Thankful for the Eleventh Hour

“Thankful for the Eleventh Hour”

Revelation 2:8-11

Take-Home Truth: The Bible teaches that suffering is controlled by God who will one day reward us with infinite joy. 

Christ-Connection: Satan tests us, but God determines to keep us. 

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

1. Describe a time when you knew that you were about to go through something painful, but you had a proper perspective or outlook that helped you endure the pain. Share about this painful experience and about your helpful perspective that got you through.  

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

2. As a group, read Revelation 2:8-11 aloud. Make observations. Discuss and unpack these verses together. 

3. Why was there no rebuke or warning for this church? How does this apply to the church today?

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

4. Richard shared promises of hope in suffering (God’s control, the resurrection, empathy), where do you find hope in suffering? 

5. Knowing God puts a boundary around your suffering, how does this help you to endure and what does this say about God’s nature? 

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

6. How does knowing Jesus suffered bring comfort to you as you suffer?

7. How does knowing Jesus suffered affect your praying?

8. How does knowing Jesus suffered affect your witness?