Revelation 12
Now we are in middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming. In this chapter Jesus is introducing another important character called dragon in His divine plan. This dragon is not just going to appear at that time. He is not a new character but he has already in this world from the time Adam and Eve was created by God. Let us see in detail
What this dragon is trying to do from the beginning this world is created (history)? - Revelation 12:1-5
What is going to happen to this dragon? - Revelation 12:7-9
Who is this dragon? - Revelation 12:9
What this dragon is going to do? - Revelation 12:6,10-17
What John saw first?
1 Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars. 2 Then being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth.
What John saw first and where he saw that?
1a Now a great sign appeared in heaven:
(David Guzik) Because John plainly says this is a sign, we don’t expect this woman to appear literally on the earth. God will use this sign to communicate something to John and to us.
Who is the main person/character in this sign?
1b a woman, 2a Then being with child
What is the appearance of this woman?
1c clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars.
What is the important thing happening through her?
2 Then being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth.
Who is this woman? How we can find out?
We can find out her by identifying her child because we have more clues about this Child in verse 4 & 5. We also have some more clues in verse 4.
Read Who is this Child? & Who is this Woman? topic in Rev 12:5 notes.
What John saw next?
3 And another sign appeared in heaven: behold, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads. 4a His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth.
What John saw next and where he saw that?
3a And another sign appeared in heaven:
Again John saws that this is sign and he saw that in heaven.
Daniel saw many vision with many signs. Those signs are explained or interpreted either in same chapter, book or other portion in the Bible itself:
Dan 8:3-8 - 3 Then I lifted my eyes and saw, and there, standing beside the river, was a ram which had two horns, and the two horns were high; but one was higher than the other, and the higher one came up last. 4 I saw the ram pushing westward, northward, and southward, so that no animal could withstand him; nor was there any that could deliver from his hand, but he did according to his will and became great. 5 And as I was considering, suddenly a male goat came from the west, across the surface of the whole earth, without touching the ground; and the goat had a notable horn between his eyes. 6 Then he came to the ram that had two horns, which I had seen standing beside the river, and ran at him with furious power. 7 And I saw him confronting the ram; he was moved with rage against him, attacked the ram, and broke his two horns. There was no power in the ram to withstand him, but he cast him down to the ground and trampled him; and there was no one that could deliver the ram from his hand. 8 Therefore the male goat grew very great; but when he became strong, the large horn was broken, and in place of it four notable ones came up toward the four winds of heaven.
Explanation for those signs are given in the following verses:
Dan 8:20-25 - 20 The ram which you saw, having the two horns--they are the kings of Media and Persia. 21 And the male goat is the kingdom of Greece. The large horn that is between its eyes is the first king. 22 As for the broken horn and the four that stood up in its place, four kingdoms shall arise out of that nation, but not with its power. 23 "And in the latter time of their kingdom, When the transgressors have reached their fullness, A king shall arise, Having fierce features, Who understands sinister schemes. 24 His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; He shall destroy fearfully, And shall prosper and thrive; He shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people. 25 "Through his cunning He shall cause deceit to prosper under his rule; And he shall exalt himself in his heart. He shall destroy many in their prosperity. He shall even rise against the Prince of princes; But he shall be broken without human means.
a ram which had two horns (8:3) ---> the kings of Media and Persia. (8:20) - Medo-Persian rule after Babylon
a male goat (8:5a) ---> the kingdom of Greece. (8:21a)
the goat had a notable horn between his eyes (8:5b) ---> the first king of Greece. (8:21b) - the Alexander the Great
the large horn was broken, and in place of it four notable ones came up (8:8b) ---> four kingdoms shall arise out of that nation, but not with its power (8:22b) - the four Generals who divided the Alexander's Empire.
Who is the main person/character in this sign?
3b behold, a great, fiery red dragon
Who is this dragon?
Dragon means serpent or sea monster.
Rev 12:9 clearly says that this is Satan.
Rev 12:9 - So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Antichrist is also described similar in Rev 13:1 with small difference in number of crowns and its location.
Rev 13:1 - 1 Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name. 2 Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.
Here are few basics about Satan: (For more details read Satan article).
Satan means "adversary." like roaring lion looking to devour believers:
1 Peter 5:8 - 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
Satan was Cherub means high ranking angel served God around the throne in Heaven.
Ezekiel 28:14,15a - 14 "You were the anointed cherub who covers; I established you; You were on the holy mountain of God; You walked back and forth in the midst of fiery stones. 15 You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created,...
Due to his pride he was fallen from heaven to earth but still now he has access to Heaven to get permission to interfere with God's people.
Isaiah 14:12-15 - 12 "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! 13 For you have said in your heart: 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation On the farthest sides of the north; 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.' 15 Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, To the lowest depths of the Pit.
NIV: Isaiah 14:12-15 - 12 How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! 13 You said in your heart, "I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. 14 I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High." 15 But you are brought down to the grave, to the depths of the pit.
He is called Serpent who deceive and lie people.
Rev 12:9 - So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Gen 3:1-15 - 1 Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" 2 And the woman said to the serpent,
What is the appearance of this dragon?
Why Satan is described as wild dragon?
3b behold, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads. 4a His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth.
Here Dragon appearance is a Personification of Satan, as it is of Pharaoh -
Ezekiel 29:3 - 1 In the tenth year, in the tenth month, on the twelfth day of the month, the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 2 "Son of man, set your face against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and prophesy against him, and against all Egypt. 3 Speak, and say, 'Thus says the Lord God: "Behold, I am against you, O Pharaoh king of Egypt, O great monster who lies in the midst of his rivers, Who has said, 'My River is my own; I have made it for myself.' 4 But I will put hooks in your jaws, And cause the fish of your rivers to stick to your scales; I will bring you up out of the midst of your rivers, And all the fish in your rivers will stick to your scales. 5 I will leave you in the wilderness, You and all the fish of your rivers; You shall fall on the open field; You shall not be picked up or gathered. I have given you as food To the beasts of the field And to the birds of the heavens. 6 "Then all the inhabitants of Egypt Shall know that I am the Lord, Because they have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel.
Ezekiel 32:2 - 1 And it came to pass in the twelfth year, in the twelfth month, on the first day of the month, that the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 2 "Son of man, take up a lamentation for Pharaoh king of Egypt, and say to him: 'You are like a young lion among the nations, And you are like a monster in the seas, Bursting forth in your rivers, Troubling the waters with your feet, And fouling their rivers.'
This appearance represent Satan's character at this time.
It also represent his major rules in history.
This dragon sign is explained in Rev 17:3,7,9,10a,12
Rev 17:3,7,9 - 3 So he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. .... 7 But the angel said to me, "Why did you marvel? I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and the ten horns ..... 9 Here is the mind which has wisdom: The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits. 10 There are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come. And when he comes, he must continue a short time. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, is himself also the eighth, and is of the seven, and is going to perdition. 12 The ten horns which you saw are ten kings who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast.
(Walvoord) “From the similar description given in 13:1 and the parallel references in Daniel 7:7-8, 2, it is clear that the revived Roman Empire is in view . . . The seven heads and ten horns refer to the original ten kingdoms of which three were subdued by the little horn of Daniel 7:8, who is to be identified with the world ruler of the great tribulation who reigns over the revived Roman Empire.”
We will go through this in details while we study Rev 17
Fiery Red represent:
(David Guzik) Again, we are reminded that this is a sign. The creature here is not literally a great, fiery red dragon, but the dragon represents his nature and character
(Warren Wiersbe) The color red is associated with death (Rev. 6:4) and Satan is a murderer (John 8:44). The heads, horns, and crowns will appear again in Revelation 13:1 and 17:3. The heads represent mountains (Rev. 17:9), and the horns represent kings (Rev. 17:12). We shall study the meaning of these symbols in more detail later.
(Johnson) His description “symbolically suggests his fierce power and murderous nature . . . a picture of the fullness of evil in all its hideous strength.”
His Seven Diadems/Crowns:
(David Guzik) This dragon has great power (seven heads and ten horns) and claims royal authority (seven diadems). The crowns represent his presumptive claims of royal authority against the true King. He wants to be considered a king.
Jesus really comes with many diadems/crowns. Because He is real true King. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords:
NAS: Revelation 19:12 - His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many diadems; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself.
What are all the important things he did and tried to do?
What he did with his tail?
4a His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth.
Who are these stars?
Are these literal Stars?
It may simply means literal stars:
Rev 8:12 - Then the fourth angel sounded: And a third of the sun was struck, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them were darkened. A third of the day did not shine, and likewise the night.
Are these not literal Stars, if so Why?
Since, this is the sign so this could not be just the literal stars:
In Joseph Dream 2nd Dream star represents Joseph's siblings:
Gen 37:9-11 - 9 Then he dreamed still another dream and told it to his brothers, and said, "Look, I have dreamed another dream. And this time, the sun, the moon, and the eleven stars bowed down to me." 10 So he told it to his father and his brothers; and his father rebuked him and said to him, "What is this dream that you have dreamed? Shall your mother and I and your brothers indeed come to bow down to the earth before you?" 11 And his brothers envied him, but his father kept the matter in mind.
Daniel saw similar vision:
Dan 8:3-11 - 9 And out of one of them came a little horn which grew exceedingly great toward the south, toward the east, and toward the Glorious Land. 10 And it grew up to the host of heaven; and it cast down some of the host and some of the stars to the ground, and trampled them. 11 He even exalted himself as high as the Prince of the host; and by him the daily sacrifices were taken away, and the place of His sanctuary was cast down. 12 Because of transgression, an army was given over to the horn to oppose the daily sacrifices; and he cast truth down to the ground. He did all this and prospered.
Explanation for those signs are given in the following verses:
Dan 8:23-25 - 23 "And in the latter time of their kingdom, When the transgressors have reached their fullness, A king shall arise, Having fierce features, Who understands sinister schemes. 24 His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power; He shall destroy fearfully, And shall prosper and thrive; He shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people. 25 "Through his cunning He shall cause deceit to prosper under his rule; And he shall exalt himself in his heart. He shall destroy many in their prosperity. He shall even rise against the Prince of princes; But he shall be broken without human means.
(David Guzik)
In the latter time of their kingdom: The prophecy in this passage reads equally true of both Antiochus and Antichrist. This is an example of a prophetic passage that has both a near and far fulfillment.
Having fierce features: Antiochus Epiphanes was known for his cruel brutality; this will also become the legacy of the coming Antichrist.
Who understands sinister schemes . . . through his cunning: Antiochus was known for his flattery and smooth tongue. The coming Antichrist will strike a covenant with Israel (Daniel 9:27).
His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: Antiochus Epiphanes was empowered by Satan and allowed by God. The same will be true of the coming Antichrist.
Shall prosper and thrive: Antiochus Epiphanes looked like a total success. The coming Antichrist will look like a complete winner until God topples his reign.
He shall destroy the mighty, and also the holy people: Antiochus Epiphanes not only destroyed his enemies, but also harshly persecuted the people of God. The coming Antichrist will also destroy and persecute.
He shall cause deceit to prosper: Both the rule of Antiochus Epiphanes in the past and the Antichrist in the future are marked by deceit. The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10)
He shall magnify himself in his heart: The coins of Antiochus Epiphanes were inscribed with this title: theos epiphanies meaning, "God manifest." The coming Antichrist will also exalt himself: So that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)
He shall even rise against the Prince of princes: Though Antiochus Epiphanes hated and fought against the people of God, it was because he really hated God. The same will be true of the coming Antichrist, who will hate the Jews because they hate God.
Broken without human hand: History tells us that Antiochus Epiphanes died of disease, not by the hand of man. In a similar way, no man will defeat the coming Antichrist, but the hand of Jesus will strike him down (Revelation 19:20).
In the above Dan 8:10 passage the Antichrist in future "cast down some of the host and some of the stars to the ground, and trampled them" represent more of trampling or persecuting people of God. These are specified in Rev 12:6, 13- Rev 13, 17, 18.
(David Guzik) It cast down some of the host and some of the stars to the ground: These are symbols used in the Old Testament for angels, kings and leaders, or the people of God at large. Here it is fulfilled in Antiochus Epiphanes and his attacks against rulers and God's people in general.
The terms stars of heaven (Genesis 12:3, 15:5) and the hosts of the Lord (Exodus 12:41) are used of God's people in general.
At the same time here in Rev 12:4a - "His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth." but not trample them.
So, here these stars may not represent God's people but represent angels.
One of the names for Satan is Lucifer, which means "brightness"; he is also referred as "morning star" in NIV Is 14:12.
Isaiah 14:12 - "How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations!
NIV: Isaiah 14:12 - How you have fallen from heaven, O morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations!
Paul reminds us that Satan comes and deceive people as Angel of Light.
2 Cor 11:14 - And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.
Since these angels are thrown into the earth so, they are the fallen angels, demons or evil spirits who serve the Satan.
Similar to Michael the archangel has his own of angels, Satan has his won angels who fallen with him by his deception.
Rev 12:7-8 -7 And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, 8 but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.
Paul also points out that there are many angels serving under Satan .
2 Cor 11:15 - 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.
Angels are a Company, Not a Race (a group of persons related by common descent or heredity, a population so related, a group of tribes or peoples forming an ethnic stock: the Slavic race, any people united by common history, language, cultural traits, etc.: the Dutch race):
Angels are spoken of as hosts, but not as a race (Ps 148:2). Because of this nature they sinned individually, and not in some federal head of the race. May be because of this God made no provision of salvation for the fallen angels. (Lectures in Systematic Theology - Henry C. Thiessen)
Even though here in this passage it says dragon by "His tail drew a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth". It is not by Satan's force they fallen to the earth but may be Satan deceived those angels like he did to Adam and Eve. By their free fill they chose to follow Satan instead of God. By this way they chose to sin against God individually.
(David Guzik) Many believe this describes one-third of the angelic host in league with Satan (his angels of Revelation 12:9). This army of angelic beings in league with Satan makes up the world of demonic spirits.
(David Guzik) Since Satan only drew a third of the stars of heaven, it means that two-thirds of the angels remained faithful to God. It’s comforting to know that faithful angels outnumber fallen angels two to one.
(Seiss) “God never made an evil being; but He made angels, principalities, and powers capacitated for mighty joys and distinctions in His glorious domain, yet with free will, implied in the very creation of moral beings, which they could exercise for their everlasting weal or woe. Many have remained steadfast, to wit, ‘Michael and his angels.’ But some abode not in the truth, but revolted against the rule of Heaven, and became unchanging enemies of God and His Kingdom..”
Application: Is Satan disturbing/troubling you? What way you experience Satan and His angels in your life? Are you able to differentiate whether your trouble is due to your selfishness, your mistake, or from Satan? Please take a moment and ponder these question and feel free to share your experience.
Who is this Child?
4b And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. 5 She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.
Where the dragon was standing and what the dragon ready to do?
4b And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born.
Is this Child is a girl or a boy?
5a She bore a male Child
What this Child will do?
5b who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron.
What happened to this Child?
5b And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.
NIV: Rev 12:5 - She gave birth to a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter. And her child was snatched up to God and to his throne.
This child
will rule all nations with a rod of iron,
was caught up to God and His throne
about to devoured by dragon as soon as he was born
Who is this Child who will rule all nations with a rod of iron and was caught up to God and His throne?
There is only one person in history who matches all these criteria. That person is Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the only person who going to rule all nations with a rod of iron
Rev 19:15 - Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.
Rev 1:5a - and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.
Acts 1:11 - 9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11 who also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven."
Psalm 2 - 1 Why do the nations rage, And the people plot a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, And the rulers take counsel together, Against the Lord and against His Anointed, saying, 3 "Let us break Their bonds in pieces And cast away Their cords from us." 4 He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision. 5 Then He shall speak to them in His wrath, And distress them in His deep displeasure: 6 "Yet I have set My King On My holy hill of Zion." 7 "I will declare the decree: The Lord has said to Me, 'You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. 8 Ask of Me, and I will give You The nations for Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth for Your possession. 9 You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them to pieces like a potter's vessel.' " 10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings; Be instructed, you judges of the earth. 11 Serve the Lord with fear, And rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, And you perish in the way, When His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
As we read in Rev 11:15,17 Jesus starts His reign just 3.5 years before He comes back to this earth to rule all nations with a rod of iron.
Rev 11:15,17 - 15 Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" 16 And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, 17 saying: "We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
Jesus is the only person who was caught up to God and His throne.
He resurrected first from the death (He is the firstborn of dead) and destroyed the enemy death. He is now sitting at God's right hand in His thrown.
Acts 1:9 - 9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.
Rev 1:5a - and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.
1 Cor 15:20-28 - 20 But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. 23 But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming. 24 Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be destroyed is death. 27 For "He has put all things under His feet." But when He says "all things are put under Him," it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted. 28 Now when all things are made subject to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all.
Acts 2:33,34 - 32 This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. 33 Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he says himself: 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, 35 Till I make Your enemies Your footstool." ' 36 "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ."
Eph 1:20-22 - 15 Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. 22 And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.
Rev 5:6 - 5 But one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals." 6 And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. 7 Then He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sat on the throne.
Following verse is quoted in Matthew 22:44; Mark 12:36; Luke 20:42; Acts 2:34; Heb 1:13;
Psalm 110:1 - A Psalm of David. The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool."
Matt 22:41-45 - 41 While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 saying, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?" They said to Him, "The Son of David." 43 He said to them, "How then does David in the Spirit call Him 'Lord,' saying: 44 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool" '? 45 "If David then calls Him 'Lord,' how is He his Son?" 46 And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.
When Jesus was about to devour by Satan?
Satan through Herod tried to kill Jesus when he was born:
4b And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born.
Satan played through king Herod. He tried to kill Jesus:
Matt 2:16-18 - 1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him." 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 So they said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: 6 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.' " 7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also." 9 When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way. 13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him." 14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, 15 and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, "Out of Egypt I called My Son." 16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: 18 "A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more." 19 But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child's life are dead." 21 Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. 23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, "He shall be called a Nazarene."
(David Guzik) The attempt to devour her Child was initially fulfilled by Herod’s attempts to kill Jesus as a child (Matthew 2:16-18). It was also fulfilled throughout Jesus’ life as Satan attacked Him (John 8:59 and Mark 4:35-41).
John 8:59 - 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad." 57 Then the Jews said to Him, "You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?" 58 Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM." 59 Then they took up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
(Warren Wiersbe) Just as soon as the child was born, Satan tried to destroy Him.
This conflict between Satan and "the woman" began soon after man fell (Gen. 3:15).
Throughout Old Testament history, Satan tried to prevent the birth of the Redeemer.
There was always a "dragon" standing by, waiting to destroy Israel or the ancestors of the Messiah.
Pharaoh is called a "dragon" (Ezek. 29:3),
and so is Nebuchadnezzar (Jer. 51:34).
At one critical point, the royal line was limited to one little boy (2 Kings 11:1-3).
When Jesus Christ was born. Satan used King Herod to try to destroy Him (Matt. 2).
Satan thought that he had succeeded when he used Judas to betray the Lord and hand Him over to be crucified.
But the Cross was actually Satan's defeat! "And they overcame him (Satan) by the blood of the Lamb" (Rev. 12:11).
Who is this Woman?
1 Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars. 2 Then being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth.
4b And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. 5 She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.
This male Child is Jesus so the woman who gave birth to Jesus either simply means Virgin Mary or Israel because Jesus came through them.
(David Guzik) Roman Catholics claim this woman is Mary, pictured as the “Queen of Heaven.” Mary Baker Eddy said she was this woman.
It is common in Roman Catholic art to represent Mary as standing on a crescent moon with twelve stars around her head.
This male Child is obviously Jesus. This means that the woman of Revelation 12:1 cannot be the church, because Jesus “gives birth” to the church, not the other way around.
The woman must therefore either be Mary or Israel, the only two “women” who could have “given birth” to Jesus.
The rest of Revelation 12 will demonstrate that this woman is Israel, not Mary.
Based on the remaining verses in Revelation 12 clearly shows that this woman with 12 stars represents 12 tribes of Israel or Israel Nation:
Rev 12:6 - Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days
Rev 12:13-17 - 13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. 14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. 15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. 16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
In Joseph Dream 2nd Dream star represents Joseph's siblings:
Gen 37:9-11 - 5 Now Joseph had a dream, and he told it to his brothers; and they hated him even more. 6 So he said to them, "Please hear this dream which I have dreamed: 7 There we were, binding sheaves in the field. Then behold, my sheaf arose and also stood upright; and indeed your sheaves stood all around and bowed down to my sheaf." 8 And his brothers said to him, "Shall you indeed reign over us? Or shall you indeed have dominion over us?" So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words. 9 Then he dreamed still another dream and told it to his brothers, and said, "Look, I have dreamed another dream. And this time, the sun, the moon, and the eleven stars bowed down to me." 10 So he told it to his father and his brothers; and his father rebuked him and said to him, "What is this dream that you have dreamed? Shall your mother and I and your brothers indeed come to bow down to the earth before you?" 11 And his brothers envied him, but his father kept the matter in mind.
Rom. 1:3 - 1 Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God 2 which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, 3 concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh,
Rom 9:4-5 - 1 I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, 2 that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, 4 who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, nd the promises; 5 of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen.
NLT Rom 9:4-5 - 1 In the presence of Christ, I speak with utter truthfulness -- I do not lie -- and my conscience and the Holy Spirit confirm that what I am saying is true. 2 My heart is filled with bitter sorrow and unending grief 3 for my people, my Jewish brothers and sisters. I would be willing to be forever cursed -- cut off from Christ! -- if that would save them. 4 They are the people of Israel, chosen to be God's special children. God revealed his glory to them. He made covenants with them and gave his law to them. They have the privilege of worshiping him and receiving his wonderful promises. 5 Their ancestors were great people of God, and Christ himself was a Jew as far as his human nature is concerned. And he is God, who rules over everything and is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.
Israel is often compared to a woman
(Warren Wiersbe) In the Old Testament,
Israel is often compared to a woman, and even a woman in travail (pain, anguish or suffering resulting from mental or physical hardship. the pain of childbirth) (Isa. 54:5; 66:7; Jer. 3:6-10; Micah 4:10; 5:2-3).
The apostate world system is compared to a harlot (Rev. 17: Iff),
and the church to a pure bride (Rev. 19:7ff).
(David Guzik) Women often represent religious systems in Revelation.
Jezebel is associated with a religious system of false teaching (Revelation 2:20)
The Great Harlot is associated with false religion (Revelation 17:2)
The Bride is associated with the church (Revelation 19:7-8)
Is 54:5,6 - (The Future Glory of Zion)4 "Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed; Neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame; For you will forget the shame of your youth, And will not remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore. 5 For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of hosts is His name; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth. 6 For the Lord has called you Like a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, Like a youthful wife when you were refused," Says your God. 7 "For a mere moment I have forsaken you, But with great mercies I will gather you. 8 With a little wrath I hid My face from you for a moment; But with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you," Says the Lord, your Redeemer.
Is 66:7-10 - 5 Hear the word of the Lord, You who tremble at His word: "Your brethren who hated you, Who cast you out for My name's sake, said, 'Let the Lord be glorified, That we may see your joy.' But they shall be ashamed." 6 The sound of noise from the city! A voice from the temple! The voice of the Lord, Who fully repays His enemies! 7 "Before she was in labor, she gave birth; Before her pain came, She delivered a male child. 8 Who has heard such a thing? Who has seen such things? Shall the earth be made to give birth in one day? Or shall a nation be born at once? For as soon as Zion was in labor, She gave birth to her children. 9 Shall I bring to the time of birth, and not cause delivery?" says the Lord. "Shall I who cause delivery shut up the womb?" says your God. 10 "Rejoice with Jerusalem, And be glad with her, all you who love her; Rejoice for joy with her, all you who mourn for her;
Jer. 3:6-12 - 6 The Lord said also to me in the days of Josiah the king: "Have you seen what backsliding Israel has done? She has gone up on every high mountain and under every green tree, and there played the harlot. 7 And I said, after she had done all these things, 'Return to Me.' But she did not return. And her treacherous sister Judah saw it. 8 Then I saw that for all the causes for which backsliding Israel had committed adultery, I had put her away and given her a certificate of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah did not fear, but went and played the harlot also. 9 So it came to pass, through her casual harlotry, that she defiled the land and committed adultery with stones and trees. 10 And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah has not turned to Me with her whole heart, but in pretense," says the Lord. 11 Then the Lord said to me, "Backsliding Israel has shown herself more righteous than treacherous Judah. 12 Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say: 'Return, backsliding Israel,' says the Lord; 'I will not cause My anger to fall on you. For I am merciful,' says the Lord; ' I will not remain angry forever.
Hosea 2:19-20 - 19 "I will betroth you to Me forever; Yes, I will betroth you to Me In righteousness and justice, In lovingkindness and mercy; 20 I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, And you shall know the Lord
Micah 4:10 - Be in pain, and labor to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, Like a woman in birth pangs. For now you shall go forth from the city, You shall dwell in the field, And to Babylon you shall go. There you shall be delivered; There the Lord will redeem you From the hand of your enemies.
Micah 5:2-3 - 2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting." 3 Therefore He shall give them up, Until the time that she who is in labor has given birth; Then the remnant of His brethren Shall return to the children of Israel.
NIV: Micah 5:2-3 - 2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. " 3 Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites
(David Guzik) The pain described refers to the travail of Israel at the time of Jesus’ birth (under Roman occupation and oppression).
(David Guzik) Some teach that the woman is a symbol representing all the people of God, including faithful Israel and the church. They use this to advance the idea that the church is here during the tribulation period. But if the woman represents all the people of God (the church and faithful Israel), then who are the rest of her offspring described in Revelation 12:17? It is better to see her as Israel in general or Messianic Jews in particular.
Are these events happened already in History?
Yes
What this woman did?
6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
Who is this woman?
As we saw earlier this woman represent Israel. For details read Who is this Woman? topic in Rev 12:5 notes.
What this Woman did?
6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness
Why the Woman flee?
Dragon/Satan
Rev 12:4b-5 - 4b And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth, to devour her Child as soon as it was born. 5 She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.
To where did the Woman flee?
6a Then the woman fled into the wilderness,
What is wilderness?
From Dictionary: a wild and uncultivated region, as of forest or desert, uninhabited or inhabited only by wild animals; a tract of wasteland.
(1.) Hebrew word midhbar, denoting not a barren desert but a district or region suitable for pasturing sheep and cattle (Ps. 65:12; Isa. 42:11; Jer. 23:10; Joel 1:19; 2:22); an uncultivated place.
This word is used of the wilderness of Beersheba (Gen. 21:14), on the southern border of Palestine; the wilderness of the Red Sea (Ex. 13:18); of Shur (15:22), a portion of the Sinaitic peninsula; of Sin (17:1), Sinai (Lev. 7:38), Moab (Deut. 2:8), Judah (Judg. 1:16), Ziph, Maon, En-gedi (1 Sam. 23:14, 24; 24:1), Jeruel and Tekoa (2 Chr. 20:16, 20), Kadesh (Ps. 29:8).
Gen 16:7 - Now the Angel of the Lord found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur
Gen 21:14 - So Abraham rose early in the morning, and took bread and a skin of water; and putting it on her shoulder, he gave it and the boy to Hagar, and sent her away. Then she departed and wandered in the Wilderness of Beersheba.
Exodus 18:5 - and Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, came with his sons and his wife to Moses in the wilderness, where he was encamped at the mountain of God
Mat 3:1-3 - 1 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.'
Matt 4:1 - Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil
How long they are going to be there?
6c one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
1260 days is 3.5 years 30days/month or 42 months.
Is this happened already in History?
Let us see some few historical events happened to Mary and Israel and compare those with this event:
Mary and Joseph flee to Egypt when Jesus is around 2 years old and hopefully returned back within the same year because Herod died on 4 BC. So her wilderness is approximately one year.
The Birth of Jesus (At Bethlehem of Judea, BC 5) Mat 2:1-7
The Birth of Jesus Told by Angels to the Shepherds (Near Bethlehem, BC 5) 55 vs Mat 2:8-20
Circumcision, Temple Service, and Naming of Jesus (The Temple at Jerusalem, BC 4) Mat 2:21-40
Eastern Wise-Men (Magi) visit The New-born King (Jerusalem & Bethlehem, BC 4) Mat 2:1-12
Flight to Egypt & Slaughter of the Children (Bethlehem & Road to Egypt, BC 4) Mat 2:13-18 14 15.
Herod's wrath on Bethlehem's children Mat 2:16-18
Herod dies in Spring of BC 4 Mat 2:19
The Child Jesus Brought from Egypt to Nazareth (Egypt and Nazareth, BC 4) Mat 2:19-23 15
Jesus visiting Jerusalem in His 12th Year (Nazareth & Jerusalem, AD 7-8) 56 vs Mat 2:41-52
As we saw earlier this woman is not Mary but she represent here Israel. Israel were under Egypt for approximately 400 years, Babylon for 70 Years and many times under neighboring countries/kings.
Are these are wilderness?
No these are slavery.
Israel was wandering in wilderness for 40 years when they move from Egypt to Promise Land (Canaan)
One other possibility is in history after Jesus resurrected to heaven Israel was scattered and wiped Jerusalem and the temple on 70 AD by Roman Emperor Titus. After 1878 years later after II World war Israel again formed their nation and declared independence on 14 May 1948.
Jeremiah 49:36 - Against Elam I will bring the four winds From the four quarters of heaven, And scatter them toward all those winds; There shall be no nations where the outcasts of Elam will not go.
Here Israel was not fled into wilderness but scattered all over the world as a refuges to live and establish. They were scattered for 1878 years outside their home land.
So, in history of Israel they never stayed in wilderness place for 1260 years.
Is this going to happen in future?
6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
Here in this passage Israel is in wilderness for 1260 days or 3.5 years. This is no where close to any past wilderness of Israel history.
So, this must be happening in future.
We can see some more details about this wilderness and how God protect these Israelites in Rev 12:13-17
Rev 12:13-17 - 13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. 14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. 15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. 16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
BIG GAP: Rev 12:1-5 is happened already at the same time verse 6 is yet to happen in future. Here between verse 5 and verse 6 there is a big gap. It is very important to have this closer in depth study otherwise we will miss the great amount of details. Majority of Old Testament believers didn't have this type of closer in depth study so they were confused with Jesus first coming and second coming. We can see the similar pattern in following scriptures:
Dan 9:26 is History fulfilled in AD 70 at the same time Dan 9:27 is future event ie last 7 year period before Jesus Christ comes 2nd time.
Dan 9:26 - 26 "And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself; And the people of the prince who is to come Shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end of it shall be with a flood, And till the end of the war desolations are determined. 27 Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate, Even until the consummation, which is determined, Is poured out on the desolate."
Isaiah 61:1-2a is presently fulfilled during Jesus time when He reads this in a Synagogue as in Luke 4:18-21. Jesus didn't read Isaiah 61:2b which is about "day of vengeance of our God" which is yet to be fulfilled during the last 3.5 years just before Jesus 2nd coming.
Luke 4:16-21 - 16 So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. 17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: 18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; 19 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord." 20 Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing."
Is 61:1,2 - 1 "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn
Likewise there are many prophecies in Old Testament yet to be fulfilled are prophesied with some fulfilled prophecies.
Application: Unless otherwise if we didn't spend time and take a closer look or in depth study then we will miss important details. Let us spend time in His word and sit under His feet. So, that may the Lord God Almighty enlighten our understanding.
2 Cor 4:6 - For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ
Ezra 9:8 - And now for a little while grace has been shown from the Lord our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a peg in His holy place, that our God may enlighten our eyes and give us a measure of revival in our bondage.
Psalm 13:3 - Consider and hear me, O Lord my God; Enlighten my eyes, Lest I sleep the sleep of death;
Psalm 18:28 - For You will light my lamp; The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.
Who prepared this place?
6b where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there
For more details read Who protects the Woman from dragon?
Is this place exist now? Where is this place could be?
6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
Read details in To where did the Woman fly? in Rev 12:13-17 notes.
Why God provided this Israel fleeing to wilderness event here
then war in heaven and
then again providing details about Israel flee to wilderness?
One thing happening here is summary and details approach. Here Rev 12:6 provides brief summary at the same time they are explained in detail in Rev 12:7-17.
Rev 10:11 elaborated in Rev 11-18
Rev 11:15-19 elaborated in Rev 12-18
Rev 14 elaborated in Rev 15-18
Study and meditate Rev 12:7-12 then you will find detail answers by yourself.
What war John saw?
7 And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought,
Where he saw this war?
7a And war broke out in heaven:
Between whom this war happened?
7b Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought
Who is this Michael?
Michael means One like God.
Is this Michael is Jesus Christ?
(David Guzik) Some individuals and groups (such as the Seventh Day Adventists and Jehovah’s Witnesses) insist on saying that Michael is actually Jesus. This is wrong on every count.
Some say Michael must be Jesus, because he has his angels. But if Satan - a fallen angelic being - has his angels (Revelation 12:7), which can’t Michael - an unfallen angelic being - have his angels?
Some say Michael must be Jesus, because he is called the archangel (Jude 9), which means leader or prince among the angels, and they say that only Jesus is the leader of the angels. But we know from Daniel 10:13, 10:20 and 10:21 that Michael is one angelic prince among others. Also, Paul refers to an archangel in 1 Thessalonians 4:16 in a way that presupposes other archangels.
Some say that Michael must be Jesus, because Paul says that at the rapture, the Lord will call His people with the voice of an archangel (1 Thessalonians 4:16). But Jesus can use an angel to call out for His people without being that angel, just as much as God can use a trumpet to sound out a call without being the trumpet.
Jude 9 says that Michael would not rebuke or accuse Satan on His own authority, but only say “The Lord rebuke you.” This shows that Michael isn’t Jesus, because Jesus often rebuked Satan and demons in His own authority (Matthew 17:18, Mark 1:25, 9:25, Luke 4:8, 4:35).
What will be the problem if we say Michael is Jesus Christ?
Some say Michael must be Jesus, because his name means One like God. But if this were a title of Jesus, it could argue against His deity, not for it - because it would say that Jesus is like God, but not God. “There is also an unquestionable Godlikeness in all holy beings, which must be very exalted in those preeminent among the ministers of the throne.” (Seiss)
Michael is not to be identified with Christ, any more than any other of the great angels in this Book. Such identification here would confuse hopelessly the actors in this heavenly scene.” (Alford)
So, Michael is "One like God" but not God or anyway equal to God. Jesus is not like God but Jesus is God.
Application: We are like or reflect God but never become God.
Luke 6:40 - A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
Michael is archangel means leader for many angels.
Jude 9 - Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, "The Lord rebuke you!"
1 Thes 4:16 - For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.
Only Michael is referred as a archangel. In Apocrypha Enoch 20:1-7 Michael, Gabriel and other four unfamiliar names are listed as archangel.
Michael is also referred as Prince among the angels or Prince of Israel.
Dan 10:13,20,21 (Note the good and evil angels as prince) - 12 Then he said to me, "Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. 13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia. 14 Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come." 15 When he had spoken such words to me, I turned my face toward the ground and became speechless. 16 And suddenly, one having the likeness of the sons of men touched my lips; then I opened my mouth and spoke, saying to him who stood before me, "My lord, because of the vision my sorrows have overwhelmed me, and I have retained no strength. 17 For how can this servant of my lord talk with you, my lord? As for me, no strength remains in me now, nor is any breath left in me." 18 Then again, the one having the likeness of a man touched me and strengthened me. 19 And he said, "O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!" So when he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, "Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me." 20 Then he said, "Do you know why I have come to you? And now I must return to fight with the prince of Persia; and when I have gone forth, indeed the prince of Greece will come. 21 But I will tell you what is noted in the Scripture of Truth. (No one upholds me against these, except Michael your prince.
Dan 12:1 - "At that time Michael shall stand up, The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; And there shall be a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation, Even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, Every one who is found written in the book.
Archangel is prince or leader under him there are many angels are working.
There are only two kinds of angels called Archangel and Angels (who works under the Archangel). Other kids of sprit beings who serve our God are Cherub/Cherubim (Gen 3,Ex 25, Ezekiel 1, 10), Seraphim (in Isaiah 6), and Living Creatures (in the Book of Revelation 4, 5, 6, 15).
Who is this dragon?
9b that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world;
10c for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night
We already discussed about Satan in Rev 12:3,4a in Who is this dragon? topic.
Who fought with this dragon?
7c and the dragon and his angels fought,
Like Michael has his own angel dragon/Satan who was a Cherub deceived and become leader for other fallen angels. For more details read Who are these stars? topic in Rev 12:3 notes.
Is this Spiritual war? How is this battle fought?
Bible says war between believers and Satan is spiritual
Ephesians 6:12 - 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints
In Daniel 10:13 Satan's/evil angel blocks/delays God's/good angel message delivery to Daniel. This not seems like spiritual.
Dan 10:13,20,21 (Note the good and evil angels as prince) - 12 Then he said to me, "Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. 13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia. 14 Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come." 15 When he had spoken such words to me, I turned my face toward the ground and became speechless. 16 And suddenly, one having the likeness of the sons of men touched my lips; then I opened my mouth and spoke, saying to him who stood before me, "My lord, because of the vision my sorrows have overwhelmed me, and I have retained no strength. 17 For how can this servant of my lord talk with you, my lord? As for me, no strength remains in me now, nor is any breath left in me." 18 Then again, the one having the likeness of a man touched me and strengthened me. 19 And he said, "O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, be strong!" So when he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, "Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me." 20 Then he said, "Do you know why I have come to you? And now I must return to fight with the prince of Persia; and when I have gone forth, indeed the prince of Greece will come. 21 But I will tell you what is noted in the Scripture of Truth. (No one upholds me against these, except Michael your prince.
(David Guzik) We know this is a real fight; but is it a material or a spiritual battle? Our battle with Satan and his demons is spiritual, fought on the battleground of truth and deception, of fear and faith (Ephesians 6:12). In regard to material attacks against the believer, Satan and his demons were disarmed at the cross (Colossians 2:15). But it is possible that among angels, there is a material battle to be fought in a way we can only imagine.
What is the result/outcome of this war in heaven?
8 but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer. 9 So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. 10 Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. 12 Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time."
Who won the war?
8a but they did not prevail,
Is this war already happened or going to happen? When this war happen?
Is there anywhere in the Bible this type of war (between good and evil angels) specified?
No.
Is this happened when Satan fall when he sin (before he deceives Adam and Eve)?
No. Because he has access to heaven after that.
He is called as Accuser of our Brethren, who accuses believers before our God day and night.
Rev 12:10 Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
Zechariah 3:1-2 - 1 Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to oppose him.
Job 1:6-12 - 6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them. 7 And the Lord said to Satan, "From where do you come?" So Satan answered the Lord and said, "From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it."
To resolve below two questions we need to know when this war happen.
Is Satan has access to heaven now?
Is this war happened during Jesus death on the Cross? or Does Jesus disarmed (Col 2:15) and judged (John 16:11) Satan on the Cross means this?
Let us find clue in following verse:
Rev 12:10b - "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come,
Rev 12:10b clearly gives us answer: As we discussed in Rev 11:15 & 17 The kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ will come only during the middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming. So, this war will happen only at middle of the middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming.
Rev 11:15, 17 - 15 Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" 16 And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, 17 saying: "We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
(Warren Wiersbe) The dragon was cast out of heaven (Rev. 12:9), and he took with him a third of the angels (Rev. 12:7, 9), They are spoken of as "stars" in Revelation 12:4 (see also Dan. 8:10). This is evidently a reference to the fall of Satan (Isa. 14:12-15), when he and his hosts revolted against God. However, the casting out described in Revelation 12:7-10 is yet future.
(Warren Wiersbe) What is this celestial conflict all about?
The fact that Michael led God's angels to victory is significant, because Michael is identified with the nation Israel (Dan. 10:10-21: 12:1; note also Jude 9). The name Michael means "who is like God?" and this certainly parallels Satan's egocentric attack on Jehovah—"I will be like the Most High" (Isa. 14:14). Apparently, the devil's hatred of Israel will spur him to make one final assault against the throne of God, but he will be defeated by Michael and a heavenly host.
(David Guzik) In Luke 10:18, Jesus said “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” This fall Jesus spoke of either refers to the first fall of Satan (from glorified to profane), or they are a prophetic look ahead to the second fall at the mid-point of the seven year tribulation period.
Because He will lost complete access so he will not accuse the believers in Christ
Rev12:10c - for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
Because of this we can see the urgency of Satan:
Rev12:12b - Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time."
Rev12:13 - Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child.
Now we can answer the following questions clearly:
Is Satan has access to heaven now?
Yes, Satan will keep on accusing believers day and night until this event happen at the beginning of last 3.5 years just before Jesus 2nd coming.
Is this war happened during Jesus death on the Cross? or Does Jesus disarmed (Col 2:15) and judged (John 16:11) Satan on the Cross means this?
NO. By judgment and disarming of Satan restrict Satan to control believers in Christ. Satan cannot touch believers without the permission of God but he will keep continue in accusing the believers.
What privilege will this dragon and his angel lost due to this defeat? or What happened to the accuser of our brethren?
8b nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.
9a So the great dragon was cast out,
9c he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
10c for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
Satan and his angel lost the complete access to heaven.
Satan is also called as Accuser of our Brethren, who accuses believers before our God day and night.
Rev 12:10 Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
Zechariah 3:1-2 - 1 Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to oppose him. 2 And the Lord said to Satan, "The Lord rebuke you, Satan! The Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?" 3 Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and was standing before the Angel. 4 Then He answered and spoke to those who stood before Him, saying, "Take away the filthy garments from him." And to him He said, "See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes." 5 And I said, "Let them put a clean turban on his head." So they put a clean turban on his head, and they put the clothes on him. And the Angel of the Lord stood by.
Job 1:6-12 - 6 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan also came among them. 7 And the Lord said to Satan, "From where do you come?" So Satan answered the Lord and said, "From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it." 8 Then the Lord said to Satan, "Have you considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God and shuns evil?" 9 So Satan answered the Lord and said, "Does Job fear God for nothing? 10 Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But now, stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face!" 12 And the Lord said to Satan, "Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person." So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord.
1 Kings 22:21 (Micaiah Prophesies Against Ahab 1 Kings 22:1-28pp) - 20 And the Lord said, 'Who will persuade Ahab to go up, that he may fall at Ramoth Gilead?' So one spoke in this manner, and another spoke in that manner. 21 Then a spirit came forward and stood before the Lord, and said, 'I will persuade him.' 22 The Lord said to him, 'In what way?' So he said, 'I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.' And the Lord said, 'You shall persuade him, and also prevail. Go out and do so.' 23 Therefore look! The Lord has put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these prophets of yours, and the Lord has declared disaster against you."
Jesus is there always to intercede for us:
Isaiah 53:12 - Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death, And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors.
Romans 8:34 - Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.
Heb 7:25 - 24 But He, because He continues forever, has an unchangeable priesthood. 25 Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them
1 John 2:1 - 1 My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.
(David Guzik) Satan’s work of accusing only ends here, when he is cast out from his access to heaven. Today, we have (and need) an intercessor and advocate (Hebrews 7:25, and 1 John 2:1).
(Warren Wiersbe) The name devil means "accuser," and Satan means "adversary." Satan stands at the throne of God and fights the saints by accusing them (see Job 1-2; Zech. 3). But Jesus Christ, the "heavenly Advocate" (1 John 2:1-2). represents the church before God's holy throne. Because Jesus Christ died for us, we can overcome Satan's accusations "by the blood of the Lamb." Our salvation is secure, not because of our own works, but because of His finished work at Calvary.
What John heard next and from where he heard this?
10a Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven,
To whom this loud voice addresses? or Who did the loud voice address?
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. 12 Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time."
Addressing to those who dwell in Heaven.
Who are they?
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.
It is clear that they and them refers to Believers in Christ.
Where they are now?
12a Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them!
They are now in Heaven. At this middle of great tribulation majority of believers in Christ are in Heaven except few remnants.
Who's loud voice is this?
Since this loud voice addressing Believers in Christ as "they and them" and refers God as "our God" so this loud voice could be from the angels or the four living creatures.
What this loud voice proclaimed?
What residence in heaven has to do? Why believers/overcomers has to rejoice in heaven?
12a Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them!
Why they have to rejoice?
10c for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.
8b nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.
9a So the great dragon was cast out,
9c he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
Heaven will rejoice when Satan is cast out, because there is no one in heaven to accuse the believers in Christ.
(Warren Wiersbe) Believers in any age or situation can rejoice in this victory, no matter how difficult their experiences may be. Our warfare is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of the wicked one: and these have been defeated by our Saviour (Eph. 6: l0ff: note also Eph. 1:15-23).
What is the outcome/result when Satan completely cast down from heaven?
10b "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come
GNT Good News Translation: Revelation 12:10 - Then I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, "Now God's salvation has come! Now God has shown his power as King! Now his Messiah has shown his authority! For the one who stood before our God and accused believers day and night has been thrown out of heaven.
Now the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come
As we discussed in Rev 11:15 & 17 The kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ will come only during the middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming.
Rev 11:15, 17 - 15 Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" 16 And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, 17 saying: "We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.
Once this war over and the first and foremost enemy Satan will cast down to earth. First Victory for Jesus in Heaven through His servants Michael the archangel and his angels.
From that time there is no one to oppose/accuse His rule and reign or any believers.
So, Jesus now no need to be advocate for us but in His full strength He can freely rule with rod of iron.
Now God's salvation has come!
10b "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.
Whom the believers in Christ overcame? or Who did the believers in Christ overcome?
11a And they overcame him
What is overcame means here?
Defeated, Conquered, won
To whom this "him" refers to?
Here "him" refers to Satan
Believers in Christ overcame Satan.
1 John 2:13,14 - 13 I write to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, Because you have overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, Because you have known the Father. 14 I have written to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, Because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, And you have overcome the wicked one.
Does overcoming Satan and overcoming this world means the same?
Yes, because Satan is ruler of this world.(John 12:31, John 16:11)
Since all the Adam's descendents are born in his blood so, we are born with sin and obey Satan naturally by birth.
By birth we are under the fold/control of Satan. As we saw in Rev 11:15 now this world is ruled by Satan. Satan is the the ruler of this world.
Eph 2:2 - 1 And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, 3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.
NLT: Eph2:2 - 1 Once you were dead, doomed forever because of your many sins. 2 You used to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty prince of the power of the air. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. 3 All of us used to live that way, following the passions and desires of our evil nature. We were born with an evil nature, and we were under God's anger just like everyone else
NIV: Eph 2:2 - 1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath
Rom 3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Read What is the state of humanity before or without Salvation? topic in Salvation article to understand better.
Read Kingdom of this World Vs Kingdom of God article to understand better by getting answers to questions such as
To Whom this kingdom of world belongs to now?, Is it not the kingdoms of this world now belongs to our Lord? Is it not Jesus Christ now reign this world forever and ever?, To Whom God delivered this world?....
Jesus overcame this world so He challenges all believers in Christ to overcome this world:
John 16:33 - These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
Revelation 2:7 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." '
Revelation 2:11 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes shall not be hurt by the second death." '
Revelation 2:17 - He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it." '
Revelation 2:26 - And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations
Revelation 3:5 - He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.
Revelation 3:12 - He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. And I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.
Revelation 3:21 - To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.
How they overcame?
11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.
This tells us three keys to the saint’s victory over Satan.
They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb:
What it means? To understand better Read What is the state of humanity before or without Salvation? and How God Saves humanity? topic in Salvation article.
We are born sinners and no way to obtain God's Holiness and His Righteousness so, we are destined for eternal separation from God and deserved for the God's severe eternal punishment.
We have BIG GAP between us and GOD. There are no ways to reach God by our efforts. We desperately in need of help from God.
But God..... instead of leave us in that eternal doomed state because of His great Love towards us and according to His rich Mercy and Grace
Extended His hand to human beings and made a way to escape from His wrath and from the bondage/trap of Satan... (1 John 2:2, John 3:16, 1 John 4:19)
Romans 5:8 - But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
God made a way to all people/humanity by offering His life on our behalf as atoning/appeasing scarifies or propitiation that satisfies/pays off the wrath of God.
1 John 2:2 - And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.
Col 1:13-14 - 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
Eph 1:7 - 7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, 9 having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself,10 that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth--in Him.
Heb 9:14 - 13 For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, 14 how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
(David Guzik) The blood overcomes Satan’s accusations. Those accusations mean nothing against us because Jesus has already paid the penalty our sins deserved. We may be even worse than Satan’s accusations, but we are still are made righteous by the work of Jesus on the cross (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14, and Hebrews 9:14).
How does the blood of the Lamb conquer Satan in the life of the believer? How does the death of Jesus on the cross as our substitute bring us victory?(David Guzik)
Although, it is important to say that we should not regard the blood of Jesus in a superstitious manner. It is not a magical potion, nor is it the literal blood of Jesus, literally applied that saves or cleanses us. If that were so, then His Roman executioners, splattered with His blood, would have been automatically saved, and the actual number of molecules of Jesus’ literal blood would limit the number of people who could be saved. The blood speaks to us of the real, physical death of Jesus Christ in our place, on our behalf, before God. That literal death in our place, and the literal judgment He bore on our behalf, is what saves us.
By the blood emphasizes the death of Jesus. He did not only suffer, He died. Of the Lamb emphasizes the substitutionary work of His death, because the Passover Lamb died as a substitute for others.
It works first because His victory is our victory. “First, you are to regard Satan this day as being already literally and truly overcome through the death of the Lord Jesus. Satan is already a vanquished enemy. By faith grasp your Lord’s victory as your own, since he triumphed in your nature and on your behalf . . . Come, my soul, thou hast conquered Satan by thy Lord’s victory. Wilt thou not be brave enough to fight a vanquished foe, and trample down the enemy whom thy Lord has already thrust down? Thou needest not be afraid, but say, ‘Thanks be to God which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.’” (Spurgeon)
It works because the work of Jesus on the cross for us is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love (Romans 5:8), and a constant remembrance of the blood of the Lamb assures us that every fear Satan whispers into our mind is a lie.
It works because the death of Jesus on the cross as our substitute reveals the true nature of sin, and this makes us want to avoid sin. “Satan makes sin seem pleasurable, but the cross reveals its bitterness. If Jesus died because of sin, men begin to see that sin must be a murderous thing.” (Spurgeon)
It works because the death of Jesus on the cross as our substitute purchases us as God’s personal property, and this makes us want to live unto God. “If anything can make a man holy it is a firm faith in the atoning sacrifice. When a man knows that Jesus died for him, he feels that he is not his own, but bought with a price, and therefore he must live unto him that died for him and rose again.” (Spurgeon)
Therefore, we use the blood of the Lamb in spiritual warfare - not as a Christian “abracadabra,” as if chanting “The blood of Jesus, the blood of Jesus” could keep Satan away like garlic is said to keep away vampires. Rather, our understanding, our apprehension, our focus - may I say our obsession with the death of Jesus on the cross as our substitute wins the battle.
“The precious blood of Jesus is not meant for us merely to admire and exhibit. We must not be content to talk about it, and extol it, and do nothing with it; but we are to use it in the great crusade against unholiness and unrighteousness, till it is said of us, ‘They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb.’ This precious blood is to be used for overcoming, and consequently for holy warfare. We dishonor it if we do not use it to that end . . . The dog of hell knows the dread name which makes him lie down: we must confront him with the authority, and specially with the atonement of the Lamb of God.” (Spurgeon)
They overcame him . . . they did not love their lives to the death:
Rom 6:1-6,11,15,16 - 1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection,6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. 7 For he who has died has been freed from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him,9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11 Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. 13 And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace. 15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not! 16 Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?17 But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered.18 And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.
1 John 2:15 - 13 I write to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, Because you have overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, Because you have known the Father. 14 I have written to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, Because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, And you have overcome the wicked one. 15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world.
Mark 8:35 - For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it.
John 15:19 - If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
(David Guzik) Loving not their lives overcomes Satan’s violence. If they do not cling to their own earthly lives, then there really is no threat Satan can bring against them. If they believe to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21), then how can Satan’s violence against them be effective?
The ancient Greek word for love here is agape, which speaks of a self-sacrificing, decision-based love. It is up to each one of us to choose: will we love our lives to the death? Will our physical lives be the most precious thing to us, or will we find our life by losing it for Jesus? (Mark 8:35)
Phil 1:21 - 21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. 23 For I am hard pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better. 24 Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.
Defeating/Conquering/Overcoming the Satan or world does not mean the worldly/material/physical success but it is spiritual success.
True believers in Christ continuing in faith in Jesus until they die whether they lived in material/physical prosperity/success or not.
True believers in Christ never give up or deny Christ even it cost them their life as a Martyr.
Rev 2:10 - 8 "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write, 'These things says the First and the Last, who was dead, and came to life: 9 I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Revelation 13:7 - 6 Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. 7 It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.
John 17:14,16,18 - 14 I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.
They overcame him . . . by the word of their testimony:
(David Guzik) The word of their testimony overcomes Satan’s deception. Knowing and remembering the work of God in their life protects them against Satan’s deceptions. As faithful witnesses, they have a testimony to bear - and because they know what they have seen and heard and experienced from God, they cannot be deceived by Satan’s lies telling them it isn’t true (as the testimony of the man born blind in John 9:25).
For witnessing and transformed life we need to renew our mid with the Word of God and apply those in our life or walk in it.
There are two kinds of witnessing life:
Experiencing and sharing God's miracle in your life:
John 9:25 - (Jesus healed the blind man) He answered and said, "Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see."
Abiding in Christ and producing the fruit of the Holy Spirit:
John 15:5 - 1 "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
Gal 5:22-26 - 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Eph 5:18-20 - 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.
Matt 11:29 - 28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Romans 12:1-2 - 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
1 John 4:20 - If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?
1 John 2:29 - If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.
2 Timothy 4:3-4 - 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4 and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. 5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
Eph 4:14 - 11 And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head--Christ-- 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
These both are necessary and it assures the salvation.
1 Peter 3:15 - But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
James 2:26 - For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
(Warren Wiersbe) Christ's shed blood gives us our perfect standing before God (1 John 1:5-2:2). But our witness to God's Word and our willingness to lay down our lives for Christ defeats Satan as well.
Satan is not equal to God; he is not omnipotent, omnipresent, or omniscient. His power is limited and his tactics must fail when God's people trust the power of the blood and of the Word. Nothing Satan does can rob us of "salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God. and the power of His Christ" (Rev. 12:10), if we are yielded to Him. God's great purposes will be fulfilled!
1 John 5:4-5 - 4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. 5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
What is going to happen in residence in earth and sea? Why woe to the inhabitants of earth?
12b Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time."
(Warren Wiersbe) Heaven will rejoice when Satan is cast out, but the earth-dwellers will not: for the last half of the Tribulation will mean intense suffering for the world.
(David Guzik) Heaven rejoices at the eviction of Satan. But heaven’s gain is the earth’s loss: Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and sea!
(David Guzik) Satan’s power is real and terrifying, but not because he is triumphant, but because he knows he is beaten and has a short time left. He is like a wounded, cornered animal that fights ferociously
Why doesn’t he just give up? Don’t forget that Satan is utterly depraved, and probably “insane” - he may have deceived even himself into thinking that he has a chance.
A better question is “Why don’t we give up?” Our rebellion against God makes even less sense than Satan’s rebellion does.
(Warren Wiersbe) The "woe" in Revelation 12:12 reminds us of the "three woes" referred to in Revelation 8:13. The first "woe" is described in Revelation 9:1-12. and the second in Revelation 9:13-21. The third "woe"' is referred to in Revelation ll:14ff. but this passage only summarizes the events that will climax God's plan for the earth. It may be that part of this third "woe" is casting out Satan and permitting his terrible wrath on earth.
Application:
What might have triggered Satan for this war?
(Warren Wiersbe) But perhaps there is another factor involved in this war. After the church is taken to heaven, believers will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ and have their works examined. On the basis of this judgment, rewards will be given (Rom. 14:10-12; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 2 Cor. 5:10-11). It seems likely that Satan will be present at this event and will accuse the saints, pointing out all the "spots and wrinkles" in the church (Eph. 5:24-27).
(Warren Wiersbe) How furious Satan will be when the church comes forth in glory "without spot or wrinkle, or any such dung."
When the accuser sees that his tactics have failed, he will become angry and threaten the very peace of heaven.
How does this future war apply to the church today?
(Warren Wiersbe) The same serpent who accuses the saints in heaven also deceives the nations on earth (Rev. 12:9): and one of his strategies is to lie about the church. He deceives the nations into thinking that the people of God are dangerous, deluded, even destructive. It is through Satan's deception that the leaders of the nations band together against Christ and His people (Ps. 2; Acts 4:23-30). God's people at any age must expect the world's opposition, but the church can always defeat the enemy by being faithful to Jesus Christ.
How to overcome this world?
1 John 5:4-5 - 4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith. 5 Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
By the blood of the Lamb
by the word of their testimony
do not love your lives to the death.
Is this applicable for specific race or group of people?
No.
Why God provisioned this to humanity?
God so loved all who is in this world and because of His amazing Grace He provisioned this option to everyone.
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Eph 2:10 - 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
God saved us for a purpose so be thoughtful in submitting yourself to His plan.
What did this dragon do once he cast to the earth?
13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. 14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. 15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. 16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Who is this woman?
13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child.
As we saw earlier this woman represent Israel. For details read Who is this Woman? topic in Rev 12:5 notes.
Who is persecuting this woman?
13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child.
15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.
Dragon, Serpent, is Satan. We already discussed about Dragon in Rev 12:3,4a in Who is this dragon? topic for more details read this.
When this happens?
This happens immediately after the heavenly war at the middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming.
Why the Dragon persecuting this woman?
13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child.
12b Woe to the inhabitants of the earth and the sea! For the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has a short time."
Because Satan was cast down completely with no access to heaven so Satan was so fury to attach God's chosen people in earth.
Since this happens at the middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming so, Satan has only remaining last 3.5 years. Within this time by persecuting them he wants them to quit/deny their faith in God so that he can drag them to his side which finally leads to the Lake of Fire (Hell).
(David Guzik) Why does Satan attack the Jewish people?
This is a question for all history, not only for the Great Tribulation. The reason is because Israel, from the time of Abraham, has had a critical role in God’s plan of redemption.
First, it was in bringing forth the Redeemer.
Then, it was in the fulfillment of His plan, because Jesus promised that the Jewish people would exist and welcome Him when He returns in glory to this world (Matthew 23:39).
(David Guzik) If Satan succeeds in destroying the Jewish people, then God’s eternal plan is thwarted.
“The persecution of Israel is part of the satanic program to thwart and hinder the work of God . . . Israel is hated by Satan not because of any of its own characteristics but because she is the chosen of God and essential to the overall purpose of God for time and eternity.” (Walvoord)
(Warren Wiersbe) This, then, is the third scene in the drama: Satan's wrath on earth (Rev. 12:13-16). Knowing that his time is short, and having no more access to heaven, the adversary must vent all of his anger earthward. He begins with Israel (the woman), and creates a wave of anti-Semitism. Satan has always hated the Jews because they are God's chosen people and the vehicle through which salvation came into the world. Satan would like to destroy the nation, particularly as the time draws near for the Messiah to return to earth to establish the promised kingdom. A Jewish remnant must be ready to receive Him and form the nucleus for the kingdom (Zech. 12:9-14:21; Rev. 1:7).
What did this dragon/serpent do to the Woman? How this dragon/serpent persecuted the Woman?
13 Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child. ..... 15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood.
(David Guzik) The fury poured out against Israel after the abomination of desolation (marking the half-way point of 70th week of Daniel) was spoken of by Jesus in Matthew 24:15-22, and spoken of in distinctly Jewish terms (housetop . . . pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath). This passage in Revelation describes the fury that Jesus told them to flee.
This either begins or continues the fierce persecution of all those who would not submit to and worship this great Satanic dictator. The martyrs of this period were shown in Revelation 6:9-11 and Revelation 7:9-17.
“It is precisely when Satan has lost the battle for the souls of saints in heaven that he begins the fruitless persecution of their bodies.” (Farrer)
Is this real flood like how it happened in Nova time?
God promised Nova that hereafter He will not destroy the earth by the flood.
Gen 9:11-17 - 11 Thus I establish My covenant with you: Never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood; never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth." 12 And God said: "This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you, and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: 13 I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. 14 It shall be, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow shall be seen in the cloud; 15 and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16 The rainbow shall be in the cloud, and I will look on it to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth." 17 And God said to Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth."
But here Satan is persecuting the Israel by flood so it may be literal flood. But the sign John saw in this chapter (Rev 12) still continues, you can notice this in Rev 12:14 -Israel was given wings.
Rev 12:14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place
Does this flood represent something different?
(Warren Wiersbe) The phrase "water as a flood" is not explained, but there is a parallel in Psalm 124. (Also note the phrase "escaped as a bird" in verse 7 of this sane Psalm.)
Psalm 124 - 1 A Song of Ascents. Of David. "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side," Let Israel now say-- 2 "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, When men rose up against us, 3 Then they would have swallowed us alive, When their wrath was kindled against us; 4 Then the waters would have overwhelmed us, The stream would have gone over our soul; 5 Then the swollen waters Would have gone over our soul." 6 Blessed be the Lord, Who has not given us as prey to their teeth. 7 Our soul has escaped as a bird from the snare of the fowlers; The snare is broken, and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.
We can read similar in
Is 59:19 - 16 He saw that there was no man, And wondered that there was no intercessor; Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; And His own righteousness, it sustained Him. 17 For He put on righteousness as a breastplate, And a helmet of salvation on His head; He put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, And was clad with zeal as a cloak. 18 According to their deeds, accordingly He will repay, Fury to His adversaries, Recompense to His enemies; The coastlands He will fully repay. 19 So shall they fear The name of the Lord from the west, And His glory from the rising of the sun; When the enemy comes in like a flood, The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. 20 "The Redeemer will come to Zion, And to those who turn from transgression in Jacob," Says the Lord. 21 "As for Me," says the Lord, "this is My covenant with them: My Spirit who is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth, shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your descendants, nor from the mouth of your descendants' descendants," says the Lord, "from this time and forevermore."
Jer 46:7-9 - 7 "Who is this coming up like a flood, Whose waters move like the rivers? 8 Egypt rises up like a flood, And its waters move like the rivers; And he says, 'I will go up and cover the earth, I will destroy the city and its inhabitants.' 9 Come up, O horses, and rage, O chariots! And let the mighty men come forth: The Ethiopians and the Libyans who handle the shield, And the Lydians who handle and bend the bow
Dan 9:26 - 26 "And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself; And the people of the prince who is to come Shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end of it shall be with a flood, And till the end of the war desolations are determined. 27 Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall be one who makes desolate, Even until the consummation, which is determined, Is poured out on the desolate."
NIV: Dan 9:26 - 26 After the sixty-two 'sevens,' the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed. 27 He will confirm a covenant with many for one 'seven.' In the middle of the 'seven' he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on a wing [of the temple] he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him. "
(Warren Wiersbe) This "flood" is probably an outpouring of hatred and anti-Semitic propaganda.
(Warren Wiersbe) Or it may symbolize armies that invade Israel and seek to defeat the remnant.
Did the Woman escaped from this persecution by dragon?
14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. 15 So the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. 16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.
6a Then the woman fled into the wilderness
YES.
Who protects the Woman from dragon?
6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days
14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.
God Protects them and provides all their needs
Psalm 46:1 - To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A Song for Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
Matt 6:33 - 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
(David Guzik) This passage also describes God’s ultimate protection of Israel from the fury of Satan and his antichrist in the great tribulation.
(Warren Wiersbe) When Satan discovers that the people he seeks to kill are protected, then he turns on those who were not earned to the hidden place of safety. He will declare war, and God will permit him to have victory for a time (Rev. 13:7); but ultimately, the old serpent will be defeated.
How the Woman escaped?
14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.
(David Guzik) Eagle’s Wings are an emblem from the Exodus deliverance (Exodus 19:4), another way of connecting these people with Israel.
Some have wondered if the reference to the two wings of a great eagle do not in fact describe a great military transport plane used to evacuate people in an emergency situation.
(Warren Wiersbe) It is interesting that the remnant's escape from Satan is described in terms of a flying eagle, for this is a repeated image in the Old Testament with reference to Israel. God delivered Israel from Egypt "on eagles' wings" (Ex. 19:4), and cared for the people in the wilderness as an eagle would her young (Deut. 32:11-12). Their return from Babylonian Captivity was like "mounting up with wings as eagles" (Isa. 40:31).
Exodus 19:4 - 'You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself.
Isaiah 39:5-8 - 5 Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Hear the word of the Lord of hosts: 6 'Behold, the days are coming when all that is in your house, and what your fathers have accumulated until this day, shall be carried to Babylon; nothing shall be left,' says the Lord. 7 'And they shall take away some of your sons who will descend from you, whom you will beget; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.' " 8 So Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "The word of the Lord which you have spoken is good!" For he said, "At least there will be peace and truth in my days."
Isaiah 40:31 - 29 He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, 31 But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.
(Warren Wiersbe) if flood symbolize armies that invade Israel and seek to defeat the remnant then the earth opening up could well be an earthquake that God sends to destroy the invaders.
(David Guzik) As it says in Isaiah 59:19, When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.
To where did the Woman fly?
14b into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
6a Then the woman fled into the wilderness
(Warren Wiersbe) Note that the remnant (Israelites) will be sheltered for the last half of the Tribulation. We do not know where this sheltered place will be, nor do we need to know. But the lesson for all of us is clear: God cares for those whom He wants to use to accomplish His purposes on earth.
(David Guzik) Some believe this place in the wilderness is the rock city of Petra, south of the Dead Sea.
Reportedly, Christian businessmen have stocked the place with food and evangelistic tracts written in Hebrew.
In Isaiah 16 refers to Moabites (Lot's decedent) who were attached by Assyrians but they seek help to Judah and it fulfilled already. Especially verse 4 is compelling because it says "Let My outcasts dwell with you, O Moab; Be a shelter to them from the face of the spoiler". Many believe this prophesy also applicable for the future for remnant Israelites who go through Jacob's trouble.
Isaiah 16:4 - 1 Send the lamb to the ruler of the land, From Sela (means Rock in English, Petra in Greek) to the wilderness, To the mount of the daughter of Zion. 2 For it shall be as a wandering bird thrown out of the nest; So shall be the daughters of Moab at the fords of the Arnon. 3 "Take counsel, execute judgment; Make your shadow like the night in the middle of the day; Hide the outcasts, Do not betray him who escapes. 4 Let My outcasts dwell with you, O Moab; Be a shelter to them from the face of the spoiler. For the extortioner is at an end, Devastation ceases, The oppressors are consumed out of the land.
(WikiPedia) Petra (Greek "πέτρα" (petra), meaning rock; Arabic: البتراء, Al-Batrāʾ) is a historical and archaeological city in the Jordanian governorate of Ma'an that is known for its rock cut architecture and water conduits system. Established sometime around the 6th century BC as the capital city of the Nabataeans,[2] it is a symbol of Jordan as well as its most visited tourism attraction.[2] It lies on the slope of Mount Hor[3] in a basin among the mountains which form the eastern flank of Arabah (Wadi Araba), the large valley running from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.
Who prepared this place?
6b where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there
14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
God will prepare a special place where the Jewish remnant will be protected and cared for. (Warren Wiersbe)
Application: (David Guzik) Prepared uses the same ancient Greek word Jesus used in I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:2-3). This demonstrates that God’s careful planning works on earth as well as in heaven.
John 14:2-3 - 1 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
How long they are going to be there?
6c one thousand two hundred and sixty days.
14c where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
Satan war in Heaven and he will be cast down to this earth happens only at the middle of the last 7 year period just before Jesus Christ 2nd coming.. He started to persecute them from that time onwards but God protected them in this place for remaining last 3.5 years until Jesus Christ comes.
This 1260 days matches the last 3.5 years before Jesus Christ comes back 2nd time to rule and reign this earth.
(David Guzik) This is another reference to a three and one-half year period, indicating that these events - this dramatic persecution of Israel - takes place during the 70th week of Daniel 9.
(David Guzik) This reference to a three and one-half year period connects these events with the final seven years of the Daniel 9 prophecy. Since Revelation 12:5 describes the ascension of Jesus, and Revelation 12:6 describes yet-to-occur events in the 70th week of Daniel, between these two verses lies hundreds of years (our current period). This obvious “near-far” break in time is typical of prophecy. Daniel’s seventy week prophecy has such a break (Daniel 9:24-27).
Time and Times and half a Time means here Time + 2Time + Time/2 (ie. a+2a+a/2). Replace Time with 1 year then we will get 1 + 2x1 + 1/2 = 3.5 years.
Daniel 7:25 - He shall speak pompous words against the Most High, Shall persecute the saints of the Most High, And shall intend to change times and law. Then the saints shall be given into his hand For a time and times and half a time.
Daniel 12:7 - Then I heard the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever, that it shall be for a time, times, and half a time; and when the power of the holy people has been completely shattered, all these things shall be finished.
What did dragon do when the woman escaped from all his trap or snares?
17a And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring,
This is another failure to Satan. But he never stops and acknowledge his failure. He is a roaring Lion always looking to devour believers in Christ.
1 Peter 5:8 - 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
Application: This is what our self does. Keep on trying whatever we think (our opinion) is right and never try to correct, or repent even if we know the truth.
Who is this offspring?
Woman is Israel so their offspring at this time may be remnant left behind gentile believers because God protected Israel/woman in a special place.
Gal 3:29 - And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Note: Here Israel and this offspring are not Church because Church is taken up or raptured and now they are in heaven.
What testimony this offspring had?
17b who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Phil 3:17 - 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind. 17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame--who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.
1 Corinthians 11:1 - Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.
What happens to this offspring?
Rev 13:7 - It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.
Why God protected Israel/Woman but not the offspring from the dragon's persecution?
6 Then the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that they should feed her there one thousand two hundred and sixty days
14 But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.
16 But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.
17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Find the answer in Why God protected Israel believers from the Satan/dragon (Rev 12:6,14,16,17) but allowed the Antichrist/beast to overcome this saints? topic in Rev 13:7 notes.
Application:
Following from Warren Wiersbe Commentary:
Even today Satan has access to heaven, where he accuses God's people: but he cannot dethrone the exalted Saviour. His strategy is to persecute God's people and devour them if possible (1 Peter 5:8). He has a special hatred for the Jewish, people and has been the power behind anti-Semitism from the days of Pharaoh and Haman (see the Book of Esther) to Hitler and Stalin. Finally, in the middle of the Tribulation, there will come a wave of anti-Semitism such as the world has never seen (Rev. 12:6). But God will protect His people during those three-and-a-half years (1,260 days: see Rev. 11:2; 13:5).
Apart from the 144,000 (who are sealed and protected), a believing remnant of Jews will survive this very troublesome time. We are not told where God will protect them or who it is that will care for them. Matthew 24:15-21 will take on special meaning for those believing Jews who live in the end days. Note especially the parenthesis in Revelation 12:15.
You and I are involved in a similar conflict today (see Eph. 6:10ff). Satan is out to destroy the church, and our victory can come only through Jesus Christ.
18 [No text - Some manuscripts delineate the first phrase of Rev 13:1 as Rev 12:18.]
NLT: Rev 12:18 - Then he stood [fn] waiting on the shore of the sea.
NLT: Rev 13:1 - And now in my vision I saw a beast rising up out of the sea. It had seven heads and ten horns, with ten crowns on its horns. And written on each head were names that blasphemed God.
NKJV: Rev 13:1 - Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.