Prologue—Revelation 1:1–3
Topics: Angels, Doctrine, Future, Jesus Christ, Last Days, Listening, Obedience, Prophecy
Open It
1. What is the strangest dream you have ever had?
2. How would you describe, in 25 words or less, what angels are and what they do?
3. *What outlandish predictions about the future have you heard at one time or another?
4. Why do you think people are often interested in studying the book of Revelation?
Explore It
1. What did John call his writing? (1:1)
2. What is this book about? (1:1)
3. For whose benefit did God intend the book of Revelation? (1:1)
4. *What did God want us to learn from the book of Revelation? (1:1)
5. How did God deliver this revelation? (1:1)
6. To whom did God deliver this revelation? (1:1)
7. Why did God give us the book of Revelation? (1:1–3)
8. How much of the revelation he received did John report? (1:2)
9. What sources did John say were the basis of his revelation? (1:2)
10. *What is promised to those who take the time to study this revelation? (1:3)
11. *What did John urge his readers to do? Why? (1:3)
12. How did John show urgency in what he wrote? (1:3)
Get It
1. How can we benefit from studying this book?
2. What do you understand to be “revelation”?
3. In what way does this “revelation of Jesus Christ” reveal Jesus to us?
4. Why do you think this New Testament author referred to himself as a servant of Christ?
5. What does it mean to “take to heart what is written”?
6. What steps can we take to pay close attention to what we read in Revelation?
7. *How does it make you feel to realize that God wants us to know what the future holds?
8. *What are some ways God might bless us through a study of Revelation?
Apply It
1. *What commitment can you make today that will help you get the most out of your study of Revelation?
2. How can you alter your life-style this week so that you can more honestly say that you are a servant of Jesus Christ?
3. For whom can you pray who needs to know the good news about our great Savior, Jesus Christ?
Greetings and Doxology—Revelation 1:4–8
Topics: Church, Grace, Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, Love, Peace, Resurrection, Second Coming, Serving, Sovereignty
Open It
1. What do you remember about church from growing up?
2. How did you feel the first time you realized that someone was in love with you?
3. *With what typical phrases do you open and close your letters?
4. What is the most moving worship experience you have ever been a part of? Why?
Explore It
1. To whom did John write this letter? (1:4)
2. How did John begin his letter? (1:4)
3. What was unique or very Christian about the way John opened his letter? (1:4)
4. How did John refer to God? (1:4)
5. How did John greet his readers in Christ’s name? (1:4)
6. By what threefold description is Jesus presented? (1:5)
7. *What is Jesus’ attitude toward Christians? (1:5)
8. What does Jesus do on behalf of Christians? (1:5)
9. In what way does Jesus make all believers new? (1:6)
10. *What is Jesus’ purpose for the church? (1:6)
11. How did John react when he recounted all the things that Jesus had done for Christians? (1:6)
12. *What prophecy opens this book? (1:7)
13. By what unique description does God explain Himself in this passage? (1:8)
Get It
1. What does grace mean to you?
2. What does the peace of God look like in our lives?
3. What does the description, “him who is, and who was, and who is to come,” tell us about God? (1:4)
4. What does it mean that God is the “Alpha and Omega”?
5. *How should we act in light of the fact that we have been freed from our sins?
6. How might you explain to a friend the concept that God is “Almighty”?
7. *What changes need to take place in your life to reflect the truth that Jesus may return at any moment?
Apply It
1. With what priestly actions can you serve God this week?
2. What is one way you can show your gratitude to Christ today for all that He has done for you?
3. *What can you do now to prepare for Jesus’ return?
One Like a Son of Man—Revelation 1:9–20
Topics: Angels, Church, Death, Endurance, Future, Hell, Last Days, Patience, Prophecy, Resurrection, Suffering
Open It
1. What do you think Jesus might have looked like as a man? Why?
2. When was a situation in which you sensed the presence of God? How did it make you feel?
3. *What is the most frightened you have ever been?
Explore It
1. In what way was John a companion of his readers? (1:9)
2. Where was John when he received his revelation of Jesus Christ? (1:9)
3. Why was John where he was when he received this revelation? (1:9)
4. What kind of voice did John hear in his vision? (1:10)
5. What did God’s voice command John to do? (1:11)
6. When John turned around, what objects did he see? (1:12)
7. Whom did John observe standing behind him? (1:13)
8. How was the person “among the lampstands” dressed? (1:13)
9. What was the appearance of the one “like a son of man”? (1:14–16)
10. What was John’s reaction to his supernatural visitor? (1:17)
11. How did John react to seeing Christ in His glory? (1:17)
12. *Why did Jesus comfort and reassure John? How? (1:17–18)
13. What did Jesus say about himself as He comforted John? (1:17–18)
14. *What did Jesus tell John to do? (1:19)
15. *How did Jesus interpret the meaning of the seven stars and golden lampstands? (1:20)
Get It
1. What do you make out of John’s reference to “the suffering … that [is] ours in Jesus”?
2. In what ways do you suffer for your faith in Christ?
3. Of the more than twenty titles for Christ in Revelation 1, which one means the most to you? Why?
4. *What overall impression does this passage give you about Jesus Christ?
5. What does it mean to you that Christ, in all His splendor and majesty, made the effort to calm John when he was frightened?
6. How difficult do you think it was for John to describe what he was seeing?
7. *How might you have felt in John’s place?
Apply It
1. *In what ways can you remind yourself today of the awesome nature and power of Christ?
2. In what situations this week will you need to strive for “patient endurance”? How can you do so?
3. With what friends or family members can you plan to share Christ?
4. What are some specific questions you could ask to lead into a discussion about Christ?
To the Church in Ephesus—Revelation 2:1–7
Topics: Accomplishments, Affections, Angels, Approval, Backslide, Commitment, Correction, Faithfulness, Love, Perseverance, Reconciliation, Repentance
Open It
1. Why does love—even the most fervent and committed love—sometimes grow cold over time?
2. What are some mementos or heirlooms you are especially attached to?
3. *What is something you remember loving dearly as a child that you eventually outgrew?
Explore It
1. Who was addressing John with this message? (2:1)
2. What church was the subject of this letter from Jesus? (2:1)
3. How did the speaker in this passage identify Himself? (2:1)
4. *Jesus praised the church at Ephesus for what deeds? (2:2–3)
5. What did Christ say about the Ephesian church’s “staying power”? (2:3)
6. With what in the Ephesian church was Christ unsatisfied? (2:4)
7. What did Christ command the church at Ephesus to remember? (2:5)
8. *How did the church at Ephesus need to change? (2:5)
9. What warning was given to the church if it failed to obey Christ’s words? (2:5)
10. *What did the church at Ephesus have in its favor? (2:6)
11. Whom else did Jesus want to benefit from this message? (2:7)
12. What final promise was made to “him who overcomes”? (2:7)
Get It
1. If Jesus were to write a letter to your church, what do you think He’d say?
2. If Jesus were to write you a personal letter, for what would He commend you, and in what ways would He correct you?
3. What do your actions say about who or what is most important in your life?
4. What do you think Christ meant when He said, “You have forsaken your first love”?
5. What does it mean to repent?
6. What about our faith are we prone to “outgrow”?
7. At what time in your life did you feel closest to God or the most dedicated to God?
8. How would you assess the health of your relationship with Christ right now?
9. *What can cause us to lose our love for God?
10. *How can we keep our commitment to Christ from waning over time?
11. Besides knowing all the right answers and doing all the right activities, what do we need for spiritual vitality?
Apply It
1. In what concrete ways can you show today that Jesus Christ is your first love?
2. *What is one step you can take this week to build the quality of perseverance in your faith?
3. What can you do or say to encourage a Christian friend to remain loyal to Christ?
To the Church in Smyrna—Revelation 2:8–11
Topics: Accomplishments, Angels, Approval, Commitment, Death, Faithfulness, Fear, Persecution, Perseverance, Poor, Resurrection, Satan, Suffering, Wealth
Open It
1. What were some of your biggest fears as a child?
2. How does talk of death and dying affect you?
3. What are the most valuable things you own—those things that make you feel rich?
4. *What is the most hurtful thing anyone has ever done to you because of something you stood for?
Explore It
1. Who was addressing John? (2:8)
2. What church was the subject of this letter from Jesus? (2:8)
3. How did the speaker in this passage identify Himself? (2:8)
4. What kind of contrast did Jesus draw? (2:9)
5. What did Christ say about some so-called Jews in Smyrna? (2:9)
6. What did Jesus say to comfort the Christians in Smyrna? (2:10)
7. *What prophetic warning did Christ give to the church in Smyrna? (2:10)
8. How long would the church in Smyrna suffer? (2:10)
9. *What challenge did Christ give His audience? (2:10)
10. *What reward was promised the Christians at Smyrna if they hung on? (2:10)
11. Who else did Jesus say could benefit from the message to the church at Smyrna? (2:11)
12. What final promise was made to “him who overcomes”? (2:11)
Get It
1. What is significant about the title Christ gave Himself (“the First and the Last, who died and came to life again”)?
2. How can a person in poverty be considered rich?
3. In your view, which is worse—physical or verbal persecution? Why?
4. If you had been in Smyrna about to suffer for your faith, how comforted would you feel with this revelation from Christ?
5. *What kinds of persecution do Christians face today?
6. What kinds of persecution do you think would most tempt you to deny Christ?
7. What kinds of persecution have you faced for your faith?
8. *How can the eternal promises of God give us courage and strength in the face of attacks on our stand for Christ?
Apply It
1. What are some ways you can express your thanks to God today for the riches you enjoy?
2. *What steps can you take today to build your courage against persecution?
3. How can you show faithfulness to Christ in the week ahead?
To the Church in Pergamum—Revelation 2:12–17
Topics: Angels, Church, Commitment, Compromise, Discipline, Faith, Idolatry, Repentance, Satan, Sin, Toleration
Open It
1. *What do you consider to be the most evil or sinful place on earth? Why?
2. What is the most unusual gift you have ever received?
3. What strange philosophy or common misconception (urban myth, old wives’ tale, etc.) do you consider most dangerous? Why?
Explore It
1. Who was addressing John? (2:12)
2. What church was the subject of this letter from Jesus? (2:12)
3. How did the speaker in this passage identify Himself? (2:12)
4. Where was the church of Pergamum said to be located? (2:13)
5. What good deeds had the church at Pergamum done? (2:13)
6. *For what did Jesus praise the people of the church at Pergamum? (2:13)
7. How did Balaam (of Old Testament times) influence the believers at Pergamum? (2:14)
8. What bad influences or teachings had infiltrated the church at Pergamum? (2:14–15)
9. *What were the believers at Pergamum doing wrong? (2:14–15)
10. *What command did Christ give to this church in light of its dangerous direction? (2:16)
11. What stern warning was issued for those who would not obey Christ? (2:17)
12. Who else did Jesus say could benefit from the message to the church at Pergamum? (2:17)
13. What did Jesus promise to “him who overcomes”? (2:17)
14. What would be inscribed on the white stone received by “him who overcomes”? (2:17)
Get It
1. What does it mean that Christ has a “sharp, double-edged sword”?
2. How does it make you feel to realize that Jesus wields a sword?
3. What should it mean to us that Jesus doesn’t overlook sin, even if we are doing lots of good deeds?
4. *In what ways could it be said that Satan lives in your city?
5. How does sin in others affect us?
6. What “little” sins do we tend to allow into our life-style and habits?
7. What is the best way to deal with Christians (whether real or false) who circulate unbiblical ideas?
8. What are some potential problems for churches that discipline members publicly?
9. What does repentance have to do with following Christ?
10. *How can we resist the influence of the world around us?
11. What do you think it means that we will get new names for persevering with Christ?
Apply It
1. What can you do today to show that Jesus is present in your life, in your church, and in your town?
2. What “little” sins do you need to confess today in order to be spiritually clean?
3. *In what way can you include repentance in your daily devotions this week?
To the Church in Thyatira—Revelation 2:18–29
Topics: Angels, Authority, Church, Compromise, Faith, Holy Spirit, Idolatry, Immorality, Love, Perseverance, Repentance, Satan, Serving, Sin, Stubbornness, Suffering, Toleration
Open It
1. What would be good or bad about having the ability to read others’ minds? Why?
2. *What are the three best habits you have?
Explore It
1. Who was telling John to write down this vision? (2:18)
2. What church was the subject of this letter from Jesus? (2:18)
3. How did the speaker in this passage identify Himself? (2:18)
4. How did Christ address the church at Thyatira? (2:18)
5. What did Christ know about the church at Thyatira? (2:19)
6. For what did Christ praise the church at Thyatira? (2:19)
7. For what did Christ chastise the church at Thyatira? (2:20)
8. How did Christ show patience? (2:21)
9. What judgments did the Son of God pronounce on the one He called Jezebel? (2:22–23)
10. *What challenge did Christ give to those who resisted Jezebel’s teaching and sinful behavior? (2:24–25)
11. *What two gifts were promised to “him who overcomes”? (2:26–28)
12. How did Jesus refer to God? (2:28)
13. *In addition to the church at Thyatira, who else was commanded to pay heed to this message? (2:29)
Get It
1. What are some things people make idols (gods) of today?
2. What does it mean that Christ’s eyes were “like blazing fire”?
3. *What sins do we tend to tolerate in our own lives or in the lives of our Christian friends when we should not?
4. What dangers do we face when we refuse to respond to God or repent of our sins?
5. What value is there in choosing to remain ignorant of certain evil ideas and practices?
6. *When we are misled by others, what can we do to correct our mistakes? How?
7. When should we take responsibility for the errors of others in the church? How?
8. What have you been tolerating in your life that you need to reject and change?
Apply It
1. What can you do this week to grow and add to your service for Christ?
2. *How can you include repentance and renewal in your devotional life this week?
3. What specific steps can you take this week to monitor what you take into your thoughts?
To the Church in Sardis—Revelation 3:1–6
Topics: Angels, Church, Death, Faith, Holy Spirit, Obedience, Preparation, Repentance, Reputation, Second Coming, Sin, Sleep
Open It
1. What is the absolute dirtiest (we’re talking mud and slime here) you’ve ever gotten? When and how did it happen?
2. What is the difference between character and reputation?
3. Which do you think is worse—wrongfully having a bad reputation, or wrongfully having a good reputation? Why?
4. *When are you most prone to being lazy?
Explore It
1. Who instructed John to write down this vision? (3:1)
2. What church was the focus of this letter from Jesus? (3:1)
3. How did the speaker identify Himself? (3:1)
4. What did Christ know about the church at Sardis? (3:1)
5. What was the reputation of the church at Sardis? (3:1)
6. How did the church’s true nature match its reputation? (3:1)
7. *What did Christ think about the church at Sardis? (3:1–3)
8. What was wrong with the church at Sardis? (3:2)
9. What warnings did Christ issue to the church at Sardis? (3:2)
10. What did Christ urge as the first step to restoration? (3:3)
11. What consequences were promised to those who refused to wake up? (3:3)
12. *How do we know that not all the Christians in Sardis were “asleep”? (3:4)
13. *What blessings were promised to those who would “overcome”? (3:5)
14. In addition to the church at Sardis, who else was commanded to pay heed to this message? (3:6)
Get It
1. How can a person know if his or her name is in the Book of Life?
2. What do you think is your reputation among your coworkers? Neighbors? People at church?
3. When in your life has your reputation been misleading? How?
4. How can a church appear to be alive and thriving and yet be dead?
5. In what way do we “soil our clothes”?
6. What does it mean to be “dressed in white”?
7. What advice would you give to a young Christian who asked, “How can I keep from sinning?”
8. *Why isn’t it enough just to know what God wants from us?
9. What does it mean to “overcome” as a Christian?
10. *In what specific areas of Christian devotion (Bible reading, evangelism, prayer, etc.) have you been lazy or sleepy over the last month?
Apply It
1. What can you do today to enhance your reputation in the world and in heaven?
2. *What can you do to improve your acts of Christian devotion (prayer, Bible reading, etc.)?
3. What temptations that you know you’ll be facing in the coming week do you need to prepare for in advance? How?
To the Church in Philadelphia—Revelation 3:7–13
Topics: Angels, Church, Endurance, Faithfulness, Holy Spirit, Obedience, Rewards, Strength, Suffering, Weaknesses
Open It
1. *What are some examples of progress we’ve seen in the last ten years?
2. What is the weakest you’ve ever felt?
3. What is a nickname you had (or wish you’d had) as a child?
4. What groups would you cite as the biggest present-day enemies of the church?
Explore It
1. Who spoke these words and instructed John to write them down? (3:7)
2. What church was the focus of this letter from Jesus? (3:7)
3. How did the speaker in this passage identify Himself? (3:7)
4. What did Christ say about His power? (3:7)
5. By what descriptions or names did Jesus call those who claimed to be Jews? (3:9)
6. What humbling act did Jesus say He would force the enemies of the church of Philadelphia to perform? (3:9)
7. What worldwide event was predicted by Christ? (3:10)
8. *Why will the world experience an “hour of trial”? (3:10)
9. *What was promised to the church at Philadelphia because of its patient endurance? (3:10)
10. *How did Jesus instruct the believers in Philadelphia to prepare for His coming? (3:11)
11. What did Jesus promise at the conclusion of this letter? (3:11–12)
12. How did Jesus challenge us? (3:11–13)
13. What promises were made to “him who overcomes” in Philadelphia? (3:12)
14. In addition to the church at Philadelphia, who else was encouraged to heed this message? (3:13)
Get It
1. *What do you think about the idea that the world is getting better and better?
2. What difference does it make to you that Christ is “holy and true”?
3. How can we obey Christ and keep standing up for Him even when we are physically exhausted?
4. How might you persuade a friend that Christ is the ultimate power in the universe?
5. *What can we do to prepare for Christ’s return?
6. Why can we rejoice even when we are persecuted by hostile anti-God forces?
7. Who are some of the “pillars” of your church (faithful, godly members who give their full support)?
8. Why are some Christians seemingly more able or better equipped to “endure patiently”?
9. What advice would you give to a Christian friend who expressed physical exhaustion and a lack of spiritual strength?
Apply It
1. How can you share what you have learned so far in Revelation with a non-Christian friend who is looking for spiritual answers?
2. *How can you pray this week as a result of your study?
3. In what areas of your life do you need to turn away from wrong attitudes?
4. Where can you go for the encouragement you need to keep walking with Christ in a hostile world?
To the Church in Laodicea—Revelation 3:14–22
Topics: Angels, Apathy, Church, Complacency, Deceit, Discipline, Faithfulness, Holy Spirit, Invitation, Jesus Christ, Repentance, Wealth
Open It
1. What is the nastiest food or drink you ever tasted?
2. *What are some foods or drinks that taste better cold or hot than at room temperature?
3. If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, whom would you pick? Why?
Explore It
1. Who spoke these words and told John to write them down? (3:14)
2. What church was the focus of this letter from Jesus? (3:14)
3. By what unusual description did Jesus identify Himself? (3:14)
4. *How did Jesus describe the church at Laodicea? (3:15)
5. *What response did Jesus promise to the Laodicean church because of its behavior? (3:16)
6. *In what ways was the Laodicean church deceived? (3:17)
7. What counsel did “the ruler of God’s creation” give to this church? (3:18)
8. What did the Laodicean Christians need? Why? (3:18)
9. What reason did Jesus give for His stern warnings? (3:19)
10. What invitation was given to individual Christians in Laodicea? (3:20)
11. What did Christ promise to do if accepted and embraced by the Laodiceans? (3:20)
12. What promise was made to “him who overcomes” in Laodicea? (3:21)
13. How did Christ conclude His message to this wayward church? (3:22)
Get It
1. What do we know about the Laodicean Christians from the fact that Jesus described Himself as being outside the door?
2. What are some ways people in our society are deceived?
3. What does it mean that Jesus “stands at the door and knocks”?
4. How can a person “invite Jesus in” and eat with Him?
5. What is a hot Christian, a cold Christian, or a lukewarm Christian?
6. *What does a lukewarm Christian act like?
7. *In what ways can a person be religious yet indifferent to what God wants?
8. What should we do to be hot in our devotion to God?
9. How much stock do we tend to put in our own resources (especially money and things)?
10. What is the significance of the phrase, “He who has an ear to hear, let him hear …” at the end of each of the letters to the churches?
11. What can we learn about the Lord’s character based on His strong words to the Laodicean church?
12. Which of the seven churches described in Revelation 2:1–3:22 are you most like? Why?
13. What can we do to listen more closely to Christ?
14. How can we pray to invite Christ into all areas of our lives?
Apply It
1. *What steps can you take this week to keep from being indifferent to what God wants?
2. How can you use the Word of God to help clear up your perspective on life?
3. What possession or portion of money can you use to “buy gold” from Christ? How?
4. Into what specific areas of your life do you want to invite Christ today?
The Throne in Heaven—Revelation 4:1–11
Topics: Creation, Future, Glory, Heaven, Holiness, Holy Spirit, Honor, Power
Open It
1. What do you most look forward to about heaven?
2. *What is a place or experience that is difficult for you to describe to others?
3. When and where was your most meaningful worship experience?
Explore It
1. After receiving messages for the seven churches, what did John see? (4:1)
2. What kind of voice did John hear? (4:1)
3. What did the voice John heard say to him? (4:1)
4. What incredible sights did John see? (4:2–11)
5. How did John describe the one sitting on a throne? (4:3)
6. How did John describe what he saw? (4:3)
7. What encircled or surrounded the throne? (4:3–4)
8. How were the twenty-four elders dressed? (4:4)
9. What came from the throne? (4:5)
10. What did John see in front of the throne? (4:5–6)
11. What kind of creatures were “in the center, around the throne”? (4:6–7)
12. How were the four living creatures around the throne similar? (4:8)
13. *What attribute of God did the four living creatures praise again and again? (4:8)
14. *How did the twenty-four elders worship the Lord God? (4:9–10)
15. *Why did the elders say God was worthy of their worship? (4:11)
Get It
1. Why do you think God’s throne figures prominently in the book of Revelation?
2. What attitudes do you think are expressed by falling down before God?
3. *What does it mean to worship God?
4. What impressions does this passage give you of God the Father?
5. How would you describe God to someone who had never read the Bible?
6. Based on this chapter, what seems to be an important occupation in heaven?
7. How would you answer someone who complained that “heaven will be boring … like one eternal church service”?
8. What is the significance of the lightning and thunder that comes from God’s throne?
9. *What changes are you moved to make when you reflect on the holiness and majesty of God Almighty?
Apply It
1. What reminders can you use this week to keep the reality and glory of God at the front of your mind?
2. *How can you begin today to make praise and worship of God a more regular part of your life?
The Scroll and the Lamb—Revelation 5:1–14
Topics: Angels, Atonement, Jesus Christ, Power, Praise, Prayer, Sacrifice, Serving, Strength, Wealth, Wisdom, Worship
Open It
1. *What kind of books do you like to read? Why?
2. What was the biggest and most electric crowd of which you were ever a part?
3. What foreign language were you first exposed to? When and how?
Explore It
1. What was in the hand of the one sitting on the throne in heaven? (5:1)
2. *What loud proclamation did a mighty angel make? (5:2)
3. Who first came forward to open the scroll? (5:3)
4. *What was John’s reaction when the scroll could not be opened? (5:4)
5. What did one of the twenty-four elders say to John? (5:5)
6. Who was the only one worthy to open the scroll and its seals? (5:5)
7. What did the Lamb that John saw look like? (5:6)
8. Where was the Lamb that John saw? (5:6)
9. What did the Lamb do? (5:7)
10. How did the creatures around the throne respond to the actions of the Lamb? (5:8–9)
11. *For what was the Lamb praised and worshipped? (5:9–10)
12. How many angels did John see? (5:11)
13. What were the angels doing? (5:12)
14. What were all the other living creatures doing and singing? (5:13)
Get It
1. Why do you think John was upset when nobody came forward to open the scroll?
2. Why do you think the prayers of the saints appeared as “golden bowls full of incense”?
3. *What did Christ do for us?
4. What evidence do we have from this passage that God makes no distinction between races or ethnic groups?
5. Why should we value people of all races equally and treat everyone with equal respect?
6. Who in your sphere of influence needs to know about Christ?
7. What is the benefit of bowing down to worship God?
8. *How can we serve God as His priests?
Apply It
1. How can you worship God in your private times of prayer this week?
2. *How can you develop an attitude of praise and thanksgiving to God as you go throughout your day?
The Seals—Revelation 6:1–17
Topics: Death, Hell, Holiness, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Last Days, Peace, Truth
Open It
1. What do you picture the end of the world being like?
2. What is one natural disaster (earthquake, tornado, etc.) that stands out in your memory?
3. How do you react in really frightening situations?
4. *Given the human power and authority, what would you do to try to bring about lasting peace and prosperity on earth?
Explore It
1. What happens in the opening scenes of this passage? (6:1)
2. What did John hear after Christ opened the first seal? (6:2)
3. What was the nature and the appearance of the first horse and its rider? (6:2)
4. What happened after the second seal was opened? (6:3)
5. How are the second horse and its rider described? (6:4)
6. What happened at the opening of the third seal? (6:5)
7. How did the voice that John heard explain the meaning of the scales in the hand of the third rider? (6:6)
8. What were the fourth horse and its rider like? (6:7–8)
9. What did John see at the opening of the fifth seal? (6:9)
10. *What question did the martyrs ask God? (6:10)
11. *What answer was given the slain ones? (6:11)
12. What happened at the opening of the sixth seal? (6:12–14)
13. *How did the inhabitants of earth respond to the events unleashed by the breaking of the seals? (6:15–17)
14. How will people try to escape from being judged by God? (6:15–17)
Get It
1. *How does reading this passage make you feel?
2. What do you think each of the four horsemen represents?
3. What do the judgments wrought by the horsemen have in common?
4. When do you think the judgments (represented by the four horsemen) will take place?
5. Why will God judge the earth?
6. Why do people try to escape from God?
7. Why do you think some people react so negatively to the message of Christ?
8. How long do you think God will wait before judging the earth?
9. *What does God want us to do as we wait for Him to judge the earth?
10. How should we pray in light of the fact that God will judge all people?
Apply It
1. How can you help a non-Christian friend or family member see his or her need for Christ?
2. *How can you encourage a faithful Christian today who is being persecuted for following Christ?
144,000 Sealed—Revelation 7:1–8
Topics: Angels, Earth, Judgment, Last Days, Serving
Open It
1. *What forms of identification do you typically carry?
2. How do you protect or mark items that you don’t want to lose or to have stolen?
3. How might you prove ownership of your valued possessions?
Explore It
1. Who did John see after the breaking of the first six seals? (7:1)
2. Where were the four angels located? (7:1)
3. What were the four angels at the four “corners of the earth” doing? Why? (7:1)
4. What did John see coming from the east? (7:2)
5. *What did the angel from the east have in his possession? (7:2)
6. What power or authority did the four angels possess? (7:2)
7. What did the angel from the east say to the other four angels? (7:3)
8. *When were the angels given permission to “harm the land and the sea”? (7:3)
9. *What people were marked? How? (7:4)
10. How many individuals were sealed in John’s vision? (7:4)
11. How many individuals were sealed from each of the 12 tribes of Israel? (7:4–8)
Get It
1. *How has God marked or sealed His people?
2. Whom does God protect?
3. How will God protect His people during the coming judgment?
4. In what ways does God protect His people now?
5. Why is it important for us to know that God’s servants will be sealed before God afflicts the land and the sea with the final judgments?
6. Who are the 144,000 sealed servants?
7. What are some ways angels are at work in the world today?
8. What can we do to reflect the fact that we are servants of God who bear His mark (or seal) of ownership?
9. *What mark of ownership is there in your life-style that shows God’s possession of your life?
Apply It
1. What mark of ownership do you need to place in your life today to show your obedience to God?
2. What Bible-study tools could you get in the next couple of weeks that would help you gain a better understanding of Revelation and the rest of Scripture?
3. *How do you need to alter your routine to reflect the fact that God owns every area of your life?
The Great Multitude in White Robes—Revelation 7:9–17
Topics: Angels, Atonement, Eternal Life, Glory, Heaven, Honor, Joy, Power, Praise, Purity, Salvation, Serving, Wisdom, Worship
Open It
1. *What are some things about earth you won’t miss in heaven?
2. When was the last time you saw or experienced racial prejudice?
3. What is the hardest you ever cried in grade school?
Explore It
1. What did John see after seeing the revelation of the 144,000 sealed servants of God? (7:9)
2. Where did John see a great throng of people? (7:9)
3. What were the people John saw wearing and holding? (7:9)
4. What was the crowd before the throne saying? (7:10)
5. What group was around the throne worshiping? (7:11)
6. What were the angels, the elders, and the four creatures saying to God and about God? (7:12)
7. Who spoke to John and what did this person say? (7:13)
8. How did John respond to the elder’s question? (7:14)
9. *How did the elder explain the identity of those wearing the white robes? (7:14)
10. *What is the main job of the believers who come out of the great tribulation? (7:15)
11. *What blessings await those who are martyred in the great tribulation? (7:16–17)
12. What is the involvement of the Lamb with those in white robes? (7:17)
Get It
1. Why is it important for us to know that the “robes” of the martyrs will be made white in the blood of the Lamb as they come out of the tribulation?
2. *What does it mean to you that “a great multitude” will serve God day and night in His heavenly temple?
3. What is the difference between singing a hymn and singing an ordinary song?
4. How do we know that God does not favor people for their skin color or ethnic background?
5. How can we thank God for salvation?
6. On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 1 being “terrible” and 10 being “terrific”), how would you rate the quality and consistency of your personal praise life?
7. *What new insights into the character of God does this passage give you?
8. What is the significance of the fact that the angels and elders around the throne of God fall down and worship God?
Apply It
1. *What step can you take this week to praise and thank God more consistently?
2. What are some specific ways you and your family can encourage or support a missionary?
3. How can you imitate God today in leading someone to Him or comforting a friend in grief?
The Seventh Seal and the Golden Censer—Revelation 8:1–5
Topics: Angels, Heaven, Listening, Praise, Prayer, Sacrifice, Serving, Silence, Worship
Open It
1. *In what ways can silence be good or helpful?
2. In what way can silence make us uncomfortable?
3. How would you describe heaven to a friend?
Explore It
1. Who is the one here described as opening the seventh seal? (8:1)
2. *What happened in heaven upon the opening of the seventh seal? (8:1)
3. For how long was there silence in heaven during John’s vision? (8:1)
4. What did John see after the opening of the seventh seal? (8:2)
5. What was given to the creatures seen by John? (8:2)
6. What did John see another angel come and do? (8:3)
7. What did the angel standing at the altar have in his possession? (8:3)
8. *What was the angel at the altar assigned to do? (8:3)
9. *What did John see going up before God? (8:4)
10. With what did the angel fill the censer? (8:5)
11. What did the angel eventually do with the censer? (8:5)
12. What happened on the earth after the angel’s actions? (8:5)
Get It
1. *What is dramatic about silence in heaven?
2. *How can we make silence a part of our worship?
3. What is a censer?
4. How is it significant that incense accompanies the prayers of all God’s people?
5. What needs are you praying about these days?
6. When the seventh seal is opened there is first silence, then prayer; how do you interpret the heavenly response to the saints’ prayers?
7. What does this passage teach us about prayer?
8. Why do you think the angel hurled his censer to the earth?
9. The angels in heaven have God-given tasks; what are your God-given tasks or areas of responsibility?
Apply It
1. *When could you make time this week for silent meditation on God’s Word and on what God has done for you?
2. How might you improve the way you pray?
3. What God-given responsibility do you need to carry out today?
The Trumpets—Revelation 8:6–9:21
Topics: Angels, Blindness, Danger, Darkness, Death, Enemies, Environment, Evil, Heaven, Hopelessness, Judgment, Last Days, Pain, Rebellion, Stress, World
Open It
1. What do you think of when you think of a “trumpet blast”?
2. What is most moving to you about wildfires, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes?
3. *Why do you think some people believe that everyone will go to heaven (that is, no one will be punished or sent to hell by God)?
Explore It
1. *What did the seven angels who stand before God prepare to do? (8:6)
2. What happened when the first angel sounded his trumpet? (8:7)
3. *What were the trumpet blasts that John heard? (8:7–8, 10, 12; 9:1, 13–15)
4. What was the result when the second angel sounded his trumpet? (8:8–9)
5. What happened when the third angel blew his trumpet? (8:10–11)
6. What events followed the fourth angel’s trumpet blast? (8:12)
7. What did John see an eagle do? (8:13)
8. What did John see at the sounding of the fifth trumpet? (9:1)
9. What creatures came out of the Abyss? (9:2–3)
10. What special powers did the creatures from the Abyss have? (9:4–6)
11. What did the creatures from the Abyss look like? (9:7–10)
12. What events transpired when the sixth angel blew his trumpet? (9:13–19)
13. *How were the few human survivors affected by these horrible plagues and catastrophes? (9:20–21)
Get It
1. *What significance is there to the plagues that will befall the world in the final days?
2. Why do you think the survivors in the last days will still refuse to turn to God—especially after seeing the horrible judgment all around them?
3. What does this passage tell us about God?
4. Why do you think so many of the plagues described here stop short of complete devastation?
5. What difference does it make to you that God chooses what these judgments will and will not mean?
6. What is most frightening to you about these judgments? Why?
7. *What difference does it make that we are making life more and more comfortable with better and better technology?
8. How can you use what you’ve learned in Revelation as a tool in talking with non-Christian friends who are looking for spiritual answers?
Apply It
1. *What changes can you make in your prayer life this week as a result of what you have studied today?
2. In what areas of your life do you need to turn away from wrong attitudes and actions this week so that you can avoid the disciplining hand of God?
The Angel and the Little Scroll—Revelation 10:1–11
Topics: Angels, Creation, Delay, Encouragement, God’s Will, Guidance, Instructions, Judgment, Obedience, Responsibility, Silence, Surprises, Witnessing
Open It
1. About what beloved hobbies or special interests of yours might someone remark, “He/she can’t get enough of that!”
2. *On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 1 being ghastly and 10 being great), how good are you at keeping secrets?
3. What is something for which you have waited a long time?
Explore It
1. After the first six trumpets of judgment, what did John see? (10:1)
2. What did the mighty angel of John’s vision look like? (10:1)
3. What did the mighty angel have in his possession? (10:2)
4. What did the mighty angel do? (10:2–3)
5. What did John try to do about what he heard? (10:4)
6. What command did John receive from heaven? (10:4)
7. What did the mighty angel do after John sealed up what the seven thunders said? (10:5–6)
8. What did the angel swear? (10:6)
9. How did the angel describe God in his oath? (10:6)
10. What announcement did the angel make? (10:6–7)
11. What did the voice from heaven tell John to do? (10:8)
12. *What did the angel tell John to do with the little scroll? (10:9)
13. What unusual act was John asked to perform? (10:9)
14. What warning did the angel give John? (10:9)
15. *What happened when John ate the scroll? (10:10)
16. *What is the last thing John was told at this time? (10:11)
Get It
1. What does it mean that the angel’s voice sounded like thunder?
2. Why is it significant that God sent His angel to announce that there would be no more delay in God’s intervention?
3. Why is it significant that the angel called God “him who lives for ever and ever”?
4. *What do you think is symbolized by John’s eating the scroll of God’s words and finding it sweet in his mouth and sour in his stomach?
5. *In what situations has God’s Word ever tasted sweet at first hearing but then sour as you “digested” it?
6. What is the “mystery of God” that will be accomplished?
7. When will the “mystery of God” be accomplished?
8. What confidence or secret do you need to keep that you may be tempted to share?
Apply It
1. *What step can you take this week to help you internalize what you have heard from God’s Word?
2. How can you practice patience and trust today in an area of your life where God’s working seems to have been delayed?
3. Who in your life has God called you to speak His truth to this week?
The Two Witnesses—Revelation 11:1–14
Topics: Ambassadors, Angels, Celebration, Death, Enemies, Heaven, Judgment, Miracles, Persecution, Resurrection, Unbelievers, Witnessing, Worship
Open It
1. Why are some people so turned off by “fire and brimstone” type preachers?
2. What determines how you interpret a hard-to-understand Bible passage?
3. What groups seem to you to be most opposed to the Christian message and to the spread of the gospel?
4. *Why do you think so many people are gleeful to learn of the moral failures of prominent Christians?
Explore It
1. What was John given? (11:1)
2. What was John told to do with the object he had been given? (11:1)
3. What was John told to count? (11:1)
4. What part of the temple was John to exclude from his “fact-finding mission”? (11:2)
5. *What important “end times” individuals are mentioned in this passage and what will be their mission? (11:3–6)
6. What special protection will be given the ones called the “two olive trees and the two lampstands”? (11:4–5)
7. What supernatural powers will the two witnesses possess? (11:6)
8. *What will happen to the two witnesses when they have finished their God-ordained ministry? (11:7)
9. How will the two witnesses die? (11:7)
10. *What will take place in the three and a half days after the two witnesses die? (11:8–10)
11. In John’s vision, what happened three and half days after the two witnesses were killed by the beast? (11:11–12)
12. What catastrophic events will follow the two witnesses? (11:13)
Get It
1. What do the events in this passage tell us about God?
2. *What do the events in this passage tell us about the world?
3. *What encouragement for Christians today does the story of the two witnesses offer?
4. How do you explain the response of the people described in this passage?
5. How do you think you might react if you saw two men dead for three and half days come back to life?
6. How does it make you feel to know that God and His servants will ultimately triumph over the evil of the world?
Apply It
1. How can you be a witness this week to those who don’t know Christ?
2. *What can you do to show your support this week for ministers, evangelists, and Christian leaders?
3. What sins do you need to confess and renounce today in order that the Spirit of God might fill your life with His power?
The Seventh Trumpet—Revelation 11:15–19
Topics: Angels, Eternal Life, Heaven, Judgment, Rewards, Serving, Thankfulness, Victory, Worship
Open It
1. Who is one famous and one not-so-famous Christian that you think will receive great reward in heaven? Why?
2. *What are you most thankful for?
3. What about this world would you most like to see changed? Why?
Explore It
1. What did John observe? (11:15)
2. What did John hear? (11:15)
3. *What did the voices say about the world? (11:15)
4. What did the voices say about the reign of Christ? (11:15)
5. What group of people in addition to John heard the heavenly voices? (11:16)
6. Where were the twenty-four elders seated? (11:16)
7. How did the twenty-four elders respond in the wake of the message of the heavenly voices? (11:16)
8. How did the elders describe “the Lord God Almighty”? (11:17)
9. *Why were the elders thankful to God? (11:17)
10. How did the elders describe the nations of the world? (11:18)
11. In the elders’ prayer, what “time has come”? (11:18)
12. *Who did the elders describe as deserving a reward? (11:18)
13. Who did the elders describe as deserving destruction? (11:18)
14. What happened in the heavenly temple of God after the prayer of the elders? (11:19)
15. What spectacular phenomena accompanied the opening of the temple? (11:19)
Get It
1. *How is the promise that God will reign over the earth significant to you?
2. *For what do we have to be thankful to God?
3. What does the promise of both reward and judgment mean to you personally?
4. What determines whether a Christian receives a big or a small heavenly reward?
5. What does it say to us that even angels with awesome power and beauty and elders with great heavenly position worship God in total humility?
6. What are some ways nations display anger toward God?
7. What changes need to take place in your personal worship of God?
Apply It
1. What is one specific act you could perform this week to advance the kingdom of God in your neighborhood, school, office, or home?
2. *For what spiritual and material blessings will you spend some time today thanking God? How?
The Woman and the Dragon—Revelation 12:1–13:1
Topics: Accusation, Angels, Atonement, Conflict, Deceit, Earth, Heaven, Judgment, Power, Salvation, Satan, Victory, War
Open It
1. *How does it feel to be accused of something you didn’t do?
2. What is the clearest example of the existence of Satan that you’re aware of?
Explore It
1. After the seventh trumpet, what “great and wondrous sign” did John observe in heaven? (12:1)
2. How did John describe the woman in his vision? (12:2)
3. What second sign did John see in heaven? (12:3)
4. In what activities was the enormous red dragon involved? (12:4)
5. What did John say about the child born to the woman? (12:5)
6. What happened to the newborn child? (12:5)
7. Where did the woman go right after giving birth? (12:6)
8. What was taking place in heaven in John’s vision? (12:7)
9. What happened to the dragon and his angels? (12:8–9)
10. By what names was the dragon known? (12:9)
11. What did a voice from heaven announce? (12:10)
12. How did the voice from heaven refer to Satan? (12:10)
13. *According to the voice from heaven, how was Satan defeated? (12:11)
14. What warning was sounded to the earth and sea? Why? (12:12)
15. *What happened when the dragon tried to destroy the woman? (12:13–13:1)
16. *When the dragon was unable to kill the woman, where did he redirect his destructive efforts? (12:17–13:1)
Get It
1. Of what events is the story of the woman a parable or parallel?
2. What can we learn about Satan (his character, activities, and destiny) from this passage?
3. What does it mean not to love your life so much as to shrink from death?
4. *In what way does Satan try to oppose God today?
5. In what ways is Satan limited? Why?
6. What does it mean that Satan was “hurled to earth”?
7. How, in your own words, would you describe Satan’s earthly exploits after he has been cast from heaven?
8. What do we learn about God from this passage?
9. What does this passage tell us about God’s people?
10. When tempted by Satan, “the accuser of our brothers,” how can we resist and fight back?
11. *In what ways does Satan try to tempt and hurt us?
12. How can we strengthen ourselves against Satan’s attempts to weaken and tempt us?
Apply It
1. *What can you do this week to strengthen your hold on the testimony of Jesus?
2. What books, tapes, articles, or fellow believers could you use to help you grow in your commitment to Christ? How?
3. How can you take the message of today’s passage and encourage a fellow Christian who is struggling in his or her walk with Christ?
The Beast out of the Sea—Revelation 13:2–10
Topics: Authority, Blasphemy, Death, Deceit, Endurance, Faithfulness, Last Days, Persecution, Perseverance, Power, Satan, War, Worship
Open It
1. *What alternatives to God do some of your coworkers or friends have (such as New Age beliefs, Islam, atheism, etc.)?
2. What names of living and/or dead individuals have you heard end times enthusiasts mention as being the “antichrist”?
Explore It
1. What kind of creature did John observe? (13:2)
2. What did the beast look like that John saw? (13:2)
3. What did the dragon (Satan) give the beast out of the sea? (13:2)
4. What was unusual about one of the heads of the beast? (13:3)
5. How did the world react and respond to the beast out of the sea? (13:3–4)
6. How long did the beast have authority? (13:5)
7. What kind of pronouncements did the beast make? (13:5–6)
8. How did the beast use his authority? (13:7)
9. *Who will worship the beast? (13:8)
10. *What warning did John give to all who would listen? (13:9–10)
11. *What do we need to do about this? (13:10)
Get It
1. In light of verses such as Psalm 24:1; Matthew 4:8–10; John 8:44; 12:31; and 2 Corinthians 4:4, who controls events on earth?
2. What is significant about the way the beast is described?
3. If you were facing death because of your Christian beliefs, how do you think you might respond?
4. Why do you think people will worship the beast?
5. *What difference does it make whom we worship?
6. What are some simple steps we can take to ensure that we give worship to God alone?
7. *In what sense do we need to be closed-minded about faith in Christ?
8. Why is it important that the beast will exercise authority for a period of only forty-two months?
9. Why do you think God allows His people to undergo severe trials and the kinds of persecution that are described in this passage?
10. What insights into spiritual warfare and blindness does this passage give you?
11. What are some situations you are facing that call for patient endurance and faithfulness?
Apply It
1. What can you do to prepare for those times this week when you will need patient endurance and faithfulness?
2. *How can you worship God in your attitudes and actions today?
The Beast out of the Earth—Revelation 13:11–18
Topics: Authority, Death, Deceit, Enemies, Idolatry, Loyalty, Miracles, Opposition, Power, Pressure, Satan, Wisdom, Worship
Open It
1. *What is the most amazing trick you have ever seen a magician or an illusionist perform?
2. What are the most incredible special effects you have ever seen in a movie?
Explore It
1. What kind of creature did John observe? (13:11)
2. How did John describe the beast he saw coming out of the earth? (13:11)
3. Whom did the second beast represent? (13:12)
4. What did the second beast make the inhabitants of earth do? (13:12)
5. What powerful signs did the second beast use? (13:13)
6. *How did the second beast deceive everyone all over the world? (13:13–14)
7. What evil act did the second beast require of everyone all over the world? (13:14)
8. *How did the beast out of the earth use his Satanic power in relation to the image of the beast out of the sea? (13:15)
9. *What happened to those who refused to worship the image of the beast out of the sea? (13:15)
10. What did the beast out of the earth (also called the false prophet) force every living person to do? (13:16)
11. What consequences awaited those who refused to take the mark of the beast? (13:17)
12. What difference did it make whether a person took the mark of the beast? (13:17)
13. To what does the rise of the beast call us? (13:18)
14. How did John say one could “calculate the number of the beast”? (13:18)
Get It
1. What do you think is the significance of the fact that the beast’s number is 666?
2. How could Satan use economics (the ability to buy and sell) to control people and gain their allegiance?
3. *What are some chief ways people are deceived or blinded by Satan today?
4. How might you respond to someone who insisted that every miracle is from God?
5. How do you interpret and explain the kind of mark that Satan will require people to put on their hands and foreheads?
6. How would you react to a giant statue that could talk and move?
7. How can we tell whether a miracle is from God or from Satan?
8. What value is there in trying to determine the identity of the beast and the meaning of the symbols of the Book of Revelation?
9. *What should we do to be wise about the schemes of Satan?
Apply It
1. How can you shine the light of Christ in your part of our world?
2. What steps can you take today to renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?
3. *What actions could you take today to instruct or guide a young Christian?
The Lamb and the 144,000—Revelation 14:1–5
Topics: Ambassadors, Commitment, Dedication, Eternal Life, Fruit, Heaven, Integrity, Obedience, Purity, Righteousness, Worship
Open It
1. What are your favorite sounds in all the world?
2. What five adjectives do you think your friends and family would use to describe you?
3. *What is one song you would like to learn to sing by heart?
Explore It
1. *Who did John see standing before him? (14:1)
2. Where in this vision of John’s was the central character standing? (14:1)
3. Who was standing with the Lamb? (14:1)
4. What was written on the foreheads of the 144,000? (14:1)
5. What was the sound that John heard from heaven like? (14:2)
6. *What did the 144,000 do as John looked on? (14:3)
7. Who besides John heard the 144,000 singers? (14:3)
8. Who was given the privilege of learning the song of the 144,000? (14:3)
9. How is the purity of the 144,000 described? (14:4)
10. How is the commitment and faithfulness of the 144,000 pictured? (14:4)
11. *What is said here about the unique spiritual condition of the 144,000? (14:4–5)
12. How is the integrity of the 144,000 described? (14:5)
Get It
1. What is significant about the sound from heaven described in this passage?
2. *Why do you think only the 144,000 are able to learn the new song of praise?
3. In your own words, how would you describe the redeemed 144,000?
4. In what ways are you tempted to place your affections on the world of business, politics, social life, etc.?
5. *What does it mean to “follow the Lamb wherever he goes”?
6. What does it mean to be blameless?
Apply It
1. What is one step can you take today to keep yourself pure and devoted to God?
2. *What can you do to make yourself more open to follow the Lord wherever He leads you?
The Three Angels—Revelation 14:6–13
Topics: Angels, Blessing, Creation, Death, Earth, Endurance, Faithfulness, Fear, Glory, Gospel, Hell, Judgment, Obedience, Patience, Worship
Open It
1. *What do your coworkers believe about hell?
2. If you could get on international television and deliver a 10-second message to the whole human race, what would you say?
Explore It
1. What did John see? (14:6)
2. What was an angel dispatched to do? (14:6)
3. *What did the angel tell the inhabitants of earth to do? Why? (14:7)
4. Why was it important that people heed the angel’s message? (14:7)
5. What pronouncement did the second angel make? (14:8)
6. How was Babylon’s sin described by the second angel? (14:9)
7. What warning did the third angel give? (14:9–10)
8. *What would be the consequence of taking the mark of the beast? (14:9–10)
9. How is God’s judgment on those who worship the beast pictured? (14:10)
10. What words are used to portray God’s anger over sin? (14:10)
11. How is the future torment of the unbelieving described in this passage? (14:10–11)
12. *What does the future hold for those who do not believe? (14:10–11)
13. How should Christians respond to this sober warning? (14:12)
14. What instructions did John receive from heaven? (14:13)
15. In what sense are the dead blessed? (14:13)
Get It
1. *What temptations and trials make it difficult to live for Christ in this society?
2. How is it significant that the angel proclaimed the eternal gospel to “every nation, tribe, language and people”?
3. *What does it mean to fear God?
4. In your own words, how would you describe God’s hatred for sin?
5. Why do we need “patient endurance” as followers of Christ?
6. In what way is it a blessing to die as a believer in Christ?
Apply It
1. In what concrete way could you encourage or support a missionary this week?
2. In what way can you be a witness for Christ today?
3. *How can you cultivate faithfulness to Jesus in all you do each day?
The Harvest of the Earth—Revelation 14:14–20
Topics: Angels, Anger, Consequences, Earth, Heaven, Judgment
Open It
1. *What do you think is the average person’s view of heaven?
2. Why do you think death is personified as the Grim Reaper?
Explore It
1. What did John see? (14:14)
2. How did John describe the person he saw? (14:14)
3. What unusual instrument did the one “like a son of man” have in his possession? (14:14)
4. What happened as John stared at the angel sitting on a cloud? (14:15)
5. *What did the angel from the heavenly temple tell the other angel to do? Why? (14:15)
6. Why did the one angel command the other to harvest the earth? (14:15)
7. How did the one seated on the cloud respond to the angel’s command? (14:16)
8. How did John describe the next angel he saw? (14:17)
9. What did John see “still another angel” do? (14:18)
10. *What instructions did the angel give to the one with the “sharp sickle”? (14:18)
11. *What happened to the grapes that were gathered by the reaping angel? (14:19–20)
12. How much blood was produced by the crushing of the “grapes”? (14:20)
Get It
1. What does this passage tell us about angels?
2. *What does this passage tell us about God?
3. What does this passage tell us about people?
4. How would you answer a non-Christian’s charge that the Bible is too full of blood and judgment?
5. How do you interpret this vision of John’s?
6. Why do you think God delays His judgment when the world is already filled with evil?
7. *How do we know that God takes our sin seriously?
8. How (if at all) would it change your view of God if God didn’t punish sin?
9. What would you tell a person about how he or she could escape judgment?
10. Whom do you think the grapes in this vision represent?
11. What difference should the promise of judgment and wrath against evil make to the way we live?
Apply It
1. For what unbelievers will you pray this week?
2. *In what way can you express your gratitude to God for sparing you from His wrath?
Seven Angels With Seven Plagues—Revelation 15:1–8
Topics: Angels, Anger, Confidence, Fear, Glory, Greatness, Heaven, Holiness, Justice, Perseverance, Power, Purity, Righteousness, Satan, Worship
Open It
1. Of what difficult accomplishment are you most proud?
2. When in your life have you felt the most spiritually clean or the closest to God?
3. *What is your favorite hymn or worship song? Why?
Explore It
1. What great sign did John see in heaven? (15:1)
2. Why did John refer to the plagues he saw as the “seven last plagues”? (15:1)
3. *How did John describe the part of heaven revealed to him? (15:2)
4. Who did John see standing before him? (15:2)
5. Who will be “victorious over the beast”? (15:2)
6. *What were the saints in heaven doing? (15:2–3)
7. *What attributes of God are praised in the “song of Moses”? (15:3–4)
8. By what names was God called in the heavenly hymn heard by John? (15:3–4)
9. What did John see opened in heaven? (15:5)
10. What creatures came out of the temple? (15:6)
11. How did John describe the heavenly beings he saw? (15:6)
12. What was given to the seven angels? (15:7)
13. What events took place in the heavenly temple after the angels were dispatched with their plagues? (15:8)
Get It
1. When and where have you most sensed the awesomeness and greatness of God?
2. How would you answer someone who complained that heaven is “boring because people just sit on clouds and play harps for eternity”?
3. When will believers be “victorious over the beast”?
4. *What are some ways to praise or worship God?
5. How can singing help us worship God?
6. *How can we use singing in our worship of God?
7. What evidence does this passage give us that God is just and fair?
8. What does it mean that God is marvelous or glorious?
9. Based on this passage, what new insights do you have about heaven?
10. What do you most look forward to about heaven?
11. What God-given provisions do we have in our battle against the devil?
Apply It
1. What God-given provisions can you use today in your battle to be victorious over the devil?
2. *What is one practical step you can take to include singing more in your worship of God?
The Seven Bowls of God’s Wrath—Revelation 16:1–21
Topics: Angels, Anger, Blasphemy, Consequences, Darkness, Death, Demons, Earth, Heaven, Holiness, Judgment, Justice, Last Days, Pain, Repentance, Sickness
Open It
1. *What is the most pain you have ever experienced?
2. Which do you think is worse—physical or emotional pain?
3. What kinds of natural disasters would you least like to be in the middle of?
4. What injustices in the world sometimes cause you to wonder if God is just?
Explore It
1. What did John hear from the heavenly temple? (16:1)
2. *What instructions did the loud voice give to the seven angels? (16:1)
3. What happened when the first angel poured out his bowl? (16:2)
4. What happened when the second angel emptied his bowl? (16:3)
5. What happened in the wake of the third angel pouring out his bowl? (16:4)
6. *What did the angel in charge of the waters say about the judgments being poured out? (16:5–7)
7. Why were the judgments that John witnessed called just? (16:5–7)
8. What kinds of judgment did the fourth bowl contain? (16:8–9)
9. What effect did the judgment of the fourth bowl have? (16:9)
10. What effect did the “raising of the thermostat” have on the earth’s inhabitants? (16:9)
11. What happened when the fifth angel poured out his bowl? (16:10–11)
12. Where was the judgment of the sixth angel directed? Why? (16:12)
13. What was the appearance of the three evil spirits after the judgment of bowl number six? (16:13–14)
14. What did the three evil spirits do? (16:13–14)
15. *What blessing was pronounced in the middle of this outpouring of judgment? (16:15)
16. What happened to the kings of the East? (16:16)
17. What were the results when the seventh angel poured out his bowl of judgment? (16:17–21)
Get It
1. How (if at all) do you think current events fit in with the judgments described in this passage?
2. How is the first plague appropriate for those who have allowed the mark of the beast on their bodies?
3. How do plagues two and three fit mankind’s crimes?
4. *What makes the judgments described here—horrible as they are—perfectly just?
5. *How can we “keep our clothes white”?
6. What makes a person blessed for “keeping his clothes white”?
7. Why would people undergoing judgment still not turn to God in repentance and for salvation?
Apply It
1. In what situations this week can you be fair and just?
2. *What is one step you can take this week to fight spiritual laziness?
3. How could you use the message of this passage to engage a non-Christian friend in a discussion about Christ?
The Woman on the Beast—Revelation 17:1–18
Topics: Ambassadors, Angels, Authority, Blasphemy, Faithfulness, Hell, Holy Spirit, Immorality, Judgment, Power, Sin, War, Wisdom
Open It
1. *What are some examples of champions or winners?
2. If your life was being threatened and you could hire anyone in the world to be your personal bodyguard, whom would you pick?
3. What do you think of all the recent talk of a “new world order”?
Explore It
1. What did one of the seven angels show John? (17:1)
2. How did the angel describe the evil of the “great prostitute”? (17:2)
3. What did John see when the angel carried him away? (17:3)
4. How did John describe the woman he saw? (17:4–5)
5. What could John tell about the woman he saw? (17:6)
6. What amazed John? (17:6)
7. How did the angel react to John’s astonishment? (17:7)
8. What did the angel explain to John? (17:7)
9. *Why will people all over the world be astonished at the beast? (17:8)
10. What do people need in light of the events that are coming? (17:9)
11. *How did the angel explain the seven heads of the beast? (17:9–11)
12. How did the angel explain the ten horns that covered the beast? (17:12)
13. *What action will the ten kings take and what will be the result? (17:13–14)
14. What was the significance of the waters that John saw the woman sitting on? (17:15)
15. What is the relationship between the beast, the ten kings, and the prostitute? (17:16–18)
Get It
1. How significant do you think it is that ancient Babylon is being rebuilt in modern-day Iraq?
2. Why do you think idolatry (worship of false gods) is described as adultery in the Bible?
3. In what way is the beast’s “resurrection” a weak imitation of Christ’s resurrection?
4. What in your opinion is the best way to understand the symbolism in this passage—the prostitute, the seven heads or hills, and the ten kings?
5. How would you describe the difference between knowledge and wisdom?
6. Why is it so important for us to seek wisdom from God?
7. What can we do to become wise?
8. What is the significance of the way in which the prostitute is dressed?
9. What does it mean that the beast and the ten horns will eventually turn against the prostitute?
10. *What systems (“babylons”) in the world today are hostile to God?
11. How do you think you should respond differently to worldly events and situations after having studied this chapter?
12. In what ways do you need to reaffirm your commitment, devotion, and loyalty to Jesus Christ this week?
13. *What difference does it make that Jesus is the Lord of lords and King of kings?
14. How should our behavior or life-style reflect the truth that Jesus is Lord of lords and King of kings?
15. In what areas of your life do you need more of God’s wisdom?
Apply It
1. *What can you use to remind yourself each day this week of God’s rule and superiority over all evil in the world?
2. What can you do to learn from the wisdom of more mature Christians?
The Fall of Babylon—Revelation 18:1–24
Topics: Adultery, Angels, Authority, Consequences, Demons, Immorality, Judgment, Power, Sin, Wealth
Open It
1. *Why do you think many people enjoy seeing the rich, the great, and the famous toppled from their lofty pedestals?
2. What is the most extreme or humiliating fall from power you have ever seen someone undergo?
3. What place epitomizes evil to you?
Explore It
1. What amazing sight did John see? (18:1)
2. How did John describe the angel he saw coming down from heaven? (18:1)
3. What pronouncement did the angel bring? (18:2)
4. Why did the angel say that Babylon was being judged? (18:3)
5. What did a voice from heaven urge? (18:4)
6. What specific message of judgment did the angel bring concerning Babylon’s sins? (18:5, 8)
7. *How will the fall of Babylon affect rulers and merchants all over the earth? (18:9, 11, 15)
8. *What will happen to Babylon’s wealth? (18:10–19)
9. Why will the merchants be upset? (18:11–13, 15)
10. *Why will the sea captains and sailors be upset over the destruction of Babylon? (18:17–19)
11. Why will Babylon be judged? (18:20)
12. What instructions did the angel give for heaven and its inhabitants? (18:20)
13. Near the end of the vision of Babylon’s fall, what did a mighty angel do? (18:21)
14. What did the mighty angel’s action illustrate? (18:21)
15. How will Babylon be judged? (18:22–23)
16. What symbol of violence was found in Babylon? (18:24)
Get It
1. What is pride and why is it dangerous?
2. How is your view of God expanded when you read that mere creatures (such as angels) have great authority and splendor?
3. What do you think Babylon symbolizes or represents?
4. What warning does the harlot’s fate offer us today?
5. Why do you think the kings, merchants, and sailors are singled out to mourn the great city’s fall?
6. What does the harlot’s fate tell you about God? (18:4–8, 20)
7. *In what ways can we become ensnared by wealth?
8. *What can we do to avoid being slaves to money?
9. What will be Babylon’s most glaring sins?
10. What worldly attitudes and actions hinder us from having an impact on the world around us?
Apply It
1. What can you do to maintain a spirit of humility as you go about your day?
2. *What is one step you can take today to put things and money in proper perspective?
3. How can you comfort a suffering friend with the message that God sees every injustice and will one day right every wrong?
Hallelujah!—Revelation 19:1–10
Topics: Adultery, Angels, Consequences, Demons, Glory, Immorality, Judgment, Justice, Power, Praise, Prophecy, Purity, Salvation, Serving, Worship
Open It
1. *What is one of the most memorable weddings or banquets you have ever been to?
2. Who is one Christian leader or authority that you respect? Why?
3. What is one hymn, praise chorus, or spiritual song that summarizes how you feel about God?
Explore It
1. What was the roar that John heard coming from heaven? (19:1)
2. Why were the inhabitants of heaven praising God? (19:1–2)
3. Who shouted? Why? (19:3)
4. How did the creatures closest to God act? (19:4)
5. What did the voice from the throne urge? (19:5)
6. *Why did the great multitude urge everyone to be happy? How? (19:6–7)
7. *In what ways did the bride get ready for the heavenly wedding? (19:7–8)
8. What is the significance of the fine linen worn by the bride of Christ? (19:8)
9. *Who is called “blessed”? (19:9)
10. How did John respond to the angel who was his “writing instructor”? (19:10)
11. What was the angel’s instruction to John? (19:10)
12. What did John learn about worship? (19:10)
13. What did John learn about angels? (19:10)
Get It
1. How would you describe the mood in heaven when judgment is done and God prepares to unite believers with Him forever?
2. What does “hallelujah” mean?
3. Why do you think “hallelujah” is repeated again and again in heaven?
4. What is the value in praising God?
5. What are some of the ways we can praise God?
6. What difference does it make to you that God’s judgments are true and just?
7. *What are some implications of the fact that Christ’s relationship with the church is described as a marriage?
8. *In what ways ought we to act as people “engaged” to Christ?
9. To what extent are our “wedding garments” earned, and to what extent are they a gift?
10. Who does God invite to the wedding supper of the Lamb? How?
Apply It
1. *What is one way you could become a more worshipful person in how you participate in worship services at church?
2. When, where, and how could you praise God this week?
3. In what way can you honor Christ in your conversations with others?
The Rider on the White Horse—Revelation 19:11–21
Topics: Angels, Death, Enemies, Humiliation, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Last Days, Punishment, Rebellion, Sin, Victory, War
Open It
1. What is your opinion of (attitude toward, feelings for or against, indifference toward, etc.) horses?
2. Who do you think is the greatest military leader of all time?
3. *How do most people characterize Jesus?
4. What, to you, is the value of faithfulness?
Explore It
1. What did John see in heaven as this portion of his vision began to unfold? (19:11)
2. What is the name of the individual John saw? (19:11)
3. *What is the rider of the white horse like? (19:11–13)
4. What does the rider of the white horse do? (19:11)
5. How did John describe the appearance of the rider he saw? (19:12–13, 16)
6. *Who followed the rider of the white horse? (19:14)
7. What did John note about the rider’s mouth? (19:15)
8. What message did an angel deliver? How? (19:17–18)
9. What will be the main course served to the birds at the great supper of God? (19:17–18)
10. What battle took place? (19:19–21)
11. *Who fought against the rider of the white horse, and what was the outcome? (19:19–21)
12. Who gathered together? Why? (19:19)
13. What happened to the beast and the false prophet? (19:20)
14. What happened to the rest of those who followed the beast? (19:21)
Get It
1. Who is the rider?
2. *Why is Jesus depicted as a rider on a white horse?
3. What impressions of the rider does this passage give you?
4. How is Jesus described in this passage?
5. *What do all the symbols in this passage tell us about Jesus?
6. What does it mean to be faithful and true?
7. In what area of your life do you want to build a reputation of being faithful and true?
8. What is your impression of the battle described in this passage?
9. How does this snapshot of Christ compare to the typical image most people have of Him?
10. How do you interpret the place called “the fiery lake of burning sulfur”?
11. What’s the difference between the wedding supper of the Lamb and the great supper of God?
12. What enables us to be “white and clean” in the sight of God?
Apply It
1. *For what “confrontations” do you need to prepare this week? How?
2. How can you develop faithfulness and integrity in your work or home life this week?
The Thousand Years—Revelation 20:1–6
Topics: Angels, Authority, Death, Deceit, Enemies, Hell, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Last Days, Punishment, Rebellion, Resurrection, Satan, Victory
Open It
1. Why do you think our society is growing more and more preoccupied with Satan and the occult?
2. *What is your general attitude about politics?
3. What makes people interested in the future?
Explore It
1. What did John see an angel carrying? (20:1)
2. Whom did the angel seize? (20:2)
3. By what assorted names did John call the dragon? (20:2)
4. What did the angel do to the dragon? (20:2)
5. Where did the angel throw the dragon? (20:3)
6. For how long was the dragon locked up? (20:3)
7. What else did John see in his vision? (20:4)
8. *Why had some believers died? (20:4)
9. How had the “beheaded souls” defied the beast? (20:4)
10. What happened to the martyrs as John watched? (20:4)
11. *When would the rest of the dead be resurrected? (20:5)
12. *In what way are the people raised in the first resurrection blessed? (20:6)
Get It
1. When do you think Christ’s reign is—after He takes us to heaven, before He takes us to heaven, or now? Why?
2. What do you think is the point of God binding Satan and then releasing him?
3. Who are the ones seated on thrones and given authority to judge?
4. In what ways is Satan already bound?
5. In what ways does Satan appear to be unbound?
6. *In what ways do God’s people already reign with Christ?
7. *How can we show our allegiance to Christ the King over all the earth?
8. Who notices when we give our allegiance to Christ?
Apply It
1. *In what ways can you give testimony of God’s Word to the people you know?
2. In what concrete ways this week can you resist Satan’s attempts to rule in your life?
Satan’s Doom—Revelation 20:7–10
Topics: Deceit, Enemies, Hell, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Last Days, Punishment, Rebellion, Satan, Victory, War
Open It
1. *In literature, movies, or television, who do you think is the all-time worst villain or bad guy?
2. How likely do you think it is that there will be a nuclear war in your lifetime?
Explore It
1. What will happen after the thousand year reign of Christ and His saints? (20:7)
2. How is the Abyss described? (20:7)
3. *What will Satan do right after his release from the Abyss? (20:7–8)
4. Where will Satan go to find followers? (20:8)
5. What is Satan’s ultimate goal in gathering people at this point? (20:8)
6. How did John describe those who will be deceived by Satan? (20:8)
7. *In John’s vision what battle plan did Satan follow in his war against God? (20:9)
8. What is special about the place where the people of God gathered? (20:9)
9. *How did God defeat the armies of Satan? (20:9–10)
10. Where was Satan dispatched after his defeat? (20:10)
11. What is Satan’s, the beast’s, and the false prophet’s final destination? (20:10)
12. What will Satan, the beast, and the false prophet experience in their final destination? (20:10)
Get It
1. How does this passage help explain the presence of evil in the universe?
2. What insights into Satan’s nature and character do we gain from this passage?
3. Why do you think people are so willing to follow a doomed loser like Satan?
4. Who or what are Gog and Magog?
5. How are you encouraged by the way God acts on behalf of His people?
6. Why do you think God is still waiting to judge Satan finally and completely?
7. Why is it just and fair that Satan will be “tormented day and night for ever and ever”?
8. How does knowing the end of history affect the way you feel and live in the present?
9. In what way does Satan try to deceive us?
10. How does Satan deceive us?
11. In what areas of your life have you been most susceptible to Satan’s deceptions?
12. What can we do to keep from being deceived by Satan?
13. *When are we prone to lose confidence in God’s power and authority over Satan and evil?
14. *How can we draw encouragement from the certainty of Satan’s doom?
Apply It
1. What do you want to remember the next time you are unsure of whether it is worth following Christ?
2. *What is one simple way you can remind yourself of God’s certain victory over evil?
3. How can you make a dent today in the large following and the power that Satan possesses and enjoys?
4. What step of faith do you need to take today in the face of a desperate situation that makes you feel surrounded by the enemy?
The Dead Are Judged—Revelation 20:11–15
Topics: Consequences, Death, Earth, Eternal Life, Heaven, Hell, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Last Days, Punishment, Resurrection
Open It
1. What is your favorite book? Why?
2. *What is one time you remember getting in trouble as a child?
Explore It
1. What particular vision begins this portion of John’s revelation? (20:11)
2. How will creation react to the “great white throne” judgment? (20:11)
3. What will be the effect of God’s presence on “earth and sky” at the great white throne judgment? (20:11)
4. Where will the final judgment of all people take place? (20:11–12)
5. *Who will be involved in the final judgment? (20:12)
6. What records will be used to judge everyone? (20:12)
7. How does God keep track of what people do in this life? (20:12)
8. *On what basis will people be judged at the end of time? (20:12–13)
9. From what diverse places will the dead assemble for this judgment? (20:13)
10. What will happen to death and Hades? (20:14)
11. How did John describe the lake of fire? (20:14)
12. What will hell be like? (20:14)
13. *What will happen to those whose names are not found in the Book of Life? (20:15)
14. Who will be thrown into the lake of fire? (20:15)
Get It
1. How does a person get his or her name recorded in the Book of Life?
2. How is it significant that earth and sky fled from the presence of the one seated on the throne of judgment?
3. What is the “lake of fire”?
4. What does it mean that death and Hades “were thrown into the lake of fire”?
5. What does it mean that “the lake of fire is the second death”?
6. What is the only way we can escape the lake of fire?
7. Who are the people whose names are not recorded in the Book of Life?
8. *What is the value in knowing that we will be judged for the way we live?
9. Why should the certainty of future judgment affect the way we live?
10. *How should the certainty of future judgment affect the way we live?
Apply It
1. *What can you do to remind yourself of the reality of a future judgment?
2. What step do you need to take today to ensure that your name is written in the Book of Life?
3. How can you help a friend or family member avoid a future in the lake of fire?
The New Jerusalem—Revelation 21:1–27
Topics: Angels, Death, Earth, Glory, Heaven, Hell, Holiness, Idolatry, Immorality, Jesus Christ, Joy, Light, Mourning, Purity, Unbelievers
Open It
1. What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
2. *What is one of the happiest or best memories you have?
3. If you could change one thing about your city, what would you change?
4. What is the most exotic gem or precious stone you have ever seen?
Explore It
1. What did John see once all the judgments had taken place? (21:1)
2. In his vision, what did John see coming down out of heaven from God? (21:2)
3. What did the voice that John heard speaking from the throne of God announce? (21:3)
4. What will life be like in heaven? (21:4)
5. *How did the voice from heaven describe the new world to come? (21:4–5)
6. What did the one on the throne promise to those who are thirsty? (21:6)
7. What did the one on the throne promise to those who overcome? (21:7)
8. What fate was assured for those who are evil? (21:8)
9. What did an angel do with John? Why? (21:9–10)
10. *What were some of the more spectacular features of the New Jerusalem that John saw? (21:10–21)
11. *In what way will the New Jerusalem reflect God’s glory and holiness? (21:21–27)
12. What did John discover about the temple in the New Jerusalem? (21:22)
13. What will be the New Jerusalem’s source of light? (21:23–24)
14. How did John describe the New Jerusalem in terms of safety or security? (21:25)
15. How did John describe the heavenly city in terms of purity? (21:26–27)
Get It
1. What are the implications for us that this present earth will pass away?
2. In what ways is the promise that God will dwell with us meaningful to you?
3. What does it mean that God will wipe every tear from our eyes?
4. What kind of thirst does God promise to fill in heaven?
5. *Why do you think God revealed so many details about the measurements and appearance of the New Jerusalem?
6. What does the Bible mean when, speaking about the New Jerusalem, it says, “the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple”?
7. What is the Holy City?
8. What is signified by the fact that the nations will bring their splendor to the Holy City?
9. How should we act in light of the fact that the God of the universe wants to live in us?
10. *How can we prepare ourselves for a place like the New Jerusalem?
Apply It
1. What can you do to remind yourself to be faithful to the Lord?
2. *How can you remind yourself every day this week of God’s promised future for His people?
3. How can you bring comfort today to someone who is facing death or pain or some other kind of sadness?
The River of Life—Revelation 22:1–6
Topics: Angels, Beauty, Glory, Healing, Heaven, Holiness, Jesus Christ, Joy, Light, Purity
Open It
1. *What is your favorite fruit? What do you like about it?
2. Of all the world’s great cities that are situated on rivers, which one would you most like to visit? Why?
3. What disease do you most wish there were a cure for?
Explore It
1. What sight did John’s heavenly “tour guide” show him? (22:1)
2. How did John describe the appearance of the river of life? (22:1)
3. How did John describe the location of the river of life? (22:2)
4. *What was growing on each side of the river of life? (22:2)
5. *When did the tree that John saw in the city bear fruit? (22:2)
6. *Of what value are the leaves on the tree of life? (22:2)
7. What will be missing from the new heavens and new earth? (22:3)
8. What will God’s people do in heaven? (22:3)
9. What kind of relationship will God have with His people in heaven? (22:3–4)
10. Where will the inhabitants of heaven get their light? (22:5)
11. How long will God’s people reign? (22:5)
12. How did the angel assure John? (22:6)
Get It
1. What kind of service will God’s people perform in heaven?
2. What will life be like in heaven?
3. What do you imagine it will be like to look into the face of the Lord?
4. Why do you think it is difficult to imagine how wonderful heaven will be?
5. In what ways does the new Jerusalem restore what God created in the Garden of Eden?
6. How do you interpret the images “tree of life” and “river of life”?
7. What is the significance of the water of life and tree of life being in heaven?
8. *What does this passage tell us about God?
9. In what way can a person “wear God’s name on his or her forehead”?
10. To what acts of service does God call us now?
11. What difference does it make that God has told us what the future holds?
12. *How can we honor God as creator and sustainer of life?
Apply It
1. *How can you honor the life that God created?
2. What act of service can you do for God this week? How?
3. What act or deed can you do today as a “mark of ownership” placed on your life by God?
Jesus Is Coming—Revelation 22:7–21
Topics: Angels, Eternal Life, Glory, Grace, Heaven, Holiness, Jesus Christ, Prophecy, Sin, Worship
Open It
1. What nicknames did you or your friends have when you were growing up?
2. What is your most memorable “returning home” experience?
3. *What is one reward you remember getting?
Explore It
1. What promise did Christ make? (22:7)
2. What blessing did Christ promise us? (22:7)
3. Who did Jesus say is a blessed person? (22:7)
4. How did the revelations John saw affect him? (22:8)
5. What command was given to John by his angelic assistant? (22:9)
6. Why was John commanded not to seal up the prophecies of his book? (22:10)
7. What additional instructions did the angel give? (22:11)
8. When Jesus comes, what will He bring with Him? (22:12)
9. How did Jesus describe Himself? (22:13, 16)
10. *Who will be entitled to citizenship in the new Jerusalem? (22:14)
11. Who will be barred from entering the heavenly city? (22:15)
12. What is the consequence of living a life of disobedience to God, no matter what it involves? (22:15)
13. What was Jesus’ method for getting His message to us? (22:16)
14. *What invitation is given by the Spirit and the bride? (22:17)
15. What warning did John give? (22:18–19)
16. *What do we know for sure about Christ’s return? (22:20)
17. How did John bless his readers? (22:21)
Get It
1. How might you react if you were to see an angel?
2. In what ways do we put Christian leaders on pedestals or revere them too highly?
3. How can we put believers we respect in proper perspective?
4. How can a person “keep the words of the prophecy in this book”?
5. *What do you think is the point of the angel telling everyone to continue doing what they are doing, whether good or bad?
6. What does it mean to be thirsty for God?
7. What does it mean to “wash your robes”?
8. *What is involved in responding to God’s invitation to come to Him?
9. What does it mean that “the time is near” and that Christ is “coming soon”?
10. What do we know about the timing of Christ’s return?
11. What does it mean to add to or take away from God’s prophetic word?
12. How might a person add to or take away from the words of Christ’s revelation?
13. How can we show respect for the revelation Jesus gave us in this book?
14. How do the self-descriptions of Jesus here change the way you view Him?
15. How might we bless others with the way we greet or say good-bye to them?
Apply It
1. What are some concrete ways you can show respect for the messages in the Bible?
2. *What can you “continue to do right” this week?
3. What can you do to remind yourself not to put Christian leaders on pedestals or to make them the focus of your praise?
4. How could you bless others this week with the way you greet or say good-bye to them?
Adult Questions for LESSONmaker (2024). Bellingham, WA: Logos, p. Re 1:1–22:21.