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Showing posts with label Introductory Note to 12:1 – 19:10 and Search The Scriptures —Study 15 — Revelation 12. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Introductory Note to 12:1 – 19:10 and Search The Scriptures —Study 15 — Revelation 12. Show all posts

13 February, 2018

Introductory Note to 12:1 – 19:10 and Search The Scriptures —Study 15 — Revelation 12


Introductory Note to 12:1 – 19:10
At this point a new division of the book begins, and a new series of prophecies (cf. 10:11). The earlier part of the book has been occupied mainly with outward events and acts of divine judgment, together with visions of the church and her sufferings; and it has been shown that behind all is God’s throne, and that all that is happening is under His control, and in the hand of Christ. The present section of the book reveals another and graver aspect in the situation, namely, the enmity of powerful spiritual foes, of Satan and the world. This has so far only been hinted at (2:9, 13, 24; 3:9; 9:11; 11:7),  but is now brought into full view, and it is shown that the sufferings of the church have their origin in the conflict between Satan and Christ.




Study 15 From the Book of Revelation is: Revelation 12
The chapter gives a symbolic picture of the birth of Christ, and of His return to the throne of God, but its main purpose is to show the power and malignity of Satan as the enemy of Christ and His people.
1-     Gather out what is said about Christ. Cf. Ps. 2:6-9; Lk. 10:18; Jn. 12:31; Eph. 1:19-21. What is the significance of verse 10? Cf. Rom. 8:33, 34.
2-     Why, according to this chapter, is the lot of the church on earth one of constant conflict? Cf. Eph. 6:10-13; 1 Pet. 5:8. How is the fearful power of Satan depicted? How do or may we share in Christ’s victory over him?
Notes
1-     Verses 1, 2, 4-6, 13-17. The woman represents the true Israel, which, after Christ’s ascension, forms the Christian church. For the imagery, see Gn.37:9; Ct. 6:4, 10; Is. 66:7-10.
2-     Verses 3, 4a. ‘Red’: the colour of blood. Cf. Jn. 8:44. The seven heads and diadems indicate far-reaching dominion, the ten horns, great power, and the tail, his vast size and strength. Note verse 9; and cf. Gn. 3:15.
3-     Verses 6, 14-16.  The exact meaning of the symbolism is obscure, but the general sense is clear, that the church is under God’s protection, and although Satan will seek to destroy her, his plans will be thwarted.