What does Revelation 5:7 mean?
"And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne." - Revelation 5:7

Revelation 5:7 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne."
This verse is part of the larger context of the book of Revelation, which is the final book of the New Testament. The book is attributed to the apostle John and is considered a prophetic vision of the end times. In this particular chapter, the scene is set in heaven, where John witnesses a scroll with seven seals held in the right hand of God, who is seated upon a throne. The scroll contains the future judgment and redemption of the earth, and is symbolic of God's sovereign control over all events.
The verse in question speaks to the transfer of the scroll from the hand of God to the "Lamb," who is Jesus Christ. This act is highly significant in the context of the book of Revelation and the broader biblical narrative. The scroll represents the ultimate plan of God for the redemption and restoration of the world, and in this moment, the authority to carry out this plan is transferred from God the Father to Jesus the Son.
One of the key themes present in Revelation 5:7 is the divine authority and sovereignty of Jesus Christ. By taking the scroll from the hand of God, Jesus is being acknowledged as the one who has the power and authority to bring about the fulfillment of God's plan for the world. This act reinforces the central message of the book of Revelation, which is that Jesus Christ is the victorious and rightful ruler of all creation.
Additionally, the imagery of the right hand is significant in biblical symbolism. The right hand is often associated with strength, power, and honor. In this context, the fact that the scroll is held in the right hand of God signifies its importance and the authority that comes with it. When Jesus takes the scroll from God's right hand, it further emphasizes his divinely appointed role as the one who holds ultimate authority over the future events of the world.
The scene in Revelation 5:7 also serves as a powerful reminder of the intimate relationship between God the Father and Jesus the Son. The act of transferring the scroll from one to the other symbolizes the unity of purpose and will between the two members of the Trinity. It also highlights the shared authority and sovereignty that they possess over the course of human history.
In a broader context, this verse speaks to the Christian belief in the exaltation of Jesus Christ. It affirms the theological truth that Jesus is not merely a historical figure, but the exalted Lord who holds ultimate authority over the destiny of creation. This belief is central to Christian faith and is reflected in numerous other biblical passages.
From a historical perspective, Revelation 5:7 was likely written at a time when Christians were facing persecution and hardship. The book of Revelation was intended to provide encouragement and hope to believers, assuring them that ultimately, Jesus Christ would reign victorious over all earthly powers. This verse would have served as a source of comfort and assurance for those early Christians, reminding them that their faith was anchored in the authority and sovereignty of Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, Revelation 5:7 holds rich theological significance within the broader context of the book of Revelation and the biblical narrative as a whole. It speaks to themes of divine authority, the exaltation of Jesus Christ, and the unity within the Trinity. The verse reaffirms the Christian belief in the ultimate victory of Jesus and serves as a source of encouragement for believers facing hardship. It is a powerful reminder of the central role that Jesus plays in the plan of God for the redemption of the world.
Have questions about Revelation 5:7?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Revelation 5:7 Artwork
Revelation 5:7 - "And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne."
"And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne." - Revelation 5:7
Revelation 7:5 - "Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand."
Revelation 5:5
Revelation 21:5
Revelation 5:6
Revelation 8:5
Revelation 5:6
Revelation 5:8
Revelation 5:6
Revelation 1:7
Revelation 20:7
Revelation 7:22
Revelation 20:7
Revelation 20:7
Revelation 1:7
Revelation 3:7
Revelation 20:7
REVELATION 4:7
Revelation 12:7
Revelations 7
Revelations 7
Revelation 5:1-10
Revelation 15:5-8
Revelation 15:5-8
Revelation 15:5-8
Revelation 22: 1-5
Revelation 9:7-10
Revelations 7:11
Revelations 8:3-5