Living Water #635

LIVING WATER – EPISODE 635 || 1ST MARCH, 2026

By Solomon Uwumbolibe Mensah

THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH: HE WHO IS WORTHY

Revelation 5:4-5

"I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” 

Revelation 5 opens a dramatic and powerful scene in heaven. John sees a scroll in the right hand of God, sealed with seven seals, representing the fullness of God’s plan and judgment. A mighty angel asks, “Who is worthy to open the scroll?” Yet no one in heaven, on earth, or under the earth could open it, and John weeps because the revelation of God’s ultimate plan seems inaccessible. This passage reminds us that while human effort, knowledge, or strength is insufficient to unlock God’s purposes, there is One who alone is worthy — Jesus Christ, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David. Understanding this truth strengthens our faith, hope, and worship.

1. The Scroll Represents God’s Perfect Plan: The scroll in God’s right hand symbolizes His sovereign plan for history, judgment, and redemption. It is written on both sides and sealed with seven seals, showing that God’s plan is complete, perfect, and fully controlled by Him. Humanity may struggle to understand God’s purposes, and even angels cannot reveal His plan apart from His chosen one. This teaches us that God’s timing and wisdom are beyond human comprehension, and we must trust Him even when the future seems uncertain.

2. No One Is Worthy Except Christ: The angel’s question highlights humanity’s inability to access God’s ultimate purposes on their own. No one, whether in heaven or on earth, is worthy to open the scroll. This shows the limitations of power, wisdom, and authority apart from Christ. Our accomplishments, knowledge, or spiritual gifts cannot unlock God’s highest mysteries. We are reminded that all hope, authority, and victory must come through Jesus Christ, the only One who is fully worthy.

3. The Heartfelt Response of John: John wept because no one could open the scroll. His sorrow reflects the human longing to see God’s plan fulfilled and to understand His purposes. Many believers experience seasons of waiting, uncertainty, or frustration because God’s ways are often hidden. John’s tears remind us that it is natural to desire insight and resolution, yet human grief is met with divine redirection — pointing us toward Christ, who alone brings revelation and fulfillment.

4. Jesus, the Lion of Judah, Is Triumphant: One of the elders reassures John: “See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed.” Jesus is both mighty and humble — the Lion represents His strength and victory, while the Root of David points to His messianic lineage and covenantal faithfulness. He alone is worthy to open the scroll. This teaches us that Christ’s authority is absolute, His triumph over sin and death is complete, and His wisdom is perfect. Through Him, God’s purposes are revealed and accomplished.

5. Christ Brings Revelation and Hope: The key message is that our hope and understanding are secured in Jesus. While humanity may fail, Christ succeeds. He holds the authority to reveal God’s plan, bring redemption, and execute judgment according to divine wisdom. Believers can rejoice in the certainty that God’s purposes are not thwarted by human limitation; rather, they are fulfilled in Christ. Our worship, faith, and patience are grounded in the assurance that the Lion of Judah reigns and triumphs over all.

Revelation 5:1–5 teaches that God’s plan is sovereign, human effort alone is insufficient, and Jesus Christ alone is worthy. While we may not fully understand all that God is doing, we can trust the One who holds the scroll in His hand. Christ is triumphant, powerful, and faithful — and through Him, all things are accomplished. Believers are called to worship, trust, and rejoice in His victory, knowing that He opens what no one else can.

 Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for revealing Jesus as the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Root of David. Help us to trust Your plan even when it is hidden, and to place our hope in Christ, who alone is worthy. Strengthen our faith, deepen our worship, and let us rejoice in His triumph and authority. In Jesus’ name, Amen.