In a previous post we established that God’s intent for those who hear the words of the book of Revelation is that they be blessed (Rev. 1:3). This implies that we should therefore teach the book in ways that line up with His desire.
Following are some tips to help you do that:
1) Keep the lessons from the Book of Revelation interesting.
The book of Revelation contains basically three sections according to Revelation 1:19. John was to write down:
what he saw (Rev. 1)
what was current (Rev. 2-3)
what would happen in the future (Rev. 4-22)
Within these sections are so many details that a teacher could get mired down in the details and symbolism, making it a very academic, boring or tedious study. Avoid pure lecture. Be creative in your presentation.
2) Keep teaching on the Book of Revelation relevant.
The book itself points to its relevance. Though most of the book pertains to the future, it should affect us today.
- Application brings blessing.
The book begins by noting the blessing to those who read or hear the words of this prophecy and “keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand” (Rev. 1:3). This suggests that there is something applicational today in what is to come. At minimum it should stir up hope, encouragement, faith, and adoration of the One described in this book. We should be changed in some way. It should motivate us on to live holy lives, making the most of the time we have today for His glory.
- Acceptance of its invitation brings life.
Hearing the message of this book should produce a thirst within people. Those who are thirsty can “take” or accept the life He offers rather than experience the judgments of this book. — “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come!’ Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” (Rev. 22:17)
- Anticipation of His coming brings hope.
Since so much of the book is future, we have something to look forward to. The day will come when Jesus returns and rights the wrongs in this world. With the writer of Revelation we say, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” (Rev. 22:20)
3) Keep your interpretation of the Book of Revelation accurate.
This book ends with a warning. — “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.” (Rev. 22:18-19)
Guard against teaching as absolute that which might just be your opinion. If you aren’t sure about the meaning of something, don’t make something up. And, don’t get dogmatic about things God’s Word clearly states elsewhere cannot be known such as dates (Matthew 24:36; 1 Thess. 5:1-2).
4) Keep class discussion about the Book of Revelation friendly.
You could have students who interpret Revelation and the end times quite different than you. You would do well to familiarize yourself with the four basic views from which people might approach a study of Revelation. Here is a resource in one of our affiliate stores that can help you in this understanding through the use of a chart: Understanding the Book of Revelation by Rose Publishing
Be honest about how people through the ages have debated the interpretation of this book and other passages on the end times. Don’t be afraid to present the different views along with what you and your church believe. Don’t get so obsessed with a certain position that the discussion turns divisive and people lose sight of the realities most can agree on and hence miss the blessing the book of Revelation brings with it.
My desire is to teach a small group in my home the book of Revelations. I am not a scholar but a woman who loves God with all her heart, mind and soul. I am eager to gather those who want to explore the Rapture, 7 years of Tribulation and the 2nd coming. I am praying, seeking and asking that doors are opened to share and that God blesses me with Wisdom and Discernment. Thank you for any forwarded thoughts and guidance.
Greetings, Jackie Harris. God does not require we already be scholars to teach His Word. What He does ask is that you “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15) — Accurately handling the Word is different than perfectly knowing it
Keep your setting in mind (a small group in your home). Though you are in an informal setting that suggests it be more relaxed and welcoming, it doesn’t mean lack of substance. But, also keep in mind that substance doesn’t necessarily translate into excessive detail. This book is filled with a lot of details that you can’t avoid but at the same time shouldn’t overwhelm. In addition to the four points in this post, keep the following in mind to try to minimize a sense of being overwhelmed:
If you haven’t already read it, carefully read the other post on this site, Teaching the Book of Revelation, which help to give the big picture.
Lets start by saying that the name of the book is REVELATION….. Singular…. the Revelation of Jesus Christ…….. not RevelationS
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about revelation. Regards