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The Lamb of God
Sermonette byJohn the Baptist, upon seeing Jesus, declared, "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world," as recorded in John 1:29. The following day, standing with two of his disciples, he repeated, "Behold the Lamb of God," emphasizing this unique identification of Jesus as He began His ministry. This description as the Lamb of God highlights a gentle, sacrificial nature, reflecting an attitude of humility and submission, even amidst suffering and abuse, where He remained silent, as foretold in Isaiah 53:7. Unlike portrayals of power or might, this initial depiction underscores Jesus' approach as one of restraint and sacrifice. The symbolism of a lamb, familiar to the audience of that era who often kept small herds of sheep, evokes traits of quietness, helplessness, and sensitivity. Lambs, being less than 300 days old, are predisposed to characteristics of sheep such as being gregarious, needing a leader, and being vulnerable to fear and enemies, while relying entirely on the shepherd for protection and guidance. Jesus, as the Lamb of God, embodies this gentle and submissive demeanor, showing a need for God's protection and guidance, setting an example for His followers. In Revelation 5:5-6, Jesus is described both as the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Root of David, indicating His power and authority, yet immediately portrayed as a Lamb as though it had been slain, reinforcing His willing submission and sacrificial role. This duality illustrates that while He possesses immense power, He chose to come to Earth as a lamb, gentle and submissive, to fulfill God's plan. This example encourages His followers to emulate such qualities, living peaceably and humbly among others, as instructed in Titus 2:13-14 and 3:1-2, to be subject to authorities, to speak evil of no one, and to show gentleness and humility to all.
The Lamb of Revelation (Part One)
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn the book of Revelation, Jesus Christ is predominantly referred to as the Lamb, with this title appearing in twenty-eight instances, far surpassing other designations such as Christ or Son of God. Amidst the apocalyptic visions of beasts, plagues, and destruction, where Jesus is unveiled as King of kings against the resistance of men and demons, He is consistently identified as the Lamb. This title stands in stark contrast to the expected imagery of judgment and ruin, as lambs are typically associated with passive, uncomplaining submission, even in suffering. While lambs are often linked to sin offerings within broader contexts, this symbolism does not fully align with the Lamb described in Revelation. Beyond sin offerings, Scripture reveals lambs used in various contexts such as morning and evening sacrifices, peace offerings, sanctification of the priesthood, cleansing rituals, and annual festivals. A significant usage appears in the Passover and the law of the firstborn, where lambs symbolize redemption, not atonement. God claimed Israel as His firstborn, redeeming her from Pharaoh, and required the Israelites to redeem every firstborn male with a lamb, emphasizing ownership over atonement. This theme of redemption extends to personal application, where Christ's blood redeems believers from the power of death and the control of the devil. Yet, a future redemption is also necessary, liberating from the flesh and a corrupt nature to fully manifest the image of the Creator. Thus, the Lamb in Revelation embodies a profound symbol of redemption, reflecting a divine claim and the transformative ownership by God over His people.
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.
Death of a Lamb
Article by StaffSince the church no longer keeps the Passover with the slaughter of a lamb, we miss important and poignant details that could enhance our observance.
The Offerings of Leviticus (Part Two): The Burnt Offering
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe burnt offering is completely consumed on the altar. This type of offering teaches us about Christ's total dedication to God—and how we should emulate it.
Offerings (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe sacrifices teach us about the mind, heart, and character of Jesus. The burnt offering symbolizes complete devotion to God in every aspect of life.
The Sacrifices of Leviticus (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughVarious animals were used in the burnt offering—bullocks, lambs, doves, and goats. Each depicts some characteristic of Jesus that we must emulate as we serve God.
The Night to be Much Observed
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Night Much to be Observed is a memorial of the covenant with Abraham, and God's watchfulness in delivering ancient Israel as well as spiritual Israel.
The Spiritual Mark of the Beast
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAnger and hostility, driven by self-centered competitive pride constitute Satan's spiritual mark that divides nations, ethnic groups, families, and the church.
The Beast From the Earth and 666
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe first beast rises out of political turmoil, while the second rises out of an entrenched, worldwide religious system, totally opposed to God's laws.
The Lamb of Revelation (Part Two)
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn Exodus 13, lambs redeem the firstborn. The Lamb of God delivers sinners from the death penalty, but another redemption will occur at Christ's return.