Topical Encyclopedia The title "Lamb" ascribed to Jesus Christ is deeply rooted in biblical theology and symbolism, representing His role as the sacrificial offering for the sins of humanity. This appellation draws from the rich tapestry of Old Testament sacrificial practices and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament revelation of Jesus as the Lamb of God.Old Testament Background The concept of the lamb as a sacrificial offering is central to the Old Testament sacrificial system. In the Passover narrative, the Israelites were instructed to sacrifice a lamb without blemish and apply its blood to their doorposts, so that the angel of death would pass over their homes (Exodus 12:3-13). This event prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood would bring deliverance from sin and death. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, John the Baptist explicitly identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God. In John 1:29 , John declares, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" This proclamation highlights Jesus' mission to atone for sin through His sacrificial death. The Apostle Peter further emphasizes this theme, linking Jesus to the Passover lamb. In 1 Peter 1:18-19 , he writes, "For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed... but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot." Here, Peter underscores the purity and perfection of Christ as the ultimate sacrificial Lamb. The Book of Revelation The Book of Revelation richly employs the imagery of the Lamb to describe Jesus' redemptive work and His exalted status. In Revelation 5:6 , John describes a vision of the Lamb standing as though it had been slain, possessing seven horns and seven eyes, symbolizing perfect power and knowledge. The Lamb is central to the worship in heaven, as seen in Revelation 5:12 , where the heavenly hosts proclaim, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!" Furthermore, the Lamb is depicted as the victorious conqueror. Revelation 17:14 states, "They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with Him will be His called, chosen, and faithful followers." This passage affirms the ultimate victory of Christ over evil and His sovereign rule. Theological Significance The title "Lamb" encapsulates the essence of Jesus' mission and His sacrificial love. It signifies His role as the atoning sacrifice, fulfilling the requirements of the Law and providing a means of reconciliation between God and humanity. The Lamb's blood, shed on the cross, is the foundation of the New Covenant, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe. In Christian worship and theology, the Lamb remains a central figure, symbolizing purity, sacrifice, and victory. The imagery of the Lamb continues to inspire hymns, liturgies, and art, reflecting the profound impact of this title on the Christian faith. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 5:6,8And I beheld, and, see, in the middle of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the middle of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 6:16 Revelation 7:9,10,17 Revelation 12:11 Revelation 13:8,11 Revelation 14:1,4 Revelation 15:3 Revelation 17:14 Revelation 19:7,9 Revelation 21:9,14,22,23,27 Library Introduction The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Questions about Jesus Christ (All) | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophecies did Jesus fulfill? | GotQuestions.org Is the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar biblical? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |