Victory, Judgment, and the Reign of Christ
A Study Guide for Holding Fast Until the End
1. Introduction: What Is Revelation and Why Was It Written?
Written by the apostle John while exiled on the island of Patmos.
It’s the only book of prophecy in the New Testament, filled with visions, symbols, and direct messages from Christ.
The word “Revelation” (Greek: apokalypsis) means “unveiling.”
Not just a timeline of end events—but a call to faithfulness and readiness.
Key themes: Jesus is returning, evil will be defeated, and God’s people will be vindicated.
Reflection: Revelation isn’t meant to scare believers—it’s meant to prepare and encourage them.
2. The Glorified Christ and the Letters to the Churches (Chapters 1–3)
John sees Jesus in glory—eyes like fire, voice like rushing waters (1:12–18).
Jesus dictates letters to seven churches in Asia Minor.
Commendations, corrections, and warnings.
Themes: First love, compromise, suffering, endurance, lukewarm faith.
Key messages: “He who has an ear, let him hear…” and “To the one who overcomes…”
Takeaway: Jesus walks among His church—and He cares deeply about its purity, perseverance, and passion.
3. The Throne Room and the Scroll (Chapters 4–5)
John is taken up into heaven and sees God’s throne surrounded by worship.
A scroll with seven seals is introduced—only Jesus (the Lamb) is worthy to open it.
The Lamb is praised for being slain and ransoming people from every tribe and nation.
Lesson: All of history is in God’s hands, and Jesus is the only one worthy to carry out His plan.
4. The Seals, Trumpets, and Bowls (Chapters 6–16)
These three cycles represent God’s judgment on the earth.
Seals bring war, famine, and martyrdom.
Trumpets intensify with natural disasters and spiritual torment.
Bowls pour out final wrath—complete and devastating.
In between, we see faithful witnesses, spiritual war, and God protecting His people.
Truth: God’s justice is real and holy—but so is His mercy toward those who endure in faith.
5. The Beast, Babylon, and Final Confrontation (Chapters 17–19)
Babylon represents corrupt world systems—full of pride, immorality, and rebellion.
The Beast and False Prophet rise to deceive the world.
Jesus returns in chapter 19 as the Rider on a white horse—Faithful and True.
He defeats the beast and throws him into the lake of fire.
Encouragement: No matter how dark the world gets—Jesus is coming back in power and glory.
6. The Millennium, Judgment, and New Creation (Chapters 20–22)
Satan is bound for 1,000 years, and Christ reigns.
After a final rebellion, Satan is defeated once and for all.
The Great White Throne Judgment—those not in the Book of Life are cast out.
A new heaven and new earth appear. No more death, pain, or crying.
The New Jerusalem is described—radiant, holy, and filled with God’s presence.
Hope: The end of the story is just the beginning of eternity. We were made to be with God forever.
7. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
Revelation 1:8 – “I am the Alpha and the Omega… who is and who was and who is to come.”
Revelation 3:20 – “Behold, I stand at the door and knock…”
Revelation 5:12 – “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain…”
Revelation 12:11 – “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb…”
Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe away every tear… death shall be no more…”
Revelation 22:20 – “Surely I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”
8. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
How does Revelation challenge or encourage your view of Jesus?
Why do you think the letters to the churches are placed at the start?
How should the reality of future judgment affect how we live now?
What does Revelation teach about worship and perseverance?
How do the symbols of Babylon and the Beast show up in today’s world?
What do you most look forward to about the new heaven and new earth?