The Story Chapter 31 Reflection Questions

Use these reflection questions for your personal study time of Chapter 31. (Taken from the Adult Study Guide.)

1. Why might Christians resist studying this book? According to this chapter, what are the benefits connected to studying Revelation?  (Hint:  p. 379, 387; Rev. 1:3, 22:7)
2. Make a list of the various ways God the Father and God the Son are described throughout this chapter of The Story.  For example, on page 379, the Father is him who is, and who was and who is to come; Jesus Christ is the faithful witness.  After completing your list, discuss what one or two of these descriptions mean.
3. Jesus’ messages to the seven churches usually follow a general pattern:  a description of Himself, a commendation, a rebuke, a warning or instruction, and a promise.  Compose a letter to your church using this format.
4. Notice the description of the throne room of heaven (p. 382, Rev. 4:1-6).  Look up Ezekiel 1:26-28, Exodus 19:16 and 20:18, Job 37:4 and John 12:27-28.  What do these images communicate about God?
5. What four-fold reason makes the Lamb worthy to open the scroll and receive praise (p. 383)?
6. Read Matthew 24:29-44, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 and Titus 2:11-14.  How should you live in anticipation of Christ’s return?
7. From what you have learned in this chapter about the great white throne judgment and the lake of fire, how might you respond to the person who does not believe that a loving God could ever sentence anyone to hell (p. 385-386, Rev. 20:11-15, 21:8)?  See also Revelation 20:10 and Matthew 25:41 for further insight.
8. Find at least three similarities between the original creation (Genesis 1-2) and the new heaven and new earth (p. 385-387; Rev. 21-22).  How do these sections of Scripture contribute to our understanding of God’s Upper Story and what would we be missing without them?