This study helps participants to understand the purposes of the Book of Revelation in its setting in the ancient world and to think about how the message of this Book can be of practical help to Christians today. Many contemporary people are mystified—and even afraid of—the Book of Revelation. Yet, a careful look at the images in the Book reveals that the over-arching message is one of encouragement and hope in a time of anxiety. Book of Revelation intends to strengthen the congregations to trust in the purposes of God and to witness faithfully even in the face of threat and conflict. Along the way, of course, this Book does picture some actions of God that trouble many Christians today, and the study opens this for consideration and discussion.

The study comes in five sessions, with each divided into two parts of about 10-12 minutes each. Groups can watch the whole video and discuss or can divide the video into two parts and have a discussion after each part. (The break is marked in the video by a banner at the bottom.)

The video study is also accompanied by a guide. Click here to view/download the guide.

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01-Introduction: Allen explains the elements of interpretation, what to expect in this series and unpacks the image of Christ the King.

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02-the Throne Room of Heaven: Allen unpacks the image of the scene in heaven as things are put in place for the ending of the age.

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03-Opening the Scroll: Allen explains the meanings of the first 6 seals that are opened and the events that transpire as a result.

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04-the Beasts: Allen explains the Dragon and the Beast in their 2nd century meaning and what that message can mean for us today.

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05-New Jerusalem: Allen unpacks the city of New Jerusalem and it's message of hope for John's readers. This video also includes the Afterword that concludes the series.

The Speaker: Ronald J. Allen is the Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters, Emeritus, at Christian Theological Seminary. He is the author or editor of forty books. He is also one of the editors of the 3-volume Preaching God's Transforming Justice: A Lectionary Commentary.

DisciplesNet is grateful to Ron for allowing us to present this material in video form. The content is copyright Ronald J. Allen 2020, all rights reserved. Permission is granted to for congregations to present this material as part of Faith Formation (Christian Education) classes.