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Group Bible studies on Revelations can be very beneficial to prophecy students who are being
introduced to the prophetic word for the first time. However, due to differences of opinions
sometimes discussions can become intense and a bit stormy and when it descends into that type
of chaos, where everybody wants to voice their opinion at the same time, no one benefits.
Discussions like these are very difficult to avoid but it can be minimized to the point where in spite
of its controversial tone your hearers will still learn something. What you do not want is to have
people coming out of your Bible study believing that they have wasted their time attending. And
this often happens whether they perceive it to be your fault or not.
In writing this article I am assuming that you have already had adequate knowledge of Bible
prophecy in general and the book of Revelations in particular and just wanted to know how to
handle a vocal audience with varying views. Here are some tips as to how to handle a discussion
of this nature:
1. Set the rules of engagement from the start: When you perceive that you are going to face a
group of people who are combative, make sure you take control of this discussion by determining
the rule by which it will proceed. And try not to come across as a dictator in the process. Set rules
that are fair and agreeable and that which will contribute to a cohesive and structured Bible study
on Revelation. But do not leave it to chance hoping that they will heed your admonition to conduct
a Bible discussion like 'true Christians'.
In a setting like this you may want to stipulate that you are going to make a presentation for 20-30
minutes on a Revelations topic and then begin the discussion afterwards. This will ensure that the
study does not start off on a controversial note as every body will get a chance to hear what you
have to offer and perhaps learn something from it in an atmosphere unimpeded by a back-and-
forth discussion and opinionated cross talk.
2. Show respect for each individual's opinion: When you respect each person's view, regardless
whether you agree with it or not, it will go a far way in diffusing tension. They are ways in which
you can express your disagreement with a certain view without fueling controversy. First you can
highlight the positive aspect of the person's opinion and let him/her know that there is some light in
their argument. You don't have to say 'I disagree with that'. You could say something like 'your
argument sounds reasonable but I cannot be sure if I can harmonize it with this Bible text that
says... '
3. Consider yourself a fellow student with your audience: When you engage in a group Bible study
on Revelations, remember, you are not only there to share what you believe, but to learn also.
When you learn something new, acknowledge it. When somebody says something that worth
thinking about, give them the credit. Do not consider yourself a Mr. Know-it-all who does more
talking and less listening. This mindset would only provide the fuel for the fire of controversy.
4. Make your points simple and straight-forward: Prophecy discussions with this kind of audience
often escalate into needless debates when your arguments are convoluted and unclear. While
clearness and simplicity does not necessarily translate into agreement from your audience, at
least there will be no room for misrepresentation of your position. Controversy often thrives on
misrepresentation and misunderstanding, but you can eliminate this problem by making yourself
clear.
5. Use simple Bible quotations to support your arguments: Make your case using unequivocal
Bible texts that does not offer any occasion for disputes. If you are doing a series of Bible studies
on Revelations start out with the simpler themes and then build up to the more technical ones.
This does not only reduce controversy but it also systemizes the learning process and makes
prophecy study less complicated than it is perceived to be.
Conducting a successful Bible study on Revelations with a less than ideal audience requires
patience and an inclination to listen. Divine guidance is very important however confident you are
in your natural abilities in biblical exposition. So you need to pray before you enter upon any such
Bible discussion. The best examples as to how to deal with controversial situations are found in
the gospels. In the gospels, you will see how Jesus handled the subtle arguments and questions
advanced by the scribes and Pharisees (Matt. 22:15-22). You can use them as guides in how to
handle group prophecy discussions and how to make them a means of enlightenment instead of
confusion.
To find out more about the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation and how to interpret them, go to:
http://www.prophecyecourse.com and sign up for the FREE 7-DAY END-TIME PROPHECY
SEMINAR.
Steve Sterling is a prophecy researcher who has been studying end-time Bible prophecy for over
25 years. If you wish to become a serious prophecy student, you can read his 10-point guideline
for choosing the best online prophecy course.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_O_Sterling
==== ====
The Truth About The Last Days, Antichrist, The Rapture, More.
http://www.teachingfaith.com/content.cfm?id=304
==== ====