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Christ as the Lamb in resurrection is seen possessed of "all power in heaven and
earth", for John saw the Lamb "having seven horns and seven eyes". Omnipotence and
omniscience are here symbolized, and a reference back to Zech. 3: 9 and 4: 10 will
show that Israel's restoration and forgiveness is near. The seven eyes are further
described as the seven spirits of God, and these have already been spoken of in Rev. 1: 4
and 4: 5, and linked (see 3: 1) with the seven angels of the seven churches. John saw
this One take the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sitteth on the throne. This One,
alone in all the wide universe, was worthy to do so.
A close parallel in many ways is found in Dan. 7: 9-14. There is seen the throne,
and the glory of Him who sat thereon. There books were opened, and
"One like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven and came to the Ancient of
days, and they brought Him near before Him. And there was given unto Him dominion,
and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages should serve Him".
"Every tribe, and tongue, and people and nation" figure in the new song that follows in
Rev. 5:, which must, however, form the subject of another paper.
The New Song (Rev. 5: 9, 10).
pp. 161-164
Before we can proceed with our studies, it will be necessary to give a rendering that
shall contain the essential and important alterations to the A.V. in accordance with the
readings of the critical Greek Texts.
"And they sing a new song, saying, Worthy art Thou to take the book, and to open the
seals thereof, because Thou wast slain, and didst purchase for God, by Thy blood, out of
every tribe and tongue and people and nation and didst make them to our God a kingdom
and priests, and they reign over the earth".
A new song! What song is it that Scripture calls new? Psa. 96: commences with the
words, "O sing unto the Lord a new song, sing unto the Lord all the earth", and concludes
with, "for He cometh, for He cometh to judge the earth". The next Psalm opens with the
words, "the Lord reigneth", while Psa. 98: commences with the words, "O sing unto
the Lord a new song". The next Psalm also commences with "The Lord reigneth".
The Companion Bible places these four Psalms together, making Psalms 97: and
99: the new song, which the preceding Psalms had summoned the people to sing. We
give it for the benefit of those who do not possess a copy.
F | 96: A summons to sing the "new song". "For He cometh" (Judgment).
G | 97: The new song. "Jehovah reigneth".
F | 98: A summons to sing the "new song". "For He cometh" (Judgment).
G | 99: The new song. "Jehovah reigneth".