Session 11: The Kingdom

Session Overview

Creedal Statement

I believe in God the Father Almighty,
Maker of heaven and earth;
And in Jesus Christ
his only begotten Son our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, dead, and buried;
he descended into hell [to the dead];
the third day he rose again from the dead;
he ascended into heaven, and
sits on the right hand of God
the Father Almighty;
from thence he shall come to judge
the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit;
the holy catholic church;
the communion of saints;
the forgiveness of sins;
the resurrection of the body; and
the life everlasting.
Amen.

Key Elements

• Key Passage - Revelation 12:1–14:20
• Scripture Memory - But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. Matthew 6:33
• Catechism - Q: What does the church live and die for? A: Kingdom.

Introduction

Then the end will come, when He hands over the kingdom to God the Father after He has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.

It is certain that Christ fought and overcame all his enemies: he gave them the last blow upon the cross, he seized on the spoil at his resurrection, and led them in triumph at his ascension into heaven, and by his peaceable possession of his throne his subjects enjoy the benefit of all.

We live in a world where kingdoms collide. In the present world, the forces of darkness war against God’s sovereign rule. At the beginning of creation, God set up a glorious kingdom of righteousness, justice, and peace. A perfect paradise, the created world lived in bliss and blessing under the benevolent hand of a gracious God. Unfortunately, the disobedience of the first humans amounted to an insurgency against God. Although original sin has corrupted God’s world, human rebellion has not quashed God’s kingdom plans. On numerous occasions, God promised to conquer the forces of evil, defeat the enemies of darkness, and crush the head of the serpent. True to his own character and purposes, God is setting up his kingdom by destroying the kingdom of Satan. Without a doubt, Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection were the definitive and decisive victory over the forces of evil. Consequently, Jesus invites any and all to be a part of this kingdom by repenting of their sin and placing their faith in Christ. Although kingdom victory has been achieved through Christ’s first coming, believers await the full kingdom victory to be realized at Christ’s second coming.

The already and not-yet nature of Christ’s kingdom makes the Christian life a spiritual battle. The present life of a disciple is one of constant tension. While the gospel offers hope for a glorious future, we still live in a dangerous and difficult present. Christ has won for us a glorious inheritance of eternal life; nevertheless, each day is an endeavor of endurance and perseverance. The Spirit is sanctifying us, yet we wrestle intensely with the tempting allure of sin. We live in a physical world and contend against forces that we cannot see. We securely belong to the kingdom of righteousness, while the forces of darkness still aim for our destruction. As citizens in God’s unconquerable kingdom, disciples live as royal representatives of God’s righteous reign in a world where intimidations and threats from the kingdom of darkness abound. Kingdom living is not for the faint of heart. It requires deep-seated faith, stalwart endurance, keen wisdom, and confident humility. Most helpfully, the Scriptures testify to these basics of kingdom reality and the nature of kingdom living.

The vivid and graphic imagery of Revelation 12:1–14:20 teaches us about the nature of God’s kingdom. In this heavenly vision, there is conflict between a vicious dragon and a pregnant woman. By God’s divine protection and provision, the woman and the child escape. Eventually, war in heaven erupts between God’s angels and the sinister dragon. The monstrous foe is decisively defeated and continues to pursue the woman and her children on the earth. Although violent and savage, the dragon is unsuccessful in his attacks. As the dragon stands by the sea, two beasts appear. These beasts are in the service of the dragon, deceiving people into false worship (worship of anything other than God). After the appearance of these grotesque beasts, John sees Jesus on Mount Zion with a crowd of faithful followers. Angels appear, announcing the gospel and impending judgment. This divine judgment is enacted by Jesus and an angel swinging a sharp sickle through the earth. The gathering in of the harvest of humanity represents a reckoning of divine retribution.

Throughout the biblical narrative—the true story behind it all—we have seen the worst of human rebellion, the cruelest of Satan’s attacks, and the greatest of God’s victories. The aggravating presence of evil still lingers as a limping foe against God and his people. Christ’s victory over evil establishes his rule and reign. Joining this victory movement, the church participates in God’s kingdom work as its members dutifully spread the saving message of Christ to all peoples. As we look to John’s heavenly vision, we look behind the veil of visible things to understand how we can daily live as faithful citizens in God’s kingdom.

Biblical Interpretation: Hearing the Word

Study the Text: The Bible is God’s inspired word to his people. Christian disciples mature in the faith when they are grounded in God’s word. In this movement, you will study the basic details of the biblical text.

Observation Questions

Read (or listen to) the whole passage of Scripture. Discuss the questions below for each section of the story. Pay attention to the details of the text to recall what the passage is saying. Use the focus verses to guide your conversation.

Storycraft

Retell the story in your own words, recounting the overall flow of the narrative, the main segments of the story, and the major developments that take place.

Narrative Elements

Story Retell

Theological Dialogue: Discussing the Plot

Explore the Text: God’s word is his trustworthy and sufficient revelation to his people. We grow as Christ’s disciples by rooting our lives in God’s unchanging truth. In this movement, you will explore vital teachings of this biblical passage.

Discussion Questions

Summarize the biblical story. As a community, discuss the following questions. Be attentive to the truths taught in this text. Use the commentary on the next pages to uncover core principles this passage teaches about the Christian faith.

Biblical Commentary

Use this commentary to help you understand the meaning of the text. Refer to the infographic on the next page to think through how narratives work.

Passage Introduction

Key Idea

God’s kingdom will fully and finally prevail; we are to live lives of genuine faith, faithful endurance, wise discernment, and urgent repentance.

Passage Overview

Our life finds its greatest meaning as we intentionally participate in God’s kingdom purposes. Our life mission is fulfilled on earth as citizens of Christ’s kingdom. According to John’s vision, Satan has been defeated by Christ’s work on the cross. Although he is a defeated and faltering foe, he still wages war against God and his people. God protects, preserves, and sustains his people in the midst of this conflict. Times will come when the enemy will employ evil entities to deceive people and lead them into false worship. Nevertheless, Jesus reigns supreme. The final judgment will come. As such, all people must respond to the gospel while there is still time. At the cross, Christ’s victorious kingdom has defeated Satan. At his second coming, Christ will fully vanquish the forces of the kingdom of darkness. Living as kingdom citizens, Christ’s followers embody faith, wisdom, endurance, and humility as God’s kingdom plan unfolds. Read the following commentary to help you comprehend the biblical text and grow your understanding of what it means to live as a citizen of Christ’s victorious kingdom.

Passage Outline

The Kingdom of God in Triumph

But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

That is the highest wisdom, to cast the world behind us, and to reach forward to the heavenly kingdom …. It is vanity then to seek after, and to trust in, the riches that shall perish. It is vanity, too, to covet honours, and to lift up ourselves on high. It is vanity to follow the desires of the flesh and be led by them, for this shall bring misery at the last. It is vanity to desire a long life, and to have little care for a good life. It is vanity to take thought only for the life which now is, and not to look forward to the things which shall be hereafter. It is vanity to love that which quickly passeth away, and not to hasten where eternal joy abideth.

Introduction

To live as citizens of Christ’s kingdom is to live in certain and sure victory over the forces of darkness. In the current world, evil opposes God and his good rule in the world. The ongoing evil ploys of the devil mirror his same proud and arrogant activity that led the first humans into rebellion. His defiant and sinister work is a continued insurrection against the true King of the world. At times, it may seem like the forces of evil are winning the battle. We must not be deceived. We know that Christ’s kingdom will fully and finally prevail against all satanic displays of power. The life of a believer is a life of spiritual warfare. We do not wage this war with physical weapons, but with the spiritual equipment of faith, wisdom, perseverance, and repentance. The Scriptures are an ample and inspiring source for such kingdom living.

The heavenly vision in Revelation 12:1–14:20 teaches us about God’s kingdom. The opening scenes of this vision show the spiritual battle between the kingdom of Satan and the kingdom of God. A symbol of Satan, the dragon waged war against God, angels, Israel, Jesus, and the church. He was decisively defeated. Two beasts arose in the vision. These monstrous fiends serve the dragon by leading people into false worship through slanderous blasphemy, underhanded trickery, and counterfeit displays of power. The final scene highlights Christ as the true King and Judge, emphasizing that his kingdom will ultimately prevail over all the forces of darkness.

Christians are citizens of God’s kingdom. By faith in Christ, believers have marked themselves in exclusive devotion to Jesus. Under the threat of temptation, persecution, and marginalization, believers do not yield to the enemy’s threats. Instead, believers display genuine faith, steadfast endurance, wise discernment, and urgent repentance. These are marks of kingdom living for those who have pledged their allegiance to Christ as King. The conflict between the kingdoms is real. Satan and his evil minions are an actual menacing threat in the world. Nevertheless, the devil’s power is limited and his time is short. Christ has already defeated Satan’s kingdom in his death and resurrection. God allows the battle to continue in order to allow time for people throughout the world to repent. As we consider the vivid imagery of this heavenly vision, let us learn how it teaches us about the life of faith as we endure this battle.

Now Have Come: Enjoying Kingdom Victory through Genuine Faith

Biblical Narrative (Revelation 12:1–17)

In John’s heavenly vision, “a great sign appeared in heaven” (12:1). This otherworldly sign revealed important realities about the kingdom and God’s work in the world. John saw an extraordinary vision of “a woman clothed in the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head” (12:1). In this vision, the celestial woman was “pregnant and crying out in the pain and agony of giving birth” (12:2). As this vision unfolded, “another sign appeared in heaven” (12:3). This second sign was “a huge red dragon with seven heads, ten horns, and seven royal crowns on his heads” (12:3). The heavenly and pregnant woman was a clear contrast to the fiery and beastly dragon. The literary contrast established the setting for a violent conflict between these two figures.

Initiating a brutal attack with savage intent, the dragon swung his tail and “swept a third of the stars from the sky, tossing them to the earth” (12:4). After an assault on these celestial bodies, the dragon launched an attack against the pregnant woman. This fierce and violent beast “stood before the woman who was about to give birth” (12:4). Like a predator waiting to devour its prey, the beast was “ready to devour her child as soon as she gave birth” (12:4). The woman’s child was very important. This child was the true king: “a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter” (12:5). A kingly figure, the child was an obvious enemy of the seven-crowned, predatory dragon. Clearly, this attack on the child was a conflict of kingdoms, an evil beast attempting to usurp the rightful rule of the true king.

Although the ferocious beast was ready to kill the child king at his birth, the “child was caught up to God and to His throne” (12:5). The woman also escaped the dragon’s cruel and cunning attack. She “fled into the wilderness” (12:6). Amazingly, the wilderness became a place where the woman received God’s protection and provision. It was in this barren land that “God had prepared a place for her to be nourished for 1,260 days” (12:6).

At this time, “a war broke out in heaven” (12:7). The attack against the woman precipitated a wide-scale heavenly conflict. God’s angelic hosts—“Michael and his angels” (12:7)—waged war against the dragon, “that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world” (12:9). In this battle, the angels “fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back” (12:7). Notwithstanding his obvious power, the dragon “was not strong enough” (12:8) to overcome God’s heavenly army. Consequently, the dragon was defeated and evicted from heaven. Defeated by the forces of righteousness, there “no longer was any place found in heaven for [the dragon] and his angels” (12:9). As such, “the great dragon was hurled down … to the earth, and his angels with him” (12:9).

At the defeat of the dragon, there was “a loud voice in heaven” (12:10) announcing a definitive and jubilant victory cry. Triumphant over the forces of evil, heaven could rejoice that “now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God” (12:10). Specifically, God’s triumphant kingdom was ratified and invincibly validated by “the authority of His Christ” (12:10). As a sign of Satan, the dragon’s defeat was a representation of Christ’s defeat over the devil. God’s people share in this victory over the enemy “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (12:11). Through Christ’s death on the cross and the bold faith confession of believers, “the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down” (12:10). The enemy who “[accused] them day and night before our God” (12:10) has been defeated. Even when believers die for their faith—as when “they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death” (12:11)—their martyrdom is a sign of victory and triumph. This victory causes the heavens to rejoice, but the earth to presently mourn because “with great fury the devil has come down to you, knowing he has only a short time” (12:12).

Having been hurled on the earth in defeat, the serpent did not refrain from his continued attacks. Instead, the dragon “pursued the woman who had given birth to the male child” (12:13). Again, the woman escaped the sinister malice of the dragon. She “was given two wings of a great eagle” (12:14). These wings helped the woman “fly from the presence of the serpent to her place in the wilderness” (12:14). The woman found divine protection and provision in this wilderness, “where she was nourished for a time, and times, and half a time” (12:14). At this time, the dragon spewed from his mouth “water like a river” (12:15), again launching his relentless attack against the woman. This force of flowing water was meant “to overtake the woman and sweep her away in the torrent” (12:15). Once again, the woman found safety in divine protection. Absorbing the flood waters, “the earth helped the woman and opened its mouth to swallow up the river that had poured from the dragon’s mouth” (12:16). Unsuccessful in yet another attack, “the dragon was enraged at the woman” (12:17). He turned his attention elsewhere and “went to make war with the rest of her children” (12:17). Representing the people of God, these children were those “who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus” (12:17). A defeated enemy unwilling to yield to the kingdom of Christ, “the dragon stood on the shore of the sea” (12:17) ready to continue his fierce, yet futile, assaults.

Biblical Principles

Signs and Spiritual Significance. The opening of this visionary scene describes important signs (12:1, 3). Characteristic of apocalyptic visions, signs communicate important spiritual realities. Seizing imagination and capturing attention, the otherworldly nature of signs is meant to reinforce the truthfulness and importance of reality, calling God’s people to a faithful response of devotion. Depictions of things that people do not normally see in the surrounding world bear witness to God and his work. In this way, signs are a form of prophetic wisdom. In particular, the signs of this vision depict the nature, power, and character of God’s kingdom rule. Living in a world in which Satan’s kingdom and God’s kingdom collide, believers need a clear understanding of God’s kingdom in order to live strong in faith. Although it can be challenging to interpret such a visionary passage, humble and diligent study of this sign-laden passage is rewarded with spiritual wisdom and understanding. This wisdom helps us live as citizens of the kingdom of God.

Clash of Two Kingdoms. The signs of John’s vision depict clashing kingdoms. The multi-headed, fiery dragon bore “seven royal crowns on his heads” (12:3), claiming authority and power. The redness of the dragon and the horned head represent the ferocity and power of this monstrous kingdom (12:3). The dragon signifies the kingdom of God’s evil foe: “that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan” (12:9), “the deceiver of the whole world” (12:9), and “the accuser of our brothers” (12:10). In contrast, the pregnant woman appeared in heaven as a royal and majestic figure. Adorned in the sun with the moon under her feet, the woman is both majestic and powerful (12:1). Her royal authority is evidenced by “a crown of twelve stars on her head” (12:1). This regal character is reinforced by the birth of a son “who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter” (12:5). When the child escaped the deadly attack of the dragon, he was transported to a realm of kingdom authority: “her child was caught up to God and to His throne” (12:5). Upon the defeat of the dragon and his banishment from heaven, the triumph of God’s kingdom was announced: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ” (12:10). Although the meaning of some details is difficult to discern, this apocalyptic revelation is narrating the story of God’s definitive triumph over Satan’s kingdom. As we read this unfolding narrative, we must ask ourselves: to which kingdom do we belong?

The clash of kingdoms results in an ongoing battle between evil and righteousness. Satan wars against God and his people. At the beginning of this vision, the dragon swept a third of the stars out of the sky (12:4), a likely description of a time when Satan rebelled against God and caused many spiritual beings to join his rebellion (12:4). The dragon sought to devour the newborn child of the pregnant woman (12:4), a reference to Satan’s attacks against King Jesus. This vision condenses Jesus’ redemptive work—his birth, life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension—in a short description in which Jesus rises to God’s throne. Satan warred against the angelic forces, eventually being defeated by God’s heavenly army (12:7–9). Even in his defeat, the dragon continued his attacks. He viciously, relentlessly, and frantically pursued the woman (12:13, 15), a likely reference to Israel. Frustrated at his endless defeats, the dragon was “enraged” and “went to make war with the rest of her children” (12:17). This last reference is likely a description of Satan’s attacks against the church. To live the Christian life is to endure ongoing spiritual conflict. This conflict, however, is not symmetrical or evenly balanced. There is a plain and prevailing victor. God’s kingdom will certainly and finally prevail.

Decisive Victory in Christ. As this vision shows, Satan is a consistent and clear failure in his war against God, angels, Israel, Jesus, and the church. Satan’s kingdom (represented by the character and activity of the dragon) is fierce, powerful, murderous, and aggressive. Despite this display of might, God wins a decisive victory. God’s faithful angels defeated Satan and his army (12:7–12). The child escaped the dragon’s attack (12:4–5). In multiple instances, the woman found protection against Satan’s attacks (12:6, 13–16). Although his attacks are violent and frequent, the church will persevere in the midst of these trials and tribulations (12:17). The two warring kingdoms depicted in this narrative are not equal in strength. In the final evaluation, “the dragon was not strong enough” (12:8). God’s kingdom had “conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (12:11). Citizens of God’s kingdom, we live in this world while the factions of evil continually wage war against God and his people. As the battle ensues, we confidently enjoy victory in Christ.

The Life of Faith as a Wilderness Journey. To live in God’s kingdom is to embrace a pilgrim life of an exile in the present world. Although definitive victory has been achieved in Christ, God’s people still endure Satan’s attacks. Like the woman and like the “rest of her children” (12:17), we are targets of Satan’s attacks and live in a wilderness (12:6, 14). The final results of the battle have already been secured: Christ has defeated the enemy. Moreover, each time believers testify to Christ (and even die doing so), they are asserting the already-achieved triumph in Christ (12:11, 17). The defeat of the enemy has only increased his rage and hostility (12:12, 17). Even though it may feel long and arduous, the time of our earthly exile is brief, as Satan has “only a short time” (12:12). As such, believers should expect persecution and hostile mistreatment. During life in this earthly wilderness, believers enjoy God’s protection and provision (12:6, 14). God nourishes, safeguards, sustains, and preserves his people during life’s spiritual conflict.

Belonging to the Lamb Who Was Slain: Enduring Persecution and Hostility in Faithful Perseverance

Biblical Narrative (Revelation 13:1–10)

The next part of John’s vision describes a monstrous figure “rising out of the sea” (13:1). This horrendous creature was “a beast with ten horns and seven heads” (13:1). The appearance of this being was “like a leopard, with the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion” (13:2). Claiming power and authority, this beast had “ten royal crowns on its horns” (13:1). The claim to rule was so villainous and opposed to God that the beast had “blasphemous names on its heads” (13:1). In fact, “the dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority” (13:2; cf. 13:4). A proxy for Satan’s malicious work, this beast also feigned the power of the Christ (cf. 12:10–11). Attempting to mirror Jesus’ resurrection, “one of the heads of the beast appeared to be mortally wounded,” but “the mortal wound was healed” (13:3). This faux demonstration of power deceived many people. In response, “the whole world marveled and followed the beast” (13:3). This awe turned into praise as people “worshiped the dragon” and “worshiped the beast” (13:4). These voices of false worship lauded the evil creatures with the following adulation: “Who is like the beast, and who can wage war against it?” (13:4).

The beast spoke and behaved in opposition to God. Although this creature was a demonstrative enemy of God, it was still under God’s sovereign authority. It could not do anything it wanted. It was given “a mouth to speak arrogant and blasphemous words” and “authority to act for 42 months” (13:5). Reviling God and his servants, the beast slandered God’s “name”, God’s “tabernacle,” and “those who dwell in heaven” (13:6). Like the dragon, the beast “was permitted to wage war against the saints,” seeking “to conquer them” (13:7). The scope of the beast’s authority was “over every tribe and people and tongue and nation” (13:7). The power of the beast will be so compelling that “all who dwell on the earth will worship the beast” (13:8). These worshipers of the beast are unbelievers, “all whose names have not been written from the foundation of the world in the Book of Life belonging to the Lamb who was slain” (13:8).

This vision serves as a powerful warning to God’s people, who must heed the meaning of this sign: “he who has an ear, let him hear” (13:9). The time of the beast will be difficult and painful. Many people will lose their lives because of their faith in Christ: “if anyone is destined for captivity, into captivity he will go; if anyone is to die by the sword, by the sword he must be killed” (13:10). In light of the persecution and suffering that awaits believers, this vision trumpets “a call for the perseverance and faith of the saints” (13:10).

Biblical Principles

Character of Satan’s Kingdom. Through the sign of the first beast, we learn about the evil and villainous nature of Satan’s kingdom. In many ways, the kingdom of evil has real power. Like the dragon, the beast asserts its authority with “ten royal crowns on its horn” (13:1). It exerts its power like strong animals: a leopard, bear, and lion (13:2). The dragon gave this beast “his power and his throne and great authority” (13:2; cf. 13:4). The power of the beast—like the power of evil—is limited (13:6), even though it is used in an effort to “to wage war against the saints and to conquer them” (13:7). The beast (and the dragon) can only do what is given, permitted, or allowed (13:2, 4, 5, 7). God is not the author or cause of any evil, but he remains in complete and sovereign charge while the forces of evil attempt to exert sinister tyranny on the earth. Believers take confidence in the fact that Satan and his evil forces do not possess unbounded and limitless power.

The power Satan and his allies do possess is used in direct defiance against God. The beast mimics the crucified Christ (13:3) and blasphemes God and his people (13:1, 5, 6). He puts on powerful displays to cause people to marvel (13:3). Arrogant and proud (13:5), Satan wants to turn human marvel into worship (13:4, 5, 8) and devotion (13:3). Through the beast, Satan wants people across “the whole world” (13:3; cf. 13:7–8) to worship him. At the very beginning of the world, Satan wanted people to worship him rather than to worship God. This is the prevailing and evil aim of the kingdom of darkness. At its core, spiritual warfare is a battle of worship. Satan tries to “conquer” God’s people and the people of the world by drawing them into false and idolatrous worship (13:8). His is a work of slander, blasphemy, and sacrilege. On the contrary, God’s people resist these attacks with exclusive fidelity to God. Remaining true in worship, believers wage war against the already defeated Satan and his menacing foes.

Genuine Faith in the Face of Persecution. Citizens of Christ’s kingdom prevail over Satan’s counterfeit rule through their faithful and committed devotion to Christ. Believers are “saints” (13:7; cf. 13:10) who have their names “written from the foundation of the world in the Book of Life” (13:8). They belong “to the Lamb who was slain” (13:8). In the kingdom conflict between good and evil, believers will face targeted persecution and violent attack (13:7, 10)—imprisonment, mistreatment, hostility, conflict, and death await. In contrast to the people deceived by the faux miracles of the beast, genuine believers remain faithful to Christ even when their lives are at risk. Indeed, to follow Christ is a self-denying and sacrificial act of faith. This vision of the beast serves as a warning that must be heeded (13:9) as “a call for the perseverance and faith of the saints” (13:10). Believers are called to maintain their faith in Christ under the threat of persecution. Saints reject all slander and blasphemy against God. Followers of Christ expose the worship of the enemy and his false teachings and worship God alone. Disciples are those who confess allegiance to the kingdom of Christ, persevere in the faith, and do not yield despite fearful threats from evil adversaries.

The One Who Has Insight: Living as Godly Citizens in Wise Discernment

Biblical Narrative (Revelation 13:11–18)

This vision describes a time of intense evil. John’s vision continues to depict “another beast rising out of the earth” (13:11). This particular beast “had two horns like a lamb, but spoke like a dragon” (13:11). Like its predecessor, “this beast exercised all the authority of the first beast” (13:12). This evil creature served the first beast: it was granted authority to perform “signs … on behalf of the first beast” (13:14). Unsurprisingly, his acts of deception and sacrilege were very similar to the other beast. The second brute “caused the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast” (13:12). As the first beast demonstrated his power with the healing of a mortal wound (13:12; cf. 13:3, 14), so also “the second beast performed great signs” (13:13). In a display of power, the monstrous counterpart caused “fire from heaven to come down to earth in the presence of the people” (13:13).

In service to the first beast, the second beast “deceived those who dwell on the earth, telling them to make an image to the beast” (13:14). The appeal to worship was made based on the fact that “the beast … had been wounded by the sword and yet had lived” (13:14). In another display of power, the second beast caused the image of the first beast (in some way) to come to life (13:15). The image “could speak” and caused “all who refused to worship it to be killed” (13:15). Demanding worship of the first beast in a tyrannical display of oppression and blasphemy, the second beast forced people “to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead” (13:16). The beastly number was 666, described as “the number of a man” (13:18). This mark was made compulsory such that “no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark” (13:17).

Required of “all people small and great, rich and poor, free and slave” (13:16), humanity would feel the harsh and repressive weight of evil. Certainly, people would succumb to fear, doubt, and terror and would yield to the beast’s demands. The disciple who maintained loyalty to Christ would be under extreme pressure. Consequently, as the vision of the first beast was an appeal for “perseverance and faith” (13:10), this vision of the second beast was “a call for wisdom” (13:18). The need for discernment and godly judgment would be of crucial importance for the people of God.

Biblical Principles

Deception, Power, and False Worship. Like the first beast and the dragon, the second beast represents the kingdom of darkness. This monstrous agent perpetrates evil deeds against God’s people and the world. A servant of the first beast and the dragon (13:11–12, 14), his ultimate aim is to lead people in false worship (13:12, 15) and evil devotion (13:16–18). The use of “great signs” (13:13; cf. 13:14) is an act of deception (13:14). The deception is great, as he resembles “a lamb, but spoke like a dragon” (13:11). The wounded yet living image also represented an attempt to imitate Christ’s death and resurrection (13:14; cf. 13:3). Although his power is limited (13:12, 15), this beast threatens those who refuse this false worship (13:15, 17). The kingdom of darkness uses terrifying threats, duplicitous trickery, and displays of power to win people into its evil citizenry.

Wisdom. In constant battle against such an evil and sinister foe, believers require discernment. Importantly, the vision of the second beast amounts to “a call for wisdom” and “insight” (13:18). Citizens of Christ’s kingdom expose the enemy’s deception, discern counterfeit miracles, confront false worship, and maintain exclusive devotion to Christ. In the face of death threats and societal rejection, Christians live as wise kingdom citizens. Certain of their eternal future, believers are not persuaded by contemporary fads, global fashions, or cultural fancies. Recognizing the underlying faith dynamics of the spiritual conflict, Christ’s disciples are unmoved and unwavering in their commitment to Christ.

Fear God and Give Him Glory: Responding to the Gospel Message in Urgent Repentance

Biblical Narrative (Revelation 14:1–20)

After the vision of the two beasts, John saw other heavenly events. A vision of the future, John saw “the Lamb standing on Mount Zion” (14:1), a clear reference to Christ on his holy mountain. Standing with Jesus were “144,000 who had His name and His Father’s name written on their foreheads” (14:1). In contrast with the unfaithful who received the mark of the beast (cf. 13:16–18), this crowd of faithful followers was known by the inscription of God’s name, marking their identity and loyalty to the true God. While the beasts deceive people in false worship, Jesus brings people into a right relationship with God the Father.

Coming from this scene was “a sound from heaven” (14:2). This sound was so loud that it was “like the roar of many waters and the loud rumbling of thunder” (14:2). In concert with this thunderous roar, was a sound “like harpists strumming their harps” (14:2). The choir of Christ followers “sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders” (14:3). Because this song represented true devotion to God, “no one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth” (14:3). These were pure in relationships, those “who have not been defiled with women, for they are virgins” (14:3). They were also genuine in faith in that “they follow the Lamb wherever He goes” (14:4). The faithful were also godly in conduct and character: “no lie was found in their mouths; they are blameless” (14:5). Not a merit of their own working, this group was of such a righteous character because they were “redeemed from among men as firstfruits to God and to the Lamb” (14:4). The defining marks of Christ’s devoted followers were faithfulness, purity, and godliness, and worship.

As the vision shifted to another scene, John “saw another angel flying overhead” (14:6). This angel was given “the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on the earth” (14:6). Despite the fact that the beasts targeted their blasphemy and false worship to all peoples in the world (cf. 13:7–8, 12, 14, 16), God had also planned for the gospel to go forth unto all peoples: “to every nation and tribe and tongue and people” (14:6). The angel spoke loudly, making an appeal for people to turn to God in faith and worship. He told people to “fear God,” “give Him glory,” and “worship the One who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and the springs of waters” (14:7). The priority to respond to God was urgent “because the hour of His judgment has come” (14:7).

Another angel delivered a message. This angel spoke judgment on the evil empire of Babylon: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great” (14:8). Babylon’s condemnation was deserved because she “has made all the nations drink the wine of the passion of her immorality” (14:8). A third angel delivered a severe warning against anyone who “worships the beast and its image, and receives its mark on his forehead or on his hand” (14:9; cf. 14:11). Evil idolaters such as these will “drink the wine of God’s anger, poured undiluted into the cup of His wrath” (14:10). They will “be tormented in fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb” (14:10). The certainty and finality of this judgment is vividly depicted: “the smoke of their torment rises forever and ever” and “day and night there is no rest” (14:11).

Like the other visions, this vision also issued an appeal for Christian fidelity. Knowledge of the exalted Christ, the eternal gospel, and pending judgment “is a call for the perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (14:12). The faithful in the Lord do not need to fear judgment or death. According to this vision, “blessed are the dead” (14:13). Those who “die in the Lord … will rest from their labors, for their deeds will follow them” (14:13). Again, God calls disciples to live as citizens of God’s kingdom, genuine in faith, courageous in witness, sober about judgment, and fearless in the face of death.

In a final scene, “another angel came out of the temple” (14:15). This angel spoke loudly “to the One seated on the cloud” (14:15). He gave the following instructions: “Swing Your sickle and reap, because the time has come to harvest” (14:15). As a result, “the earth was harvested” (14:16). As the time of harvest is a season of gathering crops, so this harvest is a time of gathering all humanity for judgment. In saying “the crop of the earth is ripe” (14:15), he announced that the time of divine reckoning was at hand. In response to this command, “the One seated on the cloud swung His sickle over the earth” (14:16). Two other angels appeared: one with a sharp sickle and another with a spoken message. This latter angel called out in a loud voice, telling the angel with the sharp sickle to swing his instrument (14:18). The instructing angel had “authority over the fire” and “came from the altar” (14:18). His instructions were as follows: “Swing your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of grapes from the vine of the earth, because its grapes are ripe” (14:18). The angel followed these instructions. He swung his sickle, gathered grapes, and threw them into God’s winepress. The grapes symbolized people who were about to go under judgment. Since the grapes were “the great winepress of God’s wrath” (14:19), God executed his judgment on all that were in the winepress. The finality and intensity of the judgment were clear: “the winepress was trodden outside the city, and the blood that flowed from it rose as high as the bridles of the horses for a distance of 1,600 stadia” (14:20).

Biblical Principles

Jesus, the True King. This vision depicts Jesus as the ultimate King. He stands on Mount Zion with those who have come to God in faithful devotion (14:1). A thunderous new song is sung by those who have been redeemed (14:2–3). The redeemed live a life of faith (14:12), purity (14:4–5), obedience (14:12), and perseverance (14:12). Devoted to Christ as citizens of God’s kingdom, believers “follow the Lamb wherever He goes” (14:4). They have responded to the gospel message (14:6–7) in confession of Christ as King and Judge (14:14). They have marked themselves in the name of Christ and God (14:1). Ultimately, God’s kingdom will prevail. No matter how fierce the enemy’s attacks, how deceptive his ploys, how blasphemous his slander, how strong his temptations, or how corrupting his evil ways, the kingdom of the redeemed will prevail. Victory belongs to the kingdom of Christ, the Lamb who has brought salvation to sinful man.

The Hope of the Eternal Gospel. The hope of the gospel is the foundation of Christ’s kingdom. Good news of God’s salvation, “the eternal gospel” will be announced throughout the earth (14:6). Greater than the enemy’s scheme to deceive the nations (13:3, 7–8, 12, 14, 16–17), the eternal gospel will be preached throughout the world. Those who believe the gospel and repent from their sin enter into the community of the redeemed. The gospel promises blessing in death, rest from the curse, and escape from God’s judgment (14:13). This is the hope for all believers who are “in the Lord” (14:13). As an expression of faith, true believers fear, glorify, and worship God (14:7). Faith in Christ transforms guilty sinners into holy citizens of God’s kingdom who have hope in this life and in the life to come.

Certainty of Divine Judgment. This vision depicts a time when “the hour of [God’s] judgment has come” (14:7). Those who do not respond to Christ in faith will undergo divine and deadly condemnation. The fall of Babylon is a depiction of this grave and serious judgment (14:8). As Jesus is the only means for the forgiveness of sins (14:3–5, 7), unbelievers face God’s wrathful anger in eternal and conscious torment (14:10–11). In contrast to the false rulers (like the dragon and the beasts), Jesus is the true King, “the Son of Man, with a golden crown on His head and a sharp sickle in His hand” (14:14). As King and Judge, Jesus gathers in all humanity like a ripe harvest and distributes his just wrath upon those who did not respond to him in faith (14:14–20). In an act of righteousness and justice, Jesus exerts his royal authority over the whole earth in this day of reckoning.

Conclusion

John’s vision captures the underlying reality of God’s kingdom’s triumph over Satan’s kingdom. The vision of the dragon’s repeated attacks highlights his inevitable failure and defeat in his war against God and God’s people. The two beasts who arise to lead people into false worship are a warning and a summons for believers, calling us to perseverance, faith, and wisdom. The final scene of Christ’s royal and judicial acts highlights both the hope of the eternal gospel and the terror of everlasting torment. In all, this intense and graphic vision makes an urgent appeal to believers and unbelievers: take safety in the unconquerable coverage of Christ’s kingdom.

The thrust of this heavenly vision is an appeal to kingdom living. By faith in Christ, believers participate in God’s conclusive victory over Satan. Living in a world where the kingdoms of darkness and righteousness still collide, Christ’s disciples know the final outcome. Although Satan will deceive people into blasphemy and false worship, Jesus reigns supreme as King and Judge. One day, when human history is ripe, God will gather in all humanity like a harvest. At this time, all the faithful will enjoy rest and eternal blessing, while unbelievers will face eternal torment. As citizens of Christ’s kingdom, we are armed with faith, endurance, wisdom, and repentance. Life in God’s kingdom is a life of eternal hope.

Session Synopsis

SESSION 11 SYNOPSIS
Kingdom of God	In this passage, we learn about the kingdom of God. This apostle John recorded a vision of a fierce and fiery dragon, representing Satan, who launched repeated attacks against God and God’s people. God achieved a complete and decisive victory over Satan. In the narrative vision, beasts arise as allies in Satan’s kingdom, and believers are called to endure persecution, remain faithful, and cultivate wisdom. Jesus appeared in the vision as King. His coming brings salvation for believers and judgment for unbelievers. This heavenly vision equips God’s people to live as citizens of the kingdom of God while experiencing spiritual warfare from the kingdom of Satan. A summary of this story’s principles is outlined below.
Spiritual Warfare	The Christian life is a spiritual battle. God’s kingdom of righteousness and Satan’s kingdom of evil constantly clash (12:7–11, 17; 13:4, 7). This clash of kingdoms is a spiritual and earthly reality (12:1, 3; cf. 13:13–14). God’s kingdom victory is certain and secure (12:8–11). Christians should expect to face suffering, persecution, and martyrdom for their faith in Christ (12:4, 11, 13–17; 13:6–7, 10, 17). During the battle, God sustains, protects, and preserves his people in their earthly exile and suffering (12:6, 14, 16).
God’s Evil Enemies	Satan is an evil foe who opposes God and God’s people. There are other evil forces at work in his kingdom (12:4; 13:1–18). The beastly depictions of Satan and his evil allies highlight their ferocity, defiance, and destructive intent (12:3–4; 13:1–2, 11). Satan is an adversary, deceiver, foe, and accuser (12:9–10). He is proud (13:5), but he is not as powerful as God (12:7–12). Satan and his allies are strong and exercise some power (12:4; 13:2, 12–15) and authority (12:3; 13:2, 4–5, 7, 12) in the world, but their power, activity, and time are limited (12:12; 13:5) as God is in control of all things.
Kingdom of Darkness	Satan and his evil forces work destruction in the world (12:4, 15–17). These evil beings seek to draw people away from God by urging them to become loyal to the kingdom of darkness (13:3, 16–18; 14:9, 11). Satan attempts to draw people away from God with persecution (12:13, 15), deception (13:11, 13–14), false wonders (13:3, 12–15), false worship (13:4, 8, 12, 15; 14:9, 11), blasphemy (13:1, 5–6), and immorality (14:8). Satan will not suceed in his work.
God’s Kingdom	Jesus is the true and rightful King of all things (12:5; 14:1, 3–5, 14). He has conquered Satan and all his evil forces (12:7–12). Jesus has already gained victory over evil in his death and resurrection (12:5, 11; 13:8; 14:1, 4, 10). He will achieve final victory in the future judgment (14:14–20).
Kingdom Lifestyle	Those who believe in Jesus are citizens of his kingdom. Jesus calls his followers to live a life of faith (13:10; 14:12), obedience (14:12), endurance (13:10; 14:12), sacrifice (12:11), wisdom (13:18), loyalty (14:1), worship (14:2–3, 7), godliness (14:4–5), and fear of God (14:7).
Gracious Salvation and Righteous Judgment	The spiritual battle of this life is a matter of salvation (14:3–4, 13) and judgment (14:8, 10–11, 14–20). This kingdom battle is taking place throughout the whole world (13:7–8, 16–17; 14:3–4, 6, 15–16, 18–19). Jesus is redeeming people from all the peoples of the earth. Some day in the future, Jesus will bring about a full and final judgment of all evil in the world.

Personal Reflection: Entering the Story

Apply the Text: The word of God is binding and authoritative, the only reliable guide for faith and godliness. True disciples submit themselves to God’s word. In this movement, you will apply God’s word to your lives.

Reflection Questions

Encourage one person to share a testimony about how this story has impacted them so far. Use the reflection questions to examine your life in light of this biblical passage.

Spiritual Practice

Ministry Practice: Rehearsing the Script

Minister the Text: God’s word is living and active. Through God’s word, the Christian community is edified. In this movement, you will utilize the biblical passage to minister to other believers and build them up in their faith.

Application Questions

Look at the infographic below. Use the questions to think about how to minister this text to other believers.

Missional Outreach: Publicizing the Truth

Witness the Text: The Bible is a message of God’s gracious salvation to the world. In word and deed, God’s people proclaim the good news of the gospel. In this movement, you will use this biblical passage to reach out to unbelievers.

Strategy Questions

Reflect on the infographic below. Consider how you can use this passage to witness to the surrounding world. Use the suggested ideas to prime your imagination. Then, put together a plan to share this passage with unbelievers, Afterward, reflect on this mission experience.