Rev 12:7-17 is the Great War played out. Verses 1-6 is a snapshot, while 7-17 expand and paint the picture.
The defeats of Satan:
- the Initial vrs 7-9 point back to and explain vrs 4. Note who Satan fought with. He fought with the arch-angel Michael not God. Too often we put Satan on an equal playing field with God when in reality he is just another created being...dangerous, but created none the less and if you resist him he will flee from you.
- at the Cross vrs 10. Ultimately Satan was defeated on the cross.
- the On-going vrs 11-17. Vrs 11 is key...just like it can be said that Germany lost WWII on D-day there was still fighting that had to take place before victory was achieved. Satan while he was defeated on the cross wants to destroy as many humans (God's image bearers) as he can before the end. Other verses to note: Matthew 10:35-39, Mark 8:35, Luke 14:26, Hebrews 11:13-16, Exodus 19:1-6, Isaiah 40:31, Psalm 18, Psalm 32:1-6, Isaiah 43:1-3
Think through what lies do you believe? Where are you trusting or not trusting God/Jesus?
We watched the Trust Fall video that was purchased from SermonSpice. A pre-view copy can be viewed at: http://www.sermonspice.com/product/35819/trust-fall
Main Point: Knowing the truth, adhering to the truth equals freedom
- Satan only operates with limited power
- Victory for believers is only achieved by the blood of the Jesus and perseverance (1 Peter 1, James 1:2-4, Romans 5:1-5).
So what? What have you learned and how will you apply what you have learned?
