Are familiar with the Christmas story - Bible narratives in Matthew and Luke
So.... here's one less recognized! Rev. 12:1-7
This is Apocalyptic Literature - very common in this time.
end times focus = battle between good and evil (God & Satan)
This uses highly figurative language, symbolism, poetic imagery
One one hand = describing actual/ real events (not just imagination) - past, present, future
However = doing so in exaggerated terms!! (hyperbole)
Is NOT exaggeration to cloud or distort the truth, but rather to EMPHASIZE truth!!
Examples = poetry - Isa. 55:12 - poetic imagery
political cartoons (in caricature)
Ex. Rev. 19:15 - speaking of the Word
On one hand, is endless debat4e about the symbols/their meaning, etc.
However, generally agreed that here (Rev. 12) =
(1) boy child = Christ
(2) woman = Israel or Church or Both (ie: God's people)
(3) dragon = Satan (Vs. 9)
(4) child escapes --> caught up to God's Throne (Resurrection)
(5) Satan (+ his) cast out of heaven to earth
(6) in rage .... makes war against ... Christians!! (Vs. 17)
How does this apply to Christians?
On one hand war began BEFORE the incarnation
However, has intensified since Jesus' birth, death, resurrection
Christ came to defeat Satan IN THE FLESH!!!
So.... we might know and share (in the flesh) HIS VICTORY!!
And That = Big Part of the Christmas Story!!!
OBSERVATIONS
#1. You were born into a world at war!!
(This is not a battle! But we refer to battles within the war!!)
#2. This is spiritual warfare with spiritual battles
Eph. 6:10-12 - note: sometimes spiritual battles are more intense during the holidays.
BUT -
#3. Spiritual battles often overflow into the physical realm!! examples: Martyrs, (today's) anti Semitism, temptations to sin.
On one hand, spiritual battle but on the other hand, generally culminates in physical actions!!
Examples: alcohol, drugs, illicit sex, anger, greed, pride
#4. As a believer you are a specific target.
Rev. 12:17 - compare to Peter (in Luke) = "sift as wheat"
1 Pet. 5:8 (same Peter!!) 1 Pet. 4:12 - Satan wants to show how bad you really are.
The war is won!!! (Resurrection) Victory is certain.
ie: Christ came IN FLESH so WE might participate in HIS victory!!! ("first fruits")
BUT
#5. The Battles will continue until Christ's Return!!
Satan = angry, vengeful, hasn't conceded, surrendered...
AND if he can't get at Christ, will attack His brothers/sisters - No utopia on earth for Christians
#6. Satan's attacks are always vicious BUT not always VIOLENT! example: Adam and Eve (so "schemes") - was sweet and deceptive. You can be under assault from the devil, but it seems good!
Note: Not every sin problem has a demonic origin! James 1:14 - "dragged away and enticed by own evil desire"
So, on one hand, expect attacks!!
However, Accept responsibility when = your own doing!!
Note: it's not just Michael and his angels who defeat Satan's army! It's also faithful believers!! Rev. 12:1
Point =
#7) You can have a part in Satan's defeat!!
Christ fights FOR you and ALONGSIDE you!
BUT..... you are expected to FIGHT!! (Christian life is not intended to be Passive!)
#8. Sometimes you will experience battle fatigue!
Because you are human!! wear down, wear out, need Rest and Relaxation
Bible Illustration = Elijah (1 Kings 18-19) 3 1/2 years against Ahab, showdown on Mt. Carmel, threats of Jezebel ---- flees to the wilderness - receives 40 days R & R
THEN "back to work"
God will likely grant you periods of R & R. BUT don't ever expect to be discharged from duty!!
Example: Abraham @115
Finally #9. If you are faithful to Christ, you'll be a Victor!
(even Martyrs who died came out Victors!!) This = clear message of Revelation!!
So.... Do you want to be on the winning side??
(1) sign up, join up TODAY! (Receive Christ as Savior and Lord!)
(2) follow fight be faithful!!
Rev. 12 shouldn't dampen the Christmas spirit .... it should ENHANCE it!!
ie: Christ came IN flesh TO destroy the works of Satan, and You can have a part in that!!!
Closing Scripture: Rev. 3:21-22
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