03.25. Lesson 25
Lesson 25:This week’s preparation is rather different from others in this study. You have already examined Revelation 20:1-15 and other relevant Scriptures. For this week, we will focus more on various interpretations, and the impact of those interpretations on the lessons we draw from the passage. Remember, the major goal of this week is not to have you adopt a position with regard to the interpretation of Revelation 20:1-15; rather, we need to learn and take to heart the lessons God teaches in this chapter.
Read Revelation 19:11-21; Revelation 20:1-15; Revelation 21:1-8 once more. Review pages 175-182 of Wilcock, as well as last week’s preparation guide. Then read Wilcock 187-197 and Stedman chapter 24. If you have time, you may also want to read in the commentaries on reserve. Mounce (251-267) and Ladd (259-274) present somewhat different interpretations than either Stedman or Wilcock; Walvoord is the most scholarly advocate for Stedman’s position, while Beale (972-1038) as usual is the most thorough, interacting with all opposing views.
(1) Go through Wilcock and Stedman once more, noting the passages they cite to support their positions. How would Wilcock answer Stedman? How would Stedman answer Wilcock? Think in particular about these points: the relationship between Revelation 19:1-21 and Revelation 20:1-15 (particularly whether or not Revelation 19:17-21 and Revelation 20:7-10 describe the same event); the meaning of the binding of Satan; the meaning of the "first resurrection;" the location of the thrones; and the identity of those who are judged before the white throne.
(2) In your opinion, what are the best arguments in favor of the amillennial position? What lessons would this position hold for John’s readers in 95AD? In 1600? Today?
(3) In your opinion, what are the best arguments in favor of the premillennial position? What lessons would this position hold for John’s readers in 95AD? In 1600? Today?
(4) Given the Scriptures we have read for weeks 24 and 25, what are the major lessons God wants us to take away from a study of the second coming of Christ? How should these lessons affect the way you live this week?
Enjoy!