December 18, 2024 - Revelation 12

In chapter 12 are the visions of a woman who gives birth and a dragon that tries to destroy her offspring.  The woman’s offspring are either Israel or all believers (After all, the true offspring of Abraham are “those of faith” – Galatians 3:7-9).  The dragon is “that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan” (12:9 ) who sought to destroy the woman’s child,  “a male child, one who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron” (12:5), surely the Messiah who is exalted and seated in heaven.  As I read these verses, I had a feeling of dread but, then, I read:  “Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven” (12:7-8).  And, then, a loud voice in heaven:  “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.  And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.  Therefore, rejoice, O heaven” (12:10-12).  Jesus has defeated Satan.  He has delivered us from guilt.  He rules the nations.  And, suddenly, I found myself smiling, both corners of my mouth turned up high!

A safe stronghold our God is still,

a trusty shield and weapon;

he'll keep us clear from all the ill

that hath us now o’ertaken.

The ancient prince of hell

hath risen with purpose fell;

strong mail of craft and power

he weareth in this hour;

on earth is not his fellow.

. . . for us fights the proper Man

whom God himself hath bidden.

Ask ye, who is this same?

Christ Jesus is his name,

the Lord Sabaoth’s Son;

he, and no other one,

shall conquer in the battle.   –Martin Luther (1529)