What happensPermalink
Two signs appear in heaven: a woman crowned with twelve stars, laboring to give birth, and a great red dragon with seven heads and ten horns, ready to devour her child. The child, destined to rule the nations, is caught up to God’s throne. War breaks out in heaven; Michael and his angels defeat the dragon, who is thrown down to earth. Unable to destroy the woman, the dragon pursues her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and bear witness to Jesus.
Why it mattersPermalink
Chapter 12 steps behind the earthly judgments to reveal the spiritual conflict beneath them. The woman represents Israel, from whom the Messiah comes, and the dragon is Satan, the ancient serpent and accuser. Though defeated by the Lamb’s blood and His people’s faithful testimony, Satan still persecutes the church. His fury is real, but his defeat is certain.
Key versePermalink
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.