Revelation 12 / The Woman & The Dragon
Revelation 12 presents the dramatic figures of a woman and a dragon. But it isn't just a fanciful story; at it’s core it is a call to understand and live out our faith in the face of adversity.
The Woman and the Birth of a New King
In Revelation 12:1-2, John describes a "great sign" in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet, and a crown of twelve stars. She is pregnant and in labor, ready to give birth to a child destined to rule all nations. The crown of twelve stars connects this woman to Israel, representing the twelve tribes. The sun, moon, and stars refer to Joseph's prophetic dream in Genesis 37:9. Here, Israel is personified as a woman laboring to bring forth a new way, and a new king—Jesus..
The Dragon: Symbol of Evil
The narrative then introduces a second figure: a red dragon with seven heads, ten horns, and seven crowns (Revelation 12:3-4). This dragon symbolizes the forces of evil, poised to devour the woman's child upon birth. Throughout history, these forces have manifested as violence, oppression, and injustice. The dragon's efforts to thwart God's plan echo historical attempts to annihilate the Jewish people and, later, to destroy the early church.
Despite the dragon's menacing presence, the woman gives birth to a son who is taken up to God's throne (Revelation 12:5). She then flees into the wilderness, where God protects her. This imagery reflects the broader spiritual battle. The dragon's defeat in heaven, led by Michael and his angels, symbolizes the ultimate victory over evil (Revelation 12:7-9).
John's audience, early Christians facing persecution, would find reassurance that despite the relentless assaults of evil, God's plan prevails. The woman’s flight into the wilderness signifies God's provision and protection, even in dire circumstances.
Living the Story Today
John's retelling of this story serves as a reminder that God's people are continually laboring to bring goodness into the world. This struggle is met with resistance from the forces of darkness, but we are encouraged to persist. Revelation 12:17 highlights the dragon's frustration and subsequent attack on the woman's offspring, symbolizing the church and its mission.
Our call, as followers of Christ, is to embody this story. It's not about adhering to a strict set of rules but about knowing and emulating Jesus. The narrative of Jesus isn't just a historical account; it's a transformative story that inspires hope and change.
Discussion Questions:
In what ways do you see the forces of evil manifesting in contemporary society, and how can the church respond effectively?
Do you see any other ways that the story of Jesus is retold in the lives of biblical characters?
How have you seen the enemy resisting the goodness of God in this world?
Does understanding Revelation 12 as a narrative of hope and victory change your perspective on current struggles?