November 24, 2024

The Vision of the Exalted Christ – Revelation 1:9-20

Ice Breaker

1. Read Revelation 1:9-20. In what ways does John’s description of himself (vs. 9) make you want to hear what he has to say? Discuss this as a group.

Loving God Unreservedly

2. Read Daniel 7:13. What similarities did you identify between this verse and John’s vision of Christ?
3. Read Isaiah 6:5; Ezekiel 1:28; and Daniel 8:17; 10:8–9. What did those men respond to the divine presence, and how do their responses compare with John’s response?

Loving People Sacrificially

4. John pictured the seven churches as seven golden lampstands (to hold oil lamps, v. 12, 19, 20; cf. Zech. 4). What does this tell us about the function of the churches?
5. Why do you think we are seldom, if ever, so overcome with awe in the presence of Jesus that we need his encouraging touch? (cf. Jer. 15:16; Jn. 15:7; Col. 3:16)
6. In what ways can you remind yourself today of the awesome nature and power of Christ? How does this help you engage others?
7. In what way was John a companion of his readers? (1:9; cf. Acts 14:22; Rom. 8:17)

Making Disciples Purposefully

8. With what friends or family members can you plan to share Christ?
9. What are some specific questions you could ask to lead into a discussion about Christ? What about leading a study in God’s word together with that person?

Dig Deeper (optional/personal study)

10. Research: Observe how John noted several things about the Christ who spoke to him:

• He was ‘One like the Son of Man’ (v. 13). Christ, so glorious and majestic, was clothed in humanity. It was glorified humanity, but humanity nonetheless (cf. Dan. 7).
• The Lord wore the clothing of the High Priest as described in the Old Testament (v. 13).
• His ‘head and hair were white like wool’ and snow (v. 14). This dazzling brightness conveyed both his eternity and purity.
• His eyes were ‘like a flame of fire’ (v. 14). Nothing is hidden from the Lord Jesus. His penetrating eyes burn through every obstacle and screen and see all.
• His ‘feet were like fine brass’ (v. 15). The Lord moves steadily and without weariness to achieve his purposes. At the same time, he tramples on all those who would oppose those purposes.
• His voice was ‘as the sound of many waters’ (v. 15). This voice, majestic and powerful, conveys his sovereignty over all the earth.
• His right hand held ‘seven stars’ (v. 16), which we shall note later.
• A ‘sharp, two-edged’ sword went out of his mouth (v. 16). This indicates the effective power of his Word (Heb. 4:12). Once spoken, it cannot be thwarted or stopped.
• His ‘countenance’ or face was shining with such brilliance that John could only liken it to the noonday sun (v. 16).