Lamb of Revelation 5 | Lesson #1 Study Notes
Lesson 1 — Jesus Christ at the Center of Prophecy
Key passage: Revelation 5:1–14 | King James Version
Revelation begins with “The Revelation of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 1:1). Jesus stands at the center of prophecy. Study by observing the passage, comparing Scripture, and responding in faith.
1 The scene in heaven
A book sealed with seven seals is in the right hand of the One seated on the throne. John weeps because no one is found worthy to open it. An elder announces that the Lion of Judah has prevailed. John then sees a Lamb standing as it had been slain. The Lamb takes the book and receives heaven’s praise and worship. — Revelation 5:1–14
2 The Lamb is Jesus Christ
John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Peter describes redemption through Christ’s precious blood, comparing Him to a lamb without blemish or spot (1 Peter 1:18–19). Revelation 5:9 celebrates this same redeeming sacrifice.
3 The lamb imagery reveals sacrifice and deliverance
The Passover lamb was without blemish, and its blood marked the homes God passed over (Exodus 12:5, 13). Isaiah pictures the suffering servant as a lamb brought to slaughter (Isaiah 53:7). Paul explicitly states, “Christ our passover is sacrificed for us” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Jesus gives His sinless life to redeem people and bring them to God.
4 The Lamb is alive victorious and worthy
The standing, slain Lamb portrays the crucified and risen Christ. Jesus was dead but is now “alive for evermore” (Revelation 1:18); death has no more dominion over Him (Romans 6:9). The Lion and the Lamb reveal the same Person as King and Redeemer. His royal victory is inseparable from His sacrifice. He is worthy to open the book because He was slain and redeemed people to God by His blood. — Revelation 5:5–9
5 The seven eyes and seven horns
Revelation 5:6 identifies the eyes with the seven Spirits of God sent into all the earth. Zechariah 4:6, 10 and Ephesians 4:4 support understanding the fullness and worldwide activity of God’s Spirit. The horn represents strength and royal power (1 Samuel 2:10). The seven horns can be understood as the fullness of the Lamb’s power. The fullness reading is an interpretation supported by biblical comparison.
6 The Lamb deserves our worship and faithful following
Heaven worships the Lamb (Revelation 5:12); His people follow Him (Revelation 14:4). He overcomes as Lord of lords and King of kings (Revelation 17:14). His followers may suffer, but His final victory is certain. Faithful following includes trust, obedience, forgiveness, service, and sacrificial love. Our care should reflect redemption’s reach to every kindred, tongue, people, and nation (Revelation 5:9).
7 Study carefully and put faith into practice
Context determines a symbol’s meaning: the “lambs” in John 21:15 are people entrusted to Peter’s care. Distinguish what Scripture explicitly explains from conclusions reached through
comparison. Entrust one concern to Jesus and practice one specific act of sacrificial love this week. Continue studying Revelation with Jesus at the center.