Overview: This section is about the beginning of three sets of judgements. The first set of judgements is known as the seal judgements because each one is unleashed when the Lamb opens a seal on the book you read about in chapter 5. The second set of judgements is known at the trumpet judgements and the third set is known at the bowl judgements.
It is never enjoyable to read about judgement. These judgements seem to be particularly horrible. Yet remember that God has great love for us and that is why Jesus came for us.
Again, keep in mind that there is a lot of symbolism in Revelation, as well as descriptions of future events that John could not completely understand.
Day 1 – Revelation 6
1. The image of the “four horses of the apocalypse” has been used in a variety of ways. It would appear, however, that they are merely devices for John to indicate that things are going to get worse before they get better. What are some other historical examples of this?
Day 2 – Revelation 7
1. The image of the “church triumphant” presented in verse 9 is worth noting. What kind of people are part of this community?
2. What does this say about who is included in the community of God’s people?
3. How does this sit with common interpretations of Revelation?
Day 3 – Revelation 8
1. Revelation 8:6–13 is a scathing commentary on the state of the world. It is a reminder that environmental devastation is not a new phenomenon, but has been going on for a long, long time. Some would see this as a reassurance: people have always been destroying the environment, and it continues on, so issues like climate change and pollution don’t matter. Others would say, “We have been doing this for a long time, and we need to stop or the end – as predicted in Revelation – will indeed come.” What do you think? Why? How does the environment indicate to us that it is fed up or angry with our behaviour?
Day 4 – Revelation 9
1. What do you make of the irrational fears that nations have of others – or that individuals such as Charles Manson seem to have of others?
2. What examples are you aware of where such fear has led to dangerous or disastrous actions?
3. What can be done to counter such fear?
Day 5 – Revelation 10
1. Frequently the message in Revelation broadens to include a diverse range of people. Why do you think that is?
2. Do you think the diverse range of people is meant to include only the people who are named (after all, why name some people if you also include others) or is it meant to symbolize a wider diversity?