PODCAST
The Authority of Jesus
January 30th, 2015
Revelation 5:1-14
Before the era of gummed, self-sticking, and privacy envelopes wax seals were routinely used to safeguard important messages. Only the one to whom the letter was addressed, or a person in authority, was permitted to break open the seal.
Years ago, I enjoyed a craft that involved sealing my cards and letters with a decorative wax circle, imprinted with my personal symbol. The kit contained colored wax sticks of olive green, golden yellow, and plum along with a brass stamper.
The scroll in Revelation 5, sealed with seven seals and held in God’s hand, is said to have contained “the mystery of God’s purpose for the world.”* Jesus, the King descended from the throne of David; Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb of God; Jesus, the One whom innumerable angels proclaimed, “Worthy . . . to receive glory and honor and power.” Jesus is the only One in heaven and earth who possesses authority to break open the seven seals and reveal the fate of mankind.
*Merrill C. Tenney, Interpreting Revelation: A Reasonable Guide to Understanding the Last Book of the Bible, Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers, 2001 reprint, 126.
Author: Judyann Grant
