In our previous study, we looked at the fourth chapter of Revelation to find a heavenly model for how worship can be done on earth. This study shall focus on the fifth chapter of Revelation.

The Worship in Heaven is Christ-Centered - Revelation 5:1-14

The first seven verses of chapter five are of great prophetic importance. They prepare us to consider the great judgments that shall come upon the earth by Christ (Acts 17:30-31). However, the purpose of this study is to focus on the scene of worship that is revealed to us.

Worship the Lamb - Revelation 5:6
It is of eternal importance that the Son of God be recognized as the only pure and acceptable sacrifice for sin. See John 1:29; 12:31-33; I Timothy 2:5; I Peter 1:18-20;

Everyone "Fell down before the Lamb" - Humility - Revelation 5:8
There can be no proud worshippers. As we lift up Jesus with our honor and praise, we must also put ourselves in a position of humility and servitude. See Psalm 8:3-4; 34:1-2; 95:6-7; 100:3.

Harps & Music - Revelation 5:8
Unfortunately, Christian music is often an area of contention, pride, and self-gratification. Nevertheless, music can and should be used to the glory of God and the edification of the believers. See Psalm 66:1-2; 81:1-2; 95:1-2; 98:1-6; 150:1-6; Matthew 26:30; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16.

Incense (odours - KJV) - Prayer - Revelation 5:8
If we believe in the presence of God at all times (Jeremiah 23:23-24), then we should be particularly aware of the presence of God when we worship. An atmosphere of prayer should prevail among the worshippers. See Acts 2:42; I Thessalonians 5:17-18; Jude 20-21.

"A New Song" / New Covenant (Gospel Truth) - Revelation 5:9-10

"...You are worthy…" - As we focus on Christ's worthiness, we also are remembering our unworthiness. Where would we be without Him? See Ephesians 1:3-6.

"...You were slain…" - The death of Christ is the central theme for the saints. It is the only reason we have a relationship with God and each other. Reverence to this truth should control our temperaments and tongues. See I Corinthians 1:18-24; 2:1-2; Ephesians 4:30 - 5:4; Philippians 2:1-8; I John 3:16-18.

"...Redeemed us to God by your blood out of every…nation…" - World-wide redemption means that the church is not a small enclosed group of people who are just trying to survive life. We are part of the kingdom of God on earth. We have a responsibility to all men, everywhere, to share the truth and build the fellowship of believers. See John 3:16-17; I John 2:2; Matthew 28:18-20; Romans 1:14-17; II Corinthians 5:19, 21.

"And has made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on earth." - We have joy as we celebrate our position in Christ. We have a future that gives us hope. This position is not only a privilege, but it brings a responsibility for us to live as children of the King and to be servants for His name's sake. See Revelation 1:5-6; Romans 12:1-21; 13:11-14; I Corinthians 15:51-58; I Peter 2:9-12.

Note the heavenly agreement concerning the Wonders of God's Son - to the Glory of God the Father - Revelation 5:11-14

• Psalm 97:7 cp. Hebrews 1:6
• Isa. 45:21-25 (Jehovah God) cp. Phil. 2:5-11 (Jesus Christ)
• John 5:16-24; 17:1-5 cp. I John 5:22-23; 5:20
• Matt. 28:18-20
• Ephesians 3:21

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Note the Preeminence (First-Place Position) of Christ. See Colossians 1:15-20; 2:8-10 cp. I Corinthians 15:20-28.

• Christ and the gospel are of central importance among the multitudes of redeemed men (Revelation 5:9-10).
• Christ and the gospel are of central importance among the heavenly hosts (Revelation 5:11-12).
• Christ and the gospel are of central importance to the entire universe (Revelation 5:13, 3 cp. Philippians 2:9-11).