Another Look at Revelation — Lesson 8
July 22, 2009
“Another Look at Revelation”
Lesson 8: Chapter 7 - Consideration of the Multitudes
Adult Wednesday and Sunday Bible Study Series
West Broad Church of Christ
July 22 and 26, 2009
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
***********************************************************************************************************************************
Chapter Review and Current Objective:
We saw in Chapter 6 John’s message of comfort to first-century Christians. Despite their present circumstance, the God of heaven is the ultimate power, not Caesar. As we begin Chapter 7, we find John presenting two groups of people. What is the message of his vision? How did it speak to John’s original audience? How does it speak to us today as Christians in downtown Richmond?
I. Activity of the Angels (7:1-3)
What do we see as the chapter begins?
• A look at the angels
• A look at the servants of God
The angels are responsible for withholding destruction from the earth. Question: How do these verses speak to you as you consider the situation of our world today?
II. A Look at the Multitude of 144,000 (7:4-8)
Various views are presented regarding this text. What does the Scripture support?
• Discussion of the 144,000
III. A Look at the Multitude of Gentiles (7:9-17)
We have seen John’s 144,000. But what can be said of the second group he mentions?
• The image of victory. Question: How is this custom reflected in an event from the life of Jesus?
• Sounds of worship, both human and celestial
• Acceptance and access
John describes saints who have passed from earth’s difficulties to heaven’s rewards.
Conclusion:
John presents a vision of the church on earth and the church in heaven to reassure his readers that, despite persecution and trial, persons who are faithful to God will ultimately win in him. Though we do not face imperial persecution, his message of encouragement continues to resonate and help us weather the various storms of our lives.
