Merry Christmas! Unveiling the Grand Redemptive Story: Revelation 12 and the Defeated Bloodthirsty Red Dragon
Revelation 12:1-17 unfolds a gripping narrative that transcends time, delving into the past, addressing the present, and pointing towards the future. This unique Christmas story, unlike the conventional nativity narrative, unveils a cosmic battle involving a radiant woman, a male child destined to rule nations, and a bloodthirsty red dragon. The profound symbolism in these verses ties together biblical prophecies and emphasizes the victory that Christmas brings. Truly understanding Christmas requires to gaze beyond the manger, shepherds, and swaddling clothes, to see the unseen spiritual reality electrifying that Silent Night.
The Son's Triumph is Our Triumph:
In verse 5, the male child, destined to rule with an iron scepter, mirrors the prophecy in Psalm 2:7, where God declares, "You are my son." This triumph culminates in the ascension of Jesus, as described in Hebrews 1:3, marking the pivotal moment in the redemption narrative. Because Jesus succeeded where Israel and we fail; we can be “in Christ” and find our salvation. Because of His active obedience — actively keeping and fulfilling God’s commandments — His righteousness is imputed to us. Because of His passive obedience — submitting to the will of the Father to endure Calvary — our sins are imputed to Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21 rings true, “God made him who had no sin to be sin b for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
The Woman's Identity is Our Identity:
The woman, adorned with the sun and standing on the moon with twelve stars, echoes Joseph's dream in Genesis 37. This vision may also symbolizes Mary's role in giving birth to Jesus, drawing parallels to Israel bringing forth the Messiah. But we can also assume the twelve stars signify that signify the twelve tribes of Israel also represent the church according to Revelation chapter 7. This means the woman could represent the Christ-bearing community of faith; or the Church. It makes sense as we see the dragon continues pursuing the woman and all the more as he knows his time is short. The enemy still pursues the faithful Christ-bearing community and all the more ferociously as time goes on.
The Dragon's Defeat is Our Victory:
Identified as Satan, the ancient serpent, the dragon faces defeat in heavenly warfare, fulfilling the promise of a savior in Isaiah 9:6. The birth of Jesus becomes God's decisive act of war against the forces of evil, rooted in the proto evangelium (first telling of the gospel) in Genesis 3:15.
The dragon's relentless attacks on the “seed” promised, seen through various biblical events, highlight Satan's opposition to God's redemptive plan. Murder, adultery, anti-semitism, genocide, are all tools inspired by Satan in this war. From Cain and Abel to the birth of Jesus, and through the trials faced by the patriarchs and kings, the dragon attempts to thwart God's promise by eliminating the “seed.”
The climax at Calvary solidifies the victory of Christ! The empty cross and empty tomb are evidence of the dragons imminent end. As believers in Christ, we now stand firm against the defeated foe, embracing the fourfold reality of salvation, power, the Kingdom of God, and the authority of Messiah Jesus (Rev 12:10)!
Rejoicing in Victory:
The triumphant believers overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, showcasing their love for the Lamb above their own lives (Rev 12:11). Despite Satan's intensified wrath, believers stand secure, reassured by the accomplished victory of Christ.
Conclusion:
Revelation 12:1-17 unfolds a narrative that goes beyond a traditional Christmas story. It encapsulates the grand redemptive plan of God, portraying the defeat of the bloodthirsty red dragon. As believers, we find assurance in Christ's victory, realizing that the peace we celebrate stems from the risen and victorious King Jesus. Trusting God's word and relying on His care, we stand firm against the defeated enemy, rejoicing in the enduring triumph of our Savior.