Revelation 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Revelation 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The Revelation of Jesus Christ comes as a message from God to his servants. John testifies to God’s word and to the testimony of Jesus Christ (vv. 1-2).

Key verse

“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 (WEB)

Outline

Revelation 1:1–3 Introduction to the Revelation
Revelation 1:4–6 Greeting to the Seven Assemblies
Revelation 1:7–8 The Coming of the Lord
Revelation 1:9–11 John's Vision on Patmos
Revelation 1:12–16 The Vision of the Son of Man
Revelation 1:17–19 Reassurance and Command
Revelation 1:20 Interpretation of Symbols

Discussion questions

In v5, what does Jesus do for us by washing us from our sins?
What does John see among the lamp stands in v13?
The description of Jesus in vv. 13-16: what might the imagery of His eyes being 'like a flame of fire' suggest?
In v20, why are the seven stars described as the angels of the seven assemblies?
When have you felt comforted by Jesus's words, 'Don’t be afraid' (v17)?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Revelation 1: Revelation 22, John 1, Revelation 2.

Before next time: read Revelation 2.