Revelation 5:8-10 (NMB NT) And when he had taken the scroll, the four creatures and 24 elders fell down before the Lamb, having harps and golden vials full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song, saying, You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals. For you were killed, and have redeemed us by your blood out of all kindreds and tongues and people and nations, 10 and have made us kings and priests unto our God, and we shall reign on the earth.
V8 “And when he had taken the scroll, the four creatures and 24 elders fell down before the Lamb, having harps and golden vials full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” The four living creatures around God’s throne and the 24 elders kneel down (in respect, honor, and submission) before the Lamb, Jesus. They are worshipping Him. Worship may include this, but all must have the same attitude of respect and loyal service. The harps are to sing praise, The golden vials (bowels) are our prayers. Our prayers, your prayers, are an offering to Jesus. Are we praying every day? It should be a priority.
V9 “And they sang a new song, saying, You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals. For you were killed, and have redeemed us by your blood out of all kindreds and tongues and people and nations…” The song of praise, honor, and thanksgiving is because Jesus is worthy (He is God the Son and proven by His ministry on earth, His death, His burial, His bodily resurrection, and His ascension). Note Jesus’s attitude when He knew the cross with its suffering and humiliation was coming; He said, “Matthew 26:39 (NMB NT) And he went a little apart and fell flat on his face and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” Do we have the same attitude and dedication to do God’s will as the Son of Man, Jesus?
V10 “…and have made us kings and priests unto our God, and we shall reign on the earth.” Most translations following the Gnostic tainted texts have “… (NRSV) you have made them to be a kingdom and priests serving our God, and they will reign on earth.”
The word “kings” is found in the various Textus Receptus and Byzantine texts. Priests to not have a kingdom or reign. Kings have kingdoms and reign. Compare: Hebrews 12:28 (UKJV) Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
We learn:
- The need for our humility and recognition of the supreme authority of Jesus
- Jesus is worthy to administer judgment; His Father granted it to Him.
- A time is coming when believers will be kings reigning and priests serving God (Genesis 14:18 and Psalms 110:4).