Unwrapping the Mystery

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Devotions to guide you through the book of Revelation

Day 1 A Revelation of Hope Revelation 1:1-8
Warm Up: Following Jesus brings many benefits. It also causes new pressures and problems. How have you found
being a Christian difficult? Spend some time in prayer. Ask God to open your eyes to his truth today.
The Set up: Persecution, Imprisonment, Martyrdom. Do you fear these things simply for believing Jesus is the risen
son of God? Many of us have never experienced real persecution for our faith, nor do we feel the fear of martyrdom
for living for Christ like many in the early church felt. Yet we do suffer. The breakup of families, the death of
unborn children, the threat of war, the plight of the poor, and the understanding that many of our Christian brothers
and sisters around the world do face persecution, imprisonment, and martyrdom for their faith. Who can watch these
things and not cry out, “Come, Lord Jesus”? In Revelation 1:1-8 we are introduced to the vision God gave to John of
“what must soon take place” (Revelation 1:1). This vision gives the Christian hope for a suffering world.
Dig in: Read Revelation 1:1-8
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 1:3, “Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed
are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”
The work out: engage with the text
1. The word reveal means “to bring to light what was formerly hidden, veiled and secret.” Who and what will
be revealed by the Revelation given to John (V.1-3)? _________________________________________
2. How would John‟s description of God be a comfort to his readers (v. 4-5)?
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3. Why would it help discouraged believers to know they are “a kingdom and priests to sever his God and
father” (v. 6)? How does it encourage and challenge you?
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4. John presents a vision of Jesus as both coming (1:7) and already and always here (1:8). What do you think
it would be like to have only one of these two perspectives on the Lord‟s presence?
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5. What has typically been your reaction to the teaching that Christ is coming again?
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6. John states that we will be blessed if we hear his message and take it to heart (1:3). How do you think he
expects us to take this message to heart?
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Wrap Up: Close in prayer. Ask God to fill your heart with hope. Spend some time praying for the persecuted
church around the world. Ask God to give your brothers and sisters strength and hope in the knowledge of Christ‟s
soon return.

Day 2 Surprised by Greatness Revelation 1:9-20
Warm up: Begin with Prayer. Ask God to open your eyes to his truth through his word today. From all that you
have read or experienced before opening Revelation, what mental images or pictures do you have of Jesus?
Set up: Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Do you remember how you felt when you met them?
The experience of meeting a famous person is sometimes disconcerting. He or she may be less impressive than we
had imagined. I remember when I was young my family went to celebrate my brother‟s Kindergarten graduation.
While we were eating dinner my brother started pointing to a man saying, “it‟s Ozzie! It‟s Ozzie!”, talking about
Ozzie Smith, his favorite baseball player and now a Hall of Fame member. He was enamored with Ozzie and would
not stop pointing. My parents had a brief discussion and thought surely it was not Ozzie, he wasn‟t tall enough,
looked too thin, and surely my brother was mistaken. After a while my dad became convinced that maybe it was
Ozzie, so he took my brother over to meet him. Ozzie gave him an autographed baseball card that he has framed to
this day. All this time I was sitting at the table, staring unconvinced. I am still kicking myself for not meeting Ozzie
when I had the chance. When John sees Jesus face to face on the island of Patmos, he is overwhelmed with his
greatness, rather than distanced by doubts. John‟s experience meeting Jesus challenges us to ask whether we have
ever met the same person, or, do we follow a pale, distorted copy of the real Lord?
Muscle memory: Memorize Revelation 1:18, “I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and
ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.”
The work out: engage with the text
1. John‟s vision of Jesus in verses 13-16 is rich with biblical symbolism. Instead of trying to picture all these
characteristics at once, think of them like a slide show presentation, impressing on you one at a time.
Which images impress you most with the greatness of Jesus, and why? _____________________________
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2. Why do you think a godly person like John was so powerfully overcome by the presence of the One he
loved (v. 17)? __________________________________________________________________________
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3. How would Jesus‟ words encourage John not to be fearful in his presence (v.17-18)? __________________
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4. Revelation was written to churches persecuted under a totalitarian regime. Our society seems more
friendly, yet what are some ways it is hostile to us both morally and spiritually? ______________________
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5. How has this passage enlarged your vision of who Jesus is? ______________________________________
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6. How can this vision of Jesus encourage us to resist the temptations of our society? ____________________
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Wrap up: Close in prayer, praising Jesus for who he is and for what you have learned about him during this time.

Day 3 Remember Your First Love Revelation 2:1-7
Warm up: Begin with Prayer. Ask God to open your eyes to his truth through his word today. In what areas of your
life do you feel pressured (spiritually or otherwise)?
Set up: What can we do to help a fellow Christian who is ready to give in to pressure? Usually we wouldn‟t tell
them things are going to get worse before they get better, but that is exactly what Jesus does in the seven letters to
churches in Asia (Revelation 2-3). He confronts believers who have compromised morally and spiritually. But he
also encourages them. This kind of tough love is essential for spiritual health. As you read the text through
Revelation 2-3, put yourself in the shoes of a first century asian believer. You are pressured all around you, even
persecuted for your faith. Would you be able to overcome this? How do you feel pressured today?
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 2:7, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”
The Work out: engage with the text:
1. What do you think “forsaking your first love” (v. 4)
means?________________________________________________________________________________
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2. Why do you think forsaking your first love would be so tragic for the church at Ephesus? What do you
know about the church at Ephesus? (look at the book of Ephesians, Acts 19:17-41)
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3. Why do you think Christ‟s judgment would be so severe if they did not repent (v.5)?
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4. Have you “forsaken your first love” for Christ in any way? What is Christ‟s remedy (v.5)? What are “the
things you did at first”?
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5. What promises does Christ give to the one who overcomes the pressures of conforming (v.7)? How does
this promise encourage you today?
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Wrap up: Close in prayer, praising Jesus for who he is and for what you have learned about him during this time.
Praise Jesus for his great promise. Pray for someone you know who is under pressure to compromise. How can you
encourage them to stand strong for the Lord?

Day 4 Be Faithful Revelation 2:8-11
Warm up: Begin with prayer. Ask God to be with you in this time of studying his word. What is the condition of your
relationship with the Lord right now? What pressures do you face to turn away from him to pursue something else? What
blessings have you seen in your life when you are faithful to God?
Set up: Yesterday we looked at pressures we face to forsake our first love. Today, in the letter to the church in Smyrna we find
those who are under real pressure, tough finances, poverty, prison, and suffering for their faith. Smyrna was a harbor city known
for its temple to the mother goddess and for its imperial cult temples. Smyrna was a beautiful city with paved streets, a library, a
gym, and a shrine to Homer, who may have been born there. Jewish opposition to Christians was alleged in the martyrdom
accounts of Polycarp and of Pionius (2nd
and 3rd
Centuries AD). What kinds of pressure do you face because of your faith? How
is this a challenge for you?
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 2:11, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who
overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.”
The Work Out: Engage with the text.
1. How is Jesus described in this letter (v.8)? How do you think this description would encourage the church in Smyrna?
How does it encourage you?
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2. The letter to Smyrna is the only one of the seven letters of Revelation that mentions no problem and gives no warning.
What role does affirmation play in helping Christians who are under spiritual pressure?
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3. What spiritual pressures have you felt in the past days, weeks, or months?
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4. What affirmations does Jesus give the church in Smyrna (v.8-11) (James 2:5)?
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5. What is the “second death” (v.11) (Daniel 1:12-16; Revelation 7:14-17; Revelation 20:4-6)? What is the promise for
remaining faithful to Christ?
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6. What affirmations do you receive from Christ while reading this text today? How does this encourage you to remain
faithful to Christ among the pressures of your life?
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Wrap up: Pray, thank Christ for his affirmations to you. Thank Jesus that he knows our afflictions and our struggles, yet makes
us rich with his presence. Ask Christ to give you strength to be faithful to him today, no matter what challenges present
themselves to you.

Day 5 A New Name Revelation 2:12-17
Warm up: Pray, thank God that he has helped you remain a faithful witness of him this week. If you have fallen,
confess to God and ask forgiveneness. Thank God for his grace extended to you and ask him to be with you as you
study his word today.
Set up: A little encouragement can go a long way. Yesterday we saw the affirmation from Christ that he knows our
afflictions and struggles. The church at Ephesus resisted false teaching, and Smyrna endured persecution. Believers
at Pergamum faced both assaults and withstanding persecution, but wrongly condoning dangerous deception.
Pergamum was built on terraces leading up the only accessible slope of its acropolis. It was an important center for
pagans, emperor worshipers, and Jews (Cicero, for Flaccus 28; Josephus, Jewish Antiquities 14.247-255).
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 2:17, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name
written on it, known only to him who receives it.”
Work out: engage the text
1. Pergamum was a place of emperor worship. This may be why it is called the place “where Satan has his
throne.” In addition, temple prostitution was prevalent. How had the church responded to the lure of these
temptations (v.12-17)?
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2. How is Jesus described in this letter (v.12)? How do you think that imagery would encourage the church in
Pergamum? How does that imagery encourage you?
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3. What does Jesus commend the church in Pergamum for (v.13)?
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4. What does Jesus “have against” the church in Pergamum (v.14-15)?
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5. What does Jesus challenge the church in Pergamum to do (v.16)? What is the promise if they do not do
this? What is the promise if they do take his advice?
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Wrap up: Close in prayer. How have you remained true to Christ during the pressures you face in life? Thank God
for the ability to be faithful. How have you fallen or compromised who you are? Ask for forgiveness and restoration.
How does the promise of having a new name from Christ encourage you?

Day 6 The Morning Star Revelation 2:18-29
Warm up: Pray, thank God that he has helped you remain a faithful witness of him this week. If you have fallen,
confess to God and ask forgiveneness. Thank God for his grace extended to you and ask him to be with you as you
study his word today.
Set up: Thyatira was a politically and culturally marginalized city, finding its identity economically, with guilds
dealing in metals and fabric (Acts 16:14). Guilds celebrated patron deities in periodic festivals, so Christians may
have been tempted toward the message of a “prophetess” who advocated participation in illicit sex and food
sacrificed to idols, both staples of the social scene. What social pressures do you face to conform to those around
you? How does Christ strengthen you against these pressures?
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 2:26, “The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to
him I will give authority over the nations,”
Work out: engage with the text.
1. How is Jesus described in this letter (v.18)? Knowing that the Thyatirans were metal workers, how do you
think this image would have made them see Christ? How might that encourage their faith (v.23)? Does it
encourage you? How?
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2. Thyatira‟s strengths and weaknesses are the inverse of those at Ephesus. This church is strong in love
evidenced in works; but it lacks discernment and tolerates heresy. Jesus charges the godly and loving
church at Thyatira with being too tolerant of evil in their midst. Do you think Christians today are too
tolerant? In what ways?
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3. Jezebel (v.20) is an Old Testament person who has come to symbolize spiritual adultery (1 Kings 16:31).
How was the so called “prophetess” in Thyatira like her namesake (v.18-29)?
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4. What promises does Christ make to the “one who overcomes” (v. 26-28)? Compare that with Psalm 2:7-9)
Who is the “morning star” (cf. Revelation 22:16)?
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Wrap up: Pray for someone you know who is under pressure to compromise. How can you encourage them with
the revelation of who Christ is and what he will do for them if they overcome?

Day 7 The Seven Spirits of God Revelation 3:1-6
Warm up: Experts say we are exposed to over 1,400 advertisements a day. It takes an enormous act of will not to be
conformed to our environment, to be “in but not of” the world. The remaining three churches whom Christ addresses in
these letters were to be visited by a postal courier completing his circuit in the exact order of John‟s letters. Each letter
helps us resist the powerful threat of being conformed to the world. Pray, thank God that he has helped you remain a
faithful witness of him this week. If you have fallen, confess to God and ask forgiveneness. Thank God for his grace
extended to you and ask him to be with you as you study his word today. In what ways do Christian groups and churches
you know resemble the surrounding culture?
Set up: The city of Sardis was captured twice in its history while watchmen neglected their duty. Thus the city had
become a cautionary tale of misguided complacency and lack of vigilance. The church at Sardis was similarly asleep at
death‟s door. The emperor Tiberius had sponsored reconstruction efforts following a great earthquake in 17AD that had
destroyed much of the city. In John‟s day the civic structures included a stadium, a theater, a central marble road, and
many pagan temples.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 3:5, “He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out
his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my father and his angels.”
Work out: engaging the text
1. How is Jesus portrayed in this letter (v.1)? Who is the “seven spirits of God” (v.1)? What does he say to the
church in Sardis? _______________________________________________________________________
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2. In the first century Sardis showed a stark contrast between its past greatness as a Persian capital and its current
decay. What indications are given that the church‟s reputation does not match its reality (v.1-6)? Why is this such
a serious problem?
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3. What is Jesus‟ remedy for the serious issues the church has and may have not been paying attention to?
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4. What may be some serious issues that are plaguing your church? Is your church‟s reputation the same as its
perception of itself? What might Jesus say to your church in this letter?
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5. What is Jesus‟ promise to the one who overcomes (v.5)? How is this encouraging/ challenging to you today?
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Wrap up: Pray that the church may be a powerful force in our world. Ask God to show you how you can be a part of his
plan for the world.

Day 8 The Church of Brotherly Love Revelation 3:7-13
Warm up: Experts say we are exposed to over 1,400 advertisements a day. It takes an enormous act of will not to
be conformed to our environment, to be “in but not of” the world. The remaining three churches whom Christ
addresses in these letters were to be visited by a postal courier completing his circuit in the exact order of John‟s
letters. Each letter helps us resist the powerful threat of being conformed to the world. Pray, thank God that he has
helped you remain a faithful witness of him this week. If you have fallen, confess to God and ask forgiveneness.
Thank God for his grace extended to you and ask him to be with you as you study his word today. In what ways do
Christian groups and churches you know resemble the surrounding culture?
Set up: In appreciation for imperial reconstruction aid after an earthquake in AD 17, Philadelphia was briefly
renamed Neocaesarea “Caesar‟s New City”, but Jesus promises his suffering church an infinitely greater name, “the
city of my God, the new Jerusalem” (v.12). Philadelphia lies near a fertile valley, especially suited for growing wine
grapes. Inscriptions from Philadelphia mention worship of Zeus and Hestia, and the Roman imperial cult was
present in the first century AD. Christians in Philadelphia later received a letter from the early church father Ignatius
(circa AD 110), and they suffered during the Martyrdom of Polycarp (AD 155).
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 3:11, “I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will
take your crown.”
Work out: engage with the text
1. How is Jesus portrayed in this letter (v.7)?
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2. Of the seven churches, only the church in Philadelphia received only praise and promises. Why would a
weak church be encouraged by Jesus‟ promise of “an open door that no one can shut” (v.8)?
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3. As the Philadelphia church faced opposition, how would Jesus‟ other promises encourage them (v.9-
13)?__________________________________________________________________________________
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4. Many churches today feel weak, insignificant and discouraged. What can we learn from Christ‟s words to
the Philadelphians?
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Wrap up: Pray that the church may be a powerful force in our world. Ask God to show you how you can be a
part of his plan for the world.

Day 9 Don’t Be Lukewarm Revelation 3:14-21
Warm up: Experts say we are exposed to over 1,400 advertisements a day. It takes an enormous act of will not to be conformed
to our environment, to be “in but not of” the world. The remaining three churches whom Christ addresses in these letters were to
be visited by a postal courier completing his circuit in the exact order of John‟s letters. Each letter helps us resist the powerful
threat of being conformed to the world. Pray, thank God that he has helped you remain a faithful witness of him this week. If you
have fallen, confess to God and ask forgiveneness. Thank God for his grace extended to you and ask him to be with you as you
study his word today. In what ways do Christian groups and churches you know resemble the surrounding culture?
Set up: Laodicea was a proud city. It was a commercial center and site of a thriving medical and textile industries. The city was
so self sufficient that when a great earthquake hit in AD 60 the city declined imperial disaster relief. The city saw itself as rich
and in need of no help from anyone. The church of the city saw itself in the same light. Yet, as is often the case, Jesus did not see
things the same way. Laodicea, for all its pride and self sufficiency, is the only church whom Jesus finds nothing to commend.
The city had a major problem getting good water. The waters of the nearby Lycus river were muddy and undrinkable, and water
from an aquaduct from hot springs 5 miles away were lukewarm when they reached the city. Likewise, Jesus found his church‟s
tepid indifference repugnant. Cold and hot were good; cold water refreshes in the heat and hot water is a tonic for the cold.
Lukewarm water is of no use to us, and a lukewarm spiritual life is of no use to God.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 3:20, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the
door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.”
1. How is Jesus portrayed in this letter (v.14)?
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2. How does understanding the situation of lukewarm water help us to understand Christ‟s statements to the church in
verses 14-16? What does it say to you about your spiritual life?
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3. Laodicea was so self sufficient that when they suffered an earthquake in AD 60 they rejected help from Rome. How did
this attitude affect the church spiritually? Do you see similar attitudes in the church today? How does it affect today‟s
church and/or you?
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4. What promise is given to the one whom Jesus loves (v.19)? What advice does Jesus give us (v.20-21)?
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5. Review all seven letters in Revelation 2-3. What has the Holy Spirit taught you during this past week about being an
overcomer?
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Wrap up: Pray that the church would be a powerful force in the world. What is needed for the church to become a powerful
force for Christ in the world today?

Day 10 Worthy Revelation 4-5
Warm up: What was the most significant worship experience you have ever had? What made it so
special? Pray. Ask God to lead you into his presence today as you read, study, and reflect upon his word.
Set up: In a play by renowned playwright George Bernard Shaw, Don Juan says, “Heaven is all right, of
course, but for meeting old friends and acquaintances you can‟t beat Hell.” There is powerful truth in this
facetious remark. While most people say they want to go to heaven, they might prefer Hell if Heaven is
really like the picture given in these two chapters. People concerned only about themselves would find the
ceaseless praise of God and the Lamb intolerable. After all, Billy Joel says, “only the good die young”.
Worship on earth is a foretaste of heaven and to some is just as distasteful. But worship is the deepest
need of the seven churches just described. And it is our deepest need as well.
Dig in: Read Revelation 4-5
Muscle Memory: memorize Revelation 4:11, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and
honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”
1. Reread Revelation 4-5. Instead of trying to decode every part of the throne room of God, try to
imagine what can be seen and heard. What are some of your initial impressions of God‟s glory
invisioned in Revelation 4?
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2. How do the four creatures and the 24 elders respond to God‟s glory (Rev. 4:8,10,11)? How does
their reaction help us define and practice worship?
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3. Worship is not an action but a reaction, a response evoked by a vision of God‟s glory. What
might we need to do if we have difficulty worshipping God?
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4. If earthly worship is modeled after heavenly worship, what is most lacking in your experience of
worship?
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Wrap up: take time to worship the Lamb of God and the One who sits on the throne. He is worthy.

Day 11 The Wrath of God is Beautiful? Revelation 6
Warm up: Pray. Ask God to show you something true of himself today. Ask his Holy Spirit to guide you
through this study. What thoughts and feelings do you have about the idea of God‟s wrath?
Set up:Judgement is not something most people long for. But if you were suffering unjustly in an evil
system, God‟s judgment may be your only hope. Black skinned people living in South Africa during
apartheid held onto the hope that their white rulers would face judgment. It was their hope for freedom
from oppression. Like a wood plane that is used against the grain rather than with it, wrath is how people
opposing the rule of God will experience his grace. In Revelation 6-19 there is a complicated and
confusing pattern of disaster and suffering. If we seek to unravel these pictures as a time table for future
events, we will be disappointed and confused. But if we want to learn how to live in the present and find
hope for the future, there is much here to encourage and challenge us. These chapters inspire trust in a
God who is faithful and just.
Dig in: Read Revelation 6
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 6:16, “They called to the mountains and the rocks, „Fall on us
and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!”
1. The scene shifts from the throne room of God back to earth as the Lamb opens the book of
destiny. Summarize the events during the first four seals (v.1-8).
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2. How does the experience of the saints contrast with that of the unbelievers (v.15-17)? What
evidence do you see of this contrast today?
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3. If we realize the wrath of God will one day be fully expressed against sin, what difference should
it make in our attitude toward sin? Toward injustice? Toward non Christians?
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Wrap up: Pray for non Christians you know, that they would come to know the love of the Lord
expressed in Jesus Christ taking the wrath of God upon himself in their place.

Day 12 Thriving in the Holocaust Revelation 7
Warm up: Pray, thank God for having his word to read and the freedom to study it. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in this time
of study and prayer. What feelings do you have when you hear of Christians today who are losing their jobs, thrown in prison, or
martyred for Christ?
Set up: Some preachers speak of the Christian life as one great success story. They say that if we attend church, live right, give
enough money, and exercise enough faith we will prosper financially and be free of all illness and distress. But the relative peace
a few of us enjoy at this moment is an exceptional grace in the world and history. From the time Christ ascended back into
heaven to his return to the earth, the normal life of believers is persecution and tribulation. Most of the Christians John pictures
for us are martyrs. They are dead to the threats of this life, but gloriously alive to the promises of God. Their experience reminds
us that the call to discipleship in Christ is a call to radical obedience.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 7:9-10, “After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could
count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing
white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: Salvation belongs to our God,
who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”
1. In verses 1-8 an angel seals 144,000 people. What do you think “the seal of the living God” means (Rev. 7:2, 9:4)?
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2. In verse 9 the scene shifts from earth to Heaven. How did the great multitude of verse 9 come to stand before the lamb?
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3. Why does the multitude cry out with praise, worship, and thanksgiving (v.10-12)?
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4. How do the blessings these martyred Christians enjoy compare with the trials they suffered (v.13-17)? How does their
experience help us to understand the benefit of being a faithful Christian?
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5. In the first century, persecution of Christians came from three basic sources: emperor worshipers, heretics, and those
whose commercial interests were threatened by the radical lifestyle of Christians. Why might faithful Christians suffer
today?
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6. This vision comes at the point of maximum dramatic intensity, between the 6th
and 7th
seals. How might this vision
encourage us to be faithful no matter what happens in the world?
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________
Wrap up: Pray for those who are suffering for their faith.

Day 13 The Angelic Message Revelation 8-9
Warm up: Pray, ask God to lead you in this time of study. What positive feelings or experiences have
you had about angels?
Set up: Angels have become quite popular. We see them depicted on T shirts, mugs, and cards as cute
and cuddly creatures. There‟s even growing categories of books to show you how to contact your “inner
angels” and other things. None of this stuff really describes angels the way the Bible shows them. In the
next few chapters you will meet some of God‟s angels, and they are far from cute and cuddly, they
possess great power.
1. List the events that happen when each of the angels blows his trumpet. What similarities do each
of these events have? ____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. The seventh seal (8:1-5) contains the seven trumpet judgments (8:6-11:15). What appears to be
God‟s purpose for allowing these judgments to fall on the whole creation (9:20-21)? Does God‟s
response seem justified? Why or why not?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. It is sometimes suggested that Christians are taken away from the world before the wrath of God
falls. What alternative view is suggested by Revelation 9:4 (also see Rev. 7:3)?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Those mentioned in Revelation 9:20-21 did not repent. How do our sins today compare to theirs?
Where do you see yourself in this list of sins? What do you need to do to be ready for the
judgment day?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Repent of your sins before God. Commit to turn away from your sins and turn toward God.
Ask a Christian friend to keep you accountable to your commitment to God.

Day 14 Messengers of God Revelation 10-11
Warm up: Pray, ask God to guide you by his Holy Spirit this morning. When has God used you to give someone a
message? How did you react to the task? How did you speak to the person you needed to speak to?
Set up: In Revelation 10 we are given an interlude between the sixth trumpet (Rev. 9:13-21) and the Seventh and
final trumpet (Revelation 11:15-18). This interlude dramatizes God‟s patient delay in bringing his full and final
wrath (2 Peter 3:9), assures believers that God will protect his people through coming trials, and assigns us a
prophetic witness during the time of trial. Here John is given a message from God (Rev.10:1-11) that is not easy to
deliver. As the prophet Ezekiel ate a scroll and found it “sweet as honey” in his mouth (Ezekiel 3:1-3, 10), so John
must do the same, receiving God‟s words in his heart before he speaks them. The Word of God provides communion
with God and his goodness; thus every message from God is sweet, even the “bitterness” message of woe that turns
the stomach. In Chapter 11 two of God‟s prophets (the two witnesses), are martyred for speaking God‟s message.
The life and message of these two witnesses somewhat mirror the life of Jesus Christ. Some take these two
witnesses to be literal people, either in the first century AD or in the last days, though it is more likely they are
symbolic of the faithful saints. Scripture requires two witnesses to confirm testimony (Deut. 19:15; Matt. 18:16).
Wearing the “sackcloth” of repentance (Isaiah 37:1-2; Jonah 3:5; Matt.11:21) , they prophesy the message of God.
How does your life prophesy the message of God?
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 10:6-7, “And he swore by him who lives forever and ever, who
created the heavens and all that is in them, the earth and all that is in it, and the sea and all that is in it, and
said, “There will be no more delay! 7
But in the days when the seventh angel is about to sound his
trumpet, the mystery of God will be accomplished, just as he announced to his servants the prophets.”
Work out: Engage the text.
1. What are the actions of the “Mighty Angel” introduced in 10:1? What is the significance of the “mystery
of God” which will be revealed without further delay (10:6-7)?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
2. The “little scroll” that John easts (10:8-11) probably refers to the gospel. When has the gospel “tasted like
honey” to you? When/how has it “turned your stomach sour”?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
3. What happens to the two witnesses empowered by God (11:3-14)? 11:10 says the two witnesses had
“tormented those who live on the earth.” Why do you think the two witnesses caused such turmoil? Have you
ever felt that God was calling you to deliver a message of bad news?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
4. What feelings about God and his actions do you have after reading the description of worship in 11:15-19?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Pray that you will be willing to be God‟s messenger to those around you.

Day 15 The Accused Revelation 12
Warm up: Pray, ask God to lead you in this time studying his word. Ask God to make his word
taste “sweet as honey” to you today. How are you experiencing the “bitterness in your stomach”
of spiritual warfare?
Set up: Dragons symbolize all that is terrifying, evil and loathsome. In Revelation 12 God‟s
Heavenly temple is opened and we are introduced to two new characters; the woman and the
dragon. Satan appears as an enormous red dragon, full of rage. Knowing that his time is short, he
unleashes his fury as never before. During such dark moments of history, it seems as though God
is absent and Satan is victorious. Yet in this passage John describes a heavenly vision that puts
all our earthly trials in proper perspective.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 12:10, “Then I heard a loud voice in Heaven say: Now have come the
salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers,
who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.”
Work out: Engage the Text.
1. Three of the characters in this chapter are the woman (the church, empowered by the Holy Spirit), the red
dragon (Satan), and the male child (Jesus). What conflict does John observe among them (v.1-6)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
2. In verses 7-9 John describes a war in Heaven. What does the war reveal about the dragon? What does the
dragon‟s defeat mean in Heaven(v.10,12) and on earth (v.12-17)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
3. What does it mean to overcome Satan‟s accusations by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our
testimony (v.11)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
4. How can we help a fellow Christian who is no longer under God‟s condemnation (Romans 8:1) but still
feels condemned and defeated? How are you experiencing Satan‟s attacks? How can the victory of Christ
help us face these battles and struggles of the Christian life?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Pray for those who are struggling against Satan.

Day 16 The Beast Revelation 13
Warm up: Pray, ask God to guide you and reveal his truth to you through this time studying his
word. Consider: Why do you think it is so hard for believers to make substantial changes in
society (for example in the areas of justice, protecting the unborn, making peace)? What holds us
back from these changes?
Set up: In Brave New World, Aldous Huxley describes a future that may appear to be too close
for comfort: “As political and economic freedom diminishes, sexual freedom tends
compensatingly to increase. And the dictator will do well to encourage that freedom.” Faithful
Christianity inevitably involves conflict, tension and suffering for followers of Jesus. We cannot
be fully at home in our own culture. Even where we do not face open hostility, we are pressured
– indeed even seduced – by a seemingly friendly society. Revelation 13 demonstrates that the
church must always deal with radical evil. In these visions John unmasks the powers of darkness
at work in everyday life and at the end of history.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 13:
1. How is the beast a satanic imitation of Christ (v.3-4)? What is the mission of the beast
(v.5-8)? Why do you think Jesus reveals this enemy of the soul to us?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. What new powers are given to the second beast (v.11-18)? How does this beast ensure
that people worship the first beast?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. John seems to be describing a conflict with Satan and his minions that is going on now
but one day will be fully realized (see 1 John 2:18). How might we expect to see this
satanic influence at work today? How can we prepare ourselves to face this conflict?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Pray that you will be equipped to face Satan‟s temptations, armed with Christ‟s
spiritual armor (see Ephesians 6:10-18).

Day 17 Two Choices Revelation 14-15
Warm up: Pray, ask God to guide you and reveal his truth to you through this time studying his word. Consider:
When have you really tried to do what is right, only to see those who didn‟t seem to come out better off than you?
How did you feel about the outcome?
Set up: As you struggle to live according to God‟s laws (John 14:15), do you ever wonder if there will ever really be
any reward? Will there be any difference between those who love God and those who live in rebellion against God‟s
love? The Psalmist struggled with these thoughts in Psalm 73, and here Jesus shows John that the choices we make
now will have an impact on God‟s judgment on us in the future. Revelation 14 and 15 are a tale of two choices,
who‟s repercussions echo for eternity.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 14:4-5, “These are those who did not defile themselves with women, for
they kept themselves pure. They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They were purchased from among men and
offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb. No lie was found in their mouths; they are blameless.”
Work Out: Engage the text.
1. What differences do you notice between the 144,000 who are with the Lamb (14:1-5) and Babylon (14:8),
the beast and those who worship it (14:6-11)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________
2. What harvest is reaped in 14:14-20 (Matthew 13:30; Joel 3:12-13)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
3. Who sings the Hymn to God in 15:1-4? What are the righteous acts that have been revealed?
______________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
4. The Hymn beginning in 15:3 is called the song of Moses, which was sung by Moses after crossing the Red
Sea (Exodus 15:1-18). When have you been delivered by God from danger, either spiritually or physically?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________
5. In 14:12, John states that this passage, “calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints.” How does this
passage encourage you to endure in your faith?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________
Wrap up: Thank God for the assurance you have of your salvation in Jesus Christ. If you don‟t have assurance, talk
to your parents or your youth pastor today.

Day 18 The Seven Bowls Revelation 16
word. Consider: When something goes wrong, who do we usually blame first? Often, God‟s
name is among the first we blame. In understanding God‟s work in the world, particularly in how
he executes his judgment, its important that we learn to see beyond our own experience to see
God‟s vast creation and patience with humanity.
Set up: The seven bowls of God‟s Wrath present varying perspectives on the final destruction of
the first heaven and earth. The first four bowls inflict plagues on the earth, the sea, the rivers and
springs, and the sun, the same spheres as the first four trumpets (Revelation 8:7-12). The trumpet
judgments were limited to one third of each sphere (Revelation 9:4-5, 18), but the destruction
poured out by the bowls of wrath are total. The bowls of wrath are the final outpouring of God‟s
judgment. The end has come.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 16:5, “You are just in these judgments, you who are and who were, the
Holy One, because you have so judged; for they have shed the blood of your saints and prophets, and you have
given them blood to drink as they deserve.”
Work out: Engage the text
1. The plagues of Revelation 16 mirror the plagues sent on Egypt (blood, frogs, gnats, flies, livestock, boils,
hail, locusts, darkness, firstborn). What do you think is intended by this comparison?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
2. How could God‟s acts of judgment lead to worship for some (v.5-7) and cursing for others (v.9,21)? How
do we see this happening in our society today?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
3. Revelation 16:16 references Armageddon. What do you know about Armageddon? Reference a study Bible
such as the Reformation Study Bible, ESV Study Bible, or NIV study Bible. What do you learn about
Armageddon?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
4. When has God‟s judgment allowed you to praise him? When has his judgment caused you to curse or to
blame God?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Pray honestly with God about feelings you may have of blame or responsibility that you have been
harboring against him. Ask him to allow you to praise him for his justice and his judgments.

Day 19 Babylon Revelation 17-18
word. Consider: When have you noticed someone or something that looked appealing, but when
you saw it more closely it was really unappealing or revolting?
Set up: In every generation there is at least one symbol for everything that goes against God. For
several Old Testament writers that symbol was Babylon. Babylon was a beautiful, world
renowned city. Its hanging gardens are one of the wonders of the world. Babylon also was a
powerful empire that had held God‟s people captive. Babylon represented everything that was
evil and unsightly about humanity. John uses this powerful image to interpret to his readers the
powers that oppose God. In Revelation 17 and 18 we see John‟s vision of how these powers
oppose God and the ultimate outcome of opposing God.
Work out: engage the text.
1. Who or what do you think John had in mind when he described the prostitute (17:3-6)?
Who or what would you say is a modern day parallel to the prostitute?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. What is the relationship between the prostitute and the beast, and how does it change in
Chapter 17?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. What is the reaction of the kings (18:9-10), merchants (18:11-17a), and sea captains
(18:17b-20) to the fall of Babylon?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
4. Think back to who/what you identified as a modern day parallel to the prostitute from
question 1. How is this modern “prostitute” a tempter for you? How can you avoid this
temptation?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Pray. Ask God for protection from the temptations of those who are prideful and
oppose God.

Day 20 The Best Wedding Ever! Revelation 19
Warm up: Pray, ask God to guide you and reveal his truth to you through this time studying his word.
Consider: in your opinion, what are some of the best things about Marriage? What do you most look
forward to about being married one day?
Set up: Marriage is meant to be a living metaphor of God‟s love relationship with his people. What is the
best wedding you have ever been to? What do you remember most about the wedding? For many
weddings, what is most remembered is not the ceremony, but the feast and fun at the reception. The best
weddings have great food, an active DJ, and a party that keeps on going. In Revelation 19 we are given
the picture of the greatest wedding celebration of all time, when Christ comes to receive his bride, the
church. Then, and only then, will we experience complete unity with Christ. After reading and studying
about so much judgment (Chapters 6-18), Revelation 19 will be a welcome relief, not only for your
reading, but also for your soul when that day comes!
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 19:6-7, “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us
rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made
herself ready.”
1. Why is the great multitude shouting praise in heaven?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
2. Why is marriage such a good image for the believer‟s hope (v.7-9)?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
3. Like a conqueror ready for battle, Jesus appears on horseback. What do we learn about him (v.11-
16)? Why must this final battle take place before the marriage can begin and the kingdom of God
can have full victory (v.17-21)?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
4. How would you like to see Christ triumph in your life or in the world around you? How can we
confidently know we are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Allow praise to God to come from your soul with the hope for this future wedding celebration.

Day 21 The War to End All Wars Revelation 20
What do you most look forward to about Jesus‟ return?
Set up: Closure is something everybody craves, and God graciously provides. The assignment that needs to be
completed, the graduation gown needs to be worn and the tassles turned, the dating relationship needs to mature into
marriage. Previously in Revelation we have been studying what must soon take place and our hope in the midst of
God‟s judgement – to be reunited with the Lord Jesus Christ. Revelation 20 gives us appreciation of God‟s master
plan – to be our God forever, and to make us his people forever. However, some debate ranges over when and how
this all takes place. Revelation 20 is one of the most controversial chapters in Revelation and in all of the Bible.
Responsible Christian scholars disagree on what the “thousand years” means. The three main views of interpretation
on the “Millennium” are: (1) Premillennialist – those who believe Jesus will return before the millennium and that
this thousand years is a literal time where Jesus rules in peace and resurrected believers reign with him. (2)
Postmillenialist – believe Jesus will return after the millennial time and that before Jesus returns to earth the gospel
will spread and triumph so powerfully that human society will be transformed so peace and justice reign on earth for
a long time, about 1,000 years, and then Jesus will return for the final judgment. (3) Amillennialist – hold a non
literal view of the millennium, thinking that this thousand years is the same period as the present church age (right
now), and that there is no future “millennium” before Jesus returns for the final judgment. Many orthodox believers
hold to each of the three millennial views. All three views maintain that Jesus is returning in glory to judge the
human race. Your youth pastor has his opinions about the millennium, and welcomes questions or discussion on the
topic if you wish.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Hebrews 9:27-28, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face
judgment, 28
so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to
bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”
Work out: Engage the text
1. Which of the three Millennial views do you think best fits the book of Revelation and the idea of biblical
revelation? Why?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
2. Who will be judged at the last judgment (v.11-15)? What does it say about God‟s character that he should
keep a record of each person‟s works?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
3. How can understanding verses 4-6 help us to see life and death in proper perspective? How should the
ultimate judgment of evil and the reward of faithfulness affect the way we live today?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Pray that God will make you faithful in every way.

Day 22 Home Revelation 21-22
What do you think about when you hear the word “heaven”?
Set up: The best part about a long journey is reaching the destination. The journey may offer us many adventures
and stories to tell, and it may be a great enjoyment as well, but the best part of a long journey is arriving at your
destination. In Revelation 21-22 God‟s people finally reach their destination. The journey that began in the garden
through fighting sin, resisting temptation, enduring persecution, and clinging to faith in the promises of God finds its
place at home in the city of God, where God and man dwell together for eternity. The new heavens and earth.
Creation is renewed, evil is vanquished, the face of God is clearly seen. But the vision given in Revelation 21-22
may be unsettling to your preconceived notions of what heaven and the last things are like. The vision of these final
chapters of Revelation stretch us beyond what our imaginations can conceive to where our hearts can only hope to
be. This heavenly vision comforts, challenges, and admonishes us to carry through our faith until our journey is
complete and we meet God face to face.
Muscle Memory: Memorize Revelation 21:3, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them.
They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.”
1. What aspects of the “old order” must be eliminated before God can fully dwell with his people (21:1-5)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
2. Why do you think a city, rather than a garden like Eden, is used to describe our final home (21:2,11-22:5)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
3. Taken together Revelation 21-22 describe a very beautiful place, yet it seems that the real significance of
the new heavenly city lies in something else. What is the significance of the new city (22:1-21)? What are
the requirements for entering the city (21:6-7; 22:12,14)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
4. Why must the requirements for entering the city be met during the times of testing we experience in this
life (21:1-5)?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
5. Review what you have learned and how you have grown during this study of Revelation. The early
Christians had a common prayer that Jesus taught them to pray (Matthew 5:10), and we may have lost a bit
of in our age. They would pray “amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20). What insights have you gained as
to why and how we can pray “amen. Come, Lord Jesus”? What will change when Jesus comes?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Wrap up: Take some time to pray for Jesus‟ second coming.

Unwrapping the Mystery

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