Small Group Study: The Steps Leading to Christ’s 1,000‑Year Reign

Session Goal

To explore the biblical events leading to the 1,000‑year reign of Christ (the Millennium), understand their significance, and reflect on how these truths shape our lives today.

1. Opening Question (5 minutes)

Start with something simple to get everyone talking:

• When you think about the future God has promised, what emotion rises to the surface first — hope, curiosity, confusion, excitement, something else? Why?

2. Read the Main Scriptures (10 minutes)

Have different group members read aloud:

• Matthew 24:21
• 1 Thessalonians 4:14–16
• Revelation 19:11–16
• Revelation 19:20
• Revelation 20:1–6
• Isaiah 2:1–4

Encourage the group to listen for the sequence of events.

3. Study Section 1 — The Tribulation (10 minutes)

Key Scripture: Matthew 24:21 (KJV)

“For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world…”

Discussion Questions:

• What stands out to you about Jesus’ description of the Tribulation?
• Why do you think God allows this period of intense judgment?
• How does knowing this is part of God’s plan affect the way you view world events today?

4. Study Section 2 — The Resurrection & Catching Up of Believers (10 minutes)

Key Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:14–16 (KJV)

“The dead in Christ shall rise first.”

Discussion Questions:

• What part of this passage brings you the most comfort?
• How does this event prepare believers for Christ’s return in Revelation 19?
• What does it mean to you personally that God “will bring with Him” those who have died in Christ?

5. Study Section 3 — The Second Coming of Christ (10 minutes)

Key Scripture: Revelation 19:11 (KJV)

“And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse…”

Discussion Questions:

• How is Christ’s second coming different from His first coming?
• What does this passage reveal about His character?
• Why is it important that believers return with Christ (Revelation 19:14)?

6. Study Section 4 — The Defeat of Evil (5 minutes)

Key Scripture: Revelation 19:20 (KJV)

“These both were cast alive into a lake of fire…”

Discussion Questions:

• What does this moment show us about God’s justice?
• How does it feel to know that evil has a definite end?

7. Study Section 5 — Satan Bound for 1,000 Years (5 minutes)

Key Scripture: Revelation 20:1–3 (KJV)

“That he should deceive the nations no more…”

Discussion Questions:

• What do you think the world will be like without Satan’s influence?
• How does this deepen your understanding of spiritual warfare today?

8. Study Section 6 — The First Resurrection & Reigning With Christ (10 minutes)

Key Scripture: Revelation 20:4–6 (KJV)

“They lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean to “reign with Christ”?
• How does this promise motivate you in your daily walk?
• Why do you think God includes believers in His future kingdom work?

9. Study Section 7 — Christ’s Kingdom on Earth (10 minutes)

Key Scripture: Isaiah 2:4 (KJV)

“Nation shall not lift up sword against nation…”

Discussion Questions:

• What part of the Millennium are you most looking forward to?
• How does this vision of peace contrast with the world we live in now?
• What does this reveal about God’s heart for humanity?

10. Study Section 8 — Why This Matters Today (5 minutes)

Reflection Questions:

• How does knowing the end of the story change the way you live now?
• What area of your life needs to be realigned with the hope of Christ’s return?
• How can we encourage each other to live with eternal perspective?

11. Closing Prayer (Optional)

A leader or volunteer can pray something like:

“Lord, thank You for revealing the hope of Christ’s return and the promise of His kingdom. Help us live with faith, courage, and expectation. Shape our lives today by the future You have prepared. Amen.”