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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Revelation 5:6–14. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here, I. The apostle beholds this book taken into the hands of the Lord Jesus Christ, in order to its being unsealed and opened by him. Here Christ is described, 1. By his place and station: In the midst of the throne, and of the four beasts, and of the elders. He was on the same throne with the Father; he was nearer to him than either the elders or ministers of the churches. Christ, as man and Mediator, is subordinate to God the Father, but is nearer to him than all the creatures; for in him all the fulness of the Godhead dwells bodily. The ministers stand between God and the people. Christ stands as the Mediator between God and both ministers and people. 2. The form in which he appeared. Before he is called a lion; here he appears as a lamb slain. He is a lion to conquer Satan, a lamb to satisfy the justice of God. He appears with the marks of his sufferings upon him, to show that he interceded in heaven in the virtue of his satisfaction. He appears as a lamb, having seven horns and seven eyes, perfect power to execute all the will of God and perfect wisdom to understand it all and to do it in the most effectual manner; for he hath the seven Spirits of God, he has received the Holy Spirit without measure, in all perfection of light, and life, and power, by which he is able to teach and rule all parts of the earth. 3. He is described by his act and deed: He came, and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat on the throne (Rev 5:7), not by violence, nor by fraud, but he prevailed to do it (as Rev 5:5), he prevailed by his merit and worthiness, he did it by authority and by the Father's appointment. God very willingly and justly put the book of his eternal counsels into the hand of Christ, and Christ as readily and gladly took it into his hand; for he delights to reveal and to do the will of his Father.
II.The apostle observes the universal joy and thanksgiving that filled heaven and earth upon this transaction.
No sooner had Christ received this book out of the Father's hand than he received the applauses and adorations of angels and men, yea, of every creature. And, indeed, it is just matter of joy to all the world to see that God does not deal with men in a way of absolute power and strict justice, but in a way of grace and mercy through the Redeemer. He governs the world, not merely as a Creator and Lawgiver, but as our God and Saviour. All the world has reason to rejoice in this. The song of praise that was offered up to the Lamb on this occasion consists of three parts, one part sung by the church, another by the church and the angels, the third by every creature.
1.The church begins the doxology, as being more immediately concerned in it (Rev 5:8), the four living creatures, and the four-and-twenty elders, the Christian people, under their minister, lead up the chorus. Here observe,
(1.)The object of their worship - the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ; it is the declared will of God that all men should honour the Son as they honour the Father; for he has the same nature.
(2.)Their posture: They fell down before him, gave him not an inferior sort of worship, but the most profound adoration.
(3.)The instruments used in their adorations - harps and vials; the harps were the instruments of praise, the vials were full of odours or incense, which signify the prayers of the saints: prayer and praise should always go together.
(4.)The matter of their song: it was suited to the new state of the church, the gospel-state introduced by the Son of God. In this new song,
[1.]They acknowledge the infinite fitness and worthiness of the Lord Jesus for this great work of opening and executing the counsel and purposes of God (Rev 5:9): Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof, every way sufficient for the work and deserving the honour.
[2.]They mention the grounds and reasons of this worthiness; and though they do not exclude the dignity of his person as God, without which he had not been sufficient for it, yet they chiefly insist upon the merit of his sufferings, which he had endured for them; these more sensibly struck their souls with thankfulness and joy. Here, First, They mention his suffering: "Thou wast slain, slain as a sacrifice, thy blood was shed." Secondly, The fruits of his sufferings. 1. Redemption to God; Christ has redeemed his people from the bondage of sin, guilt, and Satan, redeemed them to God, set them at liberty to serve him and to enjoy him. 2. High exaltation: Thou hast made us to our God kings and priests, and we shall reign on the earth, Rev 5:10. Every ransomed slave is not immediately preferred to honour; he thinks it a great favour to be restored to liberty. But when the elect of God were made slaves by sin and Satan, in every nation of the world, Christ not only purchased their liberty for them, but the highest honour and preferment, made them kings and priests - kings, to rule over their own spirits, and to overcome the world, and the evil one; and he has made them priests, given them access to himself, and liberty to offer up spiritual sacrifices, and they shall reign on the earth; they shall with him judge the world at the great day.
2.The doxology, thus begun by the church, is carried on by the angels; they take the second part, in conjunction with the church, Rev 5:11. They are said to be innumerable, and to be the attendants on the throne of God and guardians to the church; though they did not need a Saviour themselves, yet they rejoice in the redemption and salvation of sinners, and they agree with the church in acknowledging the infinite merits of the Lord Jesus as dying for sinners, that he is worthy to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
(1.)He is worthy of that office and that authority which require the greatest power and wisdom, the greatest fund, all excellency, to discharge them aright; and,
(2.)He is worthy of all honour, and glory, and blessing, because he is sufficient for the office and faithful in it.
3.This doxology, thus begun by the church, and carried on by the angels, is resounded and echoed by the whole creation, Rev 5:13. Heaven and earth ring with the high praises of the Redeemer. The whole creation fares the better for Christ. By him all things consist; and all the creatures, had they sense and language, would adore that great Redeemer who delivers the creature from that bondage under which it groans, through the corruption of men, and the just curse denounced by the great God upon the fall; that part which (by a prosopopoeia) is made for the whole creation is a song of blessing, and honour, and glory, and power,
(1.)To him that sits on the throne, to God as God, or to God the Father, as the first person in the Trinity and the first in the economy of our salvation; and,
(2.)To the Lamb, as the second person in the Godhead and the Mediator of the new covenant. Not that the worship paid to the Lamb is of another nature, an inferior worship, for the very same honour and glory are in the same words ascribed to the Lamb and to him that sits on the throne, their essence being the same; but, their parts in the work of our salvation being distinct they are distinctly adored. We worship and glorify one and the same God for our creation and for our redemption.
We see how the church that began the heavenly anthem, finding heaven and earth join in the concert, closes all with their Amen, and end as they began, with a low prostration before the eternal and everlasting God. Thus we have seen this sealed book passing with great solemnity from the hand of the Creator into the hand of the Redeemer.
Historical interpretation
Four Centuries of Reception
5 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
This is not said of his Godhead, in which are all the treasuries of wisdom, so that he should receive [wisdom]. Rather, this is said of his assumed manhood, that is, concerning his body, which is the church. Or, it might be said of his martyrs who were slain for his name. For the church receives all things in her Head, as the Scriptures say, “He has given us all things with him.” The Lamb himself receives, as he said in the Gospel, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” However, he receives [this authority] according to his humanity, not according to his divinity.
From all beings, whether intelligent or sensible, whether living or simply existing in some way, God, as the Creator of all things, is glorified by words proper to their natures. Also praised is his only begotten and consubstantial Son who graciously renewed humankind and the creation that was made through him. And it is written that, as man, he received authority over all things in heaven and upon the earth.
And their number was thousands upon thousands. Innumerable thousands of people flocking to the Church praise God.
And I saw, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne, and the living creatures, and the ancients. By saying that he heard the voice, he shows what kind of seeing this was; for he sees sounds and hears visions. Now if, as already said, the living creatures and the ancients are round about the throne, how can there be any angel round about the same throne, if not because those same living creatures and ancients are angels? About whom it is said, The angels of peace shall weep bitterly. [Is. 33:7] Though the heavenly military may also be understood by the name of angels; but whether it is about the latter or about the former, their countless multitude is shown when it is said after that, and the number of them was thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice: The Lamb that was slain is worthy to receive power, and divinity, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and benediction, and every creature, which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and under the sea, and the things that are in it. The sea and the things that are in it represent this world. I heard all saying: To him that sitteth on the throne, and to the Lamb, benediction, and honour, and glory, and power, for ever and ever. Saying all, he means again those whom he said above the whole Church was made up of, that is the living creatures, the ancients, and the angels. In the one who sits and the Lamb, that is in the Father and the Son, according to the rule mentioned earlier, the Holy Spirit is also understood.
And not only do the elders say this, but also the angels and incorporeal powers sang a victory hymn to Christ. Moreover, the number now mentioned by them was also foretold by Daniel (Dan. 7:10).
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Summary
Revelation 5:11 presents a breathtaking expansion of the heavenly worship scene, as the Apostle John witnesses an immeasurable multitude of angels joining the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders in adoration around God's throne. This verse dramatically emphasizes the universal scope of praise directed toward the Lamb who was found worthy to open the scroll, underscoring the immense scale of divine authority and the countless celestial beings who acknowledge Christ's supreme sovereignty and redemptive work.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated at the climax of a profound heavenly vision in Revelation 5. Immediately prior, the Lamb (Jesus Christ) has been introduced as the only one worthy to take and open the seven-sealed scroll, a moment that elicits profound worship from the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders, who sing a "new song" of redemption and worthiness (Revelation 5:8-10). Revelation 5:11 builds upon this by dramatically expanding the scope of the worshipping chorus. It transitions from the more specific, representative worship of the elders and creatures to an innumerable, universal angelic host, creating a crescendo of praise that encompasses the entire heavenly realm and prepares the reader for the unfolding of God's sovereign plan. This expansion underscores the cosmic significance of the Lamb's worthiness and sacrifice.
Historical & Cultural Context
The book of Revelation was written by John during a time of intense persecution for early Christians, likely under the Roman Emperor Domitian. The visions served to encourage believers, assuring them of God's ultimate sovereignty and the eventual triumph of Christ over all earthly powers. The imagery of a heavenly throne room and countless angelic hosts would have resonated with Jewish apocalyptic literature and Old Testament prophetic visions (e.g., Daniel 7:9-10). The concept of "ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands" was a common hyperbolic expression in ancient Near Eastern and Hellenistic cultures to denote an immeasurable, countless multitude, signifying overwhelming power, glory, or numbers. This language would have conveyed to John's audience the sheer, incomprehensible scale of the divine court and the universal recognition of Christ's authority.
Key Themes
Revelation 5:11 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Revelation and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the Sovereignty of God and the Lamb, demonstrating that all creation, seen and unseen, ultimately bows before the divine throne. The gathering of such an immense host around the throne reinforces the idea that God is in ultimate control, even amidst earthly chaos and persecution, a foundational message of the book (see Revelation 4). Secondly, it emphasizes Universal Worship and Adoration, expanding the chorus of praise from the specific representatives of creation (creatures) and redeemed humanity (elders) to the vast angelic realm, signifying that the Lamb's worthiness is acknowledged by all heavenly beings. This foreshadows the ultimate universal acknowledgment of Christ's Lordship (Philippians 2:9-11). Finally, the sheer number conveys Divine Majesty and Glory, painting a picture of overwhelming power and splendor that evokes awe and reverence, reminding the reader of the incomprehensible greatness of God and His Son.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb signifies not merely seeing, but perceiving, understanding, and knowing. John's "beholding" is an active, comprehending observation of the heavenly reality, indicating a profound spiritual insight into the scene unfolding before him. It's a vision that imparts knowledge and understanding of divine truths.
Beyond just physical hearing, this word implies listening with attention and understanding, often leading to obedience or comprehension. John doesn't just register noise; he apprehends the content and significance of the angels' voice, which is a unified expression of worship and proclamation.
This phrase uses the Greek word for "myriad" (10,000) multiplied by itself, literally 10,000 x 10,000, or 100,000,000. It is a hyperbolic expression, not a precise numerical count, used to convey an unimaginably vast, innumerable quantity. In apocalyptic literature, such numbers emphasize the overwhelming scale and majesty of the divine realm and the countless nature of the angelic host.
Verse Breakdown
"And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels"
John's dual sensory experience of seeing and hearing emphasizes the reality and vividness of the vision. The "voice of many angels" indicates a collective, unified sound, not individual voices, suggesting a harmonious chorus of praise. The angels are introduced as a new, vast group joining the worship.
"round about the throne and the beasts and the elders"
This spatial description places the angels in a concentric circle around the central figures of worship. They surround the throne of God, and by extension, the Lamb, as well as the four living creatures (representing creation) and the twenty-four elders (representing redeemed humanity). This arrangement signifies their participation in the worship of the Lamb and their subservience to the divine authority emanating from the throne.
"and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;"
This is a powerful numerical hyperbole, common in apocalyptic literature, to convey an immeasurable, countless multitude. "Ten thousand times ten thousand" (myriads of myriads) and "thousands of thousands" are not meant to be added together for a precise sum, but rather to emphasize the overwhelming, incomprehensible vastness of the angelic host. It signifies an innumerable, infinite number, highlighting the universal and immense scale of the worship being offered to the Lamb.
Literary Devices
Revelation 5:11 employs several powerful literary devices. Hyperbole is prominently used in the phrase "ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands," which is not a literal count but an exaggeration to convey an immeasurable, overwhelming multitude. This emphasizes the grand scale of heavenly worship and the vastness of God's angelic creation. Imagery is central, as John vividly paints a picture of countless angels encircling the throne, the living creatures, and the elders, creating a dynamic and awe-inspiring scene of cosmic worship. The auditory imagery of "the voice of many angels" further enhances the sensory experience, suggesting a powerful, unified chorus. This verse also functions as a form of climax in the escalating scene of worship in Revelation 5, expanding the scope of adoration to its most immense and universal expression, building anticipation for the Lamb's actions.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Revelation 5:11 offers a profound theological statement about the universal recognition of Christ's worthiness and the grandeur of heavenly worship. The countless angelic host joining the creatures and elders in adoration underscores that the Lamb's redemptive work is not merely a human affair but a cosmic event, acknowledged and celebrated by all of creation. This scene serves as a powerful reminder of God's ultimate sovereignty and the Lamb's supreme authority, demonstrating that all power and glory belong to Him. It portrays a unified, overwhelming chorus of praise, where every created being, from the highest angel to the representatives of humanity and creation, is engaged in ceaseless worship of the One who sits on the throne and the Lamb.
Reflection and Application
The vision of countless angels worshipping around the throne in Revelation 5:11 provides a powerful glimpse into the ultimate reality of God's kingdom and the future of all creation. For believers, this scene offers immense encouragement, reminding us that no matter the chaos or opposition we face on earth, the Lamb is worthy, and His reign is universally acknowledged in heaven. It invites us to lift our gaze beyond our immediate circumstances and participate in this grand, eternal chorus of praise. This vision cultivates a profound sense of awe and humility, as we contemplate the immeasurable glory and power of God and the Lamb, far surpassing our finite comprehension. It challenges us to align our hearts and lives with this heavenly reality, making our daily lives an act of worship and adoration, knowing that our earthly praise is a participation in a much grander, cosmic symphony that will one day encompass all creation.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of the "ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands" in Revelation 5:11?
The phrase "ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands" (Greek: myriades myriades kai chiliades chiliadon) is a hyperbolic expression used to convey an unimaginably vast, innumerable multitude, rather than a precise numerical count. A "myriad" literally means 10,000. So, "myriads of myriads" would be 10,000 x 10,000 = 100,000,000. "Thousands of thousands" also signifies an extremely large number. This language is common in apocalyptic literature, like the book of Revelation, to emphasize the overwhelming scale, power, and glory of the divine realm and the countless nature of the angelic host involved in heavenly worship. It underscores the universal and immense recognition of the Lamb's worthiness.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Revelation 5:11, with its vision of innumerable angels worshipping the Lamb, finds its Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate exaltation of Jesus Christ as the worthy Redeemer and sovereign Lord over all creation. The scene echoes Old Testament prophecies of God's majestic throne surrounded by countless heavenly beings, but now, the focus shifts to the Lamb who was slain, yet lives. This immense angelic chorus is not merely worshipping God in general, but specifically the One who, by His sacrificial death and resurrection, has secured redemption. This foreshadows the truth declared in Philippians 2:9-11, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. The Lamb, who humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross, is now exalted above every name, receiving the worship of every creature in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. This vision powerfully affirms that Christ's redemptive work is the central event in cosmic history, meriting universal adoration and demonstrating His supreme authority as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).