This is a section of Revelation, where John first gives a vast and sweeping view of history. A characteristic of apocalyptic literature is the inclusion of one or more sections where the author stands back to describe the broad flow of history from earlier times to the time of the author’s vision. Chapters 12-14 and 17-19 are such historical sections in the Book of Revelation. I have previously noted that apocalyptic writings are not the same as allegorical writings where everything has to be correctly identified in order to learn the meaning. John’s description of his vision is strange to our 21st Century minds and there is not general agreement as to the meaning of many of the symbols. But, the message is generally understood. The pregnant woman represents the people of God (the twelve stars in her crown are a good clue) and the baby represents the Messiah. Satan or the forces of evil are represented by the dragon and despite all he could do the Messiah is victorious in his mission and is exalted to heaven with God. The dragon now turns his attention to the new people of God, those who have come to God through faith in Jesus. The persecution is not complete and is limited in time.
Although the dragon will use all his resources against the people of God, their ultimate victory has been insured through the victory of the Messiah. Yes, there will continue to be conflict and persecution on earth and even death for some of the faithful but none of that can overcome the eternal victory that has been won in the Messiah.
The battle with evil rages on as foreseen by the dragon taking his position on the shore by the sea. In apocalyptic literature evil empires generally arise from the sea.
Chapter twelve reminds me that Jesus has completed His mission and returned to heaven. Evil now aims its attack at the people of God. God is still in control and faithful to his promise to never abandon his people. Although I can rest in the assurance that Jesus has promised nothing can take me out of his hand, never the less there remains danger.
What does today’s reading
reveal to you about God?
What does it reveal to you about yourself?
Think about what God wants you to do
or remember about this passage.
Does God want you to change
anything in your life?
11-Oct-11 Rev. 13:1-18
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