Are you afraid to open the Book of Revelation, or, on the contrary, do you try to decode its every little detail? Mac Johnson shows that the Greek word ‘apocalypse’ does not mean catastrophe but unveiling, making complicated things clear. The first chapter of Revelation (Revelation 1) reveals God who rules over history, Christ present among his churches, and us, made a kingdom and priests, even in times of suffering. Listen and look at your complicated reality through this simple lens: God wins.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Revelation 1:4-8 presents God as the One who is, who was, and who is to come, and also speaks of the seven spirits and Jesus Christ. What does this description tell us about God, and why might it have encouraged the churches in Asia?
- The speaker explained that Revelation is at the same time a letter, a prophecy, and an apocalypse, an unveiling of something unclear, like pulling back the blinds on a window. How does this understanding change the way you approach reading this book?
- About 60 years after the ascension, the first Christians were still waiting for Jesus to return and could not clearly see His kingdom. When do you find it hard to believe that Jesus really reigns, and what helps you keep trusting Him then?
- John sees Jesus among seven golden lampstands, which stand for the churches (Revelation 1:12-20). What does it mean to you that Christ is present among His church, especially when the surrounding culture seems to work against faith?
- Verse 6 says Jesus has made us kings and priests to God, and the speaker stressed that priests serve for the benefit of other people. What could your priestly service look like toward specific people around you?
- The speaker reminded us that John writes as a companion in suffering, and that the simple things we do as Christians have huge consequences. What one simple step of faithfulness do you want to take this week, remembering that God is in control of history?
