SEPTEMBER | WEEK 36
This week, we will continue our journey through Revelation with chapters 16-20 (the excitement builds). Don’t forget to check out the Rooted Facebook page for a bit more discussion on each chapter.
Discussion Questions:
• In Revelation 16, the seven bowls of the wrath of God are poured out on the earth. How does that impact God’s people who are alive then? (Hint: See Exodus 19:4 and Revelation 16:2)
• Who might the great prostitute of Revelation 17 be? This has been answered in many different ways over the years.
• What fate is awaiting Babylon the Great (the great prostitute) in Revelation 18?
• In Revelation 19:11-21, what happens to the beast and false prophet who had been making war against the saints and overcoming them? (Rev. 13:7, 15-17)
• Revelation 20:1-6 describes a 1000-year period where the dragon (Satan) is bound and unable to trouble the earth. A time when those who had not worshipped the beast or taken his mark are resurrected and reign with Christ. There are a variety of views about this 1000-year period. What do you think?
Some Answers from Last Week's Questions:
• In Revelation 11:1-2, John was told to measure the temple of God. What is this temple that John is to measure? – It might be a literal physical temple. But elsewhere in the New Testament, the body of Christ is referred to as a temple. And that is likely who this refers to here.
• Who is the dragon described in Revelation 12? – He is described as the ancient serpent from the Garden of Eden as well as the devil and Satan (Rev. 12:9).
• What is the significance of the mark that is placed on foreheads or right hands in Revelation 13:16-18? – It is a pledge of allegiance to the first beast (the antichrist). It is probably a spiritual mark, like the mark of God’s ownership placed on the 144,000 in Revelation 7:1:4.
• In Revelation 14:1-5, the 144,000 sealed in chapter 7 are described as virgin men? Does this mean that they were literally celibate men? Or might this mean something else? – I believe it relates to a spiritual condition. They had remained faithful to God. Unlike ancient Israel, which was accused of spiritual prostitution.
• In Revelation 15:2, who is it who stands beside the sea of glass? – Those who had conquered (see the promise at the end of each of the letters to the churches in Revelation 2-3). Believers who have remained faithful in spite of opposition.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, when the world around me feels uncertain and evil seems strong, remind me that You are still on the throne and You will have the final word. Give me courage to remain faithful to You - not just when faith is easy, but when following You costs me something. Guard my heart from anything that competes for my allegiance, and help me live each day with my hope firmly rooted in You. Amen.
Helpful Resources:
• Rooted Facebook Group for online sharing and further exploration
• Bible Project New Testament overview videos
• Bible Gateway, a Bible app with many translations and some other free helps
• A Clay Jar Devotionals
Discussion Questions:
• In Revelation 16, the seven bowls of the wrath of God are poured out on the earth. How does that impact God’s people who are alive then? (Hint: See Exodus 19:4 and Revelation 16:2)
• Who might the great prostitute of Revelation 17 be? This has been answered in many different ways over the years.
• What fate is awaiting Babylon the Great (the great prostitute) in Revelation 18?
• In Revelation 19:11-21, what happens to the beast and false prophet who had been making war against the saints and overcoming them? (Rev. 13:7, 15-17)
• Revelation 20:1-6 describes a 1000-year period where the dragon (Satan) is bound and unable to trouble the earth. A time when those who had not worshipped the beast or taken his mark are resurrected and reign with Christ. There are a variety of views about this 1000-year period. What do you think?
Some Answers from Last Week's Questions:
• In Revelation 11:1-2, John was told to measure the temple of God. What is this temple that John is to measure? – It might be a literal physical temple. But elsewhere in the New Testament, the body of Christ is referred to as a temple. And that is likely who this refers to here.
• Who is the dragon described in Revelation 12? – He is described as the ancient serpent from the Garden of Eden as well as the devil and Satan (Rev. 12:9).
• What is the significance of the mark that is placed on foreheads or right hands in Revelation 13:16-18? – It is a pledge of allegiance to the first beast (the antichrist). It is probably a spiritual mark, like the mark of God’s ownership placed on the 144,000 in Revelation 7:1:4.
• In Revelation 14:1-5, the 144,000 sealed in chapter 7 are described as virgin men? Does this mean that they were literally celibate men? Or might this mean something else? – I believe it relates to a spiritual condition. They had remained faithful to God. Unlike ancient Israel, which was accused of spiritual prostitution.
• In Revelation 15:2, who is it who stands beside the sea of glass? – Those who had conquered (see the promise at the end of each of the letters to the churches in Revelation 2-3). Believers who have remained faithful in spite of opposition.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, when the world around me feels uncertain and evil seems strong, remind me that You are still on the throne and You will have the final word. Give me courage to remain faithful to You - not just when faith is easy, but when following You costs me something. Guard my heart from anything that competes for my allegiance, and help me live each day with my hope firmly rooted in You. Amen.
Helpful Resources:
• Rooted Facebook Group for online sharing and further exploration
• Bible Project New Testament overview videos
• Bible Gateway, a Bible app with many translations and some other free helps
• A Clay Jar Devotionals