Revelation 6: The Beautiful Wrath of God
JUDGMENT IS NOT something we normally long for. But if we are suffering unjustly in an evil social system, God's judgment—far from being a dreaded prospect—is our only hope. Like a wood plane that is used against the grain rather than with it, so wrath is how people opposing the rule of God will experience his grace.
In Revelation 6—19 there is a complicated and rather confusing pattern of disaster and suffering. If we seek to unravel these pictures as a timetable for the future, we will be disappointed and perplexed. But if we want to learn how to live in the present and find hope for the future, there is much here to encourage us. These chapters inspire trust in a God who is faithful and just.
Warming Up to God
As you approach the subject of God's wrath, what thoughts and feelings do you have? Explain.
Read Revelation 6. »
Discovering the Word
- The scene shifts back to earth as the Lamb opens the book of destiny. Summarize the events during the first four seals (vv. 1-8).
- Are the events during the seals normal bad times (compare vv. 1-8 with vv. 12-14)? Explain.
- How does the experience of the saints (vv. 9-11) contrast with that of the unbelievers (vv. 15-17) as they anticipate the impending wrath of God?
- What evidence, if any, do you see of this contrast among people today?
Applying the Word
- If we realize that the wrath of God will one day be fully expressed, what difference should it make in our attitude toward sin?
- In our attitude toward unjust suffering?
- In our attitude toward non-Christians?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for non-Christians you know, that they would come to know the love of the Lord.
For Further Study
The Message of Revelation by Michael Wilcock