Revelation 5:2

And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, "Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?"

Study Bible

And I saw
The phrase "And I saw" indicates a continuation of John's visionary experience. The Greek word for "saw" is "eidon," which implies not just physical sight but a deeper, spiritual perception. This suggests that John is witnessing events of profound spiritual significance, beyond mere human understanding. The use of "saw" emphasizes the revelatory nature of the vision, as John is being shown divine truths that are being unveiled to him.

a mighty angel
The term "mighty angel" underscores the power and authority of this celestial being. The Greek word for "mighty" is "ischyros," which conveys strength and might. In the biblical context, angels are often messengers of God, and a "mighty angel" suggests one of high rank and importance. This angel's presence signifies the gravity of the message being proclaimed, as it pertains to the unfolding of God's divine plan.

proclaiming in a loud voice
The phrase "proclaiming in a loud voice" indicates the urgency and importance of the message. The Greek word for "proclaiming" is "kerusso," which means to herald or announce publicly. The "loud voice" ensures that the proclamation is heard by all in the heavenly realm, emphasizing the significance of the question being asked. This loud proclamation is a call to attention, highlighting the critical nature of the search for one who is worthy.

Who is worthy
The question "Who is worthy" is central to the passage. The Greek word for "worthy" is "axios," which denotes deserving or having the right qualifications. This question is not just about ability but about moral and spiritual worthiness. It reflects the need for someone who embodies perfect righteousness and holiness to execute God's plan. This search for worthiness underscores the uniqueness of Christ, who alone is found worthy.

to break the seals
The phrase "to break the seals" refers to the act of opening the scroll, which is sealed with seven seals. In ancient times, seals were used to secure documents, ensuring that only authorized individuals could open them. The breaking of the seals signifies the unveiling of God's hidden purposes and judgments. This act requires authority and legitimacy, which only the worthy one possesses.

and open the scroll?
The "scroll" represents the divine plan and revelation of God's will for the future. In the biblical context, scrolls were used to record important decrees and messages. The opening of the scroll signifies the revelation of God's ultimate plan for redemption and judgment. This act is pivotal in the unfolding of the events described in Revelation, as it sets in motion the fulfillment of God's promises and the culmination of history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Strong Angel
A powerful celestial being tasked with proclaiming a significant question regarding the worthiness to open the scroll. The term "strong" (Greek: ischyros) emphasizes the angel's might and authority.

2. Scroll
A symbolic object in the vision, representing God's divine plan and judgment. It is sealed, indicating that its contents are hidden and require someone worthy to reveal them.

3. Seals
These are the seals on the scroll that need to be broken to reveal its contents. They symbolize the authority and power required to execute God's plan.

4. John
The apostle and author of Revelation, who is witnessing this heavenly vision.

5. Heavenly Scene
The setting of this event is in the heavenly realm, where divine and celestial beings are present.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
The sealed scroll represents God's ultimate authority and control over history and future events. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God has a plan, even when it is not fully revealed to us.

The Worthiness of Christ
The question of who is worthy points to the uniqueness of Christ. Only He is worthy to execute God's plan, highlighting His divinity and redemptive work.

The Role of Angels
Angels are messengers and servants of God, playing crucial roles in His divine plan. This reminds us of the unseen spiritual realm actively involved in God's purposes.

The Importance of Revelation
The sealed scroll signifies the need for divine revelation. As believers, we should seek understanding through prayer and study of the Scriptures, trusting God to reveal His will in His timing.

Anticipation of God's Plan
The anticipation of the scroll being opened encourages believers to live with hope and expectation, knowing that God's purposes will ultimately be fulfilled.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the strong angel's proclamation reveal about the nature of the scroll and its significance in God's plan?

2. How does the concept of worthiness in Revelation 5:2 challenge us to reflect on the worthiness of Christ in our own lives?

3. In what ways can the imagery of the sealed scroll and the need for someone worthy to open it deepen our understanding of God's sovereignty?

4. How do the roles of angels in Revelation encourage us to consider the spiritual realities that influence our world today?

5. How can we apply the anticipation of God's unfolding plan in Revelation to our daily walk with Christ, especially in times of uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 29:11-12
This passage speaks of a sealed book that cannot be read, paralleling the sealed scroll in Revelation, emphasizing the need for divine revelation.

Daniel 12:4
Daniel is instructed to seal the book until the end times, connecting to the theme of sealed divine mysteries.

Revelation 4:1
The preceding chapter sets the stage for the heavenly vision, where John is invited to witness the events in heaven.

Revelation 5:5
This verse reveals the identity of the one who is worthy, connecting the proclamation of the strong angel to the revelation of Jesus as the worthy one.