Read the scripture carefully. Read the words that are there.

The music in Revelation is important and exciting. If any individual has an interest in exploring this further, they should be encouraged to do so. I did it once and, although I didn't nearly cover the subject, the experience awakened within me a continuing awareness and I find Revelation messages and ideas in many hymns and songs.

Continuing awareness of numbers in Revelation should be maintained to enhance interpretation. In chapter four the 24 elders who fall before the one on the throne are generally interpreted as symbolizing the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles --- all of God's people.  The four living creatures would include all earth's creatures, animals and people. There are many  symbols but in a study such as this, do not let the group become too enthralled with details. For instance, creatures being full of eyes is not meant to be some strange thing to be afraid of. It probably is a way to say that they are very watchful.

The scroll is of great importance. It cannot be opened by any creature. This is of import throughout the book. There are many, many things that only God can do. We are creatures. We can understand only what God chooses to reveal.

The Lamb can open the scroll because this is Jesus, this is God. Careful reading of chapter 5, without imposing what we might have heard into it, will bring a great deal of understanding. It is a grand and glorious picture. Revel in the picture it brings to mind. Trust the words of scripture.

The Horizon study on pages 26 and 27 is of mixed value. There is helpful information but remember as you read it that God is always the Victor and the Conqueror, not humans. Jesus was/is the Lamb of God but he was never a victim.

Question 2, page 24: Do not limit this question to "powers" in the ordinary sense. What in your life is really most important to you, that is power in your life. I would abandon the word emperor entirely.

Question 5, page 26 is disturbing. Vulnerability does not conquer evil unless God  is behind it and has called for vulnerability.

The study's author uses the terms "Lamb Theology" and "Lamb Power." In Revelation 5:5 the elder states that the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the

root of David will open the seals because he has conquered. The first title, "Lion of the tribe of Judah," is based on Genesis 49:9 and 10 where Jacob is blessing his sons. The second, "Root of David," can be directly supported in Isaiah 11:1 and 10. This is definitely speaking of Jesus who was indeed born into the tribe of Judah and was a descendent of David. But it is a Lamb that appears to open the scroll. This is the crucified and raised-to-life Jesus. These two understandings of Jesus must always be held in tension with each other. It is Jesus the Lamb, the perfect sacrifice who has conquered. He is also the Lion and the Son of David.

The study can be misleading in the way it speaks of Lamb Power. The church and individual Christians do not have power by being non-violent. Any "power" we have is by God's choosing to work through us as we walk with, and are faithful to the Lamb.