Revelation Chapter 12

1. Chapter 12 – An explanation of the history of Israel and how Satan has tried to defeat Christ.

a. Verse 1-6 explains the history of the nation of Israel until the birth of Christ.

2. Chapter 13 – An explanation of the history of the Anti-Christ and how Satan has worked long and hard to bring about his doomed kingdom.

a. Verse 1-2 explains the history of the various pagan kingdoms, which comprise the Anti-Christ kingdom.

b. Verse 3-10 prophesies some of the future power exercised by the Anti-Christ kingdom over the inhabitants of this world.

c. Verse 11-18 prophesies of another beast that shall come to assist and cause all to glorify the first beast.

3. Chapter 14 – Praise and honor is given to God because he is victorious over Satan and his kingdom.

4. Chapter 15 – A view of those that have died under Satan’s persecution during the tribulation period, and a brief glimpse into the glory of God as he delivers the seven golden vials full of his wrath.

1. Intermission # 1: Chapter 7 – Before the opening of the 7^th seal, there is a record given of all the Jews and Gentiles who are saved during the tribulation.

a. Chapter 10:1-7 – The seven thunders utter their voices when the 6^th trumpet is sounded, but John is told to not write what they utter.

c. Chapter 11:1-14 – The two witnesses give their testimony during the 1^st 3½ year period of the tribulation period, then die for their testimony.

A. The book of Revelation tells how Christ will finally restore the kingdom of God to this earth.

1. The kingdom of God was lost in the fall of mankind, as recorded in Genesis 3.

2. The restoration of the kingdom of God is prophesied in the entire Bible, and fulfilled in Revelation.

1. Revelation 4:1 – A door is opened in heaven, therefore John is able to begin to see and write the end-time prophecy.

2. Revelation 6:1-9 – The seals are opened, which begins the wrath and judgment of God.

3. Revelation 9:2 – The bottomless pit is opened, allowing terrible creatures to come upon the earth to torment men, yet not kill them.

4. Revelation 11:19 – The temple of heaven is opened, allowing men to see the ark of the testimony, yet men do not repent.

5. Revelation 15:5 – The temple of the tabernacle of testimony is opened, which is a prelude to the seven vials of God’s eternal wrath – the final pouring out of God’s wrath upon the earth.

6. Revelation 19:11 – Heaven is opened, Christ appears and takes control of this earth.

Verse 1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

1. Revelation 12:1 – John sees a woman clothed with the sun, which represents the nation of Israel. This wonder occurs in heaven.

2. Revelation 12:3 – John sees a great red dragon, which represents Satan’s Anti-Christ kingdom. This wonder also occurs in heaven.

3. Revelation 13:13,14 – John sees the wonders and miracles the second beast will be able to do in order to deceive the people of the world. The word “wonders” and “miracles” are the same Greek word, accounting for the third and fourth wonder. This wonder occurs on the earth, but the fire comes down to the earth from heaven.

4. Revelation 15:1 – The fifth wonder John sees is the seven angels which has the last seven plagues, for in these last plagues is filled up the wrath of God. This wonder is a sign, which is in heaven.

5. Revelation 16:13,14 – The sixth wonder John sees is the miracles of Satan, which allure the kings of the earth to the Battle of Armageddon. This wonder takes place on the earth.

6. Revelation 19:20 – The seventh and final wonder (miracle) John sees is the defeat of the Anti-Christ kingdom, which includes the capture of the beast and false prophet which reflects the failure of the miracles of Satan. This wonder takes place on the earth as the beast and false prophet is removed from the earth and placed in the Lake of Fire forever.

1. There is no scripture in the Bible that refers to Israel with this description.

3. The only scripture that connects Israel with this description is Genesis 37:9, where Joseph dreamed that the sun, moon and stars, which represents the family of Jacob (who is called Israel) would fall down and do obeisance to him.

B. There are approximately 13 scriptures that refer to the sun, moon and stars as literal. Some of them are:

1. Deuteronomy 4:19 – God warns the nation of Israel not to worship the sun, the moon, or the stars, which represent false gods.

2. Psalms 148:3 – The sun, moon and stars (referring to everything in nature) are to worship God.

3. Isaiah 13:10 – There is coming a day when the sun, moon and stars will not give their light.

5. Ezekiel 32:7 – God will cause the sun, the moon and the stars not to shine when he deals with Israel.

9. I Corinthians 15:41 – There is different kinds of glory for the sun, the moon, and the stars.

10. Revelation 8:12 – a fulfillment of the prophecies of the Old Testament and New Testament.

C. The picture of Israel clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of 12 stars indicates the entire universe is directed toward glorifying Israel because he brings forth Jesus Christ.

1. This passage indicates that Israel is the center of the universe as far as God is concerned, and Israel should be the center of the universe as far as believers are concerned.

3. The purpose of the entire universe is to bring forth Israel, who will bring forth Jesus Christ, the eternal King and Saviour.

A. We normally and easily see things from an earthly perspective, as we often do not have a heavenly perspective on anything.

1. The woman is the weaker of the marriage couples, her strength being in her husband.

2. The brightness of this world, the source of warmth, energy and many unknown benefits is the sun, just as the spiritual brightness of this world, the source of warmth, energy and many unknown benefits is the eternal son of God, Jesus Christ.

3. The brightness of Israel is the righteousness of Christ, as Moses face shown with the brightness of God.

1. The moon is a reflective satellite of the earth, just as the world, and all the elements of nature, reflects the glory of God.

3. The hope of Israel, and all believers, does not lie in earthly glory, but in heavenly glory.

2. According to Genesis 36:40, Esau has 11 dukes or leaders, but they are comprised of sons and grandsons, while Israel’s stars are comprised of only sons. [1]

A. There have been many babies born on the earth, but there is no birth as Jesus’ birth, for it was a virgin birth.

1. Isaiah 26:17-18 – Like as a woman with child, that draweth near the time of her delivery, is in pain, and crieth out in her pangs; so have we been in thy sight, O LORD. 18 We have been with child, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind; we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth; neither have the inhabitants of the world fallen.

a. This passage is referring to the time when Israel has recognized Christ as their eternal Messiah and Saviour.

2. Isaiah 66:7 – Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.

a. This verse does not contradict Revelation 12:1 but emphasizes that Israel brought forth the Messiah before she knew she was with child.

b. Revelation 12:1 emphasizes the desire of Israel for a Messiah, not mentioning the fact that Israel missed the Messiah when he came.

3. Micah 4:10 – Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies.

a. The first deliverance of Israel from Babylon is expressed in God retaining the genealogy of Christ during the 70 year Babylonian captivity.

1) Matthew 1:12 - Jechonias, begat Salathiel, in Babylon, even though he was considered a eunuch, Isaiah 56:3-5.

2) 2 Kings 20:18 – And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.

3) Isaiah 39:7 – And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.

b. The second deliverance of Israel from Babylon is during the latter part of the Great Tribulation when God rescues Israel from sure destruction at the hands of Pagan Babylon, the Revived Roman Empire.

B. Revelation 12 does not mention the father of Christ, but we know the father is God the father.

2. Sarah was too old to bear a child, but through the miraculous work of God, she bore Isaac.

4. Boaz, as kinsman redeemer, produced the promised link to the Messiah through Ruth, the Moabite.

5. Matthew 1:12 – Jechonias, begat Salathiel, in Babylon, even though he was considered a eunuch, Isaiah 56:3-5.

1. Israel was in the will of God to bring forth Jesus Christ, but didn’t believe the child was the Messiah.

2. It is possible for a person to be in the will of God but reject what God is doing because it doesn’t fit with their plans, thoughts or desires.

3. It is also possible for a person to think they are in the will of God when they are not, just as Israel thought they were in obedience to God when they were not.

4. Feelings, or personal thoughts are not good measurements of submission to the will of God.

Verse 2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

B. John 10:24 – Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.

1. Beginning in verse 31, the Jews attempt to kill Christ because they understood he was declaring himself to be God.

2. The plain truth is the Jews did not believe Christ was God, because he did not believe as they expected their Messiah to believe.

C. Jesus Christ performed many miracles, wonders and signs, supernatural events, yet Israel, as a nation, failed to believe.

3. Many of those directly connected to the established religion did not believe, but many of the common people accepted Christ as their Saviour and Messiah.

II. The greatest point concerning Israel is that Christ comes to the world though this nation. [2]

Verse 3 And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.

I. The second wonder is seen in heaven and is directly related to Israel and the birth of Jesus Christ.

A. The great red dragon is the same creature described in Revelation 13:1-3, which gives a fuller description.

1. Revelation 17 links the wicked woman (pagan Babylon) with the great red dragon and the beast (which carries or enables) pagan Babylon.

2. There are all kinds of wonders – some good, wonderful and marvelous, and some so exceedingly bad, they are difficult to imagine.

1. There are several different characters, which can be very confusing if not properly understood.

1) Revelation 12:3 – The great red dragon, (with seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns) revealed to be the devil, Revelation 12:9.

2) Revelation 13:1-3 – The first beast (Satan’s revealed earthly kingdom which relates to Jesus Christ) is, according to Revelation 13:4, a reflection of Satan, directing worship to Satan, who gives him his power and authority.

3) Revelation 13:11 – The second beast (the unholy spirit of Satan, which relates to the Holy Spirit of God) has all the power of the first beast because the source of his power and authority is the same.

a) The unholy spirit of Satan directs all worship toward Satan (through the first beast) by performing wondrous miracles in the sight of the first beast.

b) The Holy Spirit of God never speaks of himself, but always directs worship toward Jesus Christ, and the unholy spirit of Satan always directs worship toward Satan through the first beast.

b. Revelation 13:14 – The “unholy spirit of the Anti-Christ” (The second beast) also produces an image, which is given life, all for the purpose of deceiving unbelievers into worshipping the devil.

1) This is Satan’s religious system and is the anti-type to Israel of the Old Testament and the church of the Lord Jesus Christ of the New Testament.

a) God’s “religious system” sets free while Satan’s “religious system” binds deeper and deeper into sin, rebellion against God and finally into eternal damnation.

2) Pagan Babylon (the great whore) appears in three forms: (Ecclesiastes 4:12 – And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.)

a) Religious – Revelation 17 – Because all men are religious by nature and want to worship something.

b) Economically – Revelation 18:11-19 – All the earth is involved because God established how economies would work in Genesis 3:19 – labor/earning/using up/labor/earning/using up…

c) Politically – Revelation 17:1-2 – Kings are involved – Revelation 17:8-12 – Revelation 18:3 – the abundance of delicacies. [3]

3. Revelation 6:3 – The second horse (represented by the second seal) is red, and takes peace from the earth, just as Satan will do. Satan always promises peace (represented by the first seal, which is white) but always delivers war.

B. Revelation 17:7 (which begins the fourth “intermission” of the book of Revelation) explain the beast carries another woman, false religion.

2. The woman of Revelation 17 is all false religions, or any religion not completely dedicated to the pure worship of Almighty God.

A. Revelation 17:9-11 states, And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition.

1. There are two points in these verses, connected by the conjunction “and”.

2. The woman in this verse is the “anti-Christ”, an attempt to copy the nation of Israel.

3. The seven heads are seven literal mountains, and there are seven kings; members of the Caesar dynasty who rule from Rome, Italy.

4. Revelation 17:1-6 gives the description of this false Christ, which matches the description of the great red dragon, except for the number of the crowns.

a. The crowns represent the number of kingdoms, or world powers (political), occupied by the Anti-Christ, as he brings his kingdom into completion, which will be a total of 10.

b. This passage refers to the number of Caesar’s who have ruled or will rule Rome, which will be seven.

B. There is only one place in the world where a throne is now, or ever has been, that is surrounded by seven hills.

b. Isaiah 11:9 – The kingdom of God curing the millennium is called a mountain.

c. Micah 4:1-2 also refers to the kingdom of God during the millennium as a mountain.

d. In Daniel 2:35, Daniel describes Nebuchadnezzar’s dream where the everlasting kingdom of God is described as conquering all other kingdoms.

e. Jeremiah 51:25Jeremiah describes the kingdom of Satan as a destroying mountain, which mountain God is against.

b. One is: this man was ruling at the time John wrote the revelation - Domitian Caesar, (81 ad – 96 ad)

3) If the Roman Empire is destroyed, why does John write that there is yet one king to rule?

4) Simply because reference (Revelation 17:11) is made to the Revived Roman Empire. [4]

Three Visions of Daniel

D. Daniel 8:1 links the three visions (Daniel 2, Daniel 7, and Daniel 8) together.

E. Daniel 2 records the “unknown” dream of Nebuchadnezzar, which Daniel correctly stated, and then interpreted.

a. The beginning of all the kingdoms that end with defeat before God is the kingdom of Babylon, represented by Nebuchadnezzar.

b. See also Daniel 7:4, which describes the final kingdoms that build toward Satan’s kingdom.

1) All four of these kingdoms come from the sea, which, according to Revelation 17:15 is peoples, nations, and tongues.

a) Deuteronomy 28:49-50 gives a prophecy concerning the nation that will come against Israel because they do not submit themselves to true worship and service. The LORD shall bring a nation against thee from far, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flieth; a nation whose tongue thou shalt not understand; 50 A nation of fierce countenance, which shall not regard the person of the old, nor shew favour to the young:

b) Isaiah 5:28-29 gives more detail concerning this destroying kingdom, therefore we understand the kingdom is Babylon, who took Israel captive in 606 BC. Whose arrows are sharp, and all their bows bent, their horses’ hoofs shall be counted like flint, and their wheels like a whirlwind: 29 Their roaring shall be like a lion, they shall roar like young lions: yea, they shall roar, and lay hold of the prey, and shall carry it away safe, and none shall deliver it.

c) Jeremiah 4:7 makes it abundantly clear the invading army against Israel will be Babylon. The lion is come up from his thicket, and the destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way; he is gone forth from his place to make thy land desolate; and thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant.

c. It is totally amazing that Babylon is the first of the kingdoms which will finally establish Satan’s kingdom, even more amazing when it is very, very possible Nebuchadnezzar was apparently saved, as revealed in Daniel 4:34-37.

d. It is very possible for God to save anybody and use them in whatever way he designs.

a. The second kingdom, according to Daniel 7:5, is the kingdom of the Medes and Persians: see Daniel 8:20. It is interesting that Daniel would be alive when the Medes and Persians destroyed the kingdom of Babylon: see Daniel 5.

b. The third kingdom, according to Daniel 7:6, is the kingdom of the Grecians (Greece): see Daniel 8:21.

c. The fourth kingdom, according to Daniel 7:7 is the worse kingdom, which brings forth the final Satanic kingdom.

d. The fourth kingdom is apparently the Roman Empire, described in Revelation 17:9-11.

3. Daniel 2:41-43 describe the ten toes made partly out of iron and partly out of clay.

4. In the days of the final kingdom of ten toes that the everlasting kingdom of God will be established.

F. Daniel 7:7 reveals the fourth beast of Daniel’s vision had ten horns, explained in Daniel 7:24 as ten kings that shall arise.

1. Of these ten kings, three shall be completely destroyed, Daniel 7:8, by another little horn, which is the coming anti-Christ.

2. Daniel 2:41-43, which speaks of the great image Nebuchadnezzar dreamed about which had ten toes, partly of iron and partly of clay.

A. There is very little information in the Bible concerning the identity of the ten kings, as they are mentioned only two times in the entire Bible.

1. Daniel 7:24, which interprets Daniel 7:7-9, relates the ten horns are ten kings, from which the final anti-Christ appears, when three of the ten kings are subdued.

a. Daniel 7:7 links the ten horns to the Roman Empire with its world dominion and paganism.

b. This links to Revelation 17:12-14, which connects to verse 9-11, which speaks of Rome, Italy, and its world wide kingdom.

a. Revelation 17 instructs that the rule of the ten kings follow the rule of the seven kings of the Roman Empire.

b. Revelation 17:11 states the beast, which establishes the rule of the ten kings, shall ascend out of the bottomless pit.

1) Satan is the beast: represented by the unholy trinity, the Anti-Christ and the economic and political ties, which shall strangle the world in its wicked grasp.

2) The phrase, “which was, and is not” refers to the destruction of the Roman Empire, then the re-establishment of the Roman Empire in the form of a revived Roman Empire.

c. Revelation 17:12 states the ten kings have not received their kingdom yet, but will receive their kingdom at the same time as the beast.

3. Daniel 2:42-43 gives some indication the ten kings are powers of Satan, not in the form of men.

b. These shall be together, but shall not be completely mixed together, as oil and water, which do not mix.

B. It is important to understand the visions of Daniel are all connected, as all prophecies of the Bible are inter-connected.

2. God gave Daniel understanding little by little, just as he gives us understanding little by little.

a. Isaiah 28:10 – For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:

b. It is important to understand the Bible is a complete book, given to us by Almighty God for the purpose of giving understanding of his eternal plans.

c. It is amazing, to me, that there are those who proclaim the Old Testament is fulfilled, therefore is not needed today.

d. They forget, or do not know, that the Bible, step-by-step, reveals to men the eternal purposes of God.

e. Using human wisdom, they fail to recognize the wisdom of God as he slowly reveals his plans “a little here, a little there”.

3. Each of the three visions of Daniel speaks of the end of the world, the final kingdom of the Anti-Christ, and the establishment of the eternal Kingdom of Christ.

C. I cannot base any speculation as to exactly who these ten kings are on scripture.

2. In 1971, there were six of the ten kingdoms already organized in the European Economic Community (EEC).

a. In 1970 those nations controlled 40% of the world trade. Those countries were (1) Belgium, (2) France, (3) West Germany, (4) Italy, (5) Luxembourg, and (6) the Netherlands.

b. Now, (2009) there are about 27 nations that comprise the European Union (EU), established November 1, 1993.

d. I am thankful to know God knows what he is doing, even though I don’t understand.

A. Each king has his own separate and distinct crown, rule, and authority, yet the rule of each king has a vital part in the continual development of Satan’s kingdom.

B. Each king is individually responsible for his own part of developing Satan’s kingdom. [5]

VI. An interesting tidbit of information that means absolutely nothing, but shows the extent some will go to try to prove their own pet theories, forgetting correct Biblical interpretation will reveal the everlasting truth.

B. They correctly link Revelation 12:3 to Revelation 17:10, but draw wrong conclusions because they do not use the Bible to make their interpretations.

1. Revelation 17:10 states, And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space.

2. Some have mistakenly taken this verse to speak of the five living presidents:

3. There were five ex-presidents alive from January 21, 1989 till the day Nixon died on April 22, 1994.

a. Nixon, Ford, Reagan, Carter & George H. W. Bush are five presidents alive at the same time.

c. When Clinton left office on January 21, 2001, he joined Ford, Carter, Reagan and Bush I to make five living ex’s again.

d. Obama is currently president, and is making wide sweeping changes toward a much more liberal and intrusive government.

4. Couple this fact with Iran, North Korea and some other nations, on the brink of possessing nuclear weapons, which they will use in an attempt to destroy Israel.

5. Of course, Israel is intent on defending themselves, warning they will soon attack Iran if they continue their build-up of nuclear arsenals.

6. The United States, under the Obama administration, is currently warning Israel not to warn or attack Iran.

7. So it is erroneously concluded the United States is Pagan Babylon and the end is near.

Verse 4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

I. See my notes on Revelation 9:1 which reveals the third part of the stars of heaven is likely fallen angels or some other sort of heavenly deity.

A. It is supposed that 1/3 of the angels God created chose to follow Satan in his rebellion against God.

1. There is no scripture I can find, other than this scripture, that declares 1/3 of the created angels will follow Satan in his rebellion against God.

b. Daniel 8:10 describes the Anti-Christ kingdom reaching into heaven, and cast down to the ground some of the host of heaven and the stars and stamped on them.

c. Revelation 9:10 speak of the sting in the tail of the scorpions, which come from the bottomless pit.

b. One of the principles of proper Scriptural interpretation is to always interpret the scriptures literally, except where it is apparent the meaning is figurative.

d. Stars are actually suns of other galaxies, which, if cast to the earth would destroy the earth, and this galaxy.

3. A few scriptures that reveal stars can represent the true God, heavenly beings, or some of his faithful followers.

a. Numbers 24:17 – I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. This passage is not to be taken literally, but figuratively, and represents Jesus Christ, the king of the Jews.

b. Matthew 2:2 – Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. The star in the east represents Jesus Christ.

c. II Peter 1:19 – We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: The passage refers to the perfection of truth revealed to be Jesus Christ.

d. Revelation 1:20 – The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. This passage defines the seven stars as angels, not suns of another galaxy.

e. Revelation 22:16 – I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. This passage defines Jesus Christ as the morning star.

4. A few scriptures that reveal stars can represent false gods, evil angels, false prophets, and followers of Satan.

a. Amos 5:26 - But ye have borne the tabernacle of your Moloch and Chiun your images, the star of your god, which ye made to yourselves. Here a false god is described as a star.

b. Acts 7:43 - Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon. Again, a false god is described as a star.

c. Jude 1:13 - Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. Followers of Satan are described are defined as wandering stars.

B. Satan’s tail, not his hands, his head, or the collapse of his body against theirs, drew 1/3 of the angels of heaven and cast them to the earth.

a. John 21:8 – And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.

b. Acts 8:3 – As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. (The word “haling” is the same word translated “drew”.)

c. Acts 14:19 – And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

d. Acts 17:6 – And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;

2. These verses indicate Satan had a power over these angels for evil, as it was his tail that drew them to follow him.

a. Revelation 9:10 refer to the destruction in the tail of the scorpions, therefore it is very easy to see the fallen angels were drawn to Satan because they enjoyed the destruction that was in his tail; if we assume the angels voluntarily followed Satan.

b. We could also assume the fallen angels did not voluntarily follow Satan, rather were “drawn away” from God by Satan’s tail, just as the fish, in John 21:8, were drawn away from their natural habitat.

2) Or the Jews, in Acts 14:19, drug Paul out of the city, supposing him to be dead.

3) Or how, Acts 17:6, Jason and certain other brothers were forced to appear before the rulers of the city.

c. But: knowing God will never condemn any without their voluntarily consent; and understanding the fallen angels apparently loved the destruction Satan possessed in his tail, I do not believe the angels were forced to follow Satan, any more than any person is forced to follow Satan, but is led away of their own lust and enticed into wickedness and sin, James 1:13-16.

a. The word “cast” indicates Satan threw, or let go, of his followers not particularly caring where they landed.

b. It is as if, at this point, Satan has no particular plan, rather desires to cause all the destruction he can.

a. Revelation 12:4 – And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.

b. Revelation 12:9 – And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

c. Revelation 12:13 – And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

a. Revelation 12:4 informs of Satan drawing a third of the angels of heaven and casting them to the earth.

b. Revelation 12:9 tell of Satan and all his angels being cast out into the earth.

c. Revelation 12:13 relates the thoughts of Satan when he was cast out into the earth.

a. If the angels were cast to the earth in verse 4, what happened in verse 9, when they were again cast out of heaven (presumably to the earth)?

b. Could it be Satan and his angels were cast out of their “position” in heaven and not completely cast out?

D. Revelation 12:10 states, And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

a. Job 1:6 states, Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.

b. Job 2:1 states, Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them to present himself before the LORD.

c. It is apparent Job was not privy to the conversation between God and Satan because he, nor anybody else, knew why Job was suffering.

d. It seems the worship is on earth and the conversation between God and Satan is in heaven.

e. The presence of God is different in times past than it is today when God speaks to us through his written word.

2) Before the Bible was given to me, God spoke to men directly, now he speaks to us through his written, preserved Word.

3. Zechariah 3:1 states, And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. 2 And the LORD said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?

a. This scene, as Job 1:6, and 2:1, also takes place in heaven as Satan resists the restoration of Israel and Jerusalem as world powers.

b. Luke 22:31 – It is likely Satan asked God for Peter in heaven, to be fulfilled on this earth.

c. It is important to remember Satan is the prince and power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience.

E. Revelation 12:7 states, And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels.

2. Daniel 10:12-13 – There was conflict in heaven when the prince of Persia withstood the messenger to Daniel. The messenger received help from Michael, one of the chief princes.

3. The scriptures indicate there is warfare in heaven now, while Satan continually accuses the saints.

4. The warfare in heaven is between God and Satan, believers do not fight Satan; we stand for the truth, and resist the evil.

5. The warfare in heaven is an “angelic conflict”, as clearly stated in the Bible. [6]

1. He knows this event will shape everything in his kingdom, therefore will do this work himself.

1. Romans 14: 11 states, For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

2. Isaiah 45:23 reveals, I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

3. Philippians 2:10 emphasizes, That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

2. Zechariah 14:12 reveals Satan’s followers will die before they will bow the knee before God: And this shall be the plague wherewith the LORD will smite all the people that have fought against Jerusalem; Their flesh shall consume away while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume away in their holes, and their tongue shall consume away in their mouth.

D. It is amazing that Satan knows who the man-child will be – the promised Messiah, Saviour, and coming king, yet Israel did not know who Christ was.

1. It seems Satan understands the scripture, he doesn’t believe the scriptures.

2. Satan’s pride, arrogances and self-will for personal growth and development keep him from believing in Christ, even though he believed the word of God!

3. It is entirely possible to believe what the Bible says without believing in the God of the Bible.

Verse 5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. There is no doubt this is Jesus Christ, whose eternal purpose is to rule all nations.

I. The purpose of Satan is to destroy the God-man, Jesus Christ, the eternal redeemer.

A. Satan deludes every person he can that his purpose is not to destroy Jesus, but that is his final purpose.

B. If Satan could circumvent the circumstances of Jesus’ birth, he could also stop the fulfillment of prophecies, thus would be more powerful than God.

2. Christ is destined to rule the nations with a rod of iron, therefore he returns to God to receive his eternal kingdom, as related in the parable of the pounds.

1. Luke 19:12 - He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

1. Psalm 2:7 - I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.

2. Matthew 1:23 - Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

1. Psalm 2:8-9 – Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. 9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.

2. Micah 5:2 - But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

3. Revelation 2:27 - And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

4. Revelation 19:15 - And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

1. Acts 1:9 – And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

2. Revelation 3:21 - To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

D. The fact that Christ ascended back into heaven is proof that Satan failed to destroy him when Christ was born, and that Satan is unable to stop any of God’s eternal plan from unfolding. [7]

III. Satan has tried to destroy God’s plan to bring Christ into the world many times, but he always fails.

C. Genesis 16-17 – God caused Sarah and Abraham to doubt the word of God, therefore Sarah gave her husband to Hagar, who brought a false seed into the world, which has been a problem ever since.

D. Exodus 1:6 – Pharaoh attempted to kill all the male children in Israel to destroy the redeemer he knew was coming.

E. I Samuel 18:10-11, 29; 19:1, 10-11, 15 – The many attempts of Saul to kill David, therefore destroying the promised seed.

F. Matthew 2:1-16 – Herod, being led by Satan, attempted to kill the royal seed.

G. Matthew 4:1-11 – Satan personally attempted to kill Christ by causing him to fail.

H. Luke 4:28-30 – One of the many times Satan used unbelievers to try to kill Christ.

I. Matthew 27:62-66 – Satan used unbelievers to try to discredit the resurrection of Christ from the dead.

Verse 6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.

I. Israel flees from Israel into a place God has prepared for her, where she will remain for 1260 days.

A. Satan has tried unsuccessfully for 4,000 years to hinder the birth, life, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Christ; therefore he attacks Israel who brought him forth.

1. It makes no sense to attack Israel, because Israel didn’t know whom she had brought forth.

3. Satan attacks Israel because, Revelation 12:12, he knows he has a short time.

1. We understand Israel will flee to a place especially prepared for her by God Almighty, where she will remain for 3½ years.

a. Sixty-nine weeks of years refer to the time from the going forth to restore and build Jerusalem until the ascension of Christ.

b. The command to restore and build Jerusalem is from II Chronicles 36:22-23, which states, Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD spoken by the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, 23 Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the LORD God of heaven given me; and he hath charged me to build him an house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all his people? The LORD his God be with him, and let him go up.

c. Isaiah 44:28 states, That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.

2. Daniel 9:27 – The 70^th week of years is separate and is divided into two equal parts.

a. Daniel 9:26 records the final events of the Great Tribulation will be associated with a flood, as is also recorded in Revelation 12:15.

1) Daniel 9:27 reveals a seven year covenant with many (not all), which will be broken in the middle (after 3½ years), when the covenant breaker causes the sacrifice and oblation to God to stop, and will pollute the place considered holy by the Jews.

2) We find, therefore, the first half of the Great Tribulation (3½ years) will be a period of relative peace for Israel, while the last half of the Great Tribulation (3½ years) will be a period of great tumult.

b. Galatians 3:17 records a time period of 430 years, from the time God called Abram from Ur of the Chaldees to the time the law was given to Moses on Mt. Sinai.

1) This 430 year time period is divided into two equal parts: the arrival of Jacob in Egypt is the center point between these two equal parts.

2) The first half of this 430-year period is a time when Israel dwells in the land of Canaan as strangers and pilgrims, but it is a time of relative peace.

3) The last half of this 430-year period is a time when Israel dwells in Egypt and is a time of much unrest and tribulation.

5) The last half of the Great Tribulation is represented in Revelation 12:14 and Daniel 9:25.

D. There is a 2000-year gap, which contains the “church age”, between verse 5 and 6.

1. This is because this prophecy relates to Israel, not the church Jesus established during his personal ministry.

b. 69 weeks of years until Messiah the prince ascends back into heaven to receive his kingdom and one week of years (seven years), which is the Great Tribulation where God deals with his nation Israel.

c. Daniel 9:27 – The final seven years is also divided into two parts: two equal times of 3½ years each.

d. The flight of Israel, described in Revelation 12:6 takes place during the last part of the Great Tribulation, as explained in Revelation 12:14 and Daniel 9:27.

3. Between Revelation 12:5 and 6 all the history from the ascension of Christ to the Great Tribulation takes place, but there is no mention of anything that happened.

a. This passage does not mention the life of Christ, the establishment of his church, his sacrificial death, burial or resurrection from the dead.

b. Deleting these facts does not change these facts, but emphasizes the point of Revelation 12:5,6 concerning Israel.

a. These passages outline the activities of thousands of years, leaving out much detail.

b. Between the phrase “to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord”, and the phrase “and the day of vengeance of our God” is a gap of at least 2,000 years.

3. Isaiah 11:1-9 is another example of scripture leaving out thousands of years.

b. Verse 6-9 speaks of the reign of Christ during the millennium, leaving out at least 2,000 years. [8]

3. Wherever the place is, it is a place God has prepared especially for Israel with everything she needs for that time.

1. There is no mention made in Revelation 12 as to who will feed her, but God always provides for his faithful people.

a. I Kings 18:1-16 describes Obadiah, who hid and fed 100 prophets during a time when Jezebel would have killed them.

1) Here is a very faithful man of God, who hid these 100 prophets of God and even the king could not find them.

2) It is somewhat of a miracle that God provided enough food for this one man to feed this many prophets.

3) It is a shame we often do not believe God is able to provide for us our daily necessities.

b. I think of the many believers in Muslim countries who do not speak of their belief in Christ because they will lose their lives.

2) It is not always wrong to remain silent, because God knows the time to speak.

2. I Kings 17:3-16 – Elijah is fed, both physically and spiritually, in the wilderness and in the widow’s house for more than three years, which typifies Israel being fed by God in the wilderness.

a. It is amazing that Ahab could not find out where Elijah was, even though it would seem somebody in his kingdom knew where Elijah was.

b. I Kings 18:10 describes the great effort Ahab had exercised to find Elijah, but could not find him.

d. There seems to be no visible means of protection, provision, or help; but somehow God always provides them all.

3. I Kings 19:4-8 – Elijah is fed by God when he is discouraged, thinking he will soon die at Jezebel’s hand.

b. John does not preach in the temple, or the places where it might be expected a preacher seeking followers would preach.

c. There are people present, but it is a wilderness of ignorance, sin and in some cases, absolute rebellion.

5. God, while Israel is in the wilderness, will feed her when she thinks there is nothing ahead but complete annihilation.

6. It is likely this “feeding” is physical as well as spiritual, as Jesus supplies daily bread, but also is the bread of eternal life.

H. The time period Israel is protected in the wilderness is the same time period as the “Times of the Gentiles”. See the end of this file for a graphical representative of this information.

b. Revelation 11:3 instructs the two witnesses will prophecy during the first half of the Great Tribulation, And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

c. Here the Bible identifies both halves of the Great Tribulation as equal, but distinguished from each other by the circumstances occurring in the two parts.

a. Revelation 12:14 links the 1260 days with the phrase “time, times, and half a time”.

b. Daniel 7:25 – And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.

2) The first step in Satan’s plan is to wear out the saints of the most high, as Lot wore out his righteous soul with the unlawful deeds of the wicked.

3) The second step mentioned in this verse is changing times and laws, which is presently occurring.

4) The third and final step in this verse is the times when the Jews will be under the control of the Anti-Christ, when they are in hiding from his wrath, which occurs in the last half of the Great Tribulation.

c. Daniel 12:7 – And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.

1) This verse makes it abundantly clear that when the “time, times, and half a time” is fulfilled, all things (that pertain to Satan’s kingdom and the establishment of the kingdom of Christ on this earth) shall be finished.

3. The “Times of the Gentiles” is limited to 42 months and is the same time period as the 1260 days and the “time, times, and half a time”.

a. Luke 21:24 - And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.

b. Revelation 11:2 - But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.

1) The time of the two witnesses is 42 months, but in the first half of the Great Tribulation.

2) The time of the Gentiles is 42 months, but in the last half of the Great Tribulation.

I. Israel, like individuals, must come to “the end of their rope” before she is ready to receive the answer freely given to her by God.

1. We should never criticize Israel for failing to immediately understanding that Jesus is the Christ, their Messiah, but we should understand they, as a nation, are as individuals, who try everything before finally coming to the feet of Christ, our eternal Saviour.

A. 2,300 days - Daniel 8:14 - And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.

B. 1290 days – Daniel 12:11 - And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.

C. 1335 days – Daniel 12:12 - Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.

1. Revelation 11:3 - And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

2. Revelation 12:6 - And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.

1. Daniel 12:7 - And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.

2. Revelation 12:14 - And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

1. Revelation 11:2 - But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.

2. Revelation 13:5 - And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.

1. Whether we can ever completely understand all these various length of days are is irrelevant.

2. We must continue to strive for understanding, and let God take care of what we do not understand.

3. This is the entire meaning of faith, which is proper service to our great king. [9]

Verse 7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,

A. It is very apparent this battle is not the same battle of Satan described in Isaiah 14:13-14.

1. Luke 10:18 – Christ explained to his returning disciples they should not rejoice because the demons were subject to them, rather rejoice because they are saved, because Jesus saw Satan cast out of heaven. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

2. It is likely this “heaven” is not the same heaven as Satan was originally cast out of.

1. Job 1:6-12 and 2:1-2 reveals Satan is required to appear before God to give account of his activities.

2. Daniel 10:10-13 – Daniel waited three full weeks for the interpretation of a vision while Michael and his angels fought against the prince of the kingdom of Persia.

a. Genesis 3:1-10 – Satan came to the earth to trick the woman (Eve), who led her husband into sin. Satan had God’s permission.

c. Ephesians 6:10-12 – We are wrestling against spiritual wickedness in high places, not with mere humans on this earth.

3. Verse 10 – There is a heavenly, not an earthly, proclamation concerning Satan being cast out of heaven.

1. Ephesians 6:13 – Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

2. James 4:7 – Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

3. When Christ comes to reap the earth – see Revelation – he is the one doing the fighting, we only accompany him.

a. Isaiah 63:1-6 declares that Christ treads out the winepress of the wrath of God alone.

b. Revelation 19:11-16 affirms that Christ is the one wearing the blood splattered garment, while the armies in heaven are attired with white linen garments, clean and white.

1. Luke 22:31 – Satan was able to speak to God about attempting to obtain Peter’s eternal soul.

4. Link Revelation 12:9 to Revelation 12:10 – Satan, who deceives the whole earth and accuses the people of God is finally cast out of heaven.

a. Satan cannot accuse those in heaven, but he can still persecute those on the earth.

b. Satan’s power has always been limited, and as his times draws to a close, he is more and more limited, even though he puts on an appearance of being more and more free.

1. Daniel 10:13-21 – Michael, one of the chief princes (angels) came to help the one with God’s message for Daniel.

2. Daniel 12:1 – Michael is again revealed to be a chief prince (angel), and apparently one who oversees the affairs of the Jewish people. When Michael stands, it is the time of the end.

3. Jude 9 reveals that Michael was the angel who contended with Satan concerning the body of Moses.

E. There are also “guardian angels”, watching over and protecting the people of God.

1. Psalms 91:9-13 – Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; 10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. 11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. 12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. 13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

2. Hebrews 1:14 - Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

3. Acts 12:1-10 – It was an angel of the Lord that woke Peter from sleep and directed him from the prison to safety, then left him.

4. Numbers 22:24-25 – As Balaam rebelled against the clear command of God to curse Israel, the angel of the Lord stood in a tight place, and Balaam’s ass, trying to avoid the angel crushed Balaam’s foot against a stone.

5. Matthew 18:10 - Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. [10]

Verse 8-9 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

I. Satan loses the final battle, and is finally cast out of heaven, never to return there any more.

3. Verse 10 records voices in heaven, rejoicing because the accuser of the brethren is cast down.

4. Verse 12 gives a command for all of heaven, and those that dwell in heaven, to rejoice, but pronounces woe to the inhabitants of the earth, because Satan is cast down to the earth, and knows he has only a short time to cause destruction.

1. Further proof that Satan had a place in heaven is found in this verse, where he lost his place in heaven.

2. It is absolutely true that God and his righteousness will finally prevail over all evil.

1. Satan’s place is not found in heaven, and there is also no place for his angels.

2. All who follow Satan, angel or human, will finally be in the place where Satan is: the eternal Lake of Fire.

3. Heaven will be completely and finally purified when it is destroyed, along with this present earth, and a new heaven and new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness, is created.

II. We can understand exactly who is cast out of heaven, no longer having any access to heaven, therefore, five of Satan’s most important titles are given.

A. Lest there is any doubt as to who is cast out of heaven, the names of Satan are given.

1. Dragon – Indicating his antiquity, associated with creation. The word “dinosaur” is the “new” name for dragon.

2. Serpent – a snake, indicating his craftiness, especially in the area of deceiving gullible humans. Satan, in the Garden of Eden, appeared as a serpent to the woman for the purpose of deception.

1. A very serious thing to consider: all who follow Satan will finally be cast into the same place: the Lake of Fire.

2. Satan shows himself an angel of light, but the end of his ways is complete, and utter destruction.

Verse 10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

A. There was no loud proclamation of victory when Satan was cast out of heaven the first time.

2. There was no victory then, because Satan could return to heaven, and his power was still in force.

3. There is victory now that Satan is finally cast out and his power is destroyed.

3. The Holy Spirit of God speaks in a still, small voice, but this voice is loud so all can know salvation, strength, the kingdom of God and the power of Christ is present.

a. When Elijah was hiding in the cave at Mt. Horeb, there was a strong wind that broke the rocks, a great earthquake and a fire, but none of these things moved Elijah.

b. After all those great manifestations of power, the Lord spoke in a still, small voice, and Elijah heard, obeyed, and found strength to continue.

1. Salvation – Salvation is already present and assured, but now that Satan is finally cast out of heaven, the finished work of salvation is proclaimed.

2. Strength – The eternal and overpowering strength of Christ was already evident to believers, but now that Satan is finally cast out of heaven, the overcoming strength of Christ is evident to all, even Satan and his followers.

3. The kingdom of our God – The Kingdom of God is internally exhibited in the heart and life of believers before this, but now the Kingdom of God will be externally revealed to the entire world.

4. The power of his Christ – The power of Christ has never been exhibited as it will be, as now we all see through a glass darkly, but then face to face.

4. As Satan continually accuses all believers to God, Christ’s blood continually and fully covers our sins; therefore Satan has nothing to finally accuse us.

Verse 11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

A. It is by the absolute grace of God upon fallen sinners that men are able to overcome.

1. Men do not overcome by the strength of their numbers, because all of us put together are still not able to overcome the strength of Satan and his angels.

2. Men do not overcome by their personal prestige, wealth, honor or social standing – we have none.

3. Men do not have enough influence, even among themselves, to overcome Satan, and we have no influence at all with God, except by his grace and mercy toward us.

4. The only people able to overcome Satan are those who realize they have no power, strength, or honor and completely trust Christ and his overcoming power, therefore Christ becomes their overcomer.

B. Believers overcome by the blood of the Lamb, not by their own strength or resourcefulness.

1. Here is the perfect balance between men overcoming and men trusting God to overcome for them.

3. Some mistakenly believe they don’t have to do anything, that God does it all for them.

4. Some correctly understand every individual overcomes, as they trust God for strength, and use the strength given to them. [11]

1. The blood of the Lamb is the continual source of everyday power in overcoming.

3. Men are altogether sinners, and must have a power source outside themselves in order to overcome.

1. The word “word” is the same word found in John 1:14, which states, And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

a. It is very easy to see when these two verses (John 1:14 and Revelation 12:11) are compared that believers overcome by the power of Christ, which power is exhibited to us in and through his Word, the Bible.

b. As Jesus is revealed in the Bible, so the power of God is revealed in overcoming believers.

2. The word “testimony” means their personal declaration of God’s eternal truths.

a. The two witnesses have their personal testimony, as recorded in Revelation 11:7, which states, And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.

b. Revelation 1:9 – I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

1) Every believer must have his own personal word of testimony, which always proclaims the power of God in grace and mercy toward themselves.

2) This personal word of testimony will never be what the believer has accomplished, but always what Christ has accomplished in them, and through them.

c. Revelation 19:10 – And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

1) All true believers have a testimony of Jesus, which is what Christ has done for them.

2) It is impossible to testify of what Christ has done for us without also testifying of what he will do for us; which is the spirit of prophecy.

2. The word “love” is “agapao” love, which is the same love expressed in John 3:16, where God so loved the world, that he sent Jesus to die for our sins.

a. Matthew 10:39 - He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

b. Revelation 2:10 - Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

c. John 10:11 - I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

d. John 10:15 – As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. [12]

Verse 12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

1. Satan now knows he has a short time; therefore he will try to destroy all he can destroy.

2. There is no mention made of Satan’s repentance, or even thinking he is wrong.

1. Israel has been chastened many times because of their rebellion against God and his holy commandments, but this is not chastisement.

a. The YELUM, or curtain, — “Which in the morning is folded up, and in the evening stretched out.” {Isaiah 40:22}: He stretcheth out the heavens as a CURTAIN, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in.

b. The firmament, or EXPANSE, “In which the sun, moon, stars, and constellations are fixed.” {Genesis 1:17}: And God placed them in the FIRMAMENT of heaven.

c. The CLOUDS, or ÆTHER, “Where the mill-stones are which grind the manna for the righteous.” {Psalms 78:23}, Though he had commended the CLOUDS from above, and opened the doors of heaven, and had rained down manna,

d. The HABITATION, “Where Jerusalem, and the temple, and the altar, were constructed and where Michael the great prince stands and offers sacrifices.” {I Kings 8:13}: I have surely built thee a HOUSE TO DWELL IN, a settled place for thee to abide in for ever. “But where is heaven so called?” Answer: In Isaiah 63:15: Look down from HEAVEN, and behold from the HABITATION, of thy holiness.

e. The DWELLING-PLACE, “Where the troops of angels sing throughout the night, but are silent in the day time, because of the glory of the Israelites.” {Psalms 42:8}: The Lord will command his loving-kindness in the day time, and in the night his song shall be with me. “But how is it proved that this means Heaven?” answer: From Deuteronomy 26:15. Look down from thy holy habitation, the DWELLING-PLACE of thy holiness; and from heaven, , and bless thy people Israel.

f. The FIXED RESIDENCE, “Where are the treasures of snow and hail, the repository of noxious dews, of drops, and whirlwinds; the grotto of exhalations,” heavens thus denominated?” Answer: In I Kings 8:39,49, Then hear thou in HEAVEN thy DWELLING-PLACE, thy FIXED RESIDENCE.

g. The ARABOTH, Where are justice, judgment, mercy, the treasures of life; peace and blessedness; the souls of the righteous, the souls and spirits which are reserved for the bodies yet to be formed, and the dew by which God is to vivify the dead.” {Psalms 89:14, Isaiah 59:17 Psalms 36:9, Judges 6:24 Psalms 24:4 I Samuel 25:29 Isaiah 57:20}: All of which are termed Araboth, {Psalms 68:4}. Extol him who rideth on the heavens, ba ARABOTH, by his name Jah.

B. The Bible, in II Corinthians 12:2 speaks of at least three heavens: I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.

1. THE FIRST HEAVEN: Genesis 1:6-8 – And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters. 7 And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so. 8 And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.

a. This first heaven, as it relates to man, is closest to the earth, and involves the air we breathe and the space under the canopy of the earth.

2. THE SECOND HEAVEN: Genesis 1:14-19 – And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: 15 And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. 16 And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. 17 And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, 18 And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. 19 And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.

a. This second heaven is above the canopy, which surrounds the earth and contains the sun, the moon, and all the planets.

3. THE THIRD HEAVEN: II Corinthians 12:2 – The third heaven is the place where God’s throne is, in the sides of the north.

a. Psalms 48:2 records the beauty of this holy heaven: Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

b. Isaiah 14:13 reveals Satan desired to sit in this heaven, on God’s eternal throne: For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:

c. This third heaven is where Paul was taken when he heard words it was not lawful for a man to utter, II Corinthians 12:2.

e. There will be a new heaven and a new earth, wherein dwelleth eternal righteousness.

A. There will be great rejoicing in heaven because of the victories of Christ and the defeat of Satan.

1. The heavens refer to all parts of created heaven, including the “physical” parts of heaven.

a. Notice the word is heavens (plural), not heaven, referring to the three heavens.

1) Luke 19:40 states, And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.

2) The scriptures reveal the sun and moon will cease giving their light when the judgments of God come upon the earth.

2. Those that dwell in the heavens include all the created being of heaven: seraphims, cherubs, angels, all the redeemed, and all living beings.

b. This includes all the angels of the heavens, and all the redeemed, and all other creatures God created.

c. This will be a time of rejoicing very similar to the rejoicing when God exhibits his reign, but this rejoicing will be because evil is finally cast out, and all troubles and trials are now ended.

B. There will be great sorrow on the earth because of the victories of Christ and the defeat of Satan.

1. There will be much woe on the earth because of great trouble that is soon coming.

2. The inhabitants of the earth refer to those Jews, believing and unbelieving, who are fleeing for their lives.

a. According to verse 17 some of these fleeing Jews are believers, as they keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

1) These believing Jews have more than the testimony of God or a mental assent to the commandments of God.

2) They have the testimony of Jesus Christ, which testimony is described in my notes on verse 11.

b. When Israel sees Jesus coming at the close of the Great Tribulation, God will open their understanding and they will see Jesus is the one they pierced – their Saviour and king.

3. The inhabitants of the sea refer to those unbelieving Gentiles who will never believe.

a. These poor folks continue to think they will have the final victory, but they are in for a colossal defeat.

b. The reference to this woe is concerning those inhabitants of the earth during the pouring out of the seven vials of God’s wrath.

a. Unbelieving Gentiles left on this earth during the time of the seven vials have rejected the preaching of the two witnesses, and all the evidences God has given to them of his grace in salvation and coming wrath.

b. There will be a remnant of the Jewish nation who must flee to the mountains to save their lives.

1) These believing and unbelieving Jews will be kept alive, securely hid and fed until the time of the Lord’s return to this earth, when he sets his feet upon Mt. Zion.

2) When these unbelieving Jews see Jesus on Mt. Zion, they will realize they missed their Messiah and redeemer and a nation will be born in a day. [14]

A. It is important to understand the difference of the chastening of God, the wrath of God and the wrath of Satan.

1. Israel suffered because of the chastening and wrath of God (not the wrath of Satan), which was brought upon them by their own rebellion.

a. Deuteronomy 7:4 - For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.

b. Deuteronomy 11:26-28 - Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse; 27 A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you this day: 28 And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known.

c. Deuteronomy 30:1 - And it shall come to pass, when all these things are come upon thee, the blessing and the curse, which I have set before thee, and thou shalt call them to mind among all the nations, whither the LORD thy God hath driven thee, (notice the comma and continue with the thought God presents)

d. Lamentations 2:1 - How hath the Lord covered the daughter of Zion with a cloud in his anger, and cast down from heaven unto the earth the beauty of Israel, and remembered not his footstool in the day of his anger!

e. Even a cursory reading of Lamentations reveals that God’s wrath was poured out on Israel, not Satan’s.

f. There are literally hundreds of scriptures that reflect God’s wrath on Israel, but during the Great Tribulation, it is Satan’s wrath on Israel.

B. The wrath of God has allowed Satan to pour out his wrath upon this earth, while the mercy of God protects the nation of Israel and all believers.

1. The inhabitants of the earth are facing the wrath of God, but this is not the reason for this particular suffering, as this suffering is caused by the wrath of Satan.

2. The inhabitants of the earth are already facing terrible and eternal suffering because of the wrath of God, but Satan does not consider that.

1. Satan will not hesitate to destroy his own people to destroy the people of God.

2. Matthew 12:26, Jesus declared, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: 26 And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?

Verse 13 And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.

I. Satan does not have omniscience, as he now sees (understands) he is cast out of heaven for the final time, and into the earth.

1. Satan discovers things as he goes along, but he has never discovered the grace, mercy and love of Jesus, whom he continually fights against.

B. Satan discovers he is on the earth, having been cast out of heaven for the final time.

1. It is at this point that he continues, with increased zeal, his persecution of Israel, the people of God.

2. It is amazing that Satan either does not understand his final end, or, if he knows his final end, continues to fight against God and his eternal plan.

3. All unbelievers have the same mind as Satan, continuing to fight against God, even when they know their final end.

A. Throughout the history of Israel, they have been their worse enemy, just as we are our worse enemy.

1. James 1:13-16 reveals that every man is drawn away of his own lusts and enticed, which finally brings death and destruction.

b. There is a sense in which Satan deceives, but he always uses our own lusts to deceive us.

d. Satan cannot make us sin, but we sin because we follow our own personal lusts.

1. In the history of Israel, their sins have caused God to chasten them, or pour his wrath upon them.

2. This time, however, the troubles of Israel are caused by obedience, even if that obedience was unknown to them.

3. Israel is facing Satan’s wrath because she brought forth Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God.

4. I Peter 2:19-20 states, For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.

a. Israel, and all believers, is accepted by God because of Christ, through nothing we have done.

b. Ephesians 1:6 states, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

c. We are saved by grace, through faith in Christ, not of works, lest any should boast.

d. Israel, and all believers, has nothing to boast of; except Jesus Christ, who made them, and us, acceptable to God.

C. This verse records that Israel faced the wrath of Satan because she was blessed of God to bring forth Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, and Saviour of the entire world.

1. The greatest blessings from God always bring the greatest condemnation from Satan and the world.

2. Israel was chosen to this position, just as we are chosen to salvation and faithful service.

3. God did not choose Israel because they won some sort of competition, or because they were a greater nation, just as he did not choose us because we won some sort of competition or are greater/better than anybody else.

Verse 14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.

I. There are two things that happen simultaneously: (1) God and the earth aids Israel in escaping from Satan, (2) while Satan does all he can, even using the elements of the earth, in an attempt to destroy God’s people.

1. It must be noted that Satan only uses natural means in his attempt to destroy Israel.

3. The earth, denoting that even the natural creation rebels against Satan, swallows the flood of water Satan cast after Israel.

A. At this point, Israel does not believe Jesus Christ is their eternal Saviour.

1. Amazing: Israel, as a nation, does not know Jesus Christ, but he knows them, guides them, protects them, and provides for them.

2. Many believe Christ only helps those who know him, but Jesus always helps those he knows, even if those he knows does not know him.

B. Israel has faced the judgments of God many times in the past, when they are chastened for their sins and unbelief, but this is not the judgment of God upon them, except in the sense the Great Tribulation is for Israel – to bring them to faith in Christ.

1. Moses warned Israel many times that God would chasten them if they turned aside from following him.

2. The book of Judges records the many times Israel rebelled against God and faced his fierce wrath.

b. Finally, in 606 BC, Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, captured Jerusalem and took the people out of their land.

1. Judgment of Israel: Ezekiel 17 is the only other place in the entire Bible where the term “great eagle” is used.

a. Daniel 7:4 reveals the first beast is a lion with eagle’s wings. The first was like a lion, and had eagle‘s wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man’s heart was given to it.

2) Babylon will be revived in the last days, and will be against God, all believers, and the nation of Israel.

1) Verse 1-6 – Babylon is the first eagle, and how that nation captures and uses Israel, God’s chosen people.

2) Verse 7-10 – Egypt is the second eagle, and how Israel attempts to escape from Babylon by going to Egypt, but God destroys both those of Israel that trusted in Egypt, and Egypt.

e. Ezekiel 17:22-24 establishes God will do wondrous things with Israel, in the last days, and will exalt himself as he exalts his chosen people, and all the world will know that God has performed his word. [15]

2. Judgment against Moab: Jeremiah 48:40 - For thus saith the LORD; Behold, he shall fly as an eagle, and shall spread his wings over Moab.

a. The entirety of Jeremiah 48 is devoted to a description of the destruction of Moab by Babylon.

b. This destruction took place about the same time as Babylon took Israel captive (about 606 B.C.)

c. This passage is also prophetic concerning the inhabitants of Moab’s land during the Great Tribulation, when Pagan Babylon restores the Babylonian kingdom, and Satan’s Anti-Christ reigns.

3. Judgment against Edom: Jeremiah 49:22 - Behold, he shall come up and fly as the eagle, and spread his wings over Bozrah: and at that day shall the heart of the mighty men of Edom be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.

a. Verse 18 describes the swiftness of the captivity of Edom, at a time when they least expected it.

c. Comparing this passage to Jeremiah 48:40, we discover the kingdom of Edom is active during the Great Tribulation.

f. There are many passages that refer to the restoration of various kingdoms in the latter days. Search “bring again” for some of those passages.

b. No man would think such a thing, but this is often the way God provides – from sources and from ways we do not comprehend.

2. The two wings of a great eagle obviously speak symbolically of God’s miraculous intervention and deliverance when there appeared to be no deliverance.

a. I have heard this event occurred at the close of WWII when the United States of America used aircraft to fly Israelites from those European countries that persecuted them to their homeland in Israel.

1) The event spoken of did occur, but it is unlikely Revelation 12:14 speaks of that event.

2) Partial Preterism would likely believe Revelation 12:14 was fulfilled at that event.

3. Exodus 19:4 states, Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.

a. When God delivered Israel from Egypt, Pharaoh didn’t really understand how it happened.

b. God delivered Israel in such a way that everybody could clearly understand they were delivered by the power of God, which was much more than any power Israel had.

4. Proverbs 23:5 reveals, Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

a. This practical example of riches flying away typifies how God delivered Israel from Egypt, us from sin, and will bring in his eternal kingdom.

c. Riches “mysteriously” disappear unless the budget is studied carefully with a full detailed analysis.

5. Deuteronomy 32:11-12 - As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: 12 So the LORD alone did lead him, and there was no strange god with him.

a. Beginning in verse 7, this passage speaks of the miraculous movement of God upon the nation of Israel.

c. Israel rejected the blessing and promises of God, rebelling against them, and received just judgment from God.

6. Isaiah 40:28-31 reveals the power of God, Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. 29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: 31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

a. There is soon coming a time when Israel has no strength and that will be the time God delivers her.

b. God shall give Israel wings as eagles, and she will fly away into the wilderness, to her place, where God will provide her and protect her from Satan.

A. Lamentations 4:18-20 – They hunt our steps, that we cannot go in our streets: our end is near, our days are fulfilled; for our end is come. 19 Our persecutors are swifter than the eagles of the heaven: they pursued us upon the mountains, they laid wait for us in the wilderness. 20 The breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the LORD, was taken in their pits, of whom we said, Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.

1. God hid Israel and provided for her during the Babylon captivity; therefore it is no difficulty for God to do it again.

3. When Israel is in “her place”, she will find great comfort from God, although there is much misunderstanding on her part.

a. God informed Israel on many occasions he would cause them to live if they submitted to his chastening by going into Babylonian captivity, but some would not listen and died.

b. God will bring Israel to the place where she has no choice: when they flee to their place, God is there to bring them to himself.

a. Whether God prepares this place, or whether God uses Israel, or some other nation to prepare this place is not revealed in these verses.

c. It seems likely God prepares this special place for Israel, just as he prepared a special Garden for Adam and his wife to live.

2. A place of refuge and safety, where the Bible can be studied without interruption.

a. Lamentations 4:20 also seem to make reference to this point: …Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.

c. Some believe Isaiah 11:10-16 refers to the second (see verse 11) gathering of Israel from the nations of the Gentiles, to whom they fled, and hid, and was provided for during the final 3½ years of the Great Tribulation.

d. The first gathering occurred when Israel was made a nation on May 14, 1948. They were attacked the next day by neighboring Arab states.

1) If this were the case, then scattered Gentiles would feed, protect, and shelter Jews who were running for their lives.

2) I doubt this is the case, because most believers will have been killed by the Anti-Christ, and the mark of the beast would make it impossible to buy or sell, making it extremely difficult to provide for oneself, much less a hated Jew.

3. Some believe the wilderness refers to a place something like where John the Baptist baptized; close by the nation of Israel, yet secluded.

4. Men may have this “figured out”, but that doesn’t mean Petra is the place God has “figured out”.

5. The location of the place is not as important as knowing God has prepared that place.

V. God will protect Israel from Satan’s assaults, but God will not protect Israel from chastisement.

A. It is likely Israel will not understand God’s protection at the beginning, but before the Great Tribulation is over, they will understand.

1. When Israel flees from the wrath of Satan, they will likely believe God has forsaken them, his promises are vain, and the entire world is trying to kill them.

2. When God protects Israel with his great out stretched wings (see Matthew 23:37), he will also open their understanding to his great providential protection.

3. Zechariah 12:10 – When God appears at the end of the Great Tribulation, they will look upon the one they pierced and will believe.

1. Compare Revelation 12:6 with Revelation 12:14 reveals this time period is the last half of the Great Tribulation Period.

2. The words “feed” and “nourished” are from the same Greek word and indicates a building up from the base (foundation) through the idea of convolution (a part that is folded or coiled).

a. God supplied all the necessities of Israel during the 40 years of wilderness wandering.

b. There is no difficulty believing God can miraculously supply for the entire nation of Israel during this 3½-year period.

3. Nourishment indicates one point building upon another point as the people of Israel read the Bible and God unfolds one truth upon another, as light is given.

4. Isaiah 28:9-13 states, Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. 10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: 11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. 12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. 13 But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

1. Israel not seeing the face of Satan indicates Israel will know where Satan is, but Satan will not know where Israel is.

2. Just as Moses saw the backside of God because he could not stand to look God in the face, so Israel might see the backside of Satan’s wrath, but God will protect them from the strength of his onslaughts.

Verse 15 And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. 16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.

I. There are no spiritual forces on the earth to restrain Satan during this time.

1. Matthew 24:21-22 – For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. 22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

2. The Great Tribulation will be worse than all the world wars because there will be no spiritual force against Satan.

3. Luke 21:22 - For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.

a. These days of vengeance indicates these days are meting out the justice of God.

b. God will use Satan, just as he used Babylon to bring his vengeance upon Israel during the 70 year Babylon captivity.

A. Some believe the waters are symbolical of the apostate nations who will join with Satan and the Antichrist, but if so, there will be other nations who will line up with them and who will help the woman as typified by the earth opening her mouth and swallowing the waters.

B. The following scriptures can be taken literal or figurative. All describe the miraculous escape of Israel from their enemy.

1. Psalm 124:1-8 - If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, now may Israel say; 2 If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us: 3 Then they had swallowed us up quick, when their wrath was kindled against us: 4 Then the waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul: 5 Then the proud waters had gone over our soul. 6 Blessed be the LORD, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth. 7 Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

b. This Psalm is a prophetic psalm of praise for God’s deliverance in the past is like that deliverance he will give during the Great Tribulation.

c. Revelation 12 speaks of a time when God will not restrain the forces that attack Israel, but God will protect the remnant of Israel from this vicious attack.

2. Isaiah 59:19-20 - So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. 20 And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.

3) Verse 16-17 – Israel saw there was no redeemer, no helper for them who was righteous and would give them righteousness, help and salvation.

4) Verse 18 – Israel realizes they will pay the consequences of their wickedness.

b. Verse 19-20 – Israel shall begin to fear the name of the Lord from the west and east when the enemy, as a flood (referred to in Revelation 12:15) comes upon them.

c. Verse 21 – The promise of God to Israel is new covenant, which shall never fail.

3. Jeremiah 46:7-10 - Who is this that cometh up as a flood, whose waters are moved as the rivers? 8 Egypt riseth up like a flood, and his waters are moved like the rivers; and he saith, I will go up, and will cover the earth; I will destroy the city and the inhabitants thereof. 9 Come up, ye horses; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men come forth; the Ethiopians and the Libyans, that handle the shield; and the Lydians, that handle and bend the bow. 10 For this is the day of the Lord GOD of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his adversaries: and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satiate and made drunk with their blood: for the Lord GOD of hosts hath a sacrifice in the north country by the river Euphrates.

a. The literal interpretation of this passage speaks of God’s judgments against Egypt by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon.

4. Jeremiah 47:1-3 - The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before that Pharaoh smote Gaza. 2 Thus saith the LORD; Behold, waters rise up out of the north, and shall be an overflowing flood, and shall overflow the land, and all that is therein; the city, and them that dwell therein: then the men shall cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall howl. 3 At the noise of the stamping of the hoofs of his strong horses, at the rushing of his chariots, and at the rumbling of his wheels, the fathers shall not look back to their children for feebleness of hands;

a. This passage is similar to Jeremiah 46, except it relates to the Philistines.

b. God’s vengeance against all wickedness will be satisfied, and not hindered.

C. Others believe the floodwaters are literal, a miracle of Satan sent out in order to drown the people out of their wilderness refuge.

1. God in turn will cause something to happen to make the earth open up, probably an earthquake to receive the water, or perhaps a sandstorm and thus save the persecuted people.

2. Isaiah 11:15-16 states, And the LORD shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make men go over dryshod. 16 And there shall be an highway for the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria; like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt.

D. Regardless, Satan will be completely unsuccessful in his attempt to destroy Israel because God will miraculously feed his people, because of the mark of the beast, no person will be able to buy or sell without that mark.

1. Psalms 105:37 - He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.

a. Even though Israel was worried about the onions, garlic and leeks of Egypt, God showed them he could give them silver and gold, and make each and every person strong.

b. Micah 7:14-15 relates this same principle: Feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine heritage, which dwell solitarily in the wood, in the midst of Carmel: let them feed in Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old. 15 According to the days of thy coming out of the land of Egypt will I shew unto him marvellous things.

c. Isaiah 33:16-17 seems to speak of God’s gracious provision. He shall dwell on high: his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure. 17 Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off. [17]

1. Proverbs 21:31 – The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.

2. Psalms 124:2-5, If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us; then they had swallowed us up quick, when their wrath was kindled against us: then the waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul: then the proud waters had gone over our soul.

3. Psalms 18:16, He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many waters.

4. 1 Kings 17:6, And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook. Elijah was fed by the birds of the air, a remarkable feat.

B. If the flood is the invading armies of Satan, then their goals are not accomplished because some natural catastrophe hinders them.

1. Napoleon was defeated at Waterloo because of a great rain, which caused him to postpone the battle until nearly noon, giving his opposing army time to advance for the final defeat at close of day. See: 12v16.doc

2. The French commander Napoleon was defeated that Sunday, June 18, 1815, by an Anglo-allied army under the Duke of Wellington, and a Prussian army under Gebhard von Blücher.

3. Napolean didn’t begin the battle until 11:30 a.m., fighting against the Anglo-allied army until almost dark when Blücher’s forces finally arrived.

4. Waiting until noon to begin the battle gave Blücher time to arrive and advance with fresh troops to defeat Napoleon.

C. Numbers 16:30 – But if the LORD make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the LORD.

D. Revelation 9:4 – And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.

1. God will protect all who help Israel, whether nations, or natural substances.

Verse 17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

A. The wrath of Satan will never be appeased or satisfied, that is why he will be cast into the Lake of Fire forever.

B. The eye of wicked people will be satisfied; therefore they continue to look on evil things, their minds continually devising means whereby their lusts may be satisfied.

II. Who is the remnant of Israel’s seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ?

1. We normally assume no Israelite is saved at this point, but that Satan and his Anti-Christ have killed all believers in Israel.

3. It is also apparently true that some Israelites believers do not travel with the nation of Israel to the place God has prepared for them.

B. Notice the statement, “which keep the commandments of God”, and “have the testimony of Jesus Christ”.

a. Many foolishly believe the commandments of God are null and void, having been nailed to the cross; therefore we are not under the obligations of the law.

2. These believers have the testimony of Jesus Christ, not just the testimony of God, the Father.

C. We see here that God makes a distinction between national Israel and believing Israel.

1. National Israel are Jews, in the nation of Israel, who do not yet believe Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah they missed.

2. Believing Israel are those Jews, in the nation of Israel, who believe Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah.

a. Believing Israel keeps the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

b. Isaiah 26:20-21 describes this remnant: Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. 21 For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.

a. All the other nations will join with the Anti-Christ in wrath against Israel.

b. It is likely some, even in the nation of Israel, are not of the remnant, therefore will also join with the Anti-Christ in wrath against their fellows.

A. Revelation 12 closes with the description of Satan making war with the remnant of Israel’s seed and Revelation 13 begins with the description of the Anti-Christ kingdom.

1. It is at this point – during the last half of the Great Tribulation when Israel goes into the place of protection God has prepared for her – that all the restraints upon Satan is removed and his kingdom is established in the manner he envisioned.

2. Israel is no longer a nation, as we understand a nation, because they are in hiding.

3. Just as Jesus was in the grave three days and three nights, so the nation of Israel will be hiding for 3½ years, then there will be a glorious resurrection.

B. Satan’s kingdom does not accomplish his dreams, however, because his kingdom destroys the very principles that hold any kingdom together.

[1] Preached to here 04/08/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[2] Preached to here 04/15/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[3] Preached to here 04/22/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[4] Preached to here 05/06/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[5] Preached to here 05/13/2009 Wednesday evening

[6] Preached to here 05/20/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[7] Preached to here 05/27/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[8] Preached to here 06/03/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[9] Preached 06/10/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[10] Preached to here 06/17/2009 IBC Wednesday evening

[11] Preached to here 06/24/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[12] Preached to here 07/01/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[13] Copied from: Adam Clarks commentary on II Corinthians 12:2.

[14] Preached to here 07/15/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[15] Preached to here 07/29/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[16] Preached to here 08/12/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening

[17] Preached to here 08/19/2009 IBC Wednesday Evening