Group leaders-Welcome your group with a quick reach back to past messages- pop culture has co-opted the word "Apocalypse"-- but what is its actual meaning?
This week's message further "unveils" the heart of Revelation in chapters 4 and 5.
Read aloud Rev. 4:1 The reference to "come up" is sometimes associated with the concept of "the rapture."
- What has been your concept of the rapture?
- What, if anything, was new to you?
- What what can we agree on versus what is up for debate? (and keep in mind how we discuss is as important as what we're discussing.)
Divide up the reading of the rest of Revelation 4 and 5 and read aloud.
These 2 chapters paint a picture of worship that is going on around the throne of God. The first-century Christ-followers lived in the context of Rome and emperor worship. What do you see in our culture as worship? What are the little "g" gods in our lives? How do they vie for your worship?
The text continues with a picture of this worship of God and the central figure in the midst- the Lamb of God. Discuss the visual description and the significance of the horn, the eyes and why He is not just a slain- but "slaughtered" lamb. Then read the statement below:
- "The shock of this reversal discloses the central mystery of the Apocalypse: God overcomes the world not through a show of force but through the suffering and death of Jesus." Richard Hays.
How does that statement push against the world's view of "overcoming?" Of "victory or success?"
Leaders- This could lead to a time of quiet prayer and reflection. You know your group. If appropriate, discuss to whom do you bow? Some may have never taken that step of surrender. While not singling those out, offer to pray for them and even meet privately later. And for the rest who have made that decision of surrender- it's time to re-examine how we worship on a daily basis. For surely there is worship around God's throne 24/7. Worship calibrates our souls. It gives perspective and reminds us that God is still on His throne and He sees us.
If possible, consider ending with sharing in the last worship song from the service this week. Can be viewed on Youtube or Facebook as well as the website.
"The worship of God is the heartbeat of the cosmos."
Michael Gorman
Read
* Revelation 4
* Revelation 5
Reflect
"One of the biggest mistakes we make about God is thinking too small." How does this statement play out in your life?
What are some little "g" gods in our lives?
How might they be dethroned?
Do
Consider closing your small group by replaying the last worship song of this week's service to watch and worship together.
Go Deeper
Discuss as a group how you can make your worship of God more intentional this week. What would that look like?