy of overflowing
judgments to a testament of the kingdom preceded by
judgments.
B. Prophecy, covenant/contract, or will.
1) Prophecy. Dan 8:26; 12:9
a) Characteristic for apocalyptic prophecies to be sealed.
2) Doubly inscribed contract.
a) Common in ancient Near East.
b) Sealed contract could not be altered. Jer 32:9ff
3) Will or testament. Zahn(BM)
a) Contents were always kept secret.
b) Christ is the executor of God's testament with humans.
1> They are inheriting God's kingdom on earth.
c) Objection- progressive carrying out of God's judgments as
the seals are opened doesn't fit a testament.
1> Symbols do not have to fit at all points.
4) Little difference between #2 and #3. BM
III. Lion of tribe of Judah. Gen 49:9
A. Root of Jesse. Isa 11:1,10
B. Horns - symbolize power. Deut 33:17
1) Also royalty. Dan 7:7; cf Rev 17:3,12
C. Seven eyes. Zech 4:10
IV. Warring Lamb. Testament of Joseph 19:8f. BM,125
A. New song - common in Psalms, esp. for deliverance. Ps 40:1; 98:1
B. Thou are worthy. see 4:11
BM - commentator Beasley-Murray
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