Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say, “The salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have now come, because the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been thrown down.” (Revelation 12:10)
The theme of spiritual warfare is prevalent throughout the Scriptures. The apostle Paul writes to the Galatian church that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against…evil spiritual forces in the heavens” (Eph. 6:12). In his first letter, the apostle Peter warns us to be constantly on alert because Satan is prowling around like a lion, looking for anyone to devour (1 Pet. 5:8). In today’s reading of Revelation 12, John describes a battle involving a woman and a dragon.
In verses 1-6, John describes a dragon with seven heads and ten horns looking to devour the child of a woman wearing a crown of twelve stars. Regardless of the dragon’s efforts, the woman gives birth to a Son who will ultimately rule all the nations with an iron rod. Verses 7-12 describes a battle between the angels and the dragon which ultimately results in the dragon’s defeat and being thrown out of heaven. Verses 13-17 describes the dragon waging war against the rest of the woman’s offspring.
Verse 9 identifies the dragon as Satan. Satan attempted to “devour” and prevent the coming of the promised Son through events such as:
- Pharaoh command to the Egyptians to kill all the Israelites’ newborn boys (Exod. 1:22)
- Haman’s plan to kill all the Jewish people living in the Persian Empire because Mordecai did not pay him homage (Esth. 3:5-11)
- Herod’s order to massacre all boys around Bethlehem 2 years and younger (Matt. 2:13-18)
Regardless of Satan’s attempts, he was ultimately defeated by the Son, Jesus, when he died and paid the penalty for our sins on our behalf. While reading about a battle may seem counterproductive, we must remind ourselves the book of Revelation was written to encourage and strengthen believers. How does this chapter apply to you and me today?
Although Satan is waging war against you and I (12:17), he is ultimately fighting a losing battle. Satan has been thrown down (12:9), he can no longer accuse us (12:10), and his time is short (12:12). Although he may constantly tempt us and twist God’s promises, we must remember that we are secure in God’s hands. Are you having doubts about your salvation? Remember that salvation from our sins is from God’s grace alone and not via our own efforts. Do you feel that God cannot understand the struggles you go through? Remember that Jesus also faced temptation but did not give in to them (Heb. 4:16). God will always provide a way out when we are tempted (1 Cor. 10:13). No matter what situation you may face, good or bad, God will never leave you or forsake you and that he is always directing your path. You can trust that he works all things in your life only for your good.