Revelation Study 1

Discussion Guide: Understanding Ourselves, Our World, and God's Action in Revelation 2-3

What work can Christians not do without compromising their devotion to God?

Revelation 2:2-3, 6, and 15 emphasize the importance of holding fast to the truth and not compromising with false teachings or practices.

As Christians, we cannot engage in work that contradicts our faith or undermines God's values, such as dishonesty, greed, or injustice.

What are some specific examples of work or practices that may compromise our devotion to God?

How can we discern and avoid them?

How do our business practices and our faith intersect and inform one another?

Revelation 2:9, 3:17 highlight the dangers of wealth and materialism, which can lead us away from God. On the other hand, Revelation 3:18 calls us to pursue true riches that come from faith and obedience.

How can we integrate our faith into our business practices, and avoid the pitfalls of greed and selfishness?

How can our business practices reflect our commitment to God's kingdom and values?

What situations in your life resemble the Revelation believers' experience of being pressured to conform?

What activities are you expected to engage in that violate the way of Christ?

In Revelation 2:13, 3:8, the believers are commended for staying true to their faith despite persecution and pressure to conform. In our own lives, we may face similar challenges, whether it's peer pressure, societal norms, or cultural expectations that go against our faith.

What are some specific situations or activities that may require us to compromise our faith?

How can we resist conformity and stand firm in our faith?

Economically, what does it look like to be in the world but not of the world?

Revelation 2:9 and 3:17 warn against the dangers of worldly wealth and materialism, which can distract us from our devotion to God. However, as Christians, we still live in the world and have economic responsibilities.

How can we balance our economic pursuits with our commitment to God's values, such as generosity, stewardship, and justice?

How can we avoid being consumed by materialism and instead use our economic resources for God's purposes?

How can we discern the vocation to which we are called?

In Revelation 2:2-3 and 3:8, the believers are praised for their faithful labor and perseverance in their respective vocations. As Christians, we are called to use our gifts and talents for God's glory and the good of others. How can we discern the vocation or calling to which God has called us? How can we integrate our faith into our work and make a meaningful contribution to God's kingdom?

What form do guilds take today?

In Revelation 2:9, the believers are described as a "synagogue of Satan," which may refer to a guild or association of traders or craftsmen who opposed the gospel. Today, guilds may take different forms, such as professional organizations, labor unions, or interest groups. How can we navigate our participation in such groups and ensure that our values align with God's values? How can we use our collective influence for good and promote justice and righteousness in our workplaces and communities?

Invitation and Response:

As we reflect on the themes of our work in the world and loyalty to God in Revelation