17-21

READ Revelation 22:17-21 SHARE words, phrases, truths that stuck out to you; any questions you have; new insights. DISCUSS the passage together. 1/ John wrote Revelation to Christians who were having trouble waiting for Jesus to come and make things right in the world (1:9-10). God gave him images to share with these Christians who were having trouble enduring. How does this change the way you read Revelation? 2/ “Come Lord Jesus” is the church’s oldest prayer. Have you ever prayed this prayer and meant it? If so, why? If not, why is it a difficult prayer to mean? 2/ Read Isaiah 55:1-2. How does this add perspective to v. 17? 3/ It seems the church (the Bride) by the power of the Holy Spirit (the Spirit) and all who read the book of Revelation are saying “come” not only to Jesus (v. 20) but to the nations. What are they inviting the nations to? 4/ Do you see Jesus’ delay as an opportunity to invite others to the grace of the gospel like this? If so, what can you learn from v. 17 about the nature of our invitation? 5/ vv. 18-19 are a warning about adding specifically to Revelation but generally to God’s Word. Why do you think God is so adamant about not tampering with His Word? How can you see this warning as a loving - even protective - gesture? 6/ v. 20 the cry “Come” is clearly directed to Jesus. How does praying this prayer change your outlook on life? 7/ How is it possible to desire the hastening of Jesus’ return and see his delay as an opportunity for evangelism? APPLY the text to your life (these questions from Redeemer NYC might help). 1/ How can I praise him? 2/ How can I confess my sins on the basis of this text? 3/ If this is really true, what wrong behavior, what harmful emotions or false attitudes result in me when I forget this? 4/ What should I be aspiring to on the basis of this text? 5/ God, why are you telling me this today? PRAY together for the things you just shared, and also for anything else in your life.