Redemption

The fifth chapter unfolds redemption. It is not the question then who Jesus is, but what He is, and for the comfort of the saints the heavenly drama is shown. John in a mortal body is a picture of the weakness of the present condition of the saints in communion with God. Though in heaven, John displays his weakness, and weeps much. The saint carrying about with him a body of sin and death, always displays his weakness in God's presence.
In spite of this, all the grace of God is shown forth in this scene for the comfort of John's heart. Why should John weep at what man is? Had he forgotten there was a Man who was worthy? He shows his bewilderment in God's presence and weeps much, because he had forgotten the Lamb who was worthy to take the book and to open the seven seals thereof. And notice, it is not only His personal worthiness, but the redeemed worship Him in new song. They declare His worthiness because He was slain, and had redeemed them to God by His blood. This is His worthiness. He glorified God in shedding His blood for us. He was not content to abide alone. He redeemed us to God by His blood, and we shall reign with Him.