Week 3

DAILY READINGS: REVELATION 11-16
This chapter begins with a continuation of the interlude between the end of events released with the sounding of the 6th Trumpet, and the beginning of events released with the sounding of the 7th Trumpet. Verses 1-14 appear to describe some events that will take place in and around the city of Jerusalem. It was in this city on the Day of Pentecost, immediately after the resurrection, that the Holy Spirit came upon the church to empower them to be witnesses and to prophesy.
Questions:
  1. Are you encouraged to know that the Holy Spirit is still available to empower you to be a witness of the life-changing gospel of Jesus and also to speak Spirit-inspired words of “strengthening, encouragement and comfort” (read 1 Corinthians 14:3)?
  2. The sounding of the 7th Trumpet turns John’s attention again to the continuing sounds and sights of Heaven. What details of this song of the 24 Elders encourage you today?
  3. What does the last part of the chapter tell us about the location of the ark of the covenant?
Though the imagery of this chapter is difficult to fully understand, it is clear that God is continuing His work of executing justice, as well as protecting His plans and purposes on this earth. Verse 9 clearly states that the devil leads the world astray.
Questions:
  1. What are some of the present-day tools and methods Satan uses to lead our world astray from God’s truth and plan for humanity?
  2. The “loud voice in heaven” that John hears reminds us that Satan is constantly speaking accusations against us. We also learn how to overcome the enemy’s words against us. Write, in your own words, what you understand to be the meaning of verse 11.
Like the previous chapter, the imagery of this chapter is not easily understood. However, it is clear that the forces of spiritual darkness and devil-empowered political and religious systems will exercise their greatest might and influence to destroy all that represents the truth of the gospel and the church of the Lord Jesus. Notice the mention of Satan’s determined use of blasphemous words. Definition of blasphemy: sacrilegious language; mocking or ridiculing things or activities meant to honour God; profaning God’s name or nature by word or action; demonstrating contempt for God.
Questions:
  1. Do you see a steady increase in the acceptance of blasphemy in our culture today? What are some of the mediums where it is most prominent?
  2. How do you think a follower of Jesus should respond?
The Apostle John continues attempting to describe what Jesus is revealing to him. As the days of final judgment approach, the gospel is still being proclaimed and God’s grace is still available to those who will surrender themselves completely to His soul-saving mercy. The declarations of the arrival of the day of God’s judgment and wrath are proclaimed in Heaven and on earth.
Questions:
  1. Verse 12 may represent a personal comment of John in response to the revelation he is receiving. How important is it today for believers to be reminded of the necessity of manifesting “patient endurance” by obedience to God’s commands and faithfulness to Jesus?
  2. Verse 14 is the second of seven “Beatitudes" provided in the book of Revelation. Take a few minutes to read each of these additional verses: 1:3; 16:15; 19:9; 20:6; 22:7. Are you encouraged by these “Beatitudes”?
This chapter provides a view of activities happening in Heaven just prior to the release of the last seven plagues associated with the time of the Great Tribulation.
Question:
  1. The Song of the Lamb that John hears includes specific adjectives concerning Jesus — His works are “great” and “marvelous,” His ways are “just” and “true,” and He Himself is “almighty” and “holy.” Why are each of these adjectives meaningful to you as you read this book of Revelation?
This chapter describes the beginning of the final elements of the “wrath of God on the earth.”  Each of these seven “bowls” releases wrath and judgement. Of interest is that some of the judgements are similar to the plagues that afflicted Egypt prior to Moses leading God’s people from their place of slavery.
Questions:
  1.  What words in this chapter characterize the attitude and response of the angels who observed these judgements?
  2.  What words in this chapter characterize the attitude and response of those who must endure these judgements?
  3.  Verse 15 gives us the words of the Lord Jesus giving a direct promise of blessing to all who hear and prepare themselves for the return of Christ. How are YOU preparing for the Day of the Lord?