“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take it to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”
That’s the promise. How can we be blessed by this book? Let me share just two ways.
1. Lead you into worship and into His arms
If you read it out loud and picture what is being said, it may lead you into worship. One pastor, in speaking of our penchant toward idolatry (running to something other than God for help) said: “We worshipped our way into this mess, and by God’s grace we will worship our way out.” Revelation is going to help us do just that, simply by contemplating who Jesus is and what He is like.
One phrase in this chapter that moved me to worship is: “His voice as the sound of many waters.”
Listen to this 3 minute clip from this man, who is with Sonship, on how this phrase impacted him.
Water soothes me, whether is a steady rain on my roof, the sound of waves coming in, or even the mighty roar of a waterfall. No matter what is going on in my life, I know He is as faithful as the spring rains, as powerful as roaring waters. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the one “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Rev. 1:8) And He says to me, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever!” (Rev. 1:17-18)
2. Lead you to die to yourself
No one was expecting the Messiah to die naked on a cross. When Jesus was going through all those crazy mock trials on Good Friday, they kept expecting him to defend himself so that he wouldn’t be crucified. But as Isaiah prophesied, He set his face like flint (for us!) Like a sheep before his shearers is silent, He was silent (for us!) For the joy (us!) set before Him, He went to the cross. And at one point, when the high priest asked him if he was the Messiah, He did speak up:
“I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Mark 14:62)
God gave Daniel this vision (Daniel 7:13) and gives it again to John:
“Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” (Rev. 1:7)
Dr. Campbell writes: “While it is certainly true that we will bow in worship and also in sorrow and repentance when we behold Christ at his final return, the same should be true as Christ comes to us now by His Spirit. We grieve over our disobedience and sin and bow in worship before him, and in joy over the reality of his forgiveness. And so in context, we take this coming with the clouds to refer to all of Christ’s comings.”
How does Christ come to us again and again? Through His Spirit, to comfort, counsel and convict. And we respond with worship, obedience, and repentance. What we learn from Christ here is that the way up is down.
Whether it is repenting to Him or to one another, the way up is down. And dying is always hard, but for believers, resurrection follows every dying to self. I think of how often Steve and I had to repent to one another, but how beautiful our marriage became. When Billy and Ruth Graham were asked the secret of their good marriage, they said they were “good repenters and forgivers.
The way up is down!
Please watch this (under 4 minutes)
I have a couple of things to share with you personally from Dr. Campbell – first, a big compliment:
These ladies should get a college credit by the time they finish!
Next, there were a few of you who wanted to know more about what he wrote in the paperback version about Margaret MacDonald and her vision in Scotland in 1830 that he said originated the view of dispensationalism. Both here on the blog, and in a private study I’m having, I sensed some were upset, so I asked him for more information and he so kindly went into detail. This is just for those who wanted to know more and his sources.
More information on Margaret MacDonald
My daughter Sally tells of being at Covenant Seminary and hearing the young men above her floor argue about the end times and slamming doors. She thought it was good they were so passionate. As a peace-lover, I would not have had that reaction! I am continually praying that God will lead us to His truth and that even if we must agree to disagree, it will be in love. In The Mark of a Christian, Francis Schaeffer said what will be remembered in ten years is the tone of a disagreement — much more than the details. I am praying He leads us to a likemindedness, but if not, may He give us love and grace.
Word Document:
Sunday: Getting Started
Father, I pray for an excitement and a hunger for your Word for each participating here. Please come to us, kiss us, and help us overflow with Your fruit.
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Read Revelation 1 out loud to yourself and share anything that becomes “radioactive,” (jumps out) and your thoughts.
Monday: Prologue
3. Read Revelation 1:1-3 and share anything that stands out.
4. In Lesson 1 of Mystery Explained, read the page and a half about the prologue and answer:
A. What three words or phrases occur together here and only previously in Daniel 2:29?
B. In Daniel 2:29 and 2:45, when does Daniel say these things will happen? How is this different from Revelation 1:1?
C. In Daniel 2:44, how is the last Kingdom described, and who, do you think, is the “stone” not made with human hands?
D. How did Christ’s death and resurrection begin this Kingdom that would never end?
E. Compare the last phrase of Revelation 1:3 to Mark 1:15. What similarity do you see?
F. Share anything else that stands out to you from Dr. Cambell’s writings concerning this prologue.
5. If Revelation was written primarily to help us now, rather than to satisfy our curiosity about end times, how might that change how you study it?
Tuesday: John Greets The Churches
6. Read Revelation 1:4-5
A. In what two ways does John use the number seven?
B. List all the ways Jesus is described in these two verses – do any of these descriptions become radioactive for you? If so, why?
7. Read Dr. Cambell’s first six paragraphs under “John Greets the Churches” (Stop at “John’s words of greeting continue…” Highlight as you read.
A. Share one of your highlights.
B. What do you learn in his first two paragraphs about the number 7?
C. Why do we need to understand that Revelation is just as relevant to us as other letters to the churches in the New Testament?
D. The description of Jesus in verse 4 is a quote from Psalm 89:27 -29 and 35-37. Find this. What do you see?
E. Campbell explains we will see this phrase “kings of the earth” again in Revelation, and it refers to the kings who oppose Christ’s rule. I cannot help but think of those rulers today in North Korea, Iran, and China who are so viciously persecuting Christians. What does it mean to you that Christ rules over them? (This calms me, like the “voice of many waters.”)
F. Rev. 1:6 is a quotation from Exodus 19:6 but there is a change of tense in Revelation. Significance?
G. Dr. Campbell writes: “God has in one sense sovereignty limited himself to operating through us. The church is an imperfect vehicle composed of imperfect people, yet God has chosen to use these people as the means by which his kingdom comes….there is no plan B.” Significance to you?
H. Christ became a King and a Priest through His blood and “freed us from our sins by his blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests” (Rev. 1:5b) We are called to walk in the way of the cross. The way up is down. Share a way in the past you experienced this.
Wednesday: Behold He is Coming with the Clouds
8. Revelation does deal with the end times, but only a small fraction of it does. We see it here in one verse in chapter 1 — Revelation 1:7. What does it say?
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “John’s words of greeting continue” and share his main point and how we can apply it not just to His final coming, but right now.
10. Compare Revelation 1:7 with Zechariah 12:10. How has the group broader in the New Testament reference? (Cambell can help in the next paragraph if you don’t see it.)
11. Meditate on Revelation 1:8? What does this mean and what does this mean to you? (Campbell explains in his last paragraph before John is Commissioned…
Thursday: John is Commissioned (Part 1)
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share main points or anything that stands out.
13. Read the first 5 paragraphs under JOHN IS COMMISSIONED…
A. In the first paragraph, how does Campbell illuminate how the word “tribulation” should be used according to John? Is this different than you have heard explained? If so, how?
B. In this section in Mystery Explained, we learn the significance of many of the symbols given to John such as “loud voice like a trumpet,” “seven lampstands,” “eyes like blazing fire” “feet like burnished bronze,” “voice like many waters,” and “sharp two-edged sword.” Share anything new you learned.
C. What does Campbell mean with the phrase “already and not yet.”
D. Why might God be showing you this today?
Friday: John is Commissioned (Part 2)
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
B. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section.
Saturday:
16. What is your take-a-way and why?
172 comments
Wednesday
8. Revelation does deal with the end times, but only a small fraction of it does. We see it here in one verse in chapter 1 — Revelation 1:7. What does it say?
“BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen.” Revelation 1:7
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “John’s words of greeting continue” and share his main point and how we can apply it not just to His final coming, but right now.
Jesus came in the flesh, where He died, was buried and rose again…which brought on the Kingdom of God. Jesus comes through the Holy Spirit where He dwells within the believer (Campbell says the church, but we are the church), and continually encourages, corrects and admonishes us. Then He will return for His final coming.
10. Compare Revelation 1:7 with Zechariah 12:10. How has the group broader in the New Testament reference? (Cambell can help in the next paragraph if you don’t see it.)
““I will pour out on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Spirit of grace and of supplication, so that they will look on Me whom they have pierced; and they will mourn for Him, as one mourns for an only son, and they will weep bitterly over Him like the bitter weeping over a firstborn.” Zechariah 12:10
In Zechariah, Israel will mourn for Him and in Revelation, all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him.
The group broadens to the church. “As Christ comes and comes again throughout history, culminating in his final coming, believers of every nation will mourn and weep as they come in repentance and faith to receive him as Lord and Savior.”
11. Meditate on Revelation 1:8? What does this mean and what does this mean to you? (Campbell explains in his last paragraph before John is Commissioned…
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”” Revelation 1:8
He isn’t just the beginning and the end, but all the in-between too, He is eternal and Almighty, which according to Strongs…He is all-ruling, holds sway over all things and is Omnipotent.
15. A. How is John’s response to the vision he receives similar to Daniel’s? They both fell on their face and needed revival from a heavenly being. Both were completely overwhelmed and did not understand any of it without help.
B. “Revelation assumes believers will suffer and even die for the faith.” The purpose is to both prepare us for the suffering, and to comfort us that when we look back, we will see that our suffering was well worth it.
Thursday
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share main points or anything that stands out.
John is a fellow partaker in the tribulation…this caught my eye (never really thought about it before). The futurist view has the tribulation lasting 7 years and of course being in the future so how could John be a fellow partaker?
He describes Jesus’s voice like the sound of a trumpet.
He was standing in the middle of 7 lamp stands.
He was clothed in a robe, had a golden sash across His chest.
His hair was like wool, white as snow.
His eyes like a flame of fire.
His feet like burnished bronze.
His voice like the sound of many waters.
His right hand held 7 stars.
A sharp two-edged sword came out of His mouth.
His face was shinning in its strength.
That’s a great insight, Sharon – -and may answer Mary and Julie’s question. But I will take their question to Dr. Campbell.
6. Read Revelation 1:4-5
A. In what two ways does John use the number seven? The seven churches and the seven spirits.
B. List all the ways Jesus is described in these two verses – do any of these descriptions become radioactive for you? If so, why? The faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, the ruler of the kings of the earth, the one who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood. The most important one to me is the one who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood. It is the only thing that I can depend on and all of my hope is in this.
7. Read Dr. Cambell’s first six paragraphs under “John Greets the Churches” (Stop at “John’s words of greeting continue…” Highlight as you read.
A. Share one of your highlights. If the one who was, is, and is to come is God, and Jesus Christ is Jesus, that means that the seven spirits who are before his throne has to be the Holy Spirit.
B. What do you learn in his first two paragraphs about the number 7? It is the number of completion. It is used significantly throughout the Bible. The seven churches mean the church as a completed whole.
C. Why do we need to understand that Revelation is just as relevant to us as other letters to the churches in the New Testament? Because we need to apply what is being revealed, not just chalk it up to the responsibility of future generations.
D. The description of Jesus in verse 4 is a quote from Psalm 89:27 -29 and 35-37. Find this. What do you see? He is the firstborn, the king over all.
E. Campbell explains we will see this phrase “kings of the earth” again in Revelation, and it refers to the kings who oppose Christ’s rule. I cannot help but think of those rulers today in North Korea, Iran, and China who are so viciously persecuting Christians. What does it mean to you that Christ rules over them? (This calms me, like the “voice of many waters.”) To know that all of this is preordained and Christ is the ruler of it all brings me a sense of peace, but hopefully not complacency. None of this is at my front door, but it is happening to my brothers and sisters in other parts of the world and I don’t want to sit back and do nothing to ease their suffering today. We still have to stand up for what is right.
F. Rev. 1:6 is a quotation from Exodus 19:6 but there is a change of tense in Revelation. Significance? Instead of speaking to what He is going to do, it uses the past tense which means He has already done it.
G. Dr. Campbell writes: “God has in one sense sovereignty limited himself to operating through us. The church is an imperfect vehicle composed of imperfect people, yet God has chosen to use these people as the means by which his kingdom comes….there is no plan B.” Significance to you? It reminds me of the Jews of the Old Testament. All the time as I read about them and how they failed Him repeatedly, how they turned from God to their idols again and again, I think why didn’t God just dump them and get a better group of people? Obviously there is no “better group of people” and He is going to continue to use us as horrible and imperfect as we are to bring about His kingdom.
H. Christ became a King and a Priest through His blood and “freed us from our sins by his blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests” (Rev. 1:5b) We are called to walk in the way of the cross. The way up is down. Share a way in the past you experienced this. This really is a hard one. On the one hand lately I have been putting others ahead of myself and doing what’s best for them regardless of what’s “fair” or reciprocated, yet on the other hand I have a nagging sense that I am asking, “Have I went down far enough, and am I now on my way up?” Maybe I need to look at it like this earthly walk is continually down and that the way up will not occur until after death. That’s how Jesus did it.
Such a good answer to E. And as far as your answer to H, I think that is often true, though not always. I do think I have a greater sense of His pleasure when I walk in humility, but things may not be truly solved til heaven.
Dawn–I appreciate your honesty in H. I know sometimes I feel like it’s a lot of “going down”. But I also agree with what Dee said, if I listen for it, I do sense HIs pleasure in those areas, I feel HIs peace, though I have to keep giving it over many times. I remember once Keller talking about a “living sacrifice” in that it moves and you have to keep putting it back on the altar, keep laying it down–that is me for sure!
Dawn, I loved what you said in G… He can’t dump us for a better people; there aren’t any. Way back when I went through confirmation classes in a mainline denomination, we were asked what we learned from the Old Testament? My answer was that we couldn’t do it on our own. We couldn’t be righteous, keep the law, certainly not be clean on the inside. The Old Testament shows us we need a Savior. That is both discouraging and encouraging for me. Discouraging, because I so desperately want to be better than I am. Encouraging, because He already knows that I am dust but loves me anyway.
I thought I submitted my comments below already but they are gone. So I am posting it again.
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share main points or anything that stands out.
13. Read the first 5 paragraphs under JOHN IS COMMISSIONED…
A. In the first paragraph, how does Campbell illuminate how the word “tribulation” should be used according to John? Is this different than you have heard explained? If so, how?
Campbell uses the word tribulation to mean the reality existing already in the first century and suggesting that it will continue to be characteristic of Christian experience until Jesus’s return. Tribulation is a word to refer to the present experience of Christians.
Now this is very interesting to me from the context of my upbringing in the Philippines. My parents always have used the word “tribulation” to refer to our present sufferings. So I guess, they were idealists as well and have had a strong influence on what I believe now. My sister and her family attended a Reform Church when she was still alive.
That’s really interesting about your parents using the word tribulation.
I’m sorry you are having trouble with comments disappearing — I didn’t see anything that needed to be approved.
Friday: John is Commissioned (Part 2)
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
Jesus wants John, not to be afraid that’s is mostly where I am camping.
He also assures him he is in control and wants him to understand the mysterious things he is seeing.
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
They both fall down, needing reassurance and strength to be given, they both receive revelation and interpretation.
B. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section.That Christ has the power to decide who is liberated with him.
That the book speaks to ‘things that are’ this affirms the take of the end times being this age we are in.
The mystery theme too- that we can’t understand what God is up to and why he allows what he does- but that his purposes will stand.
Good place to camp, Chris.
10. Compare Revelation 1:7 with Zechariah 12:10. How has the group broader in the New Testament reference? (Cambell can help in the next paragraph if you don’t see it.)
In Zechariah it says the “house of David” and the “inhabitants of Jerusalem.” Revelation says “every eye,” and “all the tribes of the earth.”
11. Meditate on Revelation 1:8? What does this mean and what does this mean to you? (Campbell explains in his last paragraph before John is Commissioned…
It is a description of God, the beginning and the end. The One who has been here always.
D. The description of Jesus in verse 4 is a quote from Psalm 89:27 -29 and 35-37. Find this. What do you see? Jesus is the One Who is, Who was, and Who is to come, V5 – faithful witness, firstborn from the dead,, and ruler of the Kings of the Earth. Jesus is King forever above all Kings, and we who are His are in His line enduring with Him forever-like how earthly kings establish their royal lines we are in His Royal line established by God.
E. Campbell explains we will see this phrase “kings of the earth” again in Revelation, and it refers to the kings who oppose Christ’s rule. I cannot help but think of those rulers today in North Korea, Iran, and China who are so viciously persecuting Christians. What does it mean to you that Christ rules over them? (This calms me, like the “voice of many waters.”) That as out of control as they seem to us, and as much power as we think they have, in reality they don’t. Jesus Christ rules over them so they have boundaries they aren’t aware of and they aren’t as “in control” as they think they are. They are in for a huge surprise when all will be revealed and the Christians they killed will and are glorifying God. They can’t snuff God down like they think they are by murdering Christians-it is doing the opposite.
F. Rev. 1:6 is a quotation from Exodus 19:6 but there is a change of tense in Revelation. Significance? Shall Be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation in Exodus and has made us to be a kingdom and priests in Revelation. The change of tense is future tense in Exodus and past tense in Revelation-so Revelation states it has already happened.
G. Dr. Campbell writes: “God has in one sense sovereignty limited himself to operating through us. The church is an imperfect vehicle composed of imperfect people, yet God has chosen to use these people as the means by which his kingdom comes….there is no plan B.” Significance to you? If God, being perfect and holy, can love us imperfect, flawed vessels this much by choosing to operate through us, coming to die and rise from the dead so that His blood could cover us-I am completely humbled. We are truly a mess and frail and fragile and easily distracted-Yet His spirit inside empowers us. That He would choose us to dwell in-it is so beautiful, yet seemingly risky in my finite mind, and mysterious, and satisfying, and glorious-all wrapped in one.
H. Christ became a King and a Priest through His blood and “freed us from our sins by his blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests” (Rev. 1:5b) We are called to walk in the way of the cross. The way up is down. Share a way in the past you experienced this. I think in my trial where I wanted to walk away and had every biblical right to do so, but for some reason God wanted me to stay even if the outcome wasn’t as I wanted..so far all I know is how He has protected me spiritually through all of this, is growing me, freed me from relational idolatry, and set me on the most healthy and joyous path I’ve ever been on via trusting His sovereignty, care and control. Whatever the outcome, this outcome is glorious-that the person sees Jesus in me-and might be softening- that is the most important thing ever to come out of this which God could have accomplished whether I stayed or not-but He is growing me and has become bigger than my circumstances. I have Him and He has me, and eternity is a LONG time and I get to enjoy Him as my perfect protector and provider because of everything HE has done-how can it be!! hallelujah!.
Love this, Rebecca, “He has protected me spiritually through all of this, is growing me, freed me from relational idolatry, and set me on the most healthy and joyous path I’ve ever been on via trusting His sovereignty, care, and control.”
H. Christ became a King and a Priest through His blood and “freed us from our sins by his blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests” (Rev. 1:5b) We are called to walk in the way of the cross. The way up is down. Share a way in the past you experienced this.
I had a different answer here, a more tangible example—but after thinking on it I realized this feels like an almost daily experience for me where I am challenged by my own pride or wanting something to go a certain way, and I have to lay that down. I’m in a situation regularly where another person seems to “need” attention from the others around us and at first it was really hard to be around but more and more I feel like I can release it and let that person have it, and I am OK, if that makes sense. I do sense recently a change, oh I hope it sticks, but where I feel less able to be so hurt by others’ thoughts and opinions before I feel the security of His love for me more.
8. Revelation does deal with the end times, but only a small fraction of it does. We see it here in one verse in chapter 1 — Revelation 1:7. What does it say?
“Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him. Even so. Amen.”
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “John’s words of greeting continue” and share his main point and how we can apply it not just to His final coming, but right now.
I’ve never thought about it this way, but I like it. Jesus’ final coming is His last climatic coming after many “comings” before that Day. He comes continually to encourage, correct, admonish. Today He comes through His Spirit.
10. Compare Revelation 1:7 with Zechariah 12:10. How is the group broader in the New Testament reference? (Campbell can help in the next paragraph if you don’t see it.)
Zechariah says Israel, the house of David and all of Jerusalem, and John says “all the tribes of the earth”.
11. Meditate on Revelation 1:8? What does this mean and what does this mean to you? (Campbell explains in his last paragraph before John is Commissioned…
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
He is Lord over all human history. He rules over the beginning, the end and everything in between. Whatever our current circumstance—God is ruling over it! He is working all things together for our good.
Thursday
13. Read the first 5 paragraphs under JOHN IS COMMISSIONED…
A. In the first paragraph, how does Campbell illuminate how the word “tribulation” should be used according to John? Is this different than you have heard explained? If so, how?
Being a part of God’s kingdom primarily brings trials, testing and persevering endurance. Which means here and now! “The” tribulation was always put in a special box for the future and I wouldn’t be a part of it. I knew there would be trials in my life but nothing like “the” tribulation in the the future. This is an eye opener as I said above…this is what Christ calls us to. When I think of the suffering that He went through on the cross, why should it be any different for me? Just as Campbell says, many thought Jesus failed because of the cross, they didn’t look at it from the prospective of His resurrection. In our trials it may seem we are weak or failing, but reminds us “that when we are weak, then He is strong.” That is just so upside down! John was sent to Patmos for preaching the Word and his testimony about Jesus…he surely wasn’t in control but he knew who was!
B. In this section in Mystery Explained, we learn the significance of many of the symbols given to John such as “loud voice like a trumpet,” “seven lampstands,” “eyes like blazing fire” “feet like burnished bronze,” “voice like many waters,” and “sharp two-edged sword.” Share anything new you learned.
One thing new I learned is how some of these are related to Old Testament passages.
Dr Campbell is being so kind. I took Mary and Julie’s question to him and this was his response — of interest to all us, so will try to put it in next week’s post though I’m traveling! My questions are in black, his answer in red.
I am intrigued by the prospect that the time is actually meant as 3 1/2 days. That makes it feel more like the end could be nearer than I imagined.
6. Read Revelation 1:4-5
A. In what two ways does John use the number seven?
First, John is writing to the seven churches in the province of Asia, and secondly, John greets the believers on behalf of Him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before His throne.
B. List all the ways Jesus is described in these two verses – do any of these descriptions become radioactive for you? If so, why?
Jesus is described as the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. He is also the one who loves us and who has freed us from our sins by His blood.
Actually what stood out to me was when John says, “Grace and peace to you from Him who is, and who was, and who is to come” because this also seems to be a description of Jesus, though because John begins verse 5 with “and from Jesus Christ”, I am assuming this first part is referring to God the Father. But because of the mystery of Jesus and the Father being one, the “who is, and who was, and who is to come” seems to describe them both.
7. Read Dr. Campbell’s first six paragraphs under “John Greets The Churches”.
A. Share one of your highlights.
I learned that the verse from Exodus 19:6, “You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation” was originally a promise for Israel as a nation. However, that promise was never fulfilled in physical Israel, but is not fulfilled in the church, which means that the body of Christ, made up of believers from every nation, now takes the place of physical Israel as the inheritor of God’s promises and as His covenant people.
I’ve heard teaching over the years in which some still state that Israel, or the nation of Israel, remains God’s special nation, or covenant people.
B. What do you learn in his first two paragraphs about the number 7?
Seven signifies completion, as in the seven days of creation and therefore is linked with God. The seven churches represent the church as a completed whole.
C. Why do we need to understand that Revelation is just as relevant to us as other letters to the churches in the New Testament?
If seven represents the church as a completed whole (seven churches), and John’s prophetic message was significant for those seven churches in theh same way as Paul’s letters were significant for the churches to which they were written, then John’s message is significant for us today (just as Paul’s letters are significant to us today). John concludes his letters to each church as being addressed to “all the churches”.
D. The description of Jesus in verse 4 is a quote from Psalm 89:27-29 and 35-37. Find this. What do you see?
In verses 27-29, you can see David’s special favor with God, and “behind” David you can see Jesus as God’s firstborn, the most exalted of the kings of the earth. God also promises to maintain His love to him forever, and that His covenant with him will never fail. God will establish his line forever and his throne will be eternal. That goes way beyond any human king.
In verses 35-37, God insists that He has sworn to be true and has not lied to David in saying that David’s line and throne will continue forever.
E. Campbell explains we will see this phrase “kings of the earth” again in Revelation, and it refers to the kings who oppose Christ’s rule. I cannot help but think of those rulers today in North Korea, Iran, and China who are so viciously persecuting Christians. What does it mean to you that Christ rules over them?
It is a reality that Christ rules over every earthly ruler; however, for whatever reason He allows them to make their own choices to either acknowledge that rule, or not. Their evil acts, arrogance and pride is permitted, and so is their being able to cause suffering and harm to so many. I can’t say I understand it all. But one day, their rule will end, and His will endure.
F. Revelation 1:6 is a quotation from Exodus 19:6 but there is a change of tense in Revelation. Significance?
When stated to the Israelites, it was a future promise (“You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”) In Revelation, John states that Jesus made us a kingdom of priests, so he is saying this promise has been fulfilled.
G. Dr. Campbell writes: “God has in one sense sovereignly limited himself to operating through us. The church is an imperfect vehicle composed of imperfect people, yet God has chosen to use these people as the means by which his kingdom comes….there is no plan B.” Significance to you?
History certainly does prove the imperfectness of the church, and its various members. Despite the corruptions in the Catholic church, for example, around the time of the beginning of the reformation (Luther), many godly men and women in that church system impacted the world for good. (Ignatius of Loyola, Julian of Norwich, for example). The reformers themselves were not perfect. And so today, our churches are still filled with imperfect men and women…and that leads right down to me (and you). Yet, we are all a part of God’s plan to bring a bit more of His kingdom (reign and power) to bear on this earth.
H. Christ became a King and a Priest through His blood and “freed us from our sins by His blood and has made us to be a kingdom and priests” (Rev 1:5b) We are called to walk in the way of the cross. The way up is down. Share a way in the past you experienced this.
I think we have to be careful here. I once heard Leslie Vernick speak about “dying to self”, which goes along with walking in the way of the cross, or the way up, is down. She said that it does not mean “not having a self”, as in becoming a non-person, negating oneself in service to the needs and desires of others. She said it is important to know who you are. “You can’t die to a self you don’t know.” God, in freeing us from our sins, enables us to live in the freedom of who He created us to be, and to explore our gifts, talents, and abilities and then we can use them to bless and serve others. In the past, I took Bible studies and read books on being a “submissive wife”, in which a wife was to almost look to her husband to direct her in every aspect: dress and wear your hair the way your husband wants you to, only cook meals that he likes, etc…. You still have to be yourself and know who you are, what you like and don’t like, and be able to identify your own emotions. I think what I’m trying to say is that you have to make sure you are a whole, healthy person in order to then be able to walk in the way of the cross in a manner that is truly edifying to God, because it is not edifying to Him, in my opinion, if a person is being used, mistreated, and taken advantage of in the name of “dying to self”.
I love your closing thoughts — so important, Susan.
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share main points or anything that stands out.
Why would Jesus (he says “like the son of man” which is how Jesus refers to Himself) appear with white (presumably old) hair? Isn’t he the same today, tomorrow, and yesterday?
lots of 7’s going on here….
🙂 Same in character — but obviously His appearance changes! I know white hair is associated with wisdom in Proverbs — but that is just a guess.
Thursday
C. What does Campbell mean with the phrase “already and not yet.”
“At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit brought to earth a beginning manifestation of the eternal temple in heaven.” The Holy Spirit lives within us and we are His temple. The temple is present on the earth “already” (Us). But, it has “not yet” been fulfilled, which will take place in heaven..a glimpse of what is in chapter 4.
D. Why might God be showing you this today?
To keep persevering.
Friday
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
John’s physical reaction when he saw Christ…”fell at His feet as if he were dead.” I can only imagine what is was like for John to see Jesus in such a different form!
He asks John to write down the things he has seen, both the things now happening and the thing that will happen.
He reveals to John the mystery of the 7 stars, which are angels and the 7 lamp stands which are 7 churches.
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
When Daniel had a vision he fell on his face and was exhausted. Both are revived by a heavenly being.
B. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section.
“This pattern links John closely with Daniel in the same way 1:10 links him with Ezekiel, Moses, Isaiah and Jeremiah. John is identified in his personal calling and experience with the Old Testament prophets, just as the visions he receives are to be interpreted in light of Old Testament revelation and prophecy.” Scripture interpreting scripture.
Saturday
I have found this week to be intense. Feeling like I could read and reread what we covered as I don’t feel it has quite sunk in. One thing I have found and I apologize ahead of time for, is not reading all the comments…I feel overwhelmed! Don’t know how you do it Dee but appreciate that you do take the time and do respond.
I have really liked seeing how the Old Testament fits in and that John is put in the same category as Moses, Isaiah, Daniel and Zechariah when he is being commissioned to bring this message.
I also have found myself praying over a passage for clarity more than ever. I walk our dog every morning and that is my time to talk to God and go over in my mind what I have read and ask for wisdom. I also fall asleep praying too.
Sharon I agree, it’s so hard for me to keep up reading all the comments. I usually answer the questions first and then if time allows I try and go back and read, but oh my so many and so good. Dee you are amazing to be able to read and help us through. Thank you.
Sharon — doing the study is what is most important. The comments are the icing – -but I’ve always loved icing. Seriously, I love seeing us grow together.
Friday: John is Commissioned (Part 2)
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you. – I see this time around reading these verses that John fell at his feet like he was dead. It reminds me of some Charismatic Christians falling out in the Spirit. I’m thinking John was so overpowered by the presence and power that he could not stand up to it and was knocked off his feet. The power of Christ is so unbelievable and can be an awesome feeling if we allow ourselves to receive it.
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12? – They both fell to the ground from unbelievable power and both were afraid. They saw the vision was what was to come and both were told not to be afraid.
B. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section. – This really is a very good book and explanation to Revelation. This is so helpful to me “The mystery is the reality that Christ’s sovereign rule over history is exercised even where Christians are suffering. Christ exercises his authority while standing in the midst of the lampstands – the seven churches” Oh my this is so good. We who are believers are covered in all times of our lives, whether we are in a time of floating on water leisurely or in a massive trial, God is in control at all times and over everything going on. Thank you Lord!
Love your closing thought, Julie.
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share main points or anything that stands out.
It struck me how John identifies himself, and us as brothers and partners “in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance”
13. Read the first 5 paragraphs under JOHN IS COMMISSIONED…
A. In the first paragraph, how does Campbell illuminate how the word “tribulation” should be used according to John? Is this different than you have heard explained? If so, how?
Christians are to follow the path of Christ—we are most like Him in trial, testing and perseverance. What may look and feel like failure when God is most at work in us.
B. In this section in Mystery Explained, we learn the significance of many of the symbols given to John such as “loud voice like a trumpet,” “seven lampstands,” “eyes like blazing fire” “feet like burnished bronze,” “voice like many waters,” and “sharp two-edged sword.” Share anything new you learned.
“loud voice like a trumpet”-as Moses did in Exod. 16
“7 lampstands”-refer to Zech. 4:2, the 7 lamps represent the power of the Spirit and the lampstands are the 7 churches, the church as a whole over time.
C. What does Campbell mean with the phrase “already and not yet.”
The temple is present on earth now, though not it its fulfilled form as it will be in Heaven.
D. Why might God be showing you this today?
Hope. This is the “already and not yet”. I belong to Him, His Kingdom, it is not yet what it will be, but it WILL be.
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
I love the tenderness of Christ towards John: “He laid his right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not'”
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
He fell on his face, overcome with fear; then is strengthened and receives the vision.
B. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section.
“Christ’s sovereign rule over history is exercised even where Christians are suffering.” Christ is among us while we suffer. The mystery of the cross-the One through whom the world was created was subject to the ultimate death.
So good:
I love the tenderness of Christ towards John: “He laid his right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not’”
Me too
14. Revelation 1:17-20 what stands out?
Verse 19 Write the things you have seen, the things which are happening and the things that will happen later.
This seems to indicate that there is a past, a present and a future to the vision John sees.
I am amazed at the relationship of the Old Testament and am hoping to grow in understanding of this. Many of the references have not been clear to me and I am hoping to grow in understanding of them, particularly the book of Daniel.
What stands out to me in the closing section is the comparison of John being overcome by fear and falling on his face. Similarly Daniel was terrified and fell to the ground. I had never compared these passages before and am awed by this comparison.
This book has so much to think about.
It surely does — have to go slowly, I find, but exciting to be learning.
13. A. In the first paragraph, how does Campbell illuminate how the word “tribulation” should be used according to John? Is this different than you have heard explained? If so, how?
I must be missing something? I have the kindle version and I don’t see that he explains tribulation. He says the three words are closely related to each other (tribulation, kingdom, and patience), but he doesn’t define tribulation. He does says that Christians exercise the rule of kingdom by trial, testing, and perseverance and that it mirrors Jesus on the cross. Christians follow that pattern. Through our failure (weakness) the victory of God (eventually) comes.
Tribulation, to me, has always meant the time of a major trial or a painful time that comes at the end of times. It is the time when God will judge.
I guess I see one as more of a win, as I struggle through my life and realize that I am blessed when He helps me through the trials, and the other as a scary, punishing, authoritative one where I am judged. Even though I feel like I will be included in eternity with Christ, this tribulation (of which I have always thought of) makes me worry.
B. In this section in Mystery Explained, we learn the significance of many of the symbols given to John such as “loud voice like a trumpet,” “seven lampstands,” “eyes like blazing fire” “feet like burnished bronze,” “voice like many waters,” and “sharp two-edged sword.” Share anything new you learned.
I thought it was interesting to read each of the OT passages that Revelation is correlated to. I have never known or done that before. I didn’t know that John was “acting” like one of the OT prophets. Again, I’m not convinced, as he is, that John is referring to the churches “…both then and now.”
C. What does Campbell mean with the phrase “already and not yet.”
He says theologians use this phrase and it means the church that is on earth now but not yet in its heavenly form.
D. Why might God be showing you this today?
To give me peace and hope.
16. What is your take-a-way and why?
Two things- the truth that Christ is present and sovereign even when we suffer. I knew this is true, but it is good to be reminded and to recognize how the Cross makes the truth clear. In every circumstance, no matter the suffering, Christ is near and His rule is sovereign over all. I’ve always said just because something is hard doesn’t mean it isn’t HIs plan or that we made a mistake–He uses it all and often the hard to shape us.
And also–the many comings of Jesus before the final Day. I love Campbell’s quote Dee gave “While it is certainly true that we will bow in worship and also in sorrow and repentance when we behold Christ at His final return, the same should be true as Christ comes to us now by His Spirit. We grieve over our disobedience and sin, and bow in worship before Him, and in joy over the reality of His forgiveness.”
I feel like I don’t give enough weight to the many comings we have now, today, every hour through His Spirit. I want to recognize the beauty of that more. It magnifies the beauty of John 16:7 to me: ” Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.”
He comes to us in His Spirit. I can see so many times He has come to me. A significant time was a very specific rescue. Recently, I looked back at my journal on that day, I had not ever done that for it was such a difficult time. But I realized that one that very day, hours before in my journal, I had begged Him to rescue me, our family. The event that came a few hours later did not look like a rescue. It was actually the only time in my life I remember really questioning His presence. But as I look back now, I see Him. I see His hand on my shoulder saying ‘Fear Not’.
Lizzy, thanks for sharing this. What an awesome (and I mean awe-inspiring) thing to see how God was right there to rescue you and your family even though it did not look like a rescue. But now, you can see His hand on your shoulder saying “Fear not”. So many times we do not recognize God’s hand, but He is right there.
Wonderful testimony, Lizzy. Excited to see you Friday! (I have a long layover at her airport, so, Lord willing, we will have lunch!)
Oh how fun! I am glad to know this ❤️
Lizzy, thank you for the wonderful testimony! And it looks like you get to see Dee! Here is a song that has spoken to me before and even now.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgpaULjZOl8 Casting Crowns “Praise You in this Storm”
Saturday:
16. What is your take-a-way and why?
I am thinking about the prophets, about how they were unable to stand in the presence of God, overwhelmed by the glory and holiness of God, and that their response after being reassured that they were not to be consumed was one of readiness to do whatever is asked of them.
I am so often focused on my shortcomings to the point of inaction. I have over the past year read Abba’s Child and Gentle and Lowly, and they have helped me to take in that I am loved, but geez, I am so prone to slide in the direction of inward depressive focus. I need that realization that God chooses and uses and actually really loves imperfect people to change me in deeper ways that make me ready to hear his voice and do his will.
Oh Chris, I am so with you in that “inward depressive focus”. Sometimes I just wish that I could get out of my own head and stop looking for proof and evidence that I am loved, not only by God but by others.
Thursday: John is Commissioned (Part 1)
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share the main points or anything that stands out.
13. Read the first 5 paragraphs under JOHN IS COMMISSIONED…
B. In this section in Mystery Explained, we learn the significance of many of the symbols given to John such as “loud voice like a trumpet,” “seven lampstands,” “eyes like blazing fire” “feet like burnished bronze,” “voice like many waters,” and “sharp two-edged sword.” Share anything new you learned.
Flames of fire Christ role as a judge
His feet like a burnished bronze call to the church to moral purity
Seven stars Christ’s authority extends throughout both earthly and heavenly realms. Hallelujah!
C. What does Campbell mean with the phrase “already and not yet.”
The temple is truly present on earth now (the already), though not in its fulfilled heavenly form. (not yet)
D. Why might God be showing you this today?
I am to draw power from the Holy Spirit as I am part of the church belonging to Christ that God has called.
Friday: John is Commissioned (Part 2)
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
The presence of the Lord was so awesome John fell down. Just like Daniel And yet the very words of Jesus “do not be afraid” should have been very comforting in the midst of the tremors they may have been feeling inside.
Here was resurrection made plain again “I was dead but now look; I am alive forever and ever.
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
They both were strengthened by a heavenly being after falling prostrate on the ground.
C. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section.
I am the first the last, the Alpha and Omega. He is Lord over history at its beginning, at its end, and Lord over everything in between.
What a comfort! He is everything we ever hope a Savior would be. He is LORD!
Saturday:
16. What is your take-a-way and why?
1. Revelation was written not only for the audience of Paul then but for us. For Christians in the now and in the future until Jesus comes again.
2. Jesus walks among the churches even while they are suffering. I should not be afraid.
3. I have been sharing this study with my husband and we have talked about Romans 10:1-13.
. V.1 Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. v.13 For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Salvation is for all who calls on Him “For if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. V. 9
1. I have been struck about the “comings of Jesus”. I sense His presence more and more these days and am grateful for how He is keeping me able to do what I need to do especially with regard to finishing my teaching career. The answers are so left-field I know they are from Him!
Just like a few of you here, I am sorry also for not being able to respond to comments. This study has been quite a challenge for me in relation to the English language. But I will plug along!
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
He says, “…Fear not…”
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
In both cases, the men are surprised by a vision, fall on their face, and then are comforted.
8. Revelation does deal with the end times, but only a small fraction of it does. We see it here in one verse in chapter 1 – Revelation 1:7. What does it say?
This verse says that Jesus will come in the clouds, and that every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him, and that all peoples of the earth will mourn because of Him.
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “John’s words of greeting continue” and share his main point and how we can apply it not just to His final coming, but right now.
His main point is that this verse (Rev 1:7) does not only refer to Jesus’ final coming, but rather, taken in context, His “final coming” is preceded by many “comings”. Jesus comes to us even now, by His Spirit, and we can repent of our sin and disobedience, bow in worship to Him, and rejoice in His forgiveness.
10. Compare Revelation 1:7 with Zechariah 12:10. How has the group broader in the New Testament reference?
The verse in Zechariah is addressed to the “house of David” (Israel) and says that they will “look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child.” In Revelation, John says that everyone will see Him, and “all the peoples of the earth” will mourn over Him. Campbell said that again, the church is the prophetic fulfillment of passages originally referring to the nation of Israel.
11. Meditate on Revelation 1:8. What does this mean and what does this mean to you?
God declares that He is the Alpha and the Omega. (These are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet). He says “I am” – who IS, and who WAS, and who IS TO COME. This gives me the sense that God is outside of time as I know it. I can’t pinpoint a time when God began. Yet this mysterious God of the very ancient time, and even the very beginning of time as He chose to reveal it, is presently active right now in history, and even in my own life.
12. Read Revelation 1:9-16 and share main points or anything that stands out.
I like how John expresses his solidarity, or “withness”, with believers everywhere, calling himself our brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus. This makes me think of the communion of the saints, both living and in heaven, or that great cloud of witnesses.
13. Read the first 5 paragraphs under JOHN IS COMMISSIONED….
A. In the first paragraph, how does Campbell illuminate how the word “tribulation” should be used according to John? Is this different than you have heard explained? If so, how?
Not only John, but elsewhere in the NT, the word “tribulation” refers not only to the present suffering of Christians in the first century, but also describes the experience of Christians in general, up to our present time. I usually only heard “tribulation” as meaning really horrific times happening on the earth in the “last days” or “end times” before Jesus’ return.
B. In this section Mystery Explained, we learn the significance of many of the symbols given to John such as “loud voice like a trumpet”, “seven lampstands”, “eyes like blazing fire”, “feet like burnished bronze”, “voice like many waters”, and “sharp two-edged sword”. Share anything new you learned.
I learned why Jesus’ hair appeared white as wool, or snow. This is a reference to God as The Ancient of Days, and draws a close comparison between Christ and God. It further emphasized Jesus’ divinity. His lower extremities appearing like burnished bronze is His desire to encourage the church to moral purity.
C. What does Campbell mean with the phrase “already and not yet”?
The church (the new Israel) seeks to build the new temple of God with all believers serving as priests and kings. At Pentecost, the Spirit “brought to earth a beginning manifestation of the eternal temple in heaven”. Campbell says it is this “manifestation” that is understood as the “already-not yet”, meaning that the temple is truly present on earth now, though not in its fulfilled heavenly form.
D. Why might God be showing you this today?
Well, God may want me to understand that “tribulation”, or suffering, is not some future end-times event, but just a normal part of life here and now. But He also assures me, with all of the wonderful descriptions of Jesus, the Son of Man, who is the Beginning and the End, and everything in between, too….He is truly God, the Ancient of Days, the one who will judge and reign and rule, and so I can trust Him with my life and the circumstances or sufferings and trials that I may endure. It really isn’t pollyannish to say, it will all be alright in the end. I can also know that the reality of His reign and power is really present here and now, just not in perfect form, but it gives me hope that He is really working in our world right now.
14. Read Revelation 1:17-20 and share anything that stands out to you.
If I imagine Jesus saying what He did to John, in identifying Himself, I can hear almost an excitement in His voice: “I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold, I am alive for ever and ever!” It’s like LOOK! Look at Me, John! It’s Me, I am here and I am alive – for always and forever!
15. Read Campbell’s closing section in Lesson 1 beginning with the paragraph “John responds to the heavenly vision.”
A. How is John’s response similar to Daniel’s in Daniel 8:15-19 and 10:7-12?
I read Daniel – in his vision, I think it was the angel Gabriel who was speaking to him and who helped him get up when he fell on his face. Daniel fell into a deep sleep. The angel spoke to him and helped him up, and then he received further revelation. John falls to the ground in great fear, though in his vision, I believe it is the Lord Jesus, and not an angel, who speaks to John, touches him and helps him get up.
B. Share anything that stands out to you from Campbell’s closing section.
I guess I never realized that Revelation was all about the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, especially and pivotally, Daniel’s. Daniel’s “mystery” was all about the coming of the Messiah, but in a totally unpredictable way; not the way most of the Jews envisioned: a conquering Messiah who would drive out the Romans and give them religious and political freedom.
16. What is your take-away and why?
I wonder…did all the people who had Revelation read to them after John wrote it understand how all of it was linked to various promises and prophecies in the Scriptures? I would think there were many that found it “over their heads”? They needed someone to explain it to them? Just like we need it explained today. This was a lot to take in this week. I haven’t ever been exposed to teaching like this about Revelation….it’s very hard to think through everything, but it makes sense.