Sermon Notes:
1. When things go wrong, someone is talking—someone who knows everything, including your pain. Listen to Jesus. (v. 8)
The first and the last means…
Who died and came to life again means…
2. When things go wrong, they are not always what they appear. What does Jesus know that we don’t? (vv. 9-10)
a) We think we’re poor, but we’re actually rich. (v. 9a)
b) We think people are against us, but actually it’s Satan. (v. 9b-10a)
c) We think death is the worst thing ever, but actually it means victory. (v. 10b)
3. When things go wrong, Jesus tells us two things: Don’t be afraid; instead, be faithful. (vv. 10-11)
Follow-up Questions from Sunday:
Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Digging Deeper:
1. In Isaiah 44:6-8, God introduces Himself as the first and the last. Given what He says in the passage, what is God trying to tell His people? It’s the same message He had for the church in Smyrna (Revelation 2:8). How might this be a comforting reminder when you’re going through an extremely difficult time?
2. In Revelation 2:9, Jesus says He knows that this church is extremely poor but they are nonetheless rich. Read Matthew 6:19-21; 2 Corinthians 4:7; 1 Peter 1:3-5. What are the riches Jesus is talking about? How do we invest ourselves in these riches? Why is this so challenging for Christians living in our day and age?
3. In Revelation 2:9, Jesus says the so-called Jews who oppose them are, in fact, doing the work of Satan. The devil is going to submit them to prison time for their faith (verse 10). Now read Ephesians 6:10-13. What is the strategy Paul is expressing in these verses? How much of it is a way of thinking and how much is a way of behaving in light of life’s challenges? What does it mean to stand your ground? What are some ways we can do this in our families, marriages, work, school, etc.?
4. In Revelation 2:10, Jesus warns them that there is suffering ahead. Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Paul is talking about his own suffering. He didn’t want it, but he learned an important fact about it: God uses it to make us strong. Share some ways that God has revealed His power, purpose, and joy in your life as a result of suffering and disappointment.
5. In secular culture, death means an end to everything, but for the Christian, it is just the beginning. It is the moment we receive the crown of victory (Revelation 2:10). Read Revelation 21:1-5 and 22:1-5. What are the things you are most looking forward to in the new heavens and the new earth?
Taking it Home:
What is one thing you can apply to your life from this message and how can this group remember you in prayer this week?