In religious literature from the first century until now it seems easier to portray vivid judgement than to portray vivid redemption. What are some of the signs of God’s promise that Revelation provides for its readers? What are some images of redemption that are helpful to you today?
The honored Christian virtues are faith, hope and love. In Revelation, however, there is also considerable emphasis on patience. How might we grow patience in our own time and our own communities? How can we distinguish Christian patience from disappointed resignation—“things don’t change”?
Revelation stresses the importance of “witnesses” for God. Best known religious witnesses today are probably Jehovah’s Witnesses who are courageous and explicit about sharing their faith. Are there other forms of witness that might be appropriate for your own congregations and your own gifts? (Remember that in the first century as in the twenty-first faithful witness is never risk-free.)