Discussion Questions

The Book of Revelation, Chapter 12 – 22

Chapter: Revelation 12 – The Woman, the Child, and the Dragon

Questions: How does the symbolism of the woman, the child, and the dragon reveal the ongoing cosmic conflict between good and evil? What does this chapter teach about God’s protection over His people in the face of evil forces?

Answer: The woman stands for God’s people, the child represents Christ, and the dragon symbolizes Satan. This chapter shows the ongoing fight between God’s kingdom and Satan’s evil. God’s protection is shown by how the woman is cared for in the wilderness, signaling His support for His people during tough times. It teaches that even though Satan tries to disrupt God’s plan, the final victory is with Christ and His followers.

Chapter: Revelation 13 – The Two Beasts

Questions: How do the two beasts symbolize political and religious systems used to oppose God? What warnings can be drawn about allegiance in the face of deceptive powers?

Answer: The first beast symbolizes oppressive political systems, and the second represents misleading religious influences that lead people to worship the first. This chapter warns against following earthly powers that go against God. It encourages believers to stay faithful to God despite societal pressures or lies.

Chapter: Revelation 14 – The Lamb and the 144,000

Questions: What is the significance of the 144,000 standing with the Lamb on Mount Zion, and how does this image provide hope and assurance to believers?

Answer: The 144,000 represents God’s loyal people who remain true to Him despite troubles. Standing with the Lamb on Mount Zion symbolizes ultimate victory and salvation for the faithful. This reassures believers of God’s promise to reward those who stay strong.

Chapter: Revelation 15 – Preparation for the Final Plagues

Questions: How does the vision of those victorious over the beast emphasize the justice of God’s judgments? How does this chapter prepare the reader for the final plagues?

Answer: Those who have triumphed over the beast are seen worshiping God, showing His fairness in delivering judgment. This chapter prepares readers by affirming that God’s judgments are deserved and lead to the victory of His kingdom.

Chapter: Revelation 16 – The Seven Bowls of God’s Wrath

Questions: What is the purpose of the seven bowls of God’s wrath, and how does this chapter portray the hardness of the human heart?

Answer: The seven bowls show God’s complete and final judgment against sin. Even with severe plagues, people refuse to change, illustrating the stubbornness of the human heart. This chapter highlights God’s justice and the results of refusing to repent.

Chapter: Revelation 17 – The Woman and the Beast

Questions: How does the imagery of the woman riding the beast symbolize the union of corrupt political and religious systems? What lessons can believers draw from the ultimate downfall of these systems?

Answer: The woman represents a corrupt religious system, and the beast represents political powers. Their connection shows how authority is misused against God. Believers are reminded not to trust worldly systems that will face God’s judgment.

Chapter: Revelation 18 – The Fall of Babylon

Questions: What does the fall of Babylon teach about the consequences of greed, pride, and idolatry? How can Christians live in light of this warning?

Answer: Babylon symbolizes a corrupt world driven by greed and immorality. Its fall shows that such systems cannot last under God’s judgment. Christians are called to distance themselves from worldly values and live righteously, looking forward to God’s kingdom.

Chapter: Revelation 19 – The Rider on the White Horse

Questions: How does the vision of the rider on the white horse emphasize Christ’s role as the ultimate victor and judge? How should this influence the believer’s perspective on current struggles?

Answer: The rider symbolizes Christ as the victorious King and just Judge. This vision reassures believers that Christ’s victory is certain, providing hope and strength during difficulties, knowing God’s plan will succeed.

Chapter: Revelation 20 – The Thousand Years

Questions: What is the significance of the thousand years, and how does this chapter highlight the ultimate defeat of Satan and the final judgment?

Answer: The thousand years symbolize a time when Satan’s power is limited, and Christ’s reign is confirmed. The chapter ends with Satan’s defeat and the final judgment, showing God’s justice and the fate of humanity based on their response to Him.

Chapter: Revelation 21 – The New Heaven and New Earth

Questions: How does the vision of the new heaven and new earth reveal God’s ultimate plan for His people? What encouragement does this chapter provide to believers today?

Answer: This vision reveals a restored creation where God lives with His people, free from pain and death. It reassures believers of God’s promise to renew everything, offering hope amid life’s challenges.

Chapter: Revelation 22 – The River of Life

Questions: What does the river of life and the tree of life symbolize in the eternal state? How does this chapter serve as both a promise and a call to action for believers?

Answer: The river and tree of life symbolize God’s gift of eternal life and healing for His people. This chapter promises the fulfillment of God’s plan while encouraging believers to remain faithful and invite others to accept God’s salvation.

Closing Paragraph: Revelation 12-22 reminds believers of the ongoing battle between good and evil, the certainty of God’s justice, and His promise of eternal life for those who are faithful. These chapters inspire hope, perseverance, and a call to have strong faith in Christ.