Sermon Study Guide
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Maranatha Bible Church
Chicago
Sermon Study Guide
Revelation 4 | See, Behold, and Praise Him | Dr. Brian Lee
Scripture References
Sermon Summary
Dr. Brian Lee explores the heavenly throne room in Revelation 4, emphasizing that we can only truly behold Christ by abiding in His Word. This vision calls believers to a life of 'Shema'—hearing and obeying—as we practice eternal praise and thanksgiving.
Key Takeaways
- 1True spiritual perception of Christ is only possible when we are grounded in and submissive to the Word of God.
- 2Jesus must be the 'first voice' we consult in every circumstance, rather than our own logic or human opinions.
- 3Worship is not a disconnected weekly event but a participation in an eternal rehearsal of praise.
- 4Holiness is the central attribute of God that demands a response of reverence and transformed living from His people.
- 5Thanksgiving is a biblical mandate and a vital spiritual discipline that completes our praise.
Discussion Questions
Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.
- 1Dr. Lee mentioned that we cannot truly behold Christ without His Word. How has your view of Jesus changed as you have studied the Bible more deeply?
- 2Revelation 4:1 speaks of a 'first voice' like a trumpet. In the busyness of your daily life, what voices tend to drown out the voice of Jesus?
- 3The sermon compares the lightning and thunder of Revelation 4 to Mount Sinai. How does knowing Jesus as our 'Great High Priest' change the way we approach a holy and 'unapproachable' God?
- 4Why do you think the Bible repeats the word 'Holy' three times? How should the holiness of God practically affect our conduct during the week?
- 5The elders cast their crowns before the throne. What are the 'crowns' (achievements or priorities) in your life that you need to intentionally lay at Jesus' feet?
- 6Discuss the idea that worship is a 'rehearsal.' How does this perspective change your attitude toward corporate singing on Sundays?
Application Points
Practical ways to apply this message to your life.
- Identify the 'first voice' you listen to during a crisis and intentionally replace self-talk with prayer and Scripture.
- Incorporate specific 'thanksgiving' into your daily prayers, moving beyond general requests to specific gratitude for God's deeds.
- Practice 'Shema' this week by identifying one command in the New Testament and immediately putting it into practice.
- Use the 'Holy, Holy, Holy' refrain during your private devotions to align your heart with the worship occurring in heaven.
- Memorize the meaning of 'Maranatha' to remind yourself that Christ has come, is present now, and is coming again.
Personal Reflection
Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.
How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?
What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?
Who can I share this truth with this week?
What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?
Prayer Points
- Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
- Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
- Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.
Notes
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