Satan’s final battle

Revelation 12:10–17
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Notice that two of Satan’s activities in these verses is to deceive the world and to accuse the brethren (v. 10). The critical blow came to Satan when Jesus Christ shed His blood for our sins (v. 11). The victory is won by Christ’s death in our place to pay the penalty for our sin. As we face the battle with Satan, we should not fear it or try to escape from it but loyally serve Christ who brings victory. The devil begins to step up his persecution because he knows that he only has a short time (v. 12). One of the reasons God allows Satan to bring temptation is so that those who pretend to be Christ’s followers will be weeded out from His true believers. Satan is desperately trying to recruit as big an enemy force as possible for his final battle.

When Satan saw he was being thrown down to the earth he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child (v. 13). Persecuted Israel proceeds to flee quickly to an unspecified place in the wilderness where she finds protection and care (v. 14). In an attempt to dislodge the Jews, Satan will bring a flood (vv. 15-16). God will then cause the earth to open and swallow the water. John tells us that the war is still being waged but the outcome has already been determined. Satan and his followers have been defeated and will be destroyed (v. 17). However, he is battling daily to bring more into his ranks. 

Application

I must never waver in my commitment to Jesus Christ. A great spiritual battle continues to take place and there is no time in my life for indecision.