Revelation 10—11: God's Messenger
IN THE OLD Testament, God often used specific persons to deliver a message to another person, or sometimes to entire groups. Sometimes these messages were positive and easy to hear. However, they were often condemnations of the way things were, and those who delivered the messages, the prophets, were often ridiculed or threatened. In chapter 10, John is given a message which is not easy to deliver.
In chapter 11, two of God's prophets have a life experience which roughly parallels Jesus' time on earth. Their example can give us hope that the God who calls us to be a light in the darkness is also the one who will vindicate us.
Warming Up to God
When has God used someone else to give you a message? How did you react to the message and the messenger?
Read Revelation 10—11. »
Discovering the Word
- What are the actions of the "mighty angel" introduced in 10:1?
- What is the significance of the mystery of God which will be revealed without further delay (10:6-7)?
- What happens to the two witnesses empowered by God (11:3-14)?
- Why do you think the witnesses caused such turmoil?
- What happens when the seventh trumpet is blown (11:15-19)?
Applying the Word
- The "little scroll" that John eats (10:8-11) probably refers to the gospel. When has the gospel tasted like honey or turned your stomach sour?
- 11:10 says that the two witnesses had "tormented those who live on earth." When have you felt that God was calling you to deliver a message of bad news?
- What feelings about God and his actions do you have after reading the description of worship in 11:15-19?
Responding in Prayer
Pray that you will be willing to be God's messenger to those around you.
For Further Study
The Last Things by Donald G. Bloesch