Why is Revelation scary? It shouldn’t be for believers! There are numerous misconceptions, misinterpretations, and misreadings of Revelation that are all too common, making it even harder for believers to grasp the book’s significance and purpose. As the final book of the Bible, it profoundly shapes Christian theology and history. So why do we hesitate to read it?

Revelation was penned over 2,000 years ago, addressed to seven churches in present-day Turkey, and authored by John under the guidance of Jesus. Yet, there’s considerable debate surrounding which John authored the book, how it should be interpreted, and its relevance for both the original audience and today’s readers. Those who use Revelation to instill fear rather than inspire hope miss the essence of John’s message.

It can be a powerful source of encouragement and a vital component of our faith. First-century readers, feeling persecuted and uncertain, had been waiting for Jesus’ return for decades and were beginning to lose hope and faith. The Revelation of Jesus Christ was their reminder that God is in control: Jesus will return, justice will triumph, wickedness will face judgment, Satan will be defeated, people will be united, the dead will rise, and the Lord will dwell among humanity.

An Invitation to Thursday Bible Study
Join us at 10:00 AM on Thursdays starting August 7 for a 13-week study on Revelation,
led by MaryHelen Mierkey. We will gather in the Fellowship Hall and online via Google Meet.

Schedule:
Aug. 7 – Introduction and Chapter 1
Aug. 13 – Chapter 2
Aug. 21 – Chapter 3
Aug. 28 – Chapters 4 and 5
Sept. 4 – Chapters 6 and 7
Sept. 11 – Chapters 8 and 9
Sept. 18 – Chapters 10 and 11
Sept. 25 – Chapters 12 and 13
Oct. 2 – Chapters 14 to 16:9
Oct. 9 – Chapters 16:10 to 18
Oct. 16 – Chapters 19 and 20
Oct. 23 – Chapter 21, v. 1-21
Oct. 30 – Chapters 21:22 through 22