The act of taking the scroll is a significant event described in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 5. This moment is pivotal in the unfolding of the apocalyptic vision given to the Apostle John. The scroll, sealed with seven seals, represents the divine plan and the unfolding of God's ultimate purpose for creation and redemption.

Biblical Context

In Revelation 5, the Apostle John is given a vision of the heavenly throne room. He sees God seated on the throne, holding a scroll in His right hand. The scroll is described as being written on both sides and sealed with seven seals, indicating its completeness and the fullness of its contents. The scroll is a symbol of God's sovereign will and the unfolding of history according to His divine plan.

Revelation 5:1-4 states: "Then I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, 'Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?' But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or look inside it. And I began to weep bitterly, because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or look inside it."

The inability of anyone in heaven or on earth to open the scroll emphasizes the unique worthiness required to execute God's plan. John's weeping reflects the deep longing for the fulfillment of God's promises and the revelation of His will.

The Worthy Lamb

The turning point in this vision occurs when one of the elders tells John to stop weeping, for the "Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed" (Revelation 5:5). This is a reference to Jesus Christ, who is both the conquering Lion and the sacrificial Lamb. The dual imagery highlights Christ's victory through His sacrificial death and His authority to enact God's plan.

Revelation 5:6-7 continues: "Then I saw a Lamb who appeared to have been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which represent the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. And He came and took the scroll from the right hand of the One seated on the throne."

The act of taking the scroll signifies Christ's authority and worthiness to open the seals and execute the divine plan. The Lamb's appearance as "slain" yet standing is a powerful depiction of His redemptive work and resurrection. The seven horns and seven eyes symbolize His perfect power and omniscience, underscoring His divine nature and the fullness of the Holy Spirit.

Heavenly Worship

Following the act of taking the scroll, a profound response of worship erupts in heaven. The four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fall down before the Lamb, each holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. They sing a new song, proclaiming the Lamb's worthiness to take the scroll and open its seals.

Revelation 5:9-10 declares: "And they sang a new song: 'Worthy are You to take the scroll and open its seals, because You were slain, and by Your blood You purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign upon the earth.'"

This act of worship acknowledges the redemptive work of Christ, who through His sacrifice has redeemed people from every corner of the earth, establishing them as a kingdom and priests to serve God. The universal scope of redemption and the establishment of believers as a royal priesthood highlight the comprehensive nature of God's salvific plan.

Theological Significance

The act of taking the scroll is a profound theological moment that underscores the centrality of Christ in the divine narrative. It affirms His unique role as the mediator of God's covenant and the executor of His will. The event emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the authority of Christ, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive purposes through Jesus.

In the broader context of Revelation, the opening of the scroll's seals initiates a series of judgments and events that lead to the consummation of history and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. The act of taking the scroll is thus a catalyst for the unfolding of eschatological events, revealing the triumph of God's justice and mercy through Christ.