Revelation: Hope in the Darkness, Study Guide with Leader's Notes

The Gospel-Centered Life in the Bible

by Scotty Smith

When the difficulties of life suggest that evil and chaos reign, we need to see that God occupies the throne in heaven and rules this world. Hope in the Darkness by Scotty Smith reminds us that though these can be scary times, we have a champion Savior in Jesus Christ, who is with us and will one day make all things right. This fourteen-week study in the Gospel-Centered Life in the Bible series provides in-depth lessons for one-on-one discipleship, small, or large Christian group settings. In this guide, author Scotty Smith give us a unique perspective on the end times that maps onto modern-day issues and problems. There is a battle raging against Jesus and his people, but be Jesus wins. Though the world's kingdoms entice and persecute us, the gospel still advances. The Lamb is on the throne, and he alone is worthy of our worship. We can anticipate with great joy the final victory of Jesus and the wedding of the Lamb. Our destiny is renewal and new life, rejoicing with our Savior Jesus Christ in the New Jerusalem.

176 pages, Paperback

Published August 23, 2020

About the author

Scotty Smith is founding pastor of Christ Community Church (PCA) in Franklin, Tennessee. He is now teacher in residence at West End Community Church (PCA) in Nashville, a daughter church of CCC. Scotty also serves as an adjunct professor at five seminaries, including Covenant, Westminster, Redeemer, RTS Orlando, and Western Seminary in Portland. He is the author of several books, including Everyday Prayers, as well as Unveiled Hope with Michael Card and Speechless and Restoring Broken Things with Steven Curtis Chapman.

Reviews

[Sharon Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are fourteen sessions in this group study guide. The recommended time is one hour for each lesson, although depending on the amount of discussion, it could easily take longer to complete. The sessions all follow the same format, starting with a ‘Big Idea’ as an introductory statement, then a ‘Bible Conversation’ which introduces the scripture passage and asks some questions to develop our understanding. This is followed by an article from the author, which includes personal reflection, and then questions for discussion. There is an exercise for each participant to complete individually, followed by prayer. The prayer time is the ‘take-away’ for each session, that as we look to apply the lessons we have learnt, it is God who does the work in our lives.
There are additional notes for the group leader included at the back of the book.
This book takes more of an overview, looking at the big picture of the message of Revelation, zooming out rather than zooming in. In some chapters the subject matter is lightly touched while the study focus’ on its main aim, which is to bring a relevant and applicable message of hope for our lives today. The study covers a range of topics including God’s sovereignty, His protection, our perspective on suffering, and the importance of prayer and worship.
How this book affected me:
This is a study that concentrates on feeding faith, rather than fear, and focuses on the love of Jesus for His bride the Church. It does, however, challenge complacency and comfort over repentance and revival. Throughout the book there is a constant theme of hope, always keeping the end of the story in sight, that Jesus wins and finally defeated evil will become eradicated evil!
Who would like this book:
Anyone who is slightly intimidated by the subject matter of Revelation, would benefit from this study guide as it opens the message in a very relatable way. There are clear explanations of the imagery used while challenging our vision of Jesus and His role in our lives today.
Anyone searching for life powering encouragement, while being prepared to reflect and consider life preserving rebuke, would gain from working through this study. The book does not bring any condemnation, it has a clear message of hope – “we are to live for the pleasure and praise of Jesus, not that He might accept us but because He already has.”

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part of an ongoing series of bible studies that emphasise gospel centred living. Intended for group use, they helpfully point the members towards honest reflection about how the gospel affects them and how change can be affected through God’s grace. In each lesson, the author has helpfully written an article and probing questions for application. However, the studies do not lead the reader into detailed exegesis, and so do not really help people to read and interpret the Bible for themselves.
(I received an ebook in exchange for an honest review)

[Paula Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great Bible study on the Book of Revelation. Scotty Smith has broken the book into 14 lessons and suggests that it be used for a group study or even a one-on-one. It has readings from "Unveiled Hope" the book on Revelations that he wrote with Michael Card. It has questions to be answered personally and in the group. Smith offers great insight into the last book of the Bible, offering hope for the end times.

[Hillary Blatherwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was helpful in navigating possibly the most intimidating book of the Bible. It Lead me to worship and look to Jesus in every chapter. I would say it was a good resource while going through revelation but could have gone deeper.

[Michael Abraham · Rating 3 out of 5]

Smith offers some helpful applications.