That the Lamb was not an animal is clear from verse seven, where it says, "And He [the Lamb] came and took the Book out of the right hand of Him that sat upon the Throne."

       This is the most reverant individual act recorded in the Word.

        The Redemption of all creation depended upon it.

          It is still in the future and takes place after the Church has been "caught out and judged, before the Tribulation Period begins.