Read Revelation 1:1–7. In what ways do you see evidence that Revelation is focused on God’s mission in the last days?

“In this book, Jesus Christ reveals the future. God gave him the command to show his servants what must soon take place according to God’s will. Christ sent an angel to his servant John to convey everything. John passes on everything he has seen and heard. He testifies to what God has said and what Jesus Christ has shown and confirmed to him. Blessed is the one who reads the prophetic words of this book to others, and blessed are those who hear and act upon them. For soon all this will come to pass. John writes this to the seven churches in the province of Asia: I wish you grace and peace from God, who is always present, who was from the beginning, and who is to come; grace and peace also from the seven spirits before God’s throne and from Jesus Christ, who reliably testifies to God’s truth. He is the first to rise from death to an imperishable life and reigns over all the kings of the earth. He loves us and has shed his blood for us to free us from our guilt. He gives us a share in his reign and has made us priests who serve God, his Father. To him belong all honor and power for eternity. Amen! Look! Jesus Christ will come on the clouds. All people will see him, even those who crucified him. Then all the peoples of the earth will mourn and lament. This will surely happen. Amen!”

The passage from Revelation 1:1–7 focuses on the revelation of Jesus Christ about the future and indicates several signs that could point to God’s mission in the end times:

1. God’s command to Jesus Christ: The passage emphasizes that God has given Jesus Christ the command to show his servants what must soon take place according to God’s will. This suggests that Revelation reveals a divine mission regarding the future.

2. Prophetic words: In verse 3, it is emphasized that blessedness applies to those who read, hear, and act upon the prophetic words of the book. This could suggest that Revelation is not only a passive revelation but also a call to action in view of the imminent events in the end times.

3. Soon to be fulfilled: The text highlights multiple times that the events will soon come to pass. This emphasizes the urgency of the message and could be interpreted as a sign of the immediacy of God’s mission in the end times.

4. The return of Jesus Christ: The mention of the return of Jesus Christ on the clouds in verse 7 is a central element. The idea that all people, including those who crucified Jesus, will see him underscores the eschatological significance and God’s end-time mission.

5. Grace and peace: The greetings to the seven churches and the mention of grace and peace from God, the seven spirits, and Jesus Christ could be considered signs of God’s mission of redemption and peace in the end times. Overall, the emphasis on prophetic revelation, imminent fulfillment, and the return of Christ suggests that Revelation deals with God’s mission in the end times and the upcoming eschatological events.

Read Revelation 1:6 and 1 Peter 2:9. What do the titles for the redeemed in these verses signify?

Revelation 1:6 – he gives us a share in his reign and has made us priests who serve God, his Father. To him belong all honor and power for eternity. Amen!

1 Peter 2:9 – But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

Both verses emphasize the special position of the redeemed and use titles that describe their identity and role in Christ:

1.Revelation 1:6: “Kings and Priests”

1. • Kings: The title “Kings” emphasizes the royal dignity and authority of believers. Through Christ, they are called to participate in his royal reign.

   • Priests: The title “Priests” indicates that the redeemed have a special connection to God and are empowered to serve Him and mediate for others. This role as priests expresses closeness to God and the ability to engage in service.

2.1 Peter 2:9: “A royal priesthood”

1. • This verse uses the expression “royal priesthood,” which, like Revelation 1:6, combines the idea of royal authority and priestly function.

   • Chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation, God’s special possession: These additional descriptions emphasize the chosen, holy, and ownership relationship of the redeemed to God. In both verses, the special position of the redeemed as kings and priests, possessing royal authority and exercising a priestly function, is emphasized. These titles underscore the privileged position of believers in Christ and their destiny to play a significant role in God’s plan of redemption.

Not only have we been created by God, but we have been redeemed by Him, and at such an amazing cost, too. Why should this truth give us so much hope, no matter our present situation?

The truth that we are not only created by God but also redeemed by Him offers immense hope, regardless of the current situation. Here are some reasons why this truth is so encouraging:

1. Value and Significance: The fact that God has created us and redeemed us at an astonishing price indicates our immeasurable worth. We are not randomly existing beings but intentionally wanted and loved by God.

2. Love and Grace: Redemption through Jesus Christ reveals the love and grace of God. Regardless of our mistakes and weaknesses, God is willing to redeem us and enter into a relationship with us. This love and grace provide hope even in difficult situations.

3. Forgiveness and New Beginning: Redemption means forgiveness and the possibility of a fresh start. Regardless of the mistakes we have made, redemption gives us the chance to begin anew and move toward a life in harmony with God’s intentions.

4. Divine Care: The astonishing price of redemption, the sacrifice of Jesus, underscores God’s dedication to our well-being. This care gives us hope, knowing that God is not indifferent to our fate but actively interested in helping and guiding us.

5. Purpose and Meaning: Redemption gives our lives deep purpose and meaning. We are not alone in this world but have a connection to God that fills our lives with significance. This connection offers hope even when external circumstances are challenging.

6. Eternal Life: The hope of redemption extends beyond this transient world. It promises eternal life in the presence of God, where there will be no more tears, pain, or darkness.

Overall, the truth of creation and redemption by God gives us hope because it is based on love, grace, forgiveness, care, purpose, and the promise of eternal life. Even in the most difficult life situations, we can trust in this truth and find comfort.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-the-end-of-gods-mission-13-1-revelation-gods-last-day-mission/

It’s been more than 2,000 years since Jesus walked the dusty roads of Palestine. Yet, God is the same today as He was yesterday—reaching His hand out in reconciliation. Pastor Ted Wilson and his wife, Nancy, explore this topic, including God’s ministry of healing wounds, making people whole, and offering us the opportunity to be united in Him.

As prophecy foretold, we believe that Jesus came to this earth as a babe, lived a life filled with a heaven-sent purpose, died and rose again, and is now ministering on our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary. And soon, He will come again to take us home! 

Follow this weekly series with Pastor Ted Wilson to counter the devil’s deception with the truth of God. 

For a detailed look at the ministry of Jesus for, to, and toward us, visit https://www.adventist.org/who-are-seventh-day-adventists/salvation-in-jesus-alone/.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-ministry-of-reconciliation-pastor-ted-wilson/

12.6 Summary
Lesson 12 discusses the Book of Esther in the Old Testament. Esther, a Jewish orphan, is elevated to the position of Queen of Persia and plays a crucial role in saving her people from imminent destruction by the malicious Haman. Her faith, determination, and courage, even risking her own life, make her an inspiring example of loyalty and trust in God. The book also emphasizes how God’s hand often works behind the scenes, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned. The lesson encourages reflection on one’s own faith convictions and becoming aware of the challenge to remain steadfast in difficult situations.

Discussion Questions:

1. The Book of Esther leaves some questions unanswered, especially regarding Esther’s role at the king’s court, despite her elevation to queen. How can these things be reconciled with her faith, or is it even possible?

The biblical portrayal of Esther in the Book of Esther allows for some interpretation and leaves certain details open, particularly regarding her relationship with the king and her behavior at the court. Here are some considerations:

1. Esther’s presence in the royal palace: Esther became queen under extraordinary circumstances after the previous queen, Vashti, was deposed. The Bible does not provide detailed information on how Esther came into this position, but it is implied that she was chosen due to her exceptional beauty and grace (Esther 2:17). There are no clear indications that she actively sought to become queen.

2. Her identity as a Jew: Esther kept her Jewish identity a secret, following Mordecai’s instructions (Esther 2:10). This decision could be attributed to the fact that it was not safe or advantageous to openly discuss her ethnic background at that time. It could be seen as a strategy to avoid potential biases or difficulties.

3. Acting in secret: Although the name of God is not directly mentioned in the Book of Esther, God’s work is evident through events in the background. Esther and Mordecai may have acted in secret to fulfill God’s plan. The book emphasizes divine providence and how seemingly normal events are integrated into God’s plan.

4. Risks for her people: As queen, Esther had an influential position at the court, which later proved crucial for the salvation of her people. However, there was a significant risk for her to approach the king without an invitation (Esther 4:11). Her actions required courage, and she recognized the potential dangers.

Overall, the story of Esther shows that people in difficult situations are sometimes forced to make wise decisions to uphold their convictions while achieving the best possible outcomes. Esther is portrayed in the Bible as a crucial figure for the salvation of her people, and her actions can be considered part of God’s plan, even if she did not explicitly act through divine revelation.

2.The famous words of Esther, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16 NIV), resonate as an example of loyalty even in the face of death throughout the millennia. How do her words reflect what God’s people will experience in the end times when the themes in Revelation 13 become a reality?

Esther’s famous words, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16), attest to her dedication, courage, and willingness to advocate for her people, even if it might cost her own life. These words serve as an impressive example of loyalty and steadfastness, even under extreme conditions.

Regarding the end times and the themes in Revelation 13, Esther’s words could serve as inspiration for God’s people when faced with challenges and persecutions. Here are some parallels:

1. Steadfastness in faith and convictions: Esther demonstrated through her words that she was willing to stand up for her convictions, even if it involved personal sacrifice. In the end times, believers may face similar challenges where they must choose to remain faithful to their belief in God, even when it becomes difficult.

2. Willingness to advocate for others: Esther not only stood up for herself but also for her people. In the end times, it will be crucial for God’s people to advocate for each other and show solidarity, especially when it comes to principles of faith and protecting religious freedom.

3. Trust in God’s sovereignty: Esther’s words also reflect a deep trust in God’s sovereignty. Similarly, believers in the end times may need to rely on their trust in God and be conscious that their ultimate security and salvation come from Him.

4. Willingness to take personal risks: Esther was willing to take personal risks to fulfill her duty to God and her people. In the end times, believers may face decisions where they need to make personal sacrifices to remain true to their faith.

5. Remembrance of God’s providence: Although God’s name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His providence is evident through the events. Believers in the end times may be encouraged by Esther’s example that even in difficult times, God’s plan is at work.

Overall, Esther’s words can serve as timeless encouragement that true loyalty to God and the principles of faith can endure even in the most challenging times.

3.Discuss the question at the end of the Monday section about whether we should hide our faith at certain times. Should that even be an option for us?

The question of whether we should hide our faith at certain times touches upon a complex issue that depends on various factors. Here are some considerations:

1. Security concerns: In some situations, openly discussing one’s faith can indeed be dangerous. In countries or environments where religious freedom is restricted or persecuted, it may be necessary to be cautious and not publicly disclose one’s faith to ensure personal safety.

2. Wisdom and tact: There are situations where tact and wisdom are necessary to effectively share the Gospel. Sometimes, choosing an approach that is appealing and respectful can promote understanding and openness, rather than provoking rejection or hostility through open confrontation.

3. Testimony through lifestyle: Even if there are times when direct preaching or evangelizing is challenging, one’s lifestyle can be a powerful testimony. A life reflecting the love and principles of Jesus can often be as effective as words.

4. Professional or social consequences: In some environments, openly confessing one’s faith could lead to professional or social consequences. In such cases, believers may need to weigh how much they are willing to sacrifice for their faith.

5. Seeking God’s guidance: Ultimately, it is important to seek God’s guidance in this matter. Through prayer and spiritual considerations, one can receive guidance on how to act in specific situations.

The Bible encourages us to be wise and humble in how we live and share our faith. For example, Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV) says, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

Overall, hiding one’s faith should not be a permanent option, as we are called to be the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) and proclaim the Gospel. However, it is about proceeding wisely and lovingly, depending on the circumstances we face.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-esther-and-mordecai-12-6-summary/