10.2 The Dragon of Revelation
The Limited Triumph of Evil

Read Revelation 13:1–8. What does the text say about the extent of the dragon’s power?

Revelation portrays Satan as the great dragon who not only challenges God and His heavenly armies (Rev 12:7–9) but also actively fights against the believers on earth. In particular, Revelation 13:1–8 makes it clear that he passes on his power to a “beast from the sea” – a political and religious institution that rises against God. This illustrates that Satan’s strategy is not solely based on open defiance of God but also on the manipulation of worldly powers to divert people from true worship.

The Bible warns that this beast speaks “great things and blasphemies” against God and uses its power to persecute the believers. It is permitted to operate with seemingly unrestricted authority for a limited time – 42 months. This shows that while Satan wields significant influence in the world, his power is not absolute. God sets clear limits on his activity.

A key aspect of Revelation is that Satan “knows he has little time” (Rev 12:12). His anger is immense because his downfall is inevitable. This explains why his actions in the world become increasingly intense – he tries to wreak as much destruction as possible in the time remaining. Yet, this time is limited, and his apparent triumph is only temporary.

For us as believers, this means that we should not be discouraged by the current power of evil. Even though Satan and his agents are active in the world, their time is limited. God remains in control, and the final word belongs to Him. Revelation concludes with a magnificent promise: the ultimate victory belongs to God, and a time will come when “there will be no more death, nor mourning, nor crying, nor pain” (Rev 21:4).

Conclusion:
Revelation shows that while the dragon does have power, he can exercise it only for a certain time. Satan’s greatest goal is to deceive people and lead them away from the true worship of God. Yet God sets clear limits and has already achieved victory in Christ. As believers, we can live in the assurance that evil does not have the final word – in the end, God’s kingdom of peace and justice will endure forever.

As difficult as it may be to see now – in the end, good will triumph over evil eternally. Why is it so important that we never forget this wonderful promise?

It is absolutely essential that we never forget the promise of the final victory of good over evil because it gives us hope, strength, and endurance, especially in times of darkness and suffering. In a world often marked by injustice, pain, and temptation, it is easy to lose faith in God’s plan. Yet Revelation reminds us that evil only has a limited time, and that God will ultimately triumph over everything.

This promise provides us with an eternal perspective: our current struggles are not the end of the story. They help us face challenges with firm trust in God’s sovereignty. When we understand that although evil rages, it is already defeated, we can live with confidence and faith instead of being ruled by fear or despair.

Moreover, this promise encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith. Precisely because Satan “knows he has little time” (Rev 12:12), he intensifies his attacks. But if we cling to God’s promises, we will not be discouraged; we will remain faithful – confident that justice, truth, and love will ultimately prevail.

This wonderful promise also reminds us that our life here is not everything. God is preparing an eternal home for us where “there will be no more death, no more mourning, no more crying, no more pain” (Rev 21:4). This gives us the courage to view our daily trials in the light of eternity and to move forward in faith, knowing that the best is yet to come.

The vision of the dragon in Revelation is not only a prophetic message about the end times but also a reality that we experience in our everyday lives. The spiritual battle between good and evil manifests in various ways – in our personal faith, in societal developments, and in global crises.

1. The Struggle for Our Faith in Daily Life

   Satan attempts to keep people away from God through deception, distraction, and doubt. This often happens subtly: through the temptations of the world, through fear, uncertainty, and even the overload of daily life. We see many people losing their faith because they become dependent on material things, success, or recognition. Yet it is precisely here that Revelation calls us to stand firm. It reminds us that although evil has influence, it does not possess ultimate power.

2. Deception in Society and the Media World

   The Bible tells us that Satan exercises his power through worldly systems. In our time, we witness how misinformation, manipulation, and moral decay lead people astray. Values once taken for granted are questioned, and often evil is portrayed as good while good is depicted as evil. But as believers, we are called to be spiritually vigilant and not to be swept away by the general tide.

3. Suffering and Injustice – Signs of Evil’s Temporary Triumph

   When we look at the world, it often seems that evil is triumphing: wars, oppression, suffering, and injustice are on the rise. Many wonder where God is in all of this. Yet Revelation 13 shows us that while evil holds power for a time, that time is limited. The Bible assures us that God has everything under control and that in the end His kingdom of peace will prevail.

4. The Importance of Steadfastness and Prayer

   Precisely because we know that Satan “has little time” (Rev 12:12), his attacks are more intense. This is evident in the increasing persecution of believers, as well as in the temptations that try to pull us away from a faithful life with God. It becomes clear how important it is to strengthen our prayer life and remain rooted in Scripture. Prayer is not only a personal matter – it is a spiritual battle that helps us discern the truth and stand firm in difficult times.

5. Hope for the Final Victory

   When we understand that evil reigns only temporarily, we can live with a different perspective. Our daily challenges, fears, and sufferings are not the end – they are just part of a larger plan. This understanding gives us the courage to preserve our faith despite all difficulties.

Conclusion
Revelation is not just a vision of the future but also an encouragement for our everyday lives. It shows us that we should not be disheartened when evil appears to triumph. God has already secured the ultimate victory, and our task is to remain faithful, live in truth, and not be swayed by the deceptions of this world. Our faith is our shield, and our hope in God’s kingdom gives us the strength to stand firm in this world – until the day comes when evil is finally defeated.

God’s victory is assured – even though evil still rages, its time is limited.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-rules-of-engagement-10-2-the-dragon-of-revelation-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

March 3, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Hebrews Chapter 12

¹ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

² Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

³ For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

⁴ Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

⁵ And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:

⁶ For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

⁷ If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

⁸ But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

⁹ Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

¹⁰ For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.

¹¹ Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

¹² Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;

¹³ And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

¹⁴ Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

¹⁵ Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;

¹⁶ Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

¹⁷ For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

¹⁸ For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest,

¹⁹ And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:

²⁰ (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart:

²¹ And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:)

²² But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,

²³ To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,

²⁴ And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.

²⁵ See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:

²⁶ Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.

²⁷ And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.

²⁸ Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

²⁹ For our God is a consuming fire.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Hebrews 12 is a powerful chapter that describes the Christian journey of faith. It encourages us to view our lives as a spiritual race in which we must lay aside sin, endure with patience, and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. The author reminds us of God’s disciplining love, which serves to sanctify us. At the same time, he warns of the danger of missing God’s grace and emphasizes the unshakable glory of the heavenly kingdom. This chapter calls us to live in holiness and serve God with reverence.

Commentary

1.The Race of Faith and the Focus on Jesus (vv. 1–3)
The chapter begins with the metaphor of the Christian life as a race. The “cloud of witnesses” refers to the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11, who serve as examples for us. To run successfully, we must lay aside sin and hindrances and persevere with patience. The key is to keep our eyes on Jesus—the author and perfecter of our faith. His suffering on the cross and His triumph over shame encourage us to remain steadfast.

2.The Meaning of Divine Discipline (vv. 4–11)
Christians are called to understand suffering and trials not as punishment but as God’s discipline. Discipline is a sign of His love and a means of sanctification. Just as a father disciplines his children to shape them, God disciplines His children for their ultimate good. Although discipline may seem painful at first, it produces the “peaceful fruit of righteousness.”

3.Call to Steadfastness and Holiness (vv. 12–17)
Believers are urged to strengthen their “weak hands” and “feeble knees” and walk a straight path. This means actively pursuing peace and holiness, for without holiness, no one will see God. A warning follows using Esau as an example: He lost his birthright for temporary satisfaction. Likewise, Christians must be careful not to forfeit spiritual blessings through worldly compromises.

4.The Difference Between the Old and New Covenant (vv. 18–24)
The author contrasts the terrifying experience of Israel at Mount Sinai with the glorious reality of the New Covenant in Christ. While Sinai was a place of fear, Mount Zion represents the heavenly Jerusalem, the assembly of saints, and the redeeming blood of Christ. The New Covenant in Jesus brings not condemnation but grace and access to God.

5.Warning and Conclusion: An Unshakable Kingdom (vv. 25–29)
The final verses contain a serious warning: Those who reject God’s word will not escape judgment. God once shook the earth, but He will do so again to remove all that is perishable. Only the unshakable—the Kingdom of God—will remain. Therefore, we must serve God with reverence and gratitude, for “our God is a consuming fire.”

Summary

Hebrews 12 calls Christians to run their race of faith with patience and focus on Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of divine discipline as a means of sanctification and encourages steadfastness in faith. The chapter contrasts the Old and New Covenant and reminds us that God’s kingdom is unshakable. The concluding warning urges us not to reject God’s voice but to serve Him with reverence and devotion. Our ultimate goal is eternal fellowship with God in His everlasting kingdom.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 7 addresses the fundamental truth that a genuine conversion is not merely evident in external actions but in an inner, profound change of heart. Faith in Christ brings about a new creation that does not arise from human effort but from the work of the Holy Spirit. While some Christians may be unable to pinpoint the exact time of their conversion, the authenticity of their experience is demonstrated by a new way of life. Love for God, a transformed heart, and growing obedience to His Word are the proofs of being a child of God. This chapter introduces us to the significance of a life truly shaped by Christ and shows that genuine discipleship is not achieved through outward works alone, but through a deep, living relationship with God.

Commentary: Characteristics of Being a Child of God

1. A New Creation Through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)

   Scripture describes rebirth as a complete re-creation of the individual: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away.” This means that true conversion results in a profound change of heart that manifests not only in external forms but in all our thinking, feeling, and actions.

   • The work of the Holy Spirit is not always tangible or visible but can be likened to the wind (John 3:8).

   • This inner transformation reveals itself through a new attitude toward sin, a growing desire for holiness, and a deep love for God.

   • A changed heart produces the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22).

2. The True Test of Faith: Where Does Our Heart Stand?

   Merely living a moral life on the outside does not prove genuine rebirth. Pride or social standing can also motivate a person to be “good.” However, true sonship or daughterhood in God is evident in questions like:

   • Who owns our heart?

   • What do we love to talk about most?

   • To whom do our deepest thoughts and feelings belong?

     A true disciple of Christ orders his life according to Him—loving what Christ loves and hating what He hates. Divine love is the driving force behind every action.

3. The Danger of Misconceptions About Faith and Obedience

   There are two main errors that Christians must guard against:

   • The error of works-righteousness: believing that one can be justified before God by one’s own efforts. Scripture makes it clear: “All works done without Christ are tainted by selfishness and sin.” We are saved by the grace of Christ alone.

   • The error of lawless faith: believing that grace frees a person from observing God’s law. Yet true faith leads to obedience: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments” (1 John 5:3).

     Christ not only grants us forgiveness but also the power to live according to His will. The law is not a means of salvation but an expression of divine love.

4. The True Foundation of Salvation

   No one can save themselves through their own righteousness. But Christ offers us His righteousness:

   • He lived a perfect life and fulfilled God’s law on our behalf.

   • Through His death, He took our sins upon Himself.

   • Through faith, His righteousness is credited to us.

     This means: “Christ’s nature takes the place of our nature; thus we are accepted by God.” Walking in Christ is a daily process of surrender and renewal.

5. True Faith Leads to Obedience

   Saving faith is not merely an intellectual assent to truth, but a trust that transforms our lives. “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17).

   • True children of God are recognized by their deeds of righteousness.

   • Obedience is not the means of salvation but the fruit of a renewed heart.

   • The closer we draw to Christ, the more we recognize our own imperfections—this is a sign of genuine sanctification.

     A Christian does not live in lawlessness but “walks just as He walked” (1 John 2:6).

Summary: The Marks of a True Child of God

Chapter 7 describes the true nature of conversion and shows that being a child of God is not just an external form but a profound transformation of the heart. A renewed person is not defined by occasional good deeds but by a consistent change of character.

• Rebirth by the Holy Spirit is evident in new priorities, new love for God, and new values.

• True followers of Christ focus their hearts, minds, and lives on Him.

• Faith and obedience go hand in hand: faith in Christ produces a new way of life aligned with God’s will.

This chapter calls us to examine our own hearts: Is our life in harmony with Christ? Do we love God with all our heart? Do our thoughts, words, and actions show that we are His children? Only through a deep, daily connection with Jesus can we experience genuine transformation and give evidence of being children of God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/3-03-2025-hebrews-chapter-12-believe-his-prophets/