old Hebrew custom seems to have been as follows: When property was
purchased the deed to the new owner was made out in duplicate, an open
copy and a sealed copy. The open copy was clearly for public
information, open to all. The sealed copy as clearly belonged only to
the owner of the property as his evidence of ownership. So it identified
him as the one named in the open copy.

If a new heir comes to take possession of an estate, or in case of a
dispute over ownership, the claimant who was adjudged the rightful heir
or owner would be given the possession of the sealed document or deed.
And as so attested by the judge or court, he only would be properly
qualified to "take" the sealed roll, break its seals, read its
contents, and so formally take possession of the estate, or property.

Now under the symbolism of this old bit of Hebrew custom, our Lord Jesus
is represented here as stepping forward to take possession of the earth,
and begin His reign over it. A Hebrew immersed in the old primitive
customs of his people in Palestine would understand this allusion at
once, however startled or sceptical he might be as to its significance
in this connection.

Taking Possession.

The language used in the song of praise when our Lord Jesus takes the
sealed book is significant. They say, "thou art _worthy_," that is, thou
art _qualified_; thou art the duly attested one with the right to take
possession. "For thou wast _slain_, and didst purchase unto God with thy
blood men of every tribe," and so on.

Man had been given the dominion of the earth. He had by obedience to the
evil one transferred his right to Him who is repeatedly called "the
prince of this world." Our Lord Jesus _purchased_ men out of their
slavery back to their original Lord,--with all that was rightfully
theirs. He has allowed fullest opportunity for all who will to accept
His Lordship. Now He is about to take possession of the earth on behalf
of men, and for them.

This is the tremendous significance of what John is shown here as
something that will take place hereafter. In the scene of the
candlesticks He is patiently waiting, holding Himself in restraint. Now
the waiting time is over. He is making the next move in His broader plan
for the earth.

There is no hint as to the length of interval between the two scenes,
how long He will wait. There is no suggestion as to when this next move
will be made. But we are here plainly told that at some time tha