A Study of Revelation

And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” And then he said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.”

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This study was created to complement a weekend series by the same name.

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Revelation 21:5

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

What's Inside

Introduction Key Themes + Key Terms

Article – Behind the Song - This Devotional – What is the Tribulation? Reflection + Prayer Prompt Bible Reading Plan Revelation 8-18 Article – Sharing Your Faith Devotional – When will Jesus return? Reflection + Prayer Prompt Bible Reading Plan Revelation 19-20

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26 27 28 29 30 41 42 43 44 45

Devotional – Are we living in the end times? Reflection + Prayer Prompt Bible Reading Plan Revelation 1

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Devotional – Do the letters to the 7 churches apply to us today? Article – What Jesus Might Say to Me Write a Letter Reflection Bible Reading Plan Revelation 2-3 Article – 10 Reasons Why the Hope of Heaven Is for Today Devotional – What will heaven be like? Reflection + Prayer Prompt Your Picture of Heaven Bible Reading Plan Revelation 4-7

Article – What does it mean to love my neighbor?

11 12 13 14 15

Devotional – What are the New Heavens and the New Earth? Reflection + Prayer Prompt Bible Reading Plan Revelation 21-22

49 50 51

Notes Page Behind the Art Closing Letter Keep Learning

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19 20 21 22 23

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Revelation is written in a style that would have been familiar to Jewish readers at the time called “apocalyptic.” Written in a style similar to Ezekiel and Daniel from the Old Testament, it’s a series of symbolic visions that reveal God’s perspective on historical events in light of the final outcome. Let us pause there and say: Revelation is complex. The use of symbols and imagery to convey meaning is not easily accessible, especially to us as 21st-century readers. Plus, there are many godly, intelligent biblical scholars who interpret Revelation in entirely different ways. Whose interpretation is right? Whose interpretation is wrong? On top of all that, it seems every year there is someone telling us the end is here (or coming soon) based on how they interpret historical or present events through the lens of Revelation. As we said: It’s a lot. In this guide, we’re going to do our best to offer a way through Revelation, some commentary and reflection from members of our church community, and suggested resources to go deeper. What won’t you find? A step- by-step, day-by-day, exact timeline and guide to the end of the world. Yes, we know that may be disappointing. But we just don’t see Revelation that way. That doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to glean about the end. In fact, there’s a lot more than you might think that greatly affects how you live today. As we dive in, in the words of Bible professor Mike Holmes, the message that matters most for Revelation: “In the end, God wins.” Let's do this! -Eagle Brook Church

Are we there yet? It’s a question we've all heard—sometimes a blessing, sometimes a burden. Even with technology to pass the time and frequent updates, kids especially always want to know how much longer the journey will take and whether the end is in sight. And if we’re honest, there are times we all wonder the same thing: How long will [insert your thing here] take? Even as we grow up, we never lose this desire to know. There’s something in us that desires to know when we will arrive—when things will be complete—whether this is the end. That’s why the question, "Are we living in the end times?" is one of the most frequently asked questions by Christians. Followed up quickly by, "How will we know that we’re there? What will be the signs that this is the end?" By the way, it’s not just Christians who ask this question. Another devastating earthquake, another war, another senseless and tragic taking of someone’s life—people start to wonder. Are we on a trajectory that’s bound to end in complete devastation and destruction? It all feels like it’s gonna end sometime (soon), right? Revelation is the book of the Bible often at the center of this hotly contested question. Revelation is written by John, one of the earliest disciples of Jesus. Tradition states: Later in his life, well after Jesus had died and resurrected, he settled in Ephesus, where he was later banished to the island of Patmos by the Emperor, Domitian. There, around 90 AD (which makes Revelation one of the latest books written in the New Testament), he receives a series of prophetic visions about “things which must soon take place.” (Revelation 1:1)

Key Themes Revelation, or "apocalypse," comes from the Greek word "apokalypto," which means "to reveal." And it reveals a lot! The book is considered apocalyptic literature, which would have been familiar to a Jewish audience because of a few Hebrew Old Testament Scriptures (ex: certain chapters of Daniel and Ezekiel) and other extra-biblical Jewish texts (ex: Enoch). How can what was revealed back then apply to us today? Well, it's true that every human "kingdom" eventually corrodes. We can do our part by loving people, trusting that God is in control, and doing our best to follow him in the meantime. Jesus will return to make everything pure and whole again!

Key Terms Eschatology is the study of the end times. Its origin is the Greek word eschatos, which means "last." A prophecy is a message or revelation from God delivered through messengers called prophets. These prophecies often revealed future events, spiritual truths, or divine guidance. In the Bible, prophecy isn’t just about predicting the future—it’s also about calling wandering people back to God, revealing his will, and offering hope or warning. The Rapture refers to a future moment when believers will be taken to heaven to be with the Lord. The New Heavens and New Earth refer to the final, eternal state of creation after God restores and renews everything. It's the ultimate hope. In eschatology, the Tribulation is a specific and intense seven-year period of suffering in the last days, often known as the Great Tribulation. The Millennium is the 1,000-year period (literal or symbolic, depending on your view) when Christ will reign and rule on the earth.

Hey, glad you're here! Each week, as we work through the book of Revelation, you can look forward to weekly devotional content, reflection questions, prayer prompts, topical articles, and a five-day Bible reading plan. As for days six and seven—we all need a few extra days to catch up or rest! We hope this journey through Revelation helps you experience the hope of Jesus in a new way.

Apocalypse in Greek: a

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 1

1. When you think about “the end,” what sorts of feelings come up in you? Why do you think that is?

Are we living in the

So much has been said over the years about how to interpret the signs of the end times. And we get it: The thought of living in the end times might feel scary. Revelation, when not properly understood, can elicit fear. As we read through Revelation, we’re going to read about cosmic wars and battles and plagues and destruction. We’re going to encounter blood and martyrdom and visions of nightmarish endings for a multitude of people. Yikes, right? A few things to consider: • First, not all fear is bad. We often consider fear to be a negative emotion. It’s fear that stops us from stepping off a cliff or eating a rotten egg...or from taking the next step in our career. When it comes to fearing God, that doesn’t mean we’re supposed to cower in the corner and hide from him. Instead, fearing God means we fear disobeying him more than anyone or anything else. We respect him, giving him full authority. • Second, when we know the end, we have nothing to be afraid of. In the end, God’s people—those who put their faith in Jesus—win. Those who don’t put their faith in Jesus, who choose the way opposite of God, who continue to love evil more than good—they are choosing to be on the losing team.

Revelation is the culmination of all of God’s story. It hasn't happened yet, but it eventually will. Because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross, Revelation's author, John, is laying out a vision of what the future holds. What is that future? John’s not holding any punches. It’s a future filled with trial, temptation, struggle, and persecution. People will continue to be martyred for their faith. And if death was the finality of it all, then yes, that would be a terrible end. But death does not get the final say. If we hold on, or “conquer,” as John likes to say, we will experience an incredible future laid out in Revelation 21 and 22. A future with new bodies to populate the New Heavens and New Earth with Jesus. A future that will return to God’s perfection and original design for humanity. A world without sin, as the world should have been when God designed it in Eden. So, the question is: Are we near the end? Are we living in the end times? That’s for you to theorize. For now, with the breath we have in our lungs, our job is to live faithfully despite the trials, pain, and suffering. Whatever happens to us, John wants us to focus on “conquering” by not being overcome by the ways of the world. Instead, our job is to obey God and live faithfully for Jesus.

2. What does “fearing God” look like for you? Does that phrase feel odd or average? How does your relationship with fear play into the way you experience your relationship with God?

3. If the end times worry you, how could you reframe your perspective and bring it into a positive light, full of hope? If your posture is already hopeful about the end times, how does that anchor you today?

Spend some time in prayer, telling God about how you feel about the end times. If you're worried, ask him to bring peace. Be honest with your doubts, and allow him to deepen your trust in him. Thank him for the plans he has for the future and for inviting you to be a part of them.

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 1

1 Prologue This is a revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants the events that must soon take place. He sent an angel to present this revelation to his servant John, 2 who faithfully reported everything he saw. This is his report of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3 God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. John’s Greeting to the Seven Churches 4 This letter is from John to the seven churches in the province of Asia. Grace and peace to you from the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come; from the sevenfold Spirit before his throne; 5 and from Jesus Christ. He is the faithful witness to these things, the first to rise from the dead, and the ruler of all the kings of the world. All glory to him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by shedding his blood for us. 6 He has made us a Kingdom of priests for God his Father. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen. 7 Look! He comes with the clouds of heaven.

NOTES

Revelation can be complex, so to make things easier, we’ve included the Scripture right here in this book! If you’d like to dive deeper, an NLT Study Bible , including commentary, is a great supplementary resource. Bible Reading Plan

Week 1

And everyone will see him— even those who pierced him. And all the nations of the world will mourn for him. Yes! Amen!

Day 1: Read Revelation 1:1-3

8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.” Vision of the Son of Man 9 I, John, am your brother and your partner in suffering and in God’s Kingdom and in the patient endurance to which Jesus calls us. I was exiled to the island of Patmos for preaching the word of God and for my testimony about Jesus. 10 It was the Lord’s Day, and I was worshiping in the Spirit. Suddenly, I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet blast. 11 It said, “Write in a book everything you see, and send it to the seven churches in the cities of Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.” 12 When I turned to see who was speaking to me, I saw seven gold lampstands. 13 And standing in the middle of the lampstands was someone like the Son of Man. He was wearing a long robe with a gold sash across his chest. 14 His head and his hair were white like wool, as white as snow. And his eyes were like flames of fire. 15 His feet were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, and his voice thundered like mighty ocean waves. 16 He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came from his mouth. And his face was like the sun in all its brilliance. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as if I were dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, “Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave. 19 “Write down what you have seen—both the things that are now happening and the things that will happen. 20 This is the meaning of the mystery of the seven stars you saw in my right hand and the seven gold lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches."

Day 2: Read Revelation 1:4-8

Day 3: Read Revelation 1:9-16

Day 4: Read Revelation 1:17-20

Day 5: Re-read Revelation 1

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 1

Week 2

t h e

s t o

To my faithful servant, These are the words of the One who holds the stars in his hand and walks alongside you each day: I see you. I see the way you show up— at work, at home, on the sidelines of the soccer field, and in all the spaces where you're needed. I see how you pour out love for your family, invest in your work, and find ways to serve others. You’re doing good work. You haven’t given up, even when you’re exhausted or wondering if it even matters. And it does. Every bit of it. Yet I hold this against you: Sometimes, in the midst of doing all the things, you lose sight of being with me. The busyness, the noise, the endless to-do lists—they make it hard to hear my voice. You strive to keep everything running smoothly, but you forget that I’m the one who holds it all together. Come back to me. Not with a perfectly quiet morning or a long checklist of spiritual tasks. Just come as you are. Let’s reconnect like we used to. Remember this: I didn’t ask you to carry it all alone. The work you do as a mom, a wife, a professional, and a friend—it matters. But it’s not meant to drain you. Stay close to me, and I’ll renew your strength.

Before you pour into everyone else, let me pour into you. To those who overcome: The one who stays rooted in me, even when life feels chaotic, will find peace that can’t be shaken. The moments you think go unnoticed—the whispered prayers over your kids, the grace you extend when you’re running on fumes, the ways you live out your faith in quiet, everyday ways—I see it all. Keep going, but don’t go it alone. I’m with you always. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit is saying. Life comes at us fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of kids' practices, meetings at work, and endless to-dos. But it’s in the ordinary moments that Jesus invites us to pause and remember: We don’t have to carry it all alone. He offers us something different: A relationship grounded in rest, trust, and connection with him. He’s not asking us to do more—he’s inviting us to be with him. To sit, even if just for a moment, and breathe in the peace of his presence. As you consider this letter, ask yourself: What might shift if you started from a place of abiding instead of striving? And what small step could you take today to simply be with him?

In the book of Revelation, Jesus addressed seven churches, each with its own strengths and struggles. These letters were meant to challenge, encourage, and guide believers to stay faithful in a world pulling them in different directions. They served as a spiritual compass, calling people back to their first love, to truth, and to endurance. His words brought encouragement, correction, and hope to communities navigating persecution, false teachings, and spiritual complacency. These letters weren’t just for ancient churches— they still resonate today, offering reminders to stay rooted in what really matters. So, if Jesus were to write a letter to you, what might he say? Keeping with the format of Revelation 2, here's what I think he might say to me.

At this point during John's vision, Jesus specifically addresses seven churches in Asia Minor. In each letter, he wrote to discuss one or two specific things that each were struggling with or going through.

Ephesus had forsaken their first love for God. Smyrna was afraid of suffering.

Pergamum needed to repent from sexual immorality. Thyatira also needed to repent from sexual immorality. Sardis had become complacent in their faith. Philadelphia needed encouragement to hold firm even though they were losing strength. Laodicea had lukewarm faith. While the issues are specific to each church (or, more specifically, the people who made up each church) at that time, what these letters represent is something we can relate to today. How many of us have become complacent like the church of Sardis, or are afraid of suffering, like those in Smyrna? These topics give us a glimpse into what God is calling his followers to avoid even now. They all follow a similar format: 1. Address: Who's this letter to? 2. A description of Christ: What attribute of Christ is most relevant to this audience? 3. What's something the church does well?

4. What's something the church doesn't do well? 5. Call to repentance: Here's how to do better. 6. A promise from God, once they overcome their struggle.

But these letters aren't just about what the churches can do better. We ALL have things we're doing well. We ALL have things we could do better. And God is calling us ALL to turn to him. Churches, communities, and individuals alike. Have you ever thought about what Jesus might say to you if he were to write you a letter? Let's go there. Check out this example:

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 2

Now, it's your turn! Sometime this week, take some time to pause, pray, and ask God about what he would say today to you. Then, in your own words but from God’s perspective, write a letter to yourself.

• How can you pray for your church?

As a reminder, here’s the format: 1. Address: Who's this letter to? 2. A description of Christ: What attribute of Christ is most relevant to this audience? 3. What's something the church does well?

4. What's something the church doesn't do well? 5. Call to repentance: Here's how to do better. 6. A promise from God, once they overcome their struggle.

• How can you pray for the pastors and leaders at your church?

• What steps are you going to take to pursue the change God wants to see in you?

• Find some verses in the Bible to help remind you of who Jesus is in your life.

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 2

2 The Message to the Church in Ephesus “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Ephesus. This is the message from the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand, the one who walks among the seven gold lampstands: 2 “I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars. 3 You have patiently suffered for me without quitting. 4 “But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! 5 Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first. If you don’t repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches. 6 But this is in your favor: You hate the evil deeds of the Nicolaitans, just as I do. 7 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the tree of life in the paradise of God. The Message to the Church in Smyrna 8 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Smyrna. This is the message from the one who is the First and the Last, who was dead but is now alive: 9 “I know about your suffering and your poverty—but you are rich! I know the blasphemy of those opposing you. They say they are Jews, but they are not, because their synagogue belongs to Satan. 10 Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life. 11 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. Whoever is victorious will not be harmed by the second death. The Message to the Church in Pergamum 12 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Pergamum. This is the message from the one with the sharp two-edged sword: 13 “I know that you live in the city where Satan has his throne, yet you have remained loyal to me. You refused to deny me even when Antipas, my faithful witness, was martyred among you there in Satan’s city. 14 “But I have a few complaints against you. You tolerate some among you whose teaching is like that of Balaam, who showed Balak how to trip up the people of Israel. He taught them to sin by eating food offered to idols and by committing sexual sin. 15 In a similar way, you have some Nicolaitans among you who follow the same teaching. 16 Repent of your sin, or I will come to you suddenly and fight against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give some of the manna that has been hidden away in heaven. And I will give to each one a white stone, and on the stone will be engraved a new name that no one understands except the one who receives it.

NOTES

Bible Reading Plan

Week 2

Day 1: Read Revelation 2:1-11

Day 2: Read Revelation 2:12-29

Day 3: Read Revelation 3:1-13

Day 4: Read Revelation 3:14-22

Day 5: Re-read Revelation 2 & 3

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 2

The Message to the Church in Thyatira 18 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Thyatira. This is the message from the Son of God, whose eyes are like flames of fire, whose feet are like polished bronze: 19 “I know all the things you do. I have seen your love, your faith, your service, and your patient endurance. And I can see your constant improvement in all these things. 20 “But I have this complaint against you. You are permitting that woman—that Jezebel who calls herself a prophet—to lead my servants astray. She teaches them to commit sexual sin and to eat food offered to idols. 21 I gave her time to repent, but she does not want to turn away from her immorality. 22 “Therefore, I will throw her on a bed of suffering, and those who commit adultery with her will suffer greatly unless they repent and turn away from her evil deeds. 23 I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am the one who searches out the thoughts and intentions of every person. And I will give to each of you whatever you deserve. 24 “But I also have a message for the rest of you in Thyatira who have not followed this false teaching (‘deeper truths,’ as they call them—depths of Satan, actually). I will ask nothing more of you 25 except that you hold tightly to what you have until I come. 26 To all who are victorious, who obey me to the very end, To them I will give authority over all the nations. 27 They will rule the nations with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots. 28 They will have the same authority I received from my Father, and I will also give them the morning star! 29 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. 3 The Message to the Church in Sardis “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Sardis. This is the message from the one who has the sevenfold Spirit of God and the seven stars: “I know all the things you do, and that you have a reputation for being alive—but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what little remains, for even what is left is almost dead. I find that your actions do not meet the requirements of my God. 3 Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don’t wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief. 4 “Yet there are some in the church in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes with evil. They will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. 5 All who are victorious will be clothed in white. I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine. 6 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.

The Message to the Church in Philadelphia 7 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Philadelphia. This is the message from the one who is holy and true,

NOTES

the one who has the key of David. What he opens, no one can close; and what he closes, no one can open:

8 “I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close. You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me. 9 Look, I will force those who belong to Satan’s synagogue—those liars who say they are Jews but are not—to come and bow down at your feet. They will acknowledge that you are the ones I love. 10 “Because you have obeyed my command to persevere, I will protect you from the great time of testing that will come upon the whole world to test those who belong to this world. 11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take away your crown. 12 All who are victorious will become pillars in the Temple of my God, and they will never have to leave it. And I will write on them the name of my God, and they will be citizens in the city of my God—the new Jerusalem that comes down from heaven from my God. And I will also write on them my new name. 13 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches. The Message to the Church in Laodicea 14 “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Laodicea. This is the message from the one who is the Amen—the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s new creation: 15 “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! 17 You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. 18 So I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see. 19 I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference. 20 “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. 21 Those who are victorious will sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on his throne. 22 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.”

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 2

WHAT WILL heaven BE LIKE?

10 Reasons Why the Hope of Heaven Is for Today The hope of heaven often feels distant and sort of unreal, like a far-off dream exclusively for future you. But that hope is grounded in the reality of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. This hope is not just a future expectation; it's a present reality. The hope of heaven is a hope we can live in today, and here are 10 reasons why:

Fresh Perspective | Ecclesiastes 3 Heaven gives us a new perspective, helping us see that both our greatest joys and biggest struggles have purpose. This perspective invites us to trust that every season we go through is part of God’s larger plan. When we view life through the lens of eternity, we can take comfort in knowing that everything, whether joyful or sorrowful, has its place in God's plan. Comfort in Grief | Psalm 34:18 The hope of heaven allows us to find comfort in inevitable grief, reminding us that we will one day be reunited with our loved ones. It also assures us that, even in our moments of sorrow, we have a God who draws near to us—and a community of believers, too. Because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross, we are never truly alone. His Spirit abides in our hearts, connecting us and providing strength, healing, and comfort. Impactful Generosity | Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus tells us to store up treasures in heaven because they are eternal. Earthly treasures—whether wealth, status, or possessions—are temporary. They can be lost, get old, deteriorate, or get destroyed. But heavenly treasures, like the way you treat others and grow your relationship with Jesus, have a lasting impact. When we focus on things that align with God's kingdom, we store up treasures that bring eternal rewards and shift our hearts toward what truly matters—and that can impact our contentedness today, too. Accessible Joy | Romans 15:13 The joy of heaven isn’t dependent on life going exactly how we want it to—it’s rooted in something far more lasting: the promise of eternity spent in the presence of God. This is a promise we can always cling to, no matter what comes our way!

Strong Faith | Colossians 2:6-8 Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance of what we don't see. The Bible gives us glimpses of heaven, like streets of gold and no more pain. But heaven is far greater than anything we can imagine. God’s promises have never failed, and the promise of heaven is no exception. Realigned Priorities | Matthew 6:33 Our priorities change when we recognize that our time on earth is short, and we want to live in a way that reflects the eternal hope that Jesus offers. The hope of heaven influences where we invest our resources, how we cherish time with loved ones, what we let go of instead of worry about, and how we nurture our relationship with Jesus. Increased Gratitude | Hebrews 12:28 The hope of heaven fosters gratitude. Despite our sinful nature, God desires to spend eternity with us. We are no longer separated by sin and have the promise of eternity in a place free from pain, sorrow, suffering, loss, and heartbreak—where only his perfect love remains. Motivation to Persevere | James 1:2-4 Because of Jesus' resurrection, we can look forward to an eternity with him, where there will be no more pain or tears. We can live each day with the assurance that the suffering we endure now is temporary. He even says to consider it pure joy when we face trials. This doesn’t make them easier, but we can find joy knowing God is shaping and refining us for something far greater.

Week 3

What will heaven be like?

In heaven, our focus and attention will be on the most (and only) important person and thing: Jesus. On this side of heaven, how often do we focus our eyes and attention on other less worthy thrones? Things like sports, social media, and even relationships. Throughout Revelation, John doesn’t want us to skip over life now and just wait to get to heaven. No, he wants the future vision, a vision of God’s kingdom, to inspire our present life today. In fact, because of the Holy Spirit living in believers, it is possible to bring heaven to earth. That’s also one of John’s primary messages. Why? Because that’s what Jesus wanted for his followers, too. What does it mean to bring heaven to earth? Practically, it means reflecting on what or who has your primary attention. If it's not God, it's time to re-focus. Every time you live the way Jesus wants you to live, you are bringing a piece of heaven to earth. We don’t have to wait to worship God; we can do that now. We don’t have to wait to create beauty and celebration; we can do that now. We don’t have to wait to find unity and purpose; we can find those things today. Every time you do, you're making the world a little bit more like God’s kingdom. You're bringing heaven to earth.

It’s worth pondering, right?

In the arc of history, in comparison to eternity, our time on earth is very, very short. If we’ve put our faith in Jesus, the rest of our time will be spent in a place set apart for us with God. Is it a place in the clouds with angels playing the harp? Will there be a golden gate? Is this our final resting place? Or is there something even beyond heaven that we have to look forward to? We'll save that last question for later, but for now, John gives us a picture of what heaven will be like. According to Revelation 4 and 5, it will be a place of majestic beauty, glorious presence, unceasing worship, joy, and celebration, with all eyes focused on the throne and the person sitting on the throne. Notice what John wants readers to focus on: Everyone and everything in heaven is focused on the one sitting on the throne: Jesus. He’s the only one who is worthy enough to open the sealed scroll—the scroll that will bring God’s full redemption and judgment to the world.

The hope of heaven brings us... Daily Peace | John 16:33 We can live in peace every day because we no longer have to fear death or what comes after. We're not stepping into the unknown but into a place promised to be far greater than anything this earth or our imagination can offer. We can have peace knowing we don’t have to earn salvation—it's freely given to us. Purposeful Life | Matthew 28:19 Before Jesus ascended, he commanded his followers to go and make disciples of all nations. He gave us the free gift of salvation—eternal life with him. To this day, he calls us to share this hope with others. While we all share the same purpose, the way we fulfill it will look different for each of us. Our unique gifts and circumstances shape how we spread the message of hope! How can you step into that purpose today?

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 3

1. When you think of heaven, what do you picture? *Bonus: If art is your thing, take some time to draw, paint, or make a collage of what you're visualizing. It'll be beautiful.

2. What are some ways you can practically bring heaven to earth here and now?

3. What are you most looking forward to about heaven?

Be honest with God about how you're feeling about heaven. Are you looking forward to it? Does it sound intimidating or boring? Allow him to increase your hope and excitement for being with him there while still living with purpose and reflecting his kingdom here and now.

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 3

4 Worship in Heaven Then as I looked, I saw a door standing open in heaven, and the same voice I had heard before spoke to me like a trumpet blast. The voice said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must happen after this.” 2 And instantly I was in the Spirit, and I saw a throne in heaven and someone sitting on it. 3 The one sitting on the throne was as brilliant as gemstones—like jasper and carnelian. And the glow of an emerald circled his throne like a rainbow. 4 Twenty-four thrones surrounded him, and twenty- four elders sat on them. They were all clothed in white and had gold crowns on their heads. 5 From the throne came flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder. And in front of the throne were seven torches with burning flames. This is the sevenfold Spirit of God. 6 In front of the throne was a shiny sea of glass, sparkling like crystal. In the center and around the throne were four living beings, each covered with eyes, front and back. 7 The first of these living beings was like a lion; the second was like an ox; the third had a human face; and the fourth was like an eagle in flight. 8 Each of these living beings had six wings, and their wings were covered all over with eyes, inside and out. Day after day and night after night they keep on saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty— the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come.” 9 Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever), 10 the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever). And they lay their crowns before the throne and say, 11 “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.” 5 The Lamb Opens the Scroll Then I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who was sitting on the throne. There was writing on the inside and the outside of the scroll, and it was sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a strong angel, who shouted with a loud voice: “Who is worthy to break the seals on this scroll and open it?” 3 But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll and read it. 4 Then I began to weep bitterly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll and read it. 5 But one of the twenty-four elders said to me, “Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the heir to David’s throne, has won the victory. He is worthy to open the scroll and its seven seals.” 6 Then I saw a Lamb that looked as if it had been slaughtered, but it was now standing between the throne and the four living beings and among the twenty-four elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which represent the sevenfold Spirit of God that is sent out into every part of the earth. 7 He stepped forward and took the scroll from the right hand of the one sitting on the throne. 8 And when he took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they held gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. 9 And they sang a new song with these words:

NOTES

Bible Reading Plan

Week 3

Day 1: Read Revelation 4:1-11

Day 2: Read Revelation 5:1-14

Day 3: Read Revelation 6:1-8

Day 4: Read Revelation 6:9-17

Day 5: Read Revelation 7:1-17

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 3

“You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10 And you have caused them to become

And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters—their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them. 12 I watched as the Lamb broke the sixth seal, and there was a great earthquake. The sun became as dark as black cloth, and the moon became as red as blood. 13 Then the stars of the sky fell to the earth like green figs falling from a tree shaken by a strong wind. 14 The sky was rolled up like a scroll, and all of the mountains and islands were moved from their places. 15 Then everyone—the kings of the earth, the rulers, the generals, the wealthy, the powerful, and every slave and free person—all hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains. 16 And they cried to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of the one who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb. 17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to survive?” 7 God’s People Will Be Preserved Then I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds so they did not blow on the earth or the sea, or even on any tree. 2 And I saw another angel coming up from the east, carrying the seal of the living God. And he shouted to those four angels, who had been given power to harm land and sea, 3 “Wait! Don’t harm the land or the sea or the trees until we have placed the seal of God on the foreheads of his servants.” 4 And I heard how many were marked with the seal of God—144,000 were sealed from all the tribes of Israel: 5 from Judah 12,000 from Reuben 12,000 from Gad 12,000 6 from Asher 12,000

from Naphtali 12,000 from Manasseh 12,000 7 from Simeon 12,000 from Levi 12,000 from Issachar 12,000 8 from Zebulun 12,000 from Joseph 12,000 from Benjamin 12,000 Praise from the Great Crowd

will give them shelter. 16 They will never again be hungry or thirsty; they will never be scorched by the heat of the sun. 17 For the Lamb on the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to springs of life- giving water. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes.”

NOTES

a Kingdom of priests for our God. And they will reign on the earth.”

11 Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. 12 And they sang in a mighty chorus: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.” 13 And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: “Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever.” 14 And the four living beings said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped the Lamb. 6 The Lamb Breaks the First Six Seals As I watched, the Lamb broke the first of the seven seals on the scroll. Then I heard one of the four living beings say with a voice like thunder, “Come!” 2 I looked up and saw a white horse standing there. Its rider carried a bow, and a crown was placed on his head. He rode out to win many battles and gain the victory. 3 When the Lamb broke the second seal, I heard the second living being say, “Come!” 4 Then another horse appeared, a red one. Its rider was given a mighty sword and the authority to take peace from the earth. And there was war and slaughter everywhere. 5 When the Lamb broke the third seal, I heard the third living being say, “Come!” I looked up and saw a black horse, and its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand. 6 And I heard a voice from among the four living beings say, “A loaf of wheat bread or three loaves of barley will cost a day’s pay. And don’t waste the olive oil and wine.” 7 When the Lamb broke the fourth seal, I heard the fourth living being say, “Come!” 8 I looked up and saw a horse whose color was pale green. Its rider was named Death, and his companion was the Grave. These two were given authority over one- fourth of the earth, to kill with the sword and famine and disease and wild animals. 9 When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. 10 They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them.

9 After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10 And they were shouting with a great roar, “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!” 11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living beings. And they fell before the throne with their faces to the ground and worshiped God. 12 They sang, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and strength belong to our God forever and ever! Amen.” 13 Then one of the twenty-four elders asked me, “Who are these who are clothed in white? Where did they come from?” 14 And I said to him, “Sir, you are the one who knows.” Then he said to me, “These are the ones who died in the great tribulation. They have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white. 15 “That is why they stand in front of God’s throne and serve him day and night in his Temple. And he who sits on the throne

NOTES

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 3

by Eagle Brook Music This

Tribulation. It’s a big word. In essence, "Tribulation," as referred to in Revelation, is the specific and intense seven-year period of suffering in the last days. Often known as the Great Tribulation. This is one of those hotly debated topics some Christians like to argue over: When will it happen, and what will it be like? Truth is, no one can know, so you get to have your own opinion. While there are plenty of interpretations, here are a few of the most common: Pre-Tribulation: This is the belief that Christians will be raptured (taken to heaven) before the Tribulation begins. In other words, Christians will be spared from this seven- year period of God’s wrath and judgment on earth. The others? Left behind. (This view was made popular by the books and movie Left Behind. ) Post-Tribulation: This is the belief that Christians will endure the entire Tribulation and be raptured at its conclusion, which will be the time of Jesus’ return. Preterist View: This is the belief that the events in Revelation have already happened and were a warning to the early church. Historicist View: This is the belief that the Tribulation represents a symbolic period of church history rather than a literal seven-year period. It may be decades or even centuries of persecution and Tribulation. This week’s Bible Reading Plan covers a large section of Revelation. In the readings, you’re going to encounter seven seals, seven bowls, and seven trumpets. Each one of these symbolizes God’s divine judgments on earth. Again, you’ve heard us say this: It’s a lot. But a few things to consider: • Every symbol is connected to an Old Testament Scripture and prophecy, many of which would have been familiar to first-century Jewish readers. • There are many different ways to interpret what exactly these judgments mean. Go ahead and form your opinion. But remember: In the end, God wins. And for those who don’t want God to win...well, they lose. • Being a follower of Jesus and having faith in God does not spare one from suffering and persecution. In fact, we have put our faith in the One who willingly suffered horrifically to pay for our sin. Christians will suffer. Non-Christians will suffer. All humans will suffer. • However, God is fair and just. There are specific and harsher judgments for those who have not turned to God. And there are specific and merciful protections for those who have turned to God. The point is: Before the end, Satan has been and will be given even more reign on earth to cause pain, evil, and suffering. During that time, God is offering people a chance to choose the winning side again. He wants people to turn back to him—whatever it takes! If you want to understand this more, we highly recommend watching The Bible Project's videos on Revelation, found on both YouTube and BibleProject.com.

Week 4

WHAT IS THE TRIB ULAT ION?

This This is what I know I'd rather live with hope Than live this life all alone It's hard to miss You're in the midst Your presence is the comfort In the middle of the mess

This song started during a Music team meeting. Someone shared a devotion about doubt and anxiety— the kind that creep in even when you have strong faith. Even when you work at a church. Even when you’re leading worship every week. Because the truth is, pastors and worship leaders wrestle with

questions too. But there’s something we can always come back to, and that’s what inspired this song. No matter what you're going through, you can always hold onto what you know—God is with you, even in the mess. Life will throw a lot at us, and we weren’t meant to carry it all on

our own. So when you don’t have the words, we hope this song gives you a way to declare Jesus over every doubt and every circumstance. Stream "This" and other songs by Eagle Brook Music wherever you listen to music.

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 4

1. Which view of the Tribulation is most intriguing to you? Why?

2. Is the Tribulation something to be afraid of? Why or why not? If yes, how can you move away from that fear toward hope?

Bible Reading Plan

Week 4

Day 1: Read Revelation 8 & 9

3. No one truly knows when the end will come. How does your heart stay anchored to Jesus when the world feels uncertain?

Day 2: Read Revelation 10 & 11

Day 3: Read Revelation 12, 13, & 14

Day 4: Read Revelation 15 & 16

Day 5: Read Revelation 17 & 18

Spend some time with God today—be real with him on how these topics are making you feel, and ask him for clarity as you're learning new things. He's not afraid of your questions!

Sign of the Times: A Study of Revelation

Week 4

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