Session 6 (part 1) – chapter 12

Revelation 11:15 – “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ”

   - Ch 12 – how the world became Jesus’ kingdom

   - Ch 13 – perspective on the kingdom of the world

What is a sign?

   - Points to the meaning of hidden things – a sign points to another reality

   - They reveal glory (true nature)

   - Heaven and earth coming together

   - Signs in the gospels point to the glory of Jesus

   - In this case – a sign in heaven points to an earthly reality

TWO SIGNS – the woman (Israel) and the dragon (Satan)

   - Goes back to Genesis 3 – the woman & the serpent

The woman

   - Symbol of Israel

   - Isaiah 7:14

   - Isaiah 9:6-7

The dragon

   - Symbol of Satan

   - Angelic power behind “kingdom of the world”

   - Focus on devouring the child / destroying redemptive purpose

The child

   - Messianic symbol

   - Protected by God

   - Will rule with “iron sceptre”

The redemptive picture focuses on the incarnation (entering enemy territory) and ascension (defeat of enemies).

The application of the work of the cross is implied. John focuses on the outcome of Jesus’ work seen in the last days. Salvation from the perspective of heaven.

   1. The woman fled to the desert = Israel preserved and provided for in the wilderness

   2. An angelic victory in heaven, Satan hurled to earth (Isaiah 14:12 , Luke 10:17-18)

   3. Earthly victory expressed in the overcoming Church. They overcome by;

          i. The blood of the Lamb. Christians can no longer be accused (Job 1:6-12, Zechariah 3:1)

          ii. The word of their testimony

          iii. No fear in death

In the last days the dragon rages against the woman (Israel) and the rest of her offspring (the Church).

Questions

1. How do signs in heaven encourage readers about the earthly reality of Jesus’ kingdom and rule?

2. For the Church, what is the significance of Satan being defeated and hurled to the earth?

3. How are you encouraged to live out the victory of the Lamb everyday?