Worthy Is the Lamb, Who Was Slain
Scripture Reading — Revelation 5
Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!
Today followers of Jesus will gather to worship the Savior who was slain. Some will gather in churches or cathedrals, others will meet in homes and huts, and still others will worship in prisons. Some will worship traditionally, and others will do so with a modern bent. Many will meet publicly, and some will gather in secret. But all will worship the Savior who laid down his life for them.
At the center of Revelation 5 is a surprising, beautiful vision of Jesus. On the one hand, Jesus is described as a lion. He’s strong and is able to open the scroll that contains God’s redemptive plan. He alone is able to carry it out. On the other hand, he looks like a lamb that was slain. Humble and gentle, he gave himself over to death.
How could Jesus be both a lion and a lamb? The two images don’t seem to fit. The answer is that he is the King because he was willing to die. Jesus has received a crown because he carried the cross. Only by having died for us is he able to bring history to a victorious end for God and his people.
As you worship today, wherever you are, glorify Jesus for the gift of salvation. Join with fellow Christians and with the angels in heaven in shouting out, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain!”
Jesus, by your blood you purchased us for God from every tribe, language, people, and nation. We praise you that you are still saving those who trust in you. Amen.
About the author — Tom Groelsema
Tom Groelsema and his wife, Sheri, have served churches in Minnesota, Michigan, and North Carolina. They have four children and three granddaughters.
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