Revelation  ◦   Chapter 5

1Then I looked, and I saw that he who sits on the throne had written out the history of the world before the world began, and sealed it up. It was symbolized by a book in his right hand, with writing within, and sealed with seven seals.2And I watched as a mighty angel asked in a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the book of God's foreknowledge, and intervene in human history?"3But there was no created being in heaven, or living on earth, or amongst the dead, who could open the scroll or even look at its contents.4My heart broke with sadness because there was no one found who could open the book or look inside.5Then one of the elders said to me, "Don't be sad! See, Jesus–the Lion from Judah, the descendant of David–has overcome and is now able to open the book of God's foreknowledge, sealed by seven seals."

6Then I saw a Lamb, appearing as if it had been slain–symbolizing Jesus who sacrificed himself to eradicate sin–standing at the command center of the universe, surrounded by his staff and agents symbolized by the four living creatures and the elders. He had all heavenly power and all wisdom at his disposal — symbolized by seven horns and seven eyes, which represented God’s Spirit — and he was directing every heavenly agency to rescue, heal and restore his children living on earth.7He came and took the book from God's right hand.8When he took the book, his staff–symbolized by the four living creatures and twenty-four elders–were so relieved that they fell down in joy and awe before him. They were processing requests from God's children on earth–symbolized by the golden bowls of incense they each held. They also had renewed hearts that were like musical instruments making a beautiful melody,9and they sang a new song stemming from their admiration for Jesus:

"You are able to take the book and reveal the sealed contents because you were killed, and by your death you revealed the truth and achieved the Remedy to free humans from sin and restore people from every race, language, tribe and nation to God.
10You have healed their minds, making them a kingdom of priests ministering the Remedy of our God, and they will administer God's methods on earth."

11Then I heard many voices, so I looked, and I saw millions of angels–so many that it was beyond my ability to count. They surrounded the throne and the living creatures, and the elders.12In rich booming voices, they sang:

"Worthy is Jesus the Lamb to possess all power, resources and ability, and receive all honor, glory and praise, because he was slain, proving that he will never abuse such mighty power!"

13Then I heard every living being in the universe singing in unison:

"To him who sits on the throne and to Jesus the Lamb be praise and honor, glory and power, for ever and ever, without end!"

14The four living creatures said, "Absolutely right!" and the elders fell down in adoration and awe.