One of the most powerful scenes in Revelation is the moment when the Lamb takes the scroll from the right hand of the one who sits on the throne. His achievement is celebrated by heaven’s citizens like this:
When he took it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each of the elders held a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones. 9 They sang a new hymn: “Worthy are you to receive the scroll and to break open its seals, for you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. 10 You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.”
Have a a second look at the criteria for priestly status. In Revelation’s world, that status comes as a result of the sacrifice of the Lamb. Note especially the absence of any mention of race and gender.
And have nice MLK Day!
Mogget, nice. This is really quite congruent with Mormon temple doctrine, in which every faithful child of Adam and Eve — the ultimate Mormon symbol of universalism — may be anointed a king/queen and priest/priestess.
Yes, I’m glad you understood it that way. One of the really nice things about the NT is its interest in universal access to God through Christ. This concept comes through in many ways, but the priestly link is one of my favorites.