Glencairn Church

Going Deeper is designed for use with your small group, a friend, or on your own. Its aim is to create time for you to spend with God and his word. Do as much or as little as you like.

1. Pray for each other, our church and leaders, for the not-yet believers in your life, and for opportunities to disciple others. Share a recent entry from your Life Journal with the group.

2. Who is the true king? Many have come and gone claiming to be the king, the messiah, and savior. They might use different words, as they promise to be the solution, the protector, and the power. Satan is enraged against Jesus and has set himself up as the “true” power. This has placed pressure against the disciples of Jesus to compromise, to follow this counterfeit, or die. What thoughts or questions did the message raise for you? Which ones, encouraged you or posed a challenge to you?

3. What is your typical reaction when reading in Revelation the strange imagery about the beast and the dragon? What experiences (reading books or watching movies, talking to people) have you had that may have
influenced your understanding of Revelation? Has your understanding of Revelation changed over time? Why do you think John used such powerful imagery and symbolism?

4. Read Rev 13:1-4. The beast is described as having 10 horns, 7 heads, and 10 crowns. What do you think these represent? How did the people respond to this beast? Why? What do you think is happening when one of the heads of the beast receives a fatal wound and then is healed? Read Daniel 7:1-7. John likely had this passage in mind as he was writing his letter. What parallels do you notice?

5. Read Rev 13:5-10. What authority did the beast have? What is the beast’s purpose? There are several instances in chapter 13 where it states the beast was “given” something. Review what was given to it. Who
was the giver? Was it the same giver in each case? It has been suggested that what has been “given” in 13:5 & 7, is not from the dragon but from God. Read Daniel 4:17; John 19:10-11. Why would God give the beast
time and space to rule?

6. In this text we see how the devil mimics God. For example, we can see how the Dragon and the two beasts mimic the trinity. What other areas do you see where it mimics God? Consider the language used in Rev 5
compared to Rev 13. If you’re a Star Wars fan, where do you see parallels between the Dark Side of the Force and the work of the dragon and/or God?

7. In the message it was suggested that the Beast of the Sea represents
political kingdoms. How does the dragon use human kingdoms to hurt God? Where have you felt the pressure to compromise on your faith?
How should we as followers of Jesus respond to our political institutions (See also Rom 13:1-7)?

8. Listen to God speak to you about this beast. What would you like to talk to Him about as you reflect on the pressure to give loyalty to this beast? Where do you see God’s sovereignty at work? Offer a prayer of praise
to Him.