What do the phrases "by your blood" and "made them a kingdom and priests" in Revelation 5:9 signify about the salvation offered by the Lamb?

The Book of Revelation, rich in imagery and profound in its themes, encapsulates the trajectory of divine love and redemption through its vivid descriptions. Among the myriad verses, Revelation 5:9 stands out with its powerful proclamations about the Lamb — a central figure representing Jesus Christ.

This verse states, “And they sang a new song, saying, ‘You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for you were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,’” (NKJV). In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of the phrases “by Your blood” and “made them a kingdom and priests,” unpacking the implications of salvation offered by the Lamb.

"By Your Blood": The Depth of Redemption

The phrase “by Your blood” underscores the sacrificial nature of Christ’s redemptive work on the cross. In biblical theology, blood is emblematic of life and sacrifice. The Old Testament sacrificial system established a foundation where blood represented atonement for sins. When John describes the Lamb’s sacrifice, it highlights the fulfillment of these sacrificial precepts. Jesus' death—the spilling of His blood—serves as the ultimate atonement, securing redemption not merely for a select few but “out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” This inclusivity signals a radical expansion of God’s grace, emphasizing that salvation is accessible to all humanity, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Furthermore, the concept of redemption “by Your blood” evokes themes of freedom and liberation. The Greek word for redeem, “agorazo,” implies possession and purchase. In a biblical context, it signifies that believers are not just freed from sin; they are bought at a great price. This affirmation of value illustrates how deeply God cares for humanity. He sees worth in people from every corner of the earth—a testament to the universality of the Gospel message. The blood of the Lamb, therefore, symbolizes a profound act of love, providing a way for all to be reconciled with God.

"Made Them a Kingdom and Priests": Our New Identity

The proclamation that the Lamb “made them a kingdom and priests” carries significant implications about the identity and purpose of believers. In the ancient world, kings and priests held privileged positions, conferring authority and responsibility. To be made a kingdom suggests that believers are not merely passive recipients of salvation; they are invited into a dynamic relationship with God, which empowers them to participate in His kingdom work. This reflects the concept of the "priesthood of all believers," whereby every Christian has direct access to God and a role in advancing His mission on Earth.

Moreover, this phrase indicates a transformative aspect of salvation. To be part of a kingdom signifies belonging to a community that thrives under the reign of Christ, characterized by justice, mercy, and righteousness. This kingdom operates under the sovereignty of God, affirming the call for believers to embody and reflect these divine qualities in their everyday lives. The royal aspect of this identity encourages Christians to live with purpose, understanding that they are called to bring forth God's love and truth in a world that is often at odds with his teachings.

The term "priests" further emphasizes the calling of believers to serve and intercede. In the Old Testament, priests mediated between God and humanity. Now, through Christ, all believers are granted the privilege of this role. They can directly approach God and intercede for others, demonstrating the shared responsibility to spread the Gospel and serve humanity. The dual identity as both a kingdom and priests elevates the notion of Christian living from mere belief to active involvement in God's redemptive work in the world.