Rev 5:8-9, 7:10-12, 11:17 | PNT | STEP | When he had taken the book . The deliverance to him of the book was a signal for the four living creatures and the elders to fall before the Lamb, as they had fallen before the throne. They recognize in the fact that he has the book "that all power in heaven and earth is given into his hands" (see ). Hence, they offer him homage as Divine. Having every one of them harps . For praise. The grammatical construction seems to include both living creatures and elders. And golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints . These symbolize the prayers of the saints. The imagery represents these heavenly assistants presenting these in heaven in behalf of the saints on earth. The comforting thought is that these prayers are not lost, but are presented at the throne of God and before the Lamb.

Revelation of John 5:8-9

When he had taken the book. The deliverance to him of the book was a signal for the four living creatures and the elders to fall before the Lamb, as they had fallen before the throne. They recognize in the fact that he has the book "that all power in heaven and earth is given into his hands" (see Mt 28:18 Joh 13:3). Hence, they offer him homage as Divine.

Having every one of them harps. For praise. The grammatical construction seems to include both living creatures and elders.

And golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. These symbolize the prayers of the saints. The imagery represents these heavenly assistants presenting these in heaven in behalf of the saints on earth. The comforting thought is that these prayers are not lost, but are presented at the throne of God and before the Lamb. They sung a new song. To the music of their harps. A song that could not be sung until the Lamb had taken the book.

For thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred. "Didst purchase unto God with thy blood men of every tribe" (Revised Version). The Common Version ("hast redeemed us to God") is incorrect, as is now admitted by all scholars. The song does not sing of what Christ has done for those who are singing, but of what he has done for men. The singers are not of those redeemed.

Revelation of John 7:10-12

Salvation to our God . . . and unto the Lamb. The praise of our salvation be given to God and to the Lamb. And all the angels . . . and the elders and the four beasts. In Re 5:11-14 the elders, four living creatures, the angels about the throne, and every creature join in the praises. Here again all are named, and the angels worship and join in praising God for the blessed scene they have just beheld.

Revelation of John 5:8-9

Revelation of John 7:10-12

Revelation of John 11:17