John wept at the thought of no one being able to open the scroll “or even to look in it” (Rev. 5:3). Imagine what must have gone through his mind in that moment. No one will be able to bring about the happy ending to this war-torn world of suffering. No one will be able to conquer evil and rid the world of evil. No one will be able to restore the world and forgive our sins.
Imagine this world going on forever, in all of its fallenness, with its beauty gradually snuffed out by increasing sin and selfishness, with nothing to stop its decay.
John “wept and wept” like those who mourn for the ending of the world’s terrible exile. But just as Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matt. 5:4). And John is! The elder says to him, “Do not weep.” There is One (and only One) who has conquered and can open the scroll and bring the world to its rightful destiny.
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Adults
Every week for Volume 4: From Captivity to the Wilderness, Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s director of Sunday School, will offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Adults.
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Students
Every week, student ministry leaders offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Students. Listen in as he shares:
- The main point of the session
- Any challenges and opportunities for additional discussion that may arise during this session
- Encouragements for leaders
Podcast (studentsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
A Final Reminder
Don’t forget, you can find tools to help you prepare and lead the discussion in the Additional Resources for this volume. We hope these are a blessing to you as you walk through this session together.
*This week’s leader devotional is written by Trevin Wax. It is adapted from the daily devotions for Unit 36, Session 3 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.
