A Heavenly Chorus

How do others of the vast heavenly host of Jehovah's organization respond to this new song? John thrills to behold their heartfelt accord: "And I saw, and I heard a voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders, and the number of them was myriads and myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice: "The Lamb that was slaughtered is worthy to receive the power and the riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.' " (Revelation 5:11,12) What an impressive song of praise!

Does this mean that now Jesus has somehow replaced Jehovah God and that all creation has turned to praising him rather than his Father? Far from it! Rather, this song of praise is in harmony with what the apostle Paul wrote: "God exalted [Jesus] to a superior position and kindly gave him the name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bend of those in heaven and those on earth and those under the ground, and every tongue should openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11) Jesus is here extolled because of his part in settling the primary issue before all creation-the vindication of Jehovah's rightful sovereignty. What glory, indeed, this has brought to his Father!

Next time: A Swelling Anthem