Week of October 27, 2024
John’s account of Jesus’ Revelation in chapter 5 stays in the heavenly throne room where he is presented a scroll that only one Person can open: the victorious Jesus. One author describes its contents: “The entire destiny of the church, of the human race, and all history is thus revealed as the scroll is opened—not as a blueprint or a time schedule of human history, but rather as a visionary, prophetic picture of the times from the ascension of Christ to (his return). And it is all under the lordship of Jesus Christ, for the glory of God and for the benefit of his people.” In Jesus, you have a future … and it is glorious!
Monday | Revelation 5:1-5
It is likely that the scroll (or book) described in this chapter contains a panoramic description of the fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation. Why did John weep when, at first, no one was found to open the scroll? What would be the future of humanity without the saving work of Christ? What would make Jesus worthy (or give him the authority) to open the scroll and thus fulfill God’s plan? What does the opening of God’s future for believers in Jesus mean for you in your life’s journey?
Tuesday | Revelation 5:6-14
Jesus is called the Lion of Judah in verse 5. What makes him like a lion? Then he is called the Lamb in verse 6. How does he fulfill his mission of being the Lamb of God? What do you think is up with the seven horns and seven eyes? What might these symbolize regarding Jesus’ divine attributes? What does the song of the heavenly creatures and the 24 elders tell us about what Jesus has accomplished? What does this move all of heaven to do? Find a favorite spot and a favorite way to worship Jesus.
Wednesday | Ezekiel 2:9 - 3:3
We’re back to the prophet Ezekiel again this week to see another Old Testament parallel with the language and images of Revelation. The prophet was given a scroll. What message did it contain? From what you know of the message of Revelation, how does it go beyond what God revealed to Ezekiel? What do you think it means that Ezekiel was asked to eat the scroll? How does God’s Word feed us? Despite the content of the scroll emphasizing God’s judgment, what did the scroll taste like for Ezekiel? In what ways are both God’s Law (his commands and judgments) and Gospel (forgiveness and liberation) sweet to the readers? What have you experienced through regular reading of Revelation?
Thursday | Exodus 19:5-6, 1 Peter 2:9 (Revelation 5:10)
Both the Old and New Testaments testify that God’s plan is for his people to be priests … the King’s priests. What does this suggest regarding our identity, status, and mission? Old Testament priests served as God’s connecting links with his people. How can we serve as connecting links with a world that needs the love of Christ? What is the most important service that you bring to God and others in this season of your life?
Friday | Psalm 145
Worship is “worth-ship.” We worship God because he is overwhelmingly worthy of our adoration and praise. In this psalm, make a listing of all the ways in which God, by way of his attributes and actions, is said to be worthy of worship. Which of these are especially meaningful to you, leading you to worship? How have you experienced God’s faithfulness moving you to worship?
