Questions To Consider:
Revelation 1:9–20
- When you naturally picture Jesus, what image comes to mind? How does John’s vision expand or challenge that picture?
- John calls himself a companion in “suffering and kingdom and patient endurance.” Why do these three realities belong together? Which one is most difficult for you to hold alongside the others?
- Jesus stands among the lampstands, which represent his churches. What comfort does his presence offer? In what ways might it also confront or unsettle us?
- Consider the different features in John’s vision—Jesus’ eyes, feet, voice, face, sword, and the stars in his hand. Which image speaks most powerfully to your present circumstances, and why?
- John falls at Jesus’ feet “as though dead,” but Jesus places his hand upon him. What does this moment reveal about the relationship between Christ’s majesty and his mercy? Have we become too casual about Jesus, or too frightened to draw near to him?
- Where are you relying upon competence, control, or independence to make yourself feel secure? How might Jesus be inviting you to receive help from him and from the people he has placed around you?
- Jesus says, “Do not be afraid,” because he is the First and the Last, the Living One, and the holder of the keys of death and Hades. What fear currently feels especially large to you? How could seeing Jesus more clearly change the authority that fear has over your choices?
