Revelation 5:4-8

The book opened by the Lion of Judah Revelation 5:4-8: John wept when on one was found to open the little book. God had promised John that He would show him things that would shortly come to pass. After waiting for one to open the book and seeing none John's emotions turned to tears. John is thinking of the terrible situation the church is facing. He desired to know the outcome but felt frustrated that none could open the book. John was told, "Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof."

As John looked the Lion became a Lamb. Jesus is pictured as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. Christ is also called the Lamb of God because He was a sacrificial offering for our sins. The seven horns represent the infinite power and might of Jesus Christ. The seven eyes show His infinite knowledge and wisdom. The ability of Jesus to open the little book has been demonstrated by His work on the cross. When the Lamb took the scroll the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before Him. High-ranking angels and redeemed man join together in worship of the Lamb.

There were harps in heaven. Some have tried to use these as justification of instrumental music in the worship of the church. We must remember that in the worship of the church we are always limited to that which is authorized by God. The kind of music God authorized for the church is singing and making melody in the heart. (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16) This same verse (Revelation 5:8) pictured incense in heaven. Does this verse give authority for burning incense in the church? Surely no one would believe that it does!