{I AM} #8

 “I AM [the Alpha and Omega]” 

Revelation 1:8 & 22:12-16_ 

 
Most of us are great at starting new projects. We open a new book or start a new DIY project or assemble a new home-gym fitness machine with enthusiasm and determination. Starting projects is not our problem! Where we tend to run into trouble is on the other end – or somewhere in the middle. Finishing that new gardening project or sticking to the diet or actually using the treadmill three times a week is where we struggle! 

 

[Group discussion starter] Tell the group about a project at home or at work that you began and carried through to the end. 
How did you feel when it was completed? 

 

In Revelation, Jesus makes an astonishing claim about the biggest endeavor of all time – the entire human story. Jesus says that he was present when it all began and that he will be there when human history comes to a conclusion. He is the first letter of the human saga – the Alpha – and he will be the final letter of the final chapter – the Omega... 

 

[Read Revelation 1:8 & 22:12-16] 

 

Who is identified as the speaker in Revelation 1:8? 

 

Who speaks in Revelation 22:16? 

 

What conclusion can you draw from that comparison? 

 

 
How does the average person respond to Jesus’ promises in Revelation 22:12 about his return and his reward? 

 

Do you think Jesus just got things on earth started and will someday wind things up but that he pretty much ignores what is going on between? 
Explain your answer. 

 

What different views have you heard about how human history will end? 
 

 

How does it make you feel to know that Jesus will be the one who brings the human story to the conclusion he desires? 
 

 

In Revelation 22:14, who are the people who are granted access to the eternal city and the tree of life? 
 

 

What does Jesus’ description of those who are excluded from the city tell you about their spiritual condition and relationship with God (22:15)? 
 

 

How does Jesus’ claim to be the sovereign Lord over history – and over your life – help you face the successes and tragedies of your daily experience? 
 

 

As you think back through the claims Jesus has made in these studies, which one has blessed or encouraged you most? 
Explain why. 
 

 

What difference does knowing who Jesus is make in how we live each day?