Revelation Week #24 – Study Questions
Revelation CGS – Week 24
The Defeat of Satan & the Great White Throne
Revelation 20:7-15
INTRODUCTION:
Reminder: When we began our time in the book of Revelation 20+ weeks ago, we started with a few ground rules that are designed to help us read Revelation responsibly. Those ground rules were to focus on the timeless principles, not on the timelines, keep the original audience in mind, remember that it is part of a larger literary genre, and finally, keep the main thing the main thing. And, what is the main thing? Jesus is victor.
In recent years our culture has become obsessed with the notion of life beyond our little planet. This is demonstrated by a rise in the conversations around aliens and UFOs. Even the government is releasing information on the topic. Then we have the popularity of the Marvel series of movies. Each of these connects the events of Earth to the larger battle going on in the cosmos. And that Earth and its inhabitants are ultimately powerless against these cosmic forces, so a group called “The Avengers” must defend Earth against this cosmic chaos. This recent cultural focus is reflective of a larger truth, the lives we live are not merely physical. They are indeed physical and spiritual and, in that way, connected to a dimension that is both part of our known experience and much larger. This is something that Revelation speaks to with clarity. Its genre is Apocalyptic. A genre that seeks to offer a heavenly perspective on an earthly reality. This is the exact same thing that the Marvel series is attempting to do. The only difference is that Revelation is not a work of fiction.
So, why is this important? Well, it helps us to understand the days and moments of our lives. What we might perceive as the randomness of evil or the neutrality of good is not so. Our lives are part of a cosmic reality where the forces of evil seek to win a lasting victory over the Lord. Revelation helps to ground our hearts and minds in that way. It also reminds us that while those forces may try as hard as they might, their defeat is a certain thing. In other words, it is without question. The other thing that is without question, Jesus is victor, and all those who are allied with him are victorious. Yes, we will be judged for the substance of our lives, but it is the righteousness of Jesus that has secured eternal life and joy for the believer, and nothing can take that away. The days and moments of our lives often feel hectic, hurried, and haphazard, and Revelation shows us that they are part of God’s plan to bring redemptive history to fruition. And he will. It is absolutely certain. With those truths in mind, we are encouraged to remember that healthy certainty fosters peace. We do not need to be anxious or worried but can live at peace even in turbulence and trials.
GETTING STARTED – There are different seasons of the year that fill us with different emotions. Summer is exciting and often feels relaxing. Fall might bring nostalgia. Etc. As you begin your group time, share about what in season of the year do you feel the most hopeful and why?
IN THE WORD – Let’s dig back into the passage. It is important to strengthen our muscles in reading God’s Word. On Sunday, we walked through the passage in the sermon. Hopefully, that helped you to see the landmarks of the passage with fresh eyes. Now, with your group, go back through it and see what God is saying to you specifically.
First, before you read the passage, take a moment to ask God’s Spirit to quiet your mind and heart and to illuminate the text to you. Second, read the passage aloud to the group. Then, follow the simple method below. (O.P.A)
Observe: Make 8-10 observations from the passage. Pay close attention to observe and note repeated words and phrases, names, places, and themes.
Principles: From your list of observations, what patterns or big ideas do you see emerging? Can you distill it down into 2-4 big idea truths?
Apply: Moving from your list of principles, it is time to apply God’s Word. Remember, we believe that God’s Word is living and active and that it can change the way we live Monday- Friday. What is one tangible way to apply a truth from your list above?
Note: Revelation can be a tough book. Here are some questions that might help with discussion. [1]
- How does this chapter prompt you towards faithfulness? How does it reorient your perspective on your circumstances (both positive things and challenges)?
- In this chapter, we are reminded of God’s central authority over the universe and salvific history. How does the truth that God’s victory is certain help you have peace?
- Do you consider yourself a saint? Why or why not? Read 1 Cor. 1:2 and discuss what Paul seems to think is the only requirement to be a saint.
- If it is true that Earth offers no comfort at all, what are the earthly things I look to in order to be comforted?
- How might you resist the comfort of the things of the Earth a little more this week? Remember, keep it practical and take it step by step.
[1] Some questions are from: Chester, Tim. Revelation For You: Seeing history from heaven’s perspective. The Good Book Company. Kindle Edition.