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?
This chapter shows us angels coming down from heaven and beasts in hell rising from the pit. How does this directional language influence the way we think about heaven and hell (and Earth)? Do you think the author meant this literally or is it more allegorical?
The use of trumpets in the context of worship evoke the use of instruments in worship and God’s working in the Hebrew scriptures. How does the use of this familiar image evoke God’s power and promise here? Does the sensory nature (the loud blare of a trumpet) make this more compelling than if the symbol had been something else?
Applying the Text:
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. What are some forms of witness that might be appropriate for your own congregations and your own gifts? What are the virtues that the witnesses in these chapters possess that we can emulate?