Leaders, welcome your group to the last session of Revelation. You may want to check in with them and if helpful, spend a couple of minutes reviewing the context/background of the book. (Refer to the concise introduction that is at the beginning of almost every book of the Bible, including Revelation. FYI- the YouVersion Bible app has a great, concise Intro.)
- Open in prayer and then read chapter 21:1-5 aloud. Remind the group that John uses apocalyptic, highly symbolic language so we can apply our "sanctified imagination" as we listen. Have members list anything that stands out or speaks to them and why.
- The theme is "making all things new." Based on this portion of Scripture, coupled with your "sanctified imagination", what is your vision of the future?
- Finish reading the rest of the chapter together. What other things does John tell us about how God will make all things new?
- When God makes everything right, whole, and new- what tears do you look forward to God wiping away?
- Read the quote by Christopher Wright. How does this affect how you view eternity?
- In light of this last part of Revelation, read and reflect on 1 Corinthians 2:9 aloud: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
Consider ending the group by listening to the final song from the service. (Link to song: "I Can Only Imagine" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_lrrq_opng )
Close in prayer
"The new creation will start with the unimaginable reservoir of all that human civilization has accomplished in the old creation-but purged, cleansed, disinfected, sanctified, and blessed. And we will have an eternity to enjoy it, to build on it in ways we cannot dream of now as we will exercise the powers of creativity of our redeemed humanity."
Christopher Wright
Read
Revelation 21-22
Reflect
How does this picture of New Heaven and New Earth, where everything is made new,, affect how you live now?
Do
Plan now. Consider discussing if your group would like to participate in an Outreach project or an Advent Conspiracy project together in December.
Go Deeper
Continue investigating Revelation by using the resources provided: http://thecrossing.church/revelation