Revelation 1–11

The book of Revelation can be hard to understand, but don’t get discouraged. John’s promise may inspire you to keep trying: “Blessed are they who read, and they who hear and understand the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein, for the time of the coming of the Lord draweth nigh” (Joseph Smith Translation, Revelation 1:3 [in the Bible Appendix], emphasis added).

The following questions and resources can provide insights as you study Revelation:

• Who was John? (See 1 Nephi 14:18–27; Bible Dictionary, “John.”)

• How is the book organized, and what are some themes to look for? (See Bible Dictionary, “Revelation of John.”)

• What do the symbols in Revelation represent? (See Doctrine and Covenants 77; New Testament Student Manual [Church Educational System manual, 2014], 525–68.)

It might also be helpful to look for insights in the Joseph Smith Translation of various Revelation passages. (See the footnotes and the Bible appendix.)

As you begin studying the book of Revelation, think about how the things you read connect to what you know about Heavenly Father’s plan for the redemption and exaltation of His children. You could start by reviewing the overview of the plan of salvation in Preach My Gospel (pages 47–59). Then, as you read John’s account of his vision, ask yourself questions like these: What truths do I learn from Revelation about what Heavenly Father has done to help me return to Him? How can this help me understand God’s plan for me?

It may help you to know that in general:

• Much of chapter 12 deals with events in the premortal life (see also “Premortality,” Gospel Topics, topics.lds.org).

• Chapters 6–11, 13–14, 16–19 describe mortal life and events in the history of the earth (see also “Mortality,” Gospel Topics, topics.lds.org).

• Chapters 2–3, 15, 20–22 describe the Final Judgment and the glory that awaits the faithful in the eternal realms (see also “Postmortality,” Gospel Topics, topics.lds.org).

The Savior’s words in Revelation 2–3 reveal that He understood the successes and struggles unique to each branch of the Church in John’s day. He reassured the Saints in several congregations that He was aware of, among other things, their “works,” “tribulation,” “poverty,” and “charity” (Revelation 2:2, 9, 19)—along with some ways they could improve.

These chapters can remind you that the Savior understands your strengths and weaknesses and wants to help you overcome your earthly challenges. What does Jesus Christ promise to those who overcome? What changes do you feel prompted to make to overcome your challenges?

Although you don’t remember it, you were likely present for the events John described in Revelation 5. As you read about these events, consider what it must have been like when we all realized that Jesus Christ (the “Lamb”) would make Heavenly Father’s plan possible (open the book and loose the seven seals). Why could Jesus Christ alone do this? How can you show your faith in Him as your Savior?

See also Job 38:4–7; “Atonement of Jesus Christ,” Gospel Topics, topics.lds.org.

Revelation 6–11 describes events that will take place during the earth’s temporal existence (see D&C 77:6), including the Restoration of the gospel in the latter days (see Revelation 7). As you read about the events John prophesied and watch some of them unfold, what are you inspired to do to better prepare yourself and your family for the Second Coming?

Pretend John was asked to give a message to your family like the ones he gave to the churches during his time. What would he say is going well? How might you improve?

Show the picture of the Savior knocking at the door (see the picture that accompanies this outline). Invite your family to read Revelation 3:20 and discuss questions like the following: Why does Jesus knock instead of just coming inside? How can we invite His influence into our home?

What can these verses teach us about why we wear white for temple ordinances?