Shincheonji’s View
Shincheonji’s interpretation of Revelation 5, particularly regarding the scroll that only the Lamb can open, is a central aspect of their theology. They view the scroll as containing the sealed words of prophecy that only the Lamb, whom they identify as Jesus Christ, can reveal. However, they extend this interpretation to suggest that their leader, Lee Man-Hee, is the appointed figure, or “Promised Pastor,” who is uniquely able to understand and interpret these revelations in the present time.
According to Shincheonji, the opening of the scroll in Revelation 5 signifies the revealing of previously hidden truths of the Bible, particularly the prophecies in the Book of Revelation. They believe that as the Lamb (Jesus) opens the seals, Lee Man-Hee is given the divine insight to understand and teach these revelations to his followers. This interpretation supports their belief that their church is the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, playing a critical role in the end times by unveiling the mysteries sealed in the scroll.
Are the scrolls of Revelation 5 and 10 even the same scroll?
Revelation 5 – The Scroll (“biblion”): This larger scroll, sealed with seven seals, is symbolic of God’s comprehensive and complete plan for the universe, particularly concerning judgment and redemption. The fact that it is written on both sides suggests completeness and finality. The opening of these seals by the Lamb (Jesus) progressively reveals God’s plan through the subsequent judgments and events described in the ensuing chapters. The imagery emphasizes the sovereignty and authority of Christ, who alone is worthy to unveil and execute God’s plan.
Revelation 10 – The Little Scroll (“biblaridion”): This smaller scroll represents a specific message or a particular aspect of prophecy that John himself must internalize and then prophesy to others. The act of eating the scroll, which tastes sweet but turns bitter, symbolizes the mixed nature of prophetic ministry—it is a privilege and joy to receive God’s word, but it also involves the hardship of proclaiming judgment and the challenges that come with it. This scroll is already open, suggesting readiness for immediate revelation and action, contrasting with the sealed grand scroll that requires the authority of the Lamb to be revealed.
This shows that the two scrolls aren’t the same, and SCJ’s interpretation begins to fall apart.
What about the New Song?
Shincheonji
The “new song” primarily represents the testimony and proclamation of the fulfilled prophecies of the New Testament, particularly the Book of Revelation, occurring in the present time according to Shincheonji doctrine.
Christian Response:
Let’s just let the Bible speak for itself:
And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.”
In Revelation 5:9-10, the ones singing the new song are the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures around the throne of God. These verses are part of a scene in which a scroll sealed with seven seals is presented, and the only one found worthy to open the scroll is the Lamb (Jesus Christ), who has been slain and redeemed people to God by His blood.
This is happening before the events of opening the scroll.
What is the new song? The song they sing praises the Lamb for His sacrificial death and the redemption it brought, making them a kingdom and priests to serve God.
What about Revelation 1:1-3?
Shincheonji:
What about Revelation 1:1-3 –
The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
What did God, Jesus, and the Angel give John?
Christian Response
God, and Jesus can use angels to carry out their will, including sending messages. Sometimes it’s through the Holy Spirit, and other times it’s through angels.
They gave the Christian body the book of Revelation, and hope for the persecuted church starting in the first century. The vision was written in a way such that even future generations can learn from the Book of Revelation, and understand that God has the ultimate authority.
While I understand Shincheonji would infer the “New John” prophecy when reading Revelation 1:1-3, the concept of the “New John” is solely based upon the “revealed truth” provided by Lee Manhee, which is a circular interpretation. Read more about the doctrinal issues of the New John.