October 6 | Discovery Questions

October 6: Discovery Questions (based on Revelation 6:1-12; 7:9-17)  

1. Who can you think of (living or dead) who might be identified as a war hero? What characteristics and actions define an individual as a war hero?  

Ask two people to read aloud Revelation 6:1-12 and 7:9-17, one after the other, preferably from different Bible versions. Then ask a third person to briefly summarize the passage. 

2. Throughout Revelation 6, John records that the Lamb (Jesus) opened the seals on the scroll that allowed God’s judgments to begin. What significance do you see in the fact that Jesus opens these seals? 

3. John notes that the four horses released with the opening of the seals were white, red, black, and pale. Do you think the colors of these horses have any significance to the unfolding events of judgment? Explain. 

4. The martyred souls under the altar asked, “How long … until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” Then they were given a white robe and told to patiently wait (6:9-11). 

• Why do you think they asked about their blood being avenged at this particular time amid the opening of the seals? What comfort can we find in knowing that the Lord will avenge the evils done to his people? 

• What does it mean that they were given a white robe and why were they told to be patient and wait? Do these actions have implications for us today? 

5. What does Revelation 6:12-17 tell us about the awe-inspiring natures of God and Jesus? Why do you think John used the imagery of a Lamb’s wrath (generally a timid animal) as the source of judgment? 

6. John describes the “great multitude” before the throne and the Lamb from “every nation, tribe, people and language” and their actions in heaven (7:9-12). 

• What do you think it will be like to be a part of this great multitude as they worship God and the Lamb? 

• Do you think John’s description of this multitude (“from every nation, tribe, people and Language”) offers an implication for Christians today? 

7. John’s description of heaven (7:15-17) may be one of the most comforting passages in Scripture. Review the items in John’s list and discuss the significance of them. 

8. Based on our study and discussion, complete the sentence: “I will . . .” 

For Next Week: Read and reflect on Revelation 8:6-13; 9:1-4, 13-15, 20-21. You can also read next week’s supplemental texts and the Study and Application sections as part of your personal study.