Vulnerable and Invincible

Vulnerable & Invincible

Revelation 11

Hook: (Ice-breaker question. Get the group talking!)

1. Share about a time in your life when you found calm and peace in the middle of a difficult situation. 

Take-Home Truth: 

The church WILL endure the storms of time.  Even though it may suffer loss and appear to be defeated, it will ultimately emerge triumphant.

Christ-Connection

We see that from outside the church, there is growing spiritual opposition to the church. Yet Christ is at work, not to condemn the world, but that through Him, the world might be saved. (Jn 3:17).  

Engage: (Observe the passage and engage with the text)

2. As a group, read Revelation 11. Discuss the symbolism that is described here- i.e., the temple, the measuring of the temple, 42 months, the great city, the beast, others.  Richard stated that symbols point to realities “more important than the symbol”.  What are the realities to which these symbols point?  (Refer to Rev 21:22)

3. Richard likened the church to a boat sailing in stormy seas. What are some of the storms the church has endured over the last 2,000 years of church history? What hope can we draw from seeing how God’s Bride has persevered? How should the true church respond to the fact that more intense suffering is in its future (v 2- they will trample on the holy city for 42 months)?

 Reflect: (Reflect upon the key take-aways from the sermon)

4. In vs 3-5, the two prophets are introduced in the midst of the onslaught against the temple (God’s church) and they are given the power to devour their enemies.  How do the prophets devour their enemies?  What application do you find in these verses? (Zech 4:6)

5. In Rev 11:7, the beast that comes from the Abyss attacks those prophets who speak against it.  Richard indicated that the beast may represent a collection of forces against the church.  What might these forces be?  How do we recognize them?

Respond: (Apply the truths of God’s Word to your heart, affections, and actions)

6. In vs 7-10, the church receives a huge blow, then a breath of life.  How does this passage change or inform your view on your position in Christ (or the position of the church)?  (See Ez 37: 7-10)

7. Reflecting upon Ezekiel 37:7-10, how do dry bones come to life again? What application does this concept have for the church (and for you)? How is this hopeful in the midst of a dark and stormy world? 

Note: Close with reviewing the Christ Connection & Take Home Truth