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Worthy to Take the Scroll
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn the vision described, John beholds a scroll in the right hand of the Most High God, seated on a throne in heaven, surrounded by twenty-four elders and four living creatures. This scroll, sealed and written on both sides, signifies a complete and unalterable judgment, central to a legal or judicial act symbolized by the throne. John weeps deeply, overwhelmed by the significance of the scroll and the urgent need for it to be opened, indicating its tremendous worth beyond mere prophecy. The scroll in Revelation mirrors other prophetic scrolls, such as those seen by Ezekiel and Zechariah, each symbolizing judgments and written on both sides to show their completeness. Unlike Ezekiel's open scroll, which was a commission to a human servant, this scroll remains sealed, emphasizing a unique purpose. It parallels a sealed title deed, akin to Jeremiah's purchase deed, where only the rightful owner can unseal it to redeem the property. This scroll, held in the Father's right hand, awaits the worthy one to claim and open it, signifying the redemption of creation. John's distress stems from the initial absence of anyone worthy to open the scroll, a matter surpassing even sinlessness, as no angel, servant, or spirit is found capable. When the Lamb, who had been slain, takes the scroll, immense rejoicing erupts among the heavenly beings, praising Him for His worthiness to redeem a diverse people and make them a kingdom and priests. The act of taking the scroll, even before opening it, prompts a vast choir of voices and every creature to offer blessing, honor, and glory to Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb. As the seals of the scroll are opened, they reveal a world in turmoil, showcasing the struggle between the current ruler and the Redeemer claiming His creation. The culmination at the seventh seal's trumpet sound marks the completion of the earth's redemption, with the kingdom of this world becoming the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, who shall reign forever.
Worthy to Take the Scroll
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThe sealed scroll most resembles a title deed, which can only be opened by the redeemer of the property. The rightful owner of the title deed is Jesus Christ.

The Four Horsemen (Part One): In the Saddle?
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are a terrifying image of impending doom. The hoofbeats of these fearsome figures can already be heard on the earth!
The Lamb of Revelation
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIn Revelation, John refers to Christ as the Lamb more than any other designation because of His role of Redeemer, which is different from a sin offering.
Revelation 10 and the Church's History
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRevelation 10 contains the seven thunders and the little book. It serves as an inset, not following a linear time sequence of the book of Revelation.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)In the combined history of Judah and Israel, when the leaders abandoned the covenants with God, the citizenry generally followed suit.