The Advent season, a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth, is deeply rooted in the hope and worship that define the Christian faith. Revelation 5 offers a profound lens through which to view Advent worship, portraying a heavenly scene that inspires awe, devotion, and joyful anticipation.
Revelation 5 describes a moment of divine revelation, where John sees a scroll sealed with seven seals that no one on earth or in heaven is worthy to open. The initial despair is replaced by triumphant hope when the Lamb, Jesus Christ, is revealed as the only one worthy to open the scroll. This powerful imagery encapsulates the central themes of Advent: anticipation, redemption, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises in Christ.
During Advent, Christians reflect on the dual nature of Christ’s coming—His incarnation in Bethlehem and His promised return in glory. Revelation 5 invites believers to participate in worship that mirrors the adoration offered in heaven. The angelic chorus, the elders, and all creation join in a resounding proclamation:
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12).
This declaration forms a foundation for Advent worship, which emphasizes the worthiness of Christ as Savior and King.
In the Advent season, this worship takes on specific characteristics.
First, it is a time of joyful expectation. The refrain of hope in Revelation 5 reminds Christians that the Lamb who was slain has triumphed. This victory inspires joy, even amidst the waiting. Hymns like "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" resonate with this theme, echoing the heavenly anticipation of Christ’s ultimate reign.
Second, Advent worship is marked by humble adoration. Revelation 5 depicts the elders falling before the Lamb, offering harps and bowls of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. This act of reverence invites believers to approach the season with humility, dedicating their prayers and praises to the One who is worthy. Practices such as lighting Advent candles and reading Scripture encourage worshippers to reflect on God’s redemptive plan with gratitude.
Third, Advent worship fosters a sense of community and cosmic unity. Revelation 5 portrays all creation—“every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea”—joining in worship. This universal praise underscores the global and eternal scope of Advent, reminding Christians that they worship alongside believers worldwide and in the company of heavenly beings.
Finally, Advent worship is a time of proclamation. Just as the heavenly host proclaims Christ’s worthiness, so too are believers called to declare the good news of His coming. This proclamation often takes the form of caroling, acts of service, and sharing the story of Christ’s birth with others, embodying the hope and joy of the season.
Revelation 5 serves as a powerful text for Advent reflection, connecting the worship of heaven to the waiting of earth. As Christians gather to celebrate the first coming of Christ and look forward to His return, they are invited into the eternal chorus of praise:
“To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!” (Revelation 5:13).