Revelation: A New Hope (Week 6)
In this series, we’ll explore Revelation through three lenses: the past—its Jewish roots and symbolism; the present—the context of its original audience; and the future—the timeless truth it speaks to the Church today.
For our Revelation Resources page, click here.
Warm-Up: Have you ever been really excited about something only for it to turn out differently than you expected? What happened, and how did you react?
1. An old joke goes that the correct answer in Sunday school is always “Jesus”. However, there is some truth to that! This week, Shawn added a 5th tool to understanding revelation: Reading Revelation with Jesus in Mind. Discuss this concept—does it help? If so, how?
Read Revelation 5:1-5.
2. John weeps because, at first, no one is worthy to open the scroll and make the world right. However, Jesus is worthy. In our time and place though, this complete fulfillment is still to come. How does the promise that God will ultimately defeat evil and suffering change the way we face the brokenness of our world today?
Read Revelation 5:6-10.
3. Jesus is both the conquering Lion and the Lamb who was slain. What does this show us about how Jesus conquers evil and exercises his power?
4. How does Jesus’ example challenge the way our culture defines strength, leadership, and victory? How might we reflect his approach in our own lives?
Read Revelation 5:11-14.
5. Revelation 5 shows people from every tribe, language, people, and nation worshiping Jesus together. What divisions in our world or in the church make this vision difficult to imagine? What could our group or church do to reflect this future unity more faithfully today?
6. Revelation 5 is largely about worship. Beyond singing on Sunday, what might it look like for worship to shape your everyday life this week?
7. Revelation is a letter of hope centered on Jesus. How might focusing on Jesus change the way we approach any part of the Bible that seems confusing, unfamiliar, or even frightening? What difference might that make in our faith?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
