Anyone who sees Jesus as just a great moral teacher hasn’t really listened to Him. He said wild things like “Before Abraham was, I AM,” and, “If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father,” and, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.”
I think you will find Dr. Campbell’s teaching not only illuminating this week but so very encouraging. There was a war in heaven, but it was won the day Jesus rose from the dead, and that’s when Satan fell like lightning from heaven. The accuser of the brethren was defeated, for as Campbell puts it: “At the moment of his [Christ’s] resurrection, he [Satan] is evicted from the counsel of God.” Jesus spoke these words before His resurrection, for He knew the end of the story. He went to the cross, setting His face like flint, to rescue His Bride from the power of the world, the flesh, and the devil.
What is also illuminating is Dr. Campbell’s take, which I believe he supports scripturally, that the tribulation and the “millennium” are the time between Christ’s ascension and return. While I know this “timing” is a matter of controversy, I think no matter what view you take, you will find agreement and encouragement in the fact that though the devil is now the prince of this world, Christ is ruling in our lives and victory is possible now and certain eventually.
We are in the wilderness now, but the wilderness, scripturally, is a place of God’s protection, as it was in Exodus. Satan cannot do anything without God’s permission, and God Himself may allow or lead us into the wilderness to test and teach us, and to speak to us tenderly.
One of the most memorable statements Paige drew from Romans 8:28-29 is similar: “Our sufferings can be stepping stones to glory.”
Because this is also the week leading to Thanksgiving, though I know you will be busy, I’ve added a few questions, related to the study, to help us give thanks. I want you to know how thankful I am to God for bringing each of you here, bonding you, and helping us be what the Body, connected to the Head, is meant to me. You bless me every day.
Also, please share how God works in your life this week through Thanksgiving Day or the time near it.
Word Document for 22
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks!
Monday: The Great Dragon Hurled Down
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why?
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8)
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?
D. How is he described in verse 10?
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11?
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12)
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now?
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under Warfare in Heaven up to “the vision continues…”
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth?
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia? (Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists? Why or why not?)
C. What does “devil” mean? What does “Satan” mean?
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God?
Tuesday: Christ’s Kingdom and Authority Have Come
Some views of Revelation believe the Kingdom of Christ is in the future beginning with a literal 1,000 year reign of Christ on earth. The Idealist view sees the numbers in Revelation as being symbolic, with a thousand years meaning a long time, and Christ’s reign beginning with His ascension. However, no matter the timing, I think we can agree on the application. But let us consider the Idealist view today.
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth?
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2?
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20?
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what?
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him?
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that?
Wednesday: The Woman in the Wilderness
8. Read Revelation 12:13-17
A. What stands out to you from your initial reading and why?
B. Whom does the dragon pursue when he falls to earth?
C. From what you have learned, who does the woman and her male child represent in addition to Mary and Jesus?
D. What was the woman given, where did she fly, and for how long?
E. What will the dragon do in response to try to overcome her? What will the earth do?
F. Whom does the enraged dragon then go after?
G. How have you been nearly swallowed up by the dragon, yet then rescued?
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under The Woman in the Wilderness up to “Next come Satan’s response…”
A. What association does Dr. Campbell make with Exodus?
B. What association with Isaiah 40:3-11?
C. How does he interpret time, times, and half time to mean several different numbers?
D. How does this lend credence to the numbers in Revelation being symbolic rather than literal? Thoughts?
Thursday: The Dragon’s Techniques of Deception & Persecution
10 Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “Now comes Satan’s response…” up to “The picture of the Red Sea…”
A. How will Satan attempt to destroy the church from within? From without?
B. Share how one of these has impacted you and how you can overcome it in the future.
C. What else do you learn from this paragraph?
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The picture of the Red Sea” up to “the continuing warfare…”
A. How was the Red Sea parting a past fulfillment of this picture in Revelation?
B. How does Dr. Campbell see Isaiah 51:6-11 (read it!) as a future fulfillment for believers?
Friday: And he Stood on the Sand of the Sea
12. What picture does Revelation 13:1 give us? What do you learn from this? (Use your imagination.)
13. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The continuing warfare” to the end of the section.
A. How was faithful Israel represented in Isaiah 49:14-26? (Read it)
B. How was unfaithful Israel represents in Ezekiel 16 and Hosea?
14. Idolatry is equated with adultery in Scripture. How does this speak to you?
Saturday
15. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
153 comments
Sunday:
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Something that came to mind is the fact that the serpent/enemy/dragon tempted Adam and Eve in the garden. Perfect place but pride got in the way both with Adam and Eve and the serpent.
Jesus was also tempted by the serpent but in a much more “difficult place”, the wilderness. Yet, He came out of that temptation victoriously using the Word. And the angels ministered to Him. Matthew 4:12
Now “We are in the wilderness now, but the wilderness, scripturally, is a place of God’s protection, as it was in Exodus. Satan cannot do anything without God’s permission, and God Himself may allow or lead us into the wilderness to test and teach us, and to speak to us tenderly.” Because Jesus was victorious in the wilderness, we can also be victorious in the wilderness. God’s presence will not leave us, and He will be there to speak tenderly to us. We have Jesus interceding for us at the right hand of God, the Father, the Holy Spirit teaching us which way to go and bringing us comfort when we need it. God’s permission to the trials I face in the wilderness is for my good and indeed as Paige said, steppingstones to glory.
Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks!
God, thank you for being with me when I was in a hard situation at school. A mother complained about how I supposedly treated her daughter and reported me to the superintendent. Those days were full of tears and fears. But you spoke through my husband, my friends, my director, and my superintendent. Most of all your Word reminded me that you love me and that you will see me through it. You also brought about lessons of forgiveness, change in my attitude towards an “enemy”, trust in your sovereignty, and empathy for my co-teachers who have been there before.
How I remember that wilderness trial and how beautifully you conducted yourself in the midst of it.
Thank you, Dee. You and the ladies here were some of my burden bearers during that difficult time and many other times.
What stands out to you from the above and why? The picture of Satan falling from heaven is the first thing that caught my eye. I’m curious as to why his wings are strapped on and not part of his anatomy, although angels probably don’t have wings anyway. The verse from Hosea is refreshing. I never thought of being in the desert is a place of protection. Since a desert is a place that I associate with barrenness, I can see where He could take away the distracting things in my life and that would leave me with a more focused attention on Him and His speaking tenderly to me.
Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks! At a time of my greatest loss, He spoke to me and assured me that things that happened were not a surprise to Him and He knows the reason and the results even if I never see them in this earthly life. I’m thankful that He is faithful and can be trusted no matter what.
Dawn, I actually thought the same thing about the wings! But how big and impressive the artist made him. And falling like lightning to me meant his fall was swift.
Yes, our lord can be trusted no matter how great our losses are. He is faithful. I have to rehearse that many times.
Dawn — what an interesting question about the painting. I have no idea but perhaps to show his impotence, the artist strapped the wings on.
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Your opening statement, “Anyone who sees Jesus as just a great moral teacher hasn’t really listened to Him” brings a haunting memory for me. Many years ago, I tried to share with my sister that I wanted her to be in heaven and was concerned at the direction her life was going. Her response to me was, “you do know that Jesus was just a prophet like Buddha and many others don’t you?” “He died on a cross but never rose from the dead!” I was not expecting that response and therefore not prepared in how to respond. Quite honestly it broke my heart then and breaks my heart today. Here is my sweet sister raised in the same family, taught the gospel as I was and wants nothing to do with our precious Jesus, other than to put Him in the category of a “great prophet.” I remember her baptism, which had an impact on me at 5, although not fully comprehending, I knew it was important, but she was 9 and did she fully understand? I am praying that God will bring to her remembrance all the Bible verses we had to memorize as children and she will know Jesus did rise from the dead and is seated at the right hand of God! Sorry that was so long! 🤦🏻♀️
Such a mystery, Sharon — only God can open eyes, so we pray for one another’s sisters! My sister’s Unitarian fellowship keeps giving her books to persuade that Jesus was just a man.
Thank you for sharing this, Sharon. It is not too long. I pray that God will awaken her soul one day.
Such a huge heartache to bear. We bear it with you, Sharon.
Sunday.
2. Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks!
I give thanks for the many times He has carried me through the wilderness. His faithfulness and protection have so often kept me from sinking in the mire.
“There was a war in heaven, but it was won the day Jesus rose from the dead”. This stands out and is my hope. Each day the wilderness brings challenges but I know that I know God’s love and kindness is why I am walking this path. He loves me enough to allow adversity in my life, He provides opportunities to draw me closer to him. As soon as I get comfortable, I am shaken awake to renew and grow my relationship with my Creator and Savior.
I am so thankful for the plan and purpose God has for my life, no matter the storm, He sustains me and is faithful. A joy of aging is being able to look back and see His hand in every tear filled moment, every painful circumstance, and in every moment of joy. The daily provision of strength and grace I am gifted ensures God is glorified in my story as long as I continue to surrender.
His will- not mine.
Welcome, Becca! Yes, “His will-not mine.”
Becca — love this faith: He loves me enough to allow adversity
Welcome Becca! This is so true and beautiful! When we get comfortable, He shakes us awake to renew and grow! Amen!
Good to see you again, Becca! I too have been looking back with age and seeing His hand. Thank You Lord!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the artwork of the angel/satan! It is so interesting to me. You always bring the humanities to us Dee….I enjoy that about the blog.
That Dr. Campbell’s teaching will be illuminating and encouraging. This gives me hope today.
2. Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks!
I have been reflecting on a decision in my life that I made when I was 18. I am beginning to think that God guided me in that to help me “grow.” My dad had passed when I was 12. I lived with my mom and grandma. Something inside told me that I needed to move out and learn how to live on my own. Mom wanted me to stay; I was adamant. I moved to Texas and went to school. I lived with my sister for a short while and then actually went on my own. It was hard but it was all up to me to survive. I was not following God at the time and it was not pretty at times. I was selfish and self-absorbed. But, I made it through and succeeded in the end. I know He protected me.
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why?
I thought Michael was the devil because He wanted to be God? I’m confused as to why Michael fought the serpent (the devil).
I loved where it says, “…they did not live their lives so much that they were afraid to die…” I want to be like that.
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8)
The battle was Michael and his angels against the serpent and his angels.
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?
He is a great, ancient, deceiver.
D. How is he described in verse 10?
He is an accuser who was thrown down to earth.
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11?
He was overcome by the blood of the Lamb and their testimony.
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12)
Heaven is protected from him but earth is not.
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now?
He must beat Christ’s timing. He must gain followers before Christ comes back to earth. He wants to win the battle.
Laura, Michael, also mentioned in Daniel 10:13 is an archangel on the the side of the Lord, like Gabriel. Lucifer, another angel is Satan. Hope this helps.
Sorry Laura, I wrote this before I saw your post below🤦🏻♀️
It’s okay. I had to read Dr. Campbell’s book to understand. Do you know why he is called an “archangel?” Thanks for responding!
Laura, he’s an archangel because of his high position among the angels..the leader.
Oh, I thought it meant the opposite of an angel. Should have looked it up. I guess I have always thought this 🤷🏻♀️. You learn something new every day!
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Two things stood out to me.
The first was the wilderness theme.
Yesterday in church the text was Psalm 107. I had been reading Psalm 107 in my devotions the morning before Daniel was assaulted. A woman who wasn’t a regular part of our moms in touch group had joined us that day and told of her brothers death and that the family all believed that his girlfriend had killed him but they had no way to prove it. I was deeply troubled by her story, in particular how she might rightly frame her thoughts about the woman she suspected and I had been impacted by Psalm 107 that the men who went down to the sea in ships experienced terror through no apparent reason. I was mulling hard over these things the day before out tragedy came.
I still mull. Then I choose trust (sometimes this takes a while) and make myself the right size before God.
Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks!
I remember when my mom was dying and I was her primary caregiver. I was at odds with my sister, I was mostly absent from my own home due to my moms needs, it was a really difficult time. I had a sense of a presence in my room one night. It didn’t say anything but I had a flood of wellbeing, a sense that everything was going to be alright. Mom died a few days later. My sister said I had been visited by an angel. I know I felt buoyed by it.
I thought of another. When our church was in turmoil it was heartbreaking and confusing. God didn’t choose to untangle the mess they way I had hoped he would. This time felt like wilderness for sure. It is still really painful and confusing. The Lord has spoken to me through the truth in the lyrics of We Will Feast In the House of Zion.
Someday all of us who are in Christ will be unified, together in love. All the ways we have wounded each other will be healed, it was and is a solid hope. I am so grateful for it
We will feast in the house of Zion
We will sing with our hearts restored
He has done great things, we will say together
We will feast and weep no more
We will not be burned by the fire
He is the Lord, our God
We are not consumed by the flood
Upheld, protected, gathered up
We will feast in the house of Zion
We will sing with our hearts restored
He has done great things, we will say together
We will feast and weep no more
In the dark of night, before the dawn
My soul, be not afraid
For the promised morning, oh, how long?
Oh, God of Jacob, be my strength
We will feast in the house of Zion
We will sing with our hearts restored
He has done great things, we will say together
We will feast and weep no more
Every vow we’ve broken and betrayed
You are the Faithful one
And from the garden to the grave
Bind us together, bring shalom
We will feast in the house of Zion
We will sing with our hearts restored
He has done great things, we will say together
We will feast and weep no more
Chris, thanks for sharing your answers to question 2 as well as the words to the song. “We will sing with our hearts restored…and weep no more. ” what hope these words bring!
Chris, Thank you for sharing these moving stories of your wilderness. I love that the Lord filled the room with His presence, when you needed Him. He is so faithful. What joy and hope awaits us. Thank you for sharing this lovely hymn too.
Beautiful post, Chris. You have shared with us before, about making yourself the right size before God. It helps us to trust in Him, when we do that.
Chris — so glad to have you back. Your sharing often tears at my heart in a good way. The forces of evil are truly great. It is so good to be reminded of the end of the story.
Chris, I always love your insights coming from your deep suffering. I like the phrase you used, “then I choose trust and make myself the right size before God.” That speaks volumes to me! And I so love the song you quoted. What truth and comfort, longing for the day when we will all be made whole. What joy awaits us!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? I had not realized that Satan fell like lightning from the sky. Lightning is quick, instant and it fills the sky. Satan’s power is lost in heaven, but he has free reign on earth right now. Dawn pointed out that his wings are not attached in the painting. I wonder what the artist was showing~ that Satan was a false angel and those wings are now off; he is still capable of disguising himself on earth, but not in heaven. He is totally separated from God, but he is able to fill our planet with his evil schemes. I love the Hosea verse. It helps me to see that God allows us and often brings us to “wilderness” times for a better ultimate purpose for us and for His perfect will, than we would have chosen on our own, or that we could have even imagined.
2. Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks! I was very close to my parents and with the loss of each one, God gave me (as Bing says) “a Kiss from the King”. I have shared about when my Mom went home to Jesus and the breeze that came through the bedroom window. When my dad died, very suddenly, I was in such shock and I immediately flew back home to be with my mom. When I got into my rental car, I turned on the radio…hoping to find a Christian station…just as I turned on the radio, this song came on that I had never heard before. It was Vince Gill singing “Go Rest High on That Mountain”. He had written the song for his brother who had died. I could not even drive…I just sat and listened to the entire song. It was not a hymn, but I knew that the Lord gave me that song and the car seemed to fill with peace. My parents were both devout Christians and I knew my dad was with Jesus. How I thank Him for those sweet kisses at times of loss.
I have had some devastating times of wilderness, where I felt so very alone and wondered if God could hear my prayers and petitions. Sometimes things happen that are so out of our control and so painful…and long lasting. I struggle daily during those wilderness times, but I have seen some miraculous things happen and lives change….even if it is a long time coming….and I can look back now and see God’s hand was on my life. He brought new people into my life, He sent guardian angels, He sent friends to show up unexpectedly, or send a verse or prayer. I think that sometimes, our wilderness times are part of God’s plan for us and for the life of someone else, as well. I hope you all read Lizzy’s last post last week. I did not read it until Saturday, but it is a story of a response of incredible love. It is about a conversation Lizzy had with the birthmother of her eldest child. It is worth going back to read. It is beautiful and moved me to tears. Thank you for sharing that story, Lizzy.
Oh Patty, we are both so blessed to of had such a rich spiritual heritage. The story about you father brought me to tears…God never seems to stop amazing me. He is good…all the time.
Yes, we are blessed, Sharon. I cry every time I think of that or hear the song.
Thank you so much for words that touch my heart.
Patti — as an artist you have interesting insight — the idea of him being a “false angel.” Reminds me of C. S. Lewis “real men”
Thank you for your beautiful testimony, dear Patti!
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why? Verse 10 stood out to me~ I had not paid much attention to it before. “I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying: Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, we who accuses them before our God day and night.” Satan was accusing us before God, now he can no longer do that in heaven. We have Jesus in heaven, at the right hand of The Father and He is our advocate, never our accuser.
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8) Michael and his angels were waging war with the dragon. The dragon and his angels were not strong enough to defeat Michael and his angels, so there was no place left for the evil dragon and his angels in heaven. Yay God!
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?The dragon is a serpent of old; the devil; Satan, who deceives the whold world.
D. How is he described in verse 10? He is the accuser of our brethren; He accuses the brethren before God.
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11? Michael and his angels overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, because of the Word of their testimony and they did not love their life, even when faced with death.
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12) Heaven rejoices because the devil is gone from heaven and has no power there. The earth feels woe, because the devil has come down with great wrath, knowing his time is short.
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now? His time is short. When Christ returns, the devil will be destroyed.
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under Warfare in Heaven up to “the vision continues…”
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth? Because the seven letters were written to the angels of the churches who represented them in the heavenly sphere. Revelation portrays events in the heavenly realm which have direct impact on events on earth.
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia? (Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists? Why or why not?) Satan is the power behind all evil. Satan is a liar, an accuser and a deceiver. He has power on earth, but only until the return of Christ Jesus.
C. What does “devil” mean? What does “Satan” mean? devil means “slanderer”; Satan means “adversary”.
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God? I praise and give thanks to God that He has a plan and that the devil’s rule and wrath will be short, in terms of eternity. Daniel vision identifies Michael as the powerful angel representing God’s people and he assists the Son of man in the battle against the demonic rulers of nations which oppress God’s people. God is the Alpha and the Omega. He is the beginning and the end. He is omnipotent/ Almighty, omniscient/ All knowledge, omnipresent/He is everywhere; All powerful.
Monday
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why?
That satan had access to heaven up to this point…so with Christ’s resurrection and ascension satan no longer has access. Michael stood out to me too because I think many believe that Christ is Satan’s counterpart, when really Michael is…they’re both angels, Christ is the Son of God!
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8)
Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. Michel and his angels won.
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?
The great dragon – the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, deceiver of the whole world.
D. How is he described in verse 10?
Accuser of the brothers and sisters. (If he no longer has access to heaven, I wonder how the accusing works? I always envisioned him in heaven talking to God, like in Job.)
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11?
The (church?) defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and their testimony…not loving their lives so much that they were afraid to die.
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12)
Heaven should rejoice because of the victory. The earth should feel woe because Satan’s power is real, he has been defeated in heaven and because of that will fight for victory on earth.
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now?
Because he lost the battle, he’s like a wounded animal that’s become more ferocious than before.
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under Warfare in Heaven up to “the vision continues…?
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth?
Campbell says it’s not surprising when considering the 7 letters written to the churches, represented them in the heavenly sphere. The 3 sets of judgements come from the throne of God. The moment Christ rose from the dead, divine power was released in heaven.
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia? (Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists? Why or why not?)
Satan was behind the oppressors of Greece and Persia.
He most definitely was behind Hitler and Mussolini and is behind today’s terrorists. Satan wants so badly to be in power and will use anyone and any means to get it. I think he’s behind the evil of abortion and all that’s causing the divisiveness in our country and the world.
C. What does “devil” mean? What does “Satan” mean?
Devil means slanderer and Satan means adversary.
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God?
I am thankful that even though the battle rages, God is in control and that Michael and his angels are representing the new covenant people of Christ from every nation.
What a great point, Sharon! Yes, I think many do think that! Thank you for this:
Michael stood out to me too because I think many believe that Christ is Satan’s counterpart, when really Michael is…they’re both angels, Christ is the Son of God!
Patti, I guess that stood out to me because when we lived in Oregon we had a Mormon neighbor and we’d have interesting discussions. She told me that they believe that Jesus is the brother of Satan and of course I explained that Jesus wasn’t an angel and that God only had one Son. I like what you said about the painting and Satan being a “false” angel.
perfect though frightening analogy from Sharon on Satan: Because he lost the battle, he’s like a wounded animal that’s become more ferocious than
before
That statement from Sharon is frightening and gave me the chills….
What a great witness to your neighbor, Sharon. So many people don’t truly understand who Jesus is.
I just learn so much from each of you ladies, daily. iron sharpens iron….yes
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Thinking about many of the statements Jesus made, I just don’t understand when I hear people say things like Jesus never claimed to be God, or divine. In fact, I recently heard this statement made by a Jewish person on a podcast. I think to myself, how could you miss it? I guess that is why everybody needs God to first open their eyes and heart and understanding. There are many “good” moral teachers in history, but Jesus stands out from the crowd. It’s also comforting to reflect on the fact that the war with Satan has already been won.
2. Share a time when God spoke tenderly to you in the wilderness. Give thanks!
I was in a wilderness time after my daughter was born, and I will never forget the night that God spoke to me (not audibly) but it was definitely Him, because He asked me a question, and He showed me my sin. I am thankful for it, because God doesn’t just dump us in the wilderness, abandon us there, to punish us. Showing me my sin was the most wonderful thing He could’ve done for me at that time.
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why?
First, war in heaven. When I think of heaven, I think of peace and harmony, not war taking place there. In verse 9, it says that Satan was thrown down to the earth with his angels. I’m thinking that we have to be careful about the time as it is presented in Revelation. If Jesus said that He saw Satan being thrown down, I’ve always taken that to mean that it happened perhaps before the Incarnation?
Verse 11 says that Satan was defeated because of the blood of the Lamb and because of their testimony. And they were not afraid to die. Is this referring to the saints who he was accusing day and night before God….the martyrs? This tells me that believers have a part to play in Satan’s defeat, by remaining faithful to the testimony of the gospel.
Sharon, I love your answer that believers have a part to play in Satan’s defeat, by remaining faithful to the testimony of the gospel. I also wonder if the Jewish person in the podcast has ever read The New Testament. Yes, I think some can read all of God’s word and need to have God remove the scales from their eyes before they really understand and receive God’s word.
Patti, the guest on this podcast was actually Amy Jill Levine, a professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Hartford International University, and has written books including “The Difficult Words of Jesus”. Yet on the podcast, she made the statement that Jesus never claimed to be God.
I loved your answer to #2 Susan. When the admonition about our sin comes from the Spirit it feels so different than when the enemy accuses. ❤️
Amen, Susan and Chris!
Keller shares many stories of blinders in good churches — one man read Luther’s preface to the Galatians and said he wondered how Luther missed the gospel — when told to read it again he saw the gospel on every page. Satan does blind, but God gives light. I feel my best prayer for my sister is for God to open her eyes because right now she simply cannot hear or see.
I love this exchange here as it gives me more clarity on how to pray for loved ones whom Satan has blinded. May the Lord open eyes that cannot see and ears that do not hear. blinders even in good churches as Dee has mentioned. Scales be removed from their eyes.
Amen. I am going to start praying this way. You dear women of God have so much wisdom. I love the exchange too.
Tuesday
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth?
“Now the salvation of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.”
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2?
It’s the prophecy regarding the inauguration of the Messiah’s rule. It’s the only place in the OT where “Lord” and “Christ” occur together, as they do in the fulfillment. His rule over the earth begins at the ascension, not some future date. Power and reality of the kingdom are present now.
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20?
When the disciples came back to Jesus and told Him that even the demons obey us in Your name, Jesus responded “Yes, I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning. In was in His authority that the disciples were able to do this, but He tells them not to rejoice because of what they could do, but because their names are registered in heaven. That is why they had authority of the kingdom.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
The death of Christ has satisfied the anger of God against sins of all faithful believers of both covenants. I must admit that I never thought about it satisfying sins of both covenants…so cool!
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what?
That we will prevail, have victory, and nothing can take from us God’s eternal reward.
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him?
It’s short in comparison to the eternity he will spend in the lake of fire.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
What the “short time” is to be identified as…
1. The “little time the deceased saints of 6:11 wait for the rest to join them in glory.
2. The 42 month period during which the outer court is trampled (11:1-3).
3. The same period the witnesses give testimony and are attacked (11:4-13)
4. The time the church is in the wilderness (12:6)
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that?
I do give thanks as those sufferings have drawn me closer to Him. They have shown me His great love for me and that He is Sovereign.
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under Warfare in Heaven up to “the vision continues…”
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth?
He reminds us that the seven letters were written to the angels of the seven churches (they represented the churches in heaven).
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia? (Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists? Why or why not?)
Michael was the power, defending Jesus (I never knew this!) and Satan the power behind the oppressors of Israel and other nations today. Yes, I do believe he is still the oppressor in today’s world. I believe this because there is evil in our world and Jesus came to save all of us, not just the Jewish people. So Michael must be still fighting for Jesus even today.
C. What does “devil” mean? What does “Satan” mean?
Slanderer and adversary.
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God?
I give thanks to God for Michael and Jesus protecting me. Thank You Lord.
Happy birthday, Bing!
Dawn, thanks so much! I have had a good day and I wrote a number of things to be thankful for commensurate to my age (hah) and I included you all on this blog. So thankful for each one of you.
Sorry I missed your birthday! Happy birthday Bing!
Oh happy birthday, Bing. You are so dear to us. A godly wise precious woman.
Thank you all-another birthday, another year of God’s mercies.
Monday: The Great Dragon Hurled Down
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why?
The serpent and his angels were hurled to the earth. God has allowed the presence of the enemy to be here on earth.
This may sound weird, but I feel like the questions for today were a special kiss from the King for my birthday today. For what birthday gift can be greater than the strengthening of my hope within by reading the Word and the comments here? I, too, was struck by the fact that since Satan and his cohorts have been hurled to earth then he can no longer be accusing us before God in Heaven! So, his accusations are targeted and happening here on earth through our minds and his use of people in the flesh (and we do not war against flesh and blood but against principalities, etc.) Therefore, (oh thank you so much, Paige!), the presentation of our bodies as a living sacrifice becomes one of the enemy’s battlegrounds as he entices us to be conformed to the world and not be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Aawww….rabbit trailing since I am not very eloquent here.
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8)
Michael and the angels fought against the serpent and his angels, and the latter were defeated.
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?
Ancient serpent, the devil, Satan who leads the world astray.
D. How is he described in verse 10?
The accuser of our brothers and sisters.
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11?
Jesus’s death by the blood of the Lamb and their word of testimony.
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (Verse 12)
The kingdom dwells in heaven but the serpent is now on earth and sea.
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now?
His time is short.
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under Warfare in Heaven up to “the vision continues…”
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth?
The seven letters were written to the angels of the churches who represented them in the heavenly sphere.
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia? (Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists? Why or why not?)
The serpent. Yes, I believe he was/is the power behind any type of oppression. “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT
C. What does “devil” mean? What does “Satan” mean?
Devil means slanderer and Satan means adversary.
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God?
Thank you, God, for Jesus, the Lamb whose shed blood has overcome the power of the enemy. His accusations are now null, and void and he does not have any hearing before the counsel of God. He does not have a case against us. I can remind myself daily that victory is ours to claim because we have the Mighty Warrior in us.
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Trying to figure out the timeline (if there is such a thing) Why? Because Satan was on the earth tempting Adam and Eve yet he was also in heaven accusing Job to God. Was he permanently thrown out of heaven or does he go back and forth? I guess because it’s all spiritual it’s not something that I will completely understand.
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8 )A battle between Michael and his angels and the dragon and his angels. Michael won.
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9? As the serpent of old, Satan, the devil
D. How is he described in verse 10? The accuser of the brothers and sisters.
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11? By the blood of the Lamb, when Christ was crucified.
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12) Because the devil is on earth.
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now? Because he knows his time is short.
Oh thank you Dawn… I was wondering the same thing about a “timeline” and as you said if there is such a thing. I never thought in this way “because it’s all spiritual it’s not something that I will completely understand.” My response in trying to figure it out was, guess we’ll know one day how it all works out.
I’m going to ask David Campbell this, Dawn!
Monday: The Great Dragon Hurled Down
3. Read Revelation 12:7-12 aloud to yourself.
A. What stands out to you upon your first reading? Why?
The war, that the devil and angels had had a place in heaven seems worthy of trying to understand.
The devils title- The accuser of our brothersHe accuses us before God he accuses God to us, he accuses us to each other.
And this especially, this has come to mind frequently as of late “And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony
“I want to be able to give testimony.
B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (vs. 7-8)
There was a battle, satan was defeated.
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?
Great, Ancient, the deceiver of the whole world.
D. How is he described in verse 10?
The accuser of our brothers
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11?
By the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12)
Heaven is rid of the presence of evil, the earth and sea will be his sharp focus knowing his time is short
Wow Chris, “the earth and sea will be his sharp focus knowing his time is short.” Oh, how we must be on our toes, or rather our knees and in the word!
Chris, I agree with what Sharon said here. We are the enemy’s sharp focus now because his time is short. Nevertheless, we are also the apple of God’s eyes. Deuteronomy 32:10 Laura (and all the health care professionals here), it was interesting to me to learn that the pupil is also called the apple of the eye and it is globular in shape. The Hebrew term, “ishon” is “the little image one sees of himself when looking into another’s pupil”. I thought this was cool! Didn’t mean to digress.
Bing, I love when you digress😜, I learn so much…love we’re the apple of His eye! We are so loved!!
Thank you for that good tidbit, Bing!!
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth?
It says that the time has come. Jesus has returned. Satan has been defeated.
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2?
this is the only place in the old testament where the word Lord and Christ are used together.
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20?
He says the saints now have authority because their names are written in heaven. This happened when satan was ousted from heaven.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
I think it’s interesting that when Jesus ascended Satan descended. I didn’t know it happened at the same time.
Laura– I thought he made a very strong argument for that point from Psalm 2, (Satan descended when Jesus ascended) and therefore also, for the Tribulation beginning at Jesus’ ascension.
Dee, there’s obviously not a timeline as we know it. (See exchange with Dawn above)
Right. So I have just written Dr. Campbell!
Laura and Sharon — wanting to be sure you see this marvelous explanation from Campbell:
My answer would begin by bearing in mind that Satan is a spirit being and hence not constrained by our categories of space, etc. He has access to earth, but he does not physically live on earth. It seems that Satan’s access to heaven is alluded to in Job. He has access to the divine council because the forgiveness of sins has not yet been paid and his accusation has a measure of validity. His being thrown out of heaven refers to his being excluded from the divine court on account of the payment for our sins by the blood of Christ. Revelation 12 alludes to the same reality as Col 2:14-15; the legal debt canceled by the cross, and in the process, the principalities and powers are disarmed. Satan has no access to the divine court to bring accusation. I hope that helps!
I am not trying to be contentious but how can this statement “Satan has no access to the divine court to bring accusation.” Line up with this?
Hebrews 7:25 (NIV) “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.”
If Satan no longer has access to accuse us, why would Christ be ever living to make intercession for us…
I feel like I am trying to work out things that are too high for me!
I see your point Chris. Is sin always associated with Satan? Or, are we just naturally sinners without him? If so, then we wouldn’t need an accuser because we just have sin anyway. I also agree that I feel like this is way too hard for my pea brain! Always my confusion with the Bible. It is supposed to be for all to know, however it is so difficult to understand (the parables for example). On the other hand, it keeps it fresh always, and is probably why it is the number one book sold each year!
Tuesday: Christ’s Kingdom and Authority Have Come
Some views of Revelation believe the Kingdom of Christ is in the future beginning with a literal 1,000-year reign of Christ on earth. The Idealist view sees the numbers in Revelation as being symbolic, with a thousand years meaning a long time, and Christ’s reign beginning with His ascension. However, no matter the timing, I think we can agree on the application. But let us consider the Idealist view today.
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth?
“Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers have been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.”
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2?
The words Lord and Christ only occurred here together-the coming King will inherit the nations and possess the ends of the earth.
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20?
Jesus links the fall of Satan from heaven with the fact that the disciples’ names are written in heaven and they are now empowered with the authority of the kingdom.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
The resurrection sealed God’s approval of Christ’s sacrifice, and with the ascension, Satan has no basis left for his accusations…The power of the kingdom is now released into the earth, even though its consummated form awaits the Lord’s return.
This is radioactive for me because I have been thinking that Satan still accuses me before the Father. But no more! The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is within me and I can go about life without fear. Even though the enemy may seem like he is gaining ground, he is not. He has already been defeated at the cross and resurrection.
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what?
Our suffering is like the suffering of Christ on the cross. But it is actually a sign of victory and not defeat. His glory will also be ours. Just like what Paige said, “our sufferings are steppingstones to glory.”
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him?
It is short compared to the eternity he will spend in the lake of fire.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
Satan is not aware of the time of Jesus’ return so in this “short” time he has, he is taking as many captives as he thinks he can. Believers are kept safe, though and Chris and Chris, He will hold us fast. Daily victory over life’s sufferings is possible in Christ.
D. Paige said, “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that?
Looking back, I give thanks to God for not leaving me the way He found me. Just like Mary Magdalene of The Chosen, “I was one way but now I am different. And the thing that happened in between is Him.” I was loved then and loved now. I see you, Lord in the little and big sufferings of my yesterdays working your character in me. From glory to glory, He’s changing me. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZZnVeETs2U a lively version of From glory to glory by Sinach “God is taking me/you from glory to glory”
Dee, thank you for this wonderful addition of listing our thanksgiving compatible to the truth that we are learning. I am learning so much from you on how to lead my little bible study group.
Here is the song with lyrics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVEzR8BrrLU Powerful! I have never listened to Sinach before.
Thank you for sharing this, Bing. It is beautiful and powerful.
Some views of Revelation believe the Kingdom of Christ is in the future beginning with a literal 1,000 year reign of Christ on earth. The Idealist view sees the numbers in Revelation as being symbolic, with a thousand years meaning a long time, and Christ’s reign beginning with His ascension. However, no matter the timing, I think we can agree on the application. But let us consider the Idealist view today.
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth? “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, he who accuses them before our God day and night.”
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2? This in the only place in the Old Testament that Lord and Christ occur together as they do here. The resurrection and ascension are pivotal moments in history. The kingdom of God is here, now.
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20? Jesus is giving authority to His disciples, over the power of the enemy. He tells them not to rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rathe rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph? I had never realized that the death of Christ had satisfied the anger of God against the sins of all faithful believers of both covenants. I would love to study more of that. How does this work with the Jewish people who follow God’s Old Testament covenant now? This brings up some thought provoking questions. So interesting! Would love to hear all of your thoughts on this!
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what? It is not a sign of defeat, it is a sign of victory.
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him. The time is short to Satan compared to the eternity he will spend in the lake of fire.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph? Even during the time of Satan’s wrath, he will have limited power; The power of God kingdom that raised Jesus from the dead will be available to his church. Satan only can do what God allows. ”
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that? Oh, I agree. We have gone through some very negative wilderness times…several times…….and at the time, I could see no light anywhere….so scary to feel that way. God was there all the time. Looking back I can see it so clearly, but when you are in the middle of the dark tunnel….it is so very hard to imagine breaking out into the sunshine that is so much better than where you had been. My mom was there during one of these times to encourage me and to encourage us. Then the Lord showed us a door that we never expected or imagined…and it was beyond anything we would have thought. HE IS ABLE. I do know that! HE IS HERE for each of us. How I Praise Him for those dark tunnels that I never want to go through~ yet the light beyond them was something I could not imagine!! Sorry for the rabbit hole!
Patti, in regards to 6C, I had the same reaction, but then I thought of the faith chapter in Hebrews 11. In verse 39 and 40 it says, “All these people earned a good reputation because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised. For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach perfection without us.”
They could not be made complete until the work of Jesus. I guess you could say they looked forward to His work, while we look at it from behind.
Also, your last answer, you described my heart exactly..”looking back I can see it so clearly, but when you are in the tunnel…hard to imagine breaking our into the sunshine…”
Sharon, Absolutely spot on! Thank you for those wonderful verses from Hebrews 11! You inspired me to go back and read all of Hebrews 11.
Loved your story and the truth about tunnels, Patti.
Wednesday
8. Read Revelation 12:13-17
A. What stands out to you from your initial reading and why?
I think the last part of verse 17, “her children – all who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus” clarifies it’s the church.
B. Whom does the dragon pursue when he falls to earth?
The woman who had given birth to the male child.
C. From what you have learned, who does the woman and her male child represent in addition to Mary and Jesus?
The church
D. What was the woman given, where did she fly, and for how long?
2 wings like those of a great eagle. The place prepared for her in the wilderness. A time, times, and half a time.
E. What will the dragon do in response to try to overcome her? What will the earth do?
He will try to drown her with a flood of water flowing from his mouth. Swallow the water.
F. Whom does the enraged dragon then go after?
The rest of her children – all who keep God’s commandments and maintain their testimony for Jesus.
G. How have you been nearly swallowed up by the dragons, yet then rescued?
Yes, my husband and I were ready to throw the towel in on church when his father was so mistreated as a pastor. There was a time of hurt and resentment, living for self. His father got another church and he and his mother, the two most hurt, were used by God to rescue us. To see their testimony in forgiveness, love and faithfulness really had an impact on us.
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under The Woman in the Wilderness up to “Next come Satan’s response…”
A. What association does Dr. Campbell make with Exodus?
The woman being given 2 wings like eagles to the place prepared for her in the wilderness – Exodus 19:4 says, “You know how I carried you on eagle’s wings to Myself,” speaking of being taken out of Egypt to the wilderness.
B. What association with Isaiah 40:3-11?
The prophecy that God will come to His people” in the wilderness,” where a voice is crying “Prepare the way.” This passage is interpreted by John the Baptist as referring to His last- days ministry preparing the way for the Messiah.
I love his association to Isaiah 40:31, one of my favorites. “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” The woman given wings like eagles gives a clear vision of the church protected by God in the wilderness between Christ’s resurrection and return. Confirmed by the fact that the wilderness is defined as the place where she is to be nourished…
C. How does he interpret time, times, and half time to mean several different numbers?
It’s identical to the 3 1/2 years in 11:2, 1,260 days of 11:3; 12:6…identified as the church age.
D. How does this lend credence to the numbers in Revelation being symbolic rather than literal? Thoughts?
It’s a length of time not actual years or days. Still mulling through this, but it does make sense.
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth? “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down, the one who accuses them before our God day and night.”
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2? That this fulfills the prophetic word regarding the inauguration of the Messiah’s rule.
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20? The moment of Christ’s resurrection is when Satan fell from heaven and the disciples’ names are written in heaven and they are now empowered with the authority of the kingdom.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph? Christ is ruling now and Satan has no basis left for his accusations.
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what? That it is a sign of victory, nothing can take away our most prized possession—God’s eternal reward.
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him? Because compared to eternity, it is short.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph? Satan’s power is limited and the power of God’s kingdom, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, is available to his church.
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that? I know that every time that I encounter sufferings and tribulations it is an opportunity to stretch me and strengthen my faith in God and that give me reason to give thanks.
Curious as to any information for this!
This morning I was beginning my Bible study and Cooper came in and laid down with me. I showed him the artwork of Satan falling from heaven. He said he knew about that because of his Bible study (RightNow Media online for kids). I said really?? Show me! He took me to a show called “SuperBook” and we watched a show on Revelation. So cool that he knows!
However, part of our bigger conversation was about Michael. I told him Michael was a good angel who protected Jesus. He said he thought Michael was an evil angel; the devil; a fallen angel. He must have learned this from his Bible studies online or our church! My husband agreed! He grew up in the Catholic Church. So my question to everyone is just who Michael is? I too always thought that Michael was the fallen angel. I need scripture to understand. Where did we get this? Help! We really want to understand. I know we already discussed this a bit but I need more in the way of actual scripture.
Laura,
Your question made me wish I was a Bible Scholar!! Help Dee, do you know the answer?
I looked this up online in the Blue letter Bible.
Here are a couple that they reference. I am going to look them up. .. to read them in context.
But when the archangel Michael contended with the Devil and disputed about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a condemnation of slander against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (Jude 9).
But I am to tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth. There is no one with me who contends against these princes except Michael, your prince (Daniel 10:21).
At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish, such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. But you, Daniel, keep the words secret and the book sealed until the time of the end. Many shall be running back and forth, and evil shall increase (Daniel 12:1-4).
Summary from The Blue Letter Bible online
From looking at the Scripture we can conclude the following about Michael the archangel.1. He is the only archangel named in Scripture.2. His ministry seems to be of law and judgment.3. He seems to have some connection with the nation Israel.4. In the past, he contended with Satan over the body of Moses.5. He will appear at the last times fighting with the armies of Satan.
Thank you Patti! I did go back and reread scripture and that helped to determine he was a good angel. I think my husband and I always thought an “archangel” was a bad (opposite) one! We think it was the word that made us think that and we never actually looked it up to know otherwise. I feel so stupid! I have not heard of the Blue Book Bible. Can you elaborate on it?
Great research Patti! You may not be a Biblical Scholar but I know you love and know God and He leads us to truth through His Holy Spirit. It’s exciting to me to see all of us here lifting up and helping one another❤️
Laura, I think the best verse I could give other than Daniel and here in Revelation would be Jude 1:9 “But even Michael, one of the mightiest of the angels, did not dare accuse the devil of blasphemy, but simply said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (This took place when Michael was arguing with the devil about Moses’ body.)”
Good Answer, Sharon. I don’t know why I believe both Gabriel and Michael were angels of good news, but this corroborates that.
Thank you! Do you have any idea why we all thought otherwise? Where we would have gotten this notion?
Laura — I know many have answered. Gabriel and Michael are the good angels — archangel means “chief angel.” If you do a word study of either angel you will see the wonderful things each did — we associate Gabriel with announcing good news as he keeps doing in Luke 1 and 2. Michael battles Satan in heaven.
You must read Campbell’s answer to your other question — here it is:
My answer would begin by bearing in mind that Satan is a spirit being and hence not constrained by our categories of space, etc. He has access to earth, but he does not physically live on earth. It seems that Satan’s access to heaven is alluded to in Job. He has access to the divine council because the forgiveness of sins haas not yet been paid and his accusation has a measure of validity. His being thrown out of heaven refers to his being excluded from the divine court on account of the payment for our sins by the blood of Christ. Revelation 12 alludes to the same reality as Col 2:14-15; the legal debt canceled by the cross, and in the process the principalities and powers are disarmed. Satan has no access to the divine court to bring accusation. I hope that helps!
Our dear Dr. Campbell, on Thanksgiving Eve, has taken the time to ask the question several of you had that if Satan was thrown out of heaven and to earth when Jesus ascended, why it is that we see Satan in the garden and other places in the Old Testament. Here is his fascinating answer — take note of the “courts of heaven” in his answer:
My answer would begin by bearing in mind that Satan is a spirit being and hence not constrained by our categories of space, etc. He has access to earth, but he does not physically live on earth. It seems that Satan’s access to heaven is alluded to in Job. He has access to the divine council because the forgiveness of sins haas not yet been paid and his accusation has a measure of validity. His being thrown out of heaven refers to his being excluded from the divine court on account of the payment for our sins by the blood of Christ. Revelation 12 alludes to the same reality as Col 2:14-15; the legal debt canceled by the cross, and in the process the principalities and powers are disarmed. Satan has no access to the divine court to bring accusation. I hope that helps!
How wonderful of Dr. Campbell to respond so quickly. Thank you, Dee. This has helped clarify the roles of Satan, as well as Michael and Gabriel.
I agree, Patti. Dr. Campbell is such a very caring person to answer our questions here. I am so grateful for the truth that Satan no longer has access to the counsel of God to bring accusations against us.
Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! Many blessings to all of you and your families❤️
Same to you Susan! Happy Thanksgiving everyone. I am grateful for this blog and all of you here 🦃🦃♥️♥️
Happy Thanksgiving to each one of you and your families!
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I hope that all traveling family members got safely to their destinations! I am very Thankful for all of you on this incredible Blog. Thank you , Dee, for creating this lovely meeting place to learn more about our Heavenly Father!
Happy late greetings to all for Thanksgiving Day! “I thank my God every time I remember all of you; in all my prayers, I pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-4
A late Happy Birthday to you Bing! You are such a gift to all of us! I pray the year ahead holds abundant blessings for you!
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under Warfare in Heaven up to “the vision continues…”
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth?
Heavenly events portrayed in Revelation consistently have impact on the earth.
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia?
Satan himself
(Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists? Why or why not?)I do think so, people lusting for power and control who squash anyone who stands in their was are being driven by their idols, the enemy has them in his grip.
C. What does “devil” mean?
Slanderer
What does “Satan” mean?
Adversary
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God?I thought about the ‘demonic rulers’ and the verse in Romans that says “or all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.”
Even the worst leaders have a role to play in Gods grand design.
“even the worst leaders have a role to play in God’s grand design.” Yes.
Tuesday: Christ’s Kingdom and Authority Have Come
Some views of Revelation believe the Kingdom of Christ is in the future beginning with a literal 1,000 year reign of Christ on earth. The Idealist view sees the numbers in Revelation as being symbolic, with a thousand years meaning a long time, and Christ’s reign beginning with His ascension. However, no matter the timing, I think we can agree on the application. But let us consider the Idealist view today.
5. In Rev. 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth? “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers[b] has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. 11 And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. 12 Therefore, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!”
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s second paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues.”
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2?
That these events in the heavens fulfill the prophecy and usher in the Messiah’s rule, now- not in the future.
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20?
Jesus links the fall of Satan with our salvation and that we are empowered with authority.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
That Satan has had a legal point to accuse and that Christ resurrection sealed God’s approval of his sacrifice.
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what?
It is a sign of our victory. This can be hard to reckon with when you are in the deep.
I thought of this from the hymn Christ is Mine Forevermore
“Mine are tears in times of sorrow
Darkness not yet understood
Through the valley I must travel
Where I see no earthly good
But mine is peace that flows from Heaven
And the strength in times of need
I know my pain will not be wasted
Christ completes his work in me”
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him?
Because it is when compared to eternity and he is unaware of when it will end.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
That the same power that resurrected Jesus from the grave is available to us always makes me wonder. We sure don’t often act or live like that is what is true.
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that?
I know my suffering has weaned me off of hope in this life in real ways. I really am sorrowful yet always rejoicing. I so long for heaven, to see and know and trust God completely, to be in perfect harmony with the rest of the saints. I want these things in a much deeper way that I ever did before. I am so very thankful for the hope and surety of what we are promised in Christ.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! I am a silent participant but wanted to let you all know, I am so blessed by this blog and thankful for you!
Happy Thanksgiving to you as well Liz! Glad you are with us. Are you the Liz in my neck of the woods? If so, we need to touch base soon! Take care.
So, in our RightNow Media app (you guys should see if your church has a subscription because it is awesome!), Grace was watching the first episode (!) of “Super Book” called “In the Beginning” and it was the fight between Lucifer and Michael! It was when Michael banishes Lucifer from heaven and he falls to earth. Then, they go into the Adam and Eve story. It was a very well done for children. I think Cooper must have just gotten confused on who was thrown out of heaven. But, after reading all the scriptures Dr. Campbell notes about satan, the question still remains as to how my husband and I thought Michael was the “bad guy.” I’m starting to think it is the word “archangel.” I never really looked it up (my entire life?!) and thought it meant the opposite of good. My husband concurred. Makes me wonder how many others have thought the same thing?
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth…”
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what?
We will have victory as He has.
B. Why does this long time Satan have to torment us on earth seem short to him?
It is short compared to his time in eternity in the lake of fire. It is also short because he doesn’t know when Christ will return.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
I love the line that says that believers didn’t love their lives so much, and were willing to die. I want to be that person.
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory.” How can you see that in your life?” Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that?
Oh, the suffering of the last 15 years! Raising two middle children who have given us nothing but grief… BUT, the glory of raising our two beautiful grandchildren, and the marriage of the oldest of the two recently (unfortunately not a Christian wedding). I haven’t spoken much about this child, but let’s just say we never thought he would ever get married! It makes me hopeful for him and his future, when I didn’t have that before. We get to meet our new daughter-in-law in a week or two. She is from Sweden. Thank you Lord for the blessings you have given my family.
Laura, I am in a women’s book discussion group at church, and one of the women just recently moved back to the States from Sweden (she actually went to my high school and was a year older than me..married a man from Sweden and lived there for many years before a divorce). She has said how in Sweden, there used to be a State religion, and the people were so tired of religion being “forced on them” that the country went quite the other direction and is now very irreligious. Their country prizes nationalistic pride, yet she told us how hungry the young people there are for spirituality and for meaning in their lives. She actually became a Christian while living in Sweden. Perhaps your new daughter-in-law will be open to talking about God.
Interesting Susan! I was hoping I could get them to have a “wedding” in our church; just our family, to be involved from our side of the aisle. Her family was there at the court ceremony. It makes me want to cry when I think of IF it would really happen. I know that God can do anything.
You have been such a testimony of perseverance in some very difficult circumstances, Laura. Much love to you.
Thank you Missy, I know your trials have been deep as well ♥️.
Read Revelation 12:13-17
A. What stands out to you from your initial reading and why?
Well, after watching the show with the kids this morning I am interested in when this battle occurred (as others above have been discussing; the time line). It says that the devil was thrown down and recognized he was out of heaven. He went to pursue the woman with the child. The way the kids show depicted it was that Michael fought Lucifer and pushed him out of heaven into a fiery lake. They then began the story of Adam and Eve with the serpent tempting Eve. If Adam was the first Son of God was Eve the equivalent of Mary? If so, does this story in Revelation mimic that story?
B. Whom does the dragon pursue when he falls to earth?
The woman and her child.
C. From what you have learned, who does the woman and her male child represent in addition to Mary and Jesus?
Israel and the believers.
D. What was the woman given, where did she fly, and for how long?
She was given wings to fly to a place of protection in the wilderness. She would be there for a time, times, and half a time.
E. What will the dragon do in response to try to overcome her? What will the earth do?
The dragon tried to drown her with a flood of water from its mouth. The earth opened up to consume the water to protect her.
F. Whom does the enraged dragon then go after?
All believers.
G. How have you been nearly swallowed up by the dragon, yet then rescued?
Oh yes! Many times. I have shared several here over the years. When the son who just got married was a teen there were several occasions when he had run away and I had no idea where he was. God intervened and I was freed from the pain and agony. I am currently feeling swallowed by the dragon and am waiting for God to jump in….
You have walked through deep valleys wit faith, Laura.
I’m posting Campbell’s answer a 4th time as I want everyone to see it. I love to know Satan was thrown out of heaven’s court after Jesus paid for our sin for he simply didn’t have a case anymore. Here is what he said:
My answer would begin by bearing in mind that Satan is a spirit being and hence not constrained by our categories of space, etc. He has access to earth, but he does not physically live on earth. It seems that Satan’s access to heaven is alluded to in Job. He has access to the divine council because the forgiveness of sins has not yet been paid and his accusation has a measure of validity. His being thrown out of heaven refers to his being excluded from the divine court on account of the payment for our sins by the blood of Christ. Revelation 12 alludes to the same reality as Col 2:14-15; the legal debt canceled by the cross, and in the process, the principalities and powers are disarmed. Satan has no access to the divine court to bring accusation. I hope that helps!
I did see this Dee. I just don’t know if I understand what he is saying. I guess since he mentions Job, and I know that Job was really the first book of the Bible, then what he says is that at that point satan had access to heaven and then came the battle, and then he fell, and now doesn’t have access anymore? Since he was banished to earth he conducted the the test of Adam and Eve, the tests of Jesus, etc. Now in Revelation he is battled/banished again? This time it’s on earth? That makes sense to me but I’m not sure if that’s what he means. This is harrrdddd…..
He was saying that before Jesus paid for our sin, Satan could come into the courts of heaven and actually have a case against us — which is what he was doing with Job. But after Jesus paid for our sin and ascended, Satan no longer had a case, for it was finished, our sin was fully paid for, so he was banished from the courts of heaven and fell like lightening — Jesus saw it as He ascended. Does that make sense?
Now that makes sense!! Thank you for translating for me Dee ♥️
Thursday
10 Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “Now comes Satan’s response…” up to “The picture of the Red Sea…”
A. How will Satan attempt to destroy the church from within? Using deception From without? Using persecution
B. Share how one of these has impacted you and how you can overcome it in the future.
I have experienced deception within the church and now and in the future I pray for discernment and align what I hear with the word of God which includes music as well.
C. What else do you learn from this paragraph?
Isaiah 43:2, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”
Isaiah 44:27, “When I speak to the rivers and say, ‘Dry up!’ they will be dry.”
These verses are such a comfort through times of flooding by the enemy….God is on my side!
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The picture of the Red Sea” up to “the continuing warfare…
A. How was the Red Sea parting a past fulfillment of this picture in Revelation?
Campbell says, “The Red Sea (the literal river) parted and allowed the Israelites through, but the figurative “river” (the Egyptians army…(which was literal for the Israelites – my words) was subsequently “swallowed up” as the course of natural earthly events: “the earth swallowed them.”
B.How does Dr. Campbell see Isaiah 51:6-11 (read it!) as a fulfillment for believers?
He sees it as God defeating the dragon and “Those who have been ransomed by the Lord will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be filled with joy and gladness.” Isaiah 51:11
I love how you tied those two verses in Isaiah together, Sharon!
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under The Woman in the Wilderness up to “Next come Satan’s response…”
A. What association does Dr. Campbell make with Exodus?
God will lift His followers up on “eagles wings” and protect them.
B. What association with Isaiah 40:3-11?
God will come in the wilderness where a voice is crying to prepare the way.
C. How does he interpret time, times, and half time to mean several different numbers?
The time is the same as the time in chapter 11 and 13; 3 and a half years. It corresponds to the woman flying to the wilderness, the beast being allowed to do anything he wants, and the two witnesses (Not in order). I really don’t think I understand any of this though….
D. How does this lend credence to the numbers in Revelation being symbolic rather than literal? Thoughts?
I guess because each of the scenarios have people/beings that represent symbols for other things? The woman represents the church, the two witnesses are God’s people, and the beast/dragon is Satan? I really don’t know 🤷🏻♀️.
Wednesday: The Woman in the Wilderness
8. Read Revelation 12:13-17
A. What stands out to you from your initial reading and why?Honestly the imagery feels beyond me. Maybe if I had been better at keeping up with the study that would have been less so. I feel a little thick reading this.
B. Whom does the dragon pursue when he falls to earth?
“the woman who had given birth to the male child”
C. From what you have learned, who does the woman and her male child represent in addition to Mary and Jesus?Still feeling pretty lost :/
D. What was the woman given,
Wings of a great eagle
where did she fly,
The wildernessand for how long? a time, and times, and half a time
E. What will the dragon do in response to try to overcome her?He vomits out a floodWhat will the earth do? It swallows the flood
F. Whom does the enraged dragon then go after?the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.If the woman represents the church, then this seems puzzling.
G. How have you been nearly swallowed up by the dragon, yet then rescued?
I have been so desperate to escape my grief that I would have walked away from my faith if doing that would have offered relief. I wished to die. The Lord really did hold me fast- he has pursued me when my doubt and unbelief- the dragon- was trying to persuade me to disown him. I am rescued when again and again he repeatedly restores my hope.
9. Read Dr. Campbell’s 1st paragraph under The Woman in the Wilderness up to “Next come Satan’s response…”
A. What association does Dr. Campbell make with Exodus?He sites Exodus 19:4:
“You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself”
B. What association with Isaiah 40:3-11?
In that passage God comes to his people in the wilderness, where a voice is crying ‘prepare the way’.
Your wilderness suffering was as deep as it gets, yet I watched God hold you in so many ways — that picture in the hospital, the counsel of wise people, your involvement with CCEF, His healing balm… I liked what you said that you would have walked away if that had offered the relief for which you longed — like Peter “Where can we go but to You, Lord?”
“I have been so desperate to escape my grief that I would have walked away from my faith if doing that would have offered relief.” What a huge truth that the whole world should know, Chris. And, I agree with Dee in the many ways God has and continues to hold you. I can’t remember the exact wording, but Henri Nouwen wrote that God’s compassion is only made beautiful by the brokenness that needs that compassion.
Chris,
I often wondered how Christians hold under what seems to be unbearable pain like what you have and continue to have as a result of the senseless death of your son, Daniel. My stomach revolts at hearing such injustice. Why would God allow such to happen? Such a mind-boggling mystery. and yet your testimony of hope and God’s rescue, again and again, has spoken to me in a powerful way that no other thing can.
Thursday: The Dragon’s Techniques of Deception & Persecution
10 Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “Now comes Satan’s response…” up to “The picture of the Red Sea…”
How will Satan attempt to destroy the church from within? Using deception
From without? Using persecution
B. Share how one of these has impacted you and how you can overcome it in the future.I feel like the schism our church experienced in recent years, had elements of deception in it. I suppose in future I will know that God works even using broken, flawed leaders. This side of heaven there are no other kind of people.
C. What else do you learn from this paragraph?The idea that that the church will ultimately be protected- no matter how dark things seem in the moment is reinforced.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The picture of the Red Sea” up to “the continuing warfare…”
A. How was the Red Sea parting a past fulfillment of this picture in Revelation?
The river of Pharaohs army was swallowed up by the Red Sea
B. How does Dr. Campbell see Isaiah 51:6-11 (read it!) as a future fulfillment for believers?
This passage felt like a call to open our eyes to what matter- to see who the Lord is, to believe his promises and stop seeking things of this world- approve, riches and comfort- all of no real lasting value.We whom the Lord has rescued will return.
We will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown our heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake us,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Thursday: The Dragon’s Techniques of Deception & Persecution
I am away from home and “left” my answers to Wednesday questions. The section was a powerful read on how God protects us in the wilderness.
10 Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “Now comes Satan’s response…” up to “The picture of the Red Sea…”
A. How will Satan attempt to destroy the church from within? From without?
Deception inside the church and persecution outside the church
B. Share how one of these has impacted you and how you can overcome it in the future.
It seems like deception inside the church is more difficult for me than the persecution outside of the church. I understand the latter more but the deception inside the church is more painful to deal with. I have seen differences of opinions divide a church; And often the division all boils down to the idols of pride and control.
C. What else do you learn from this paragraph?
The enemy of our souls will attempt to destroy us but God will deliver us from them all. We shall not be overwhelmed by the “floodwaters” whatever they might be. Isaiah 43:2
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The picture of the Red Sea” up to “the continuing warfare…”
A. How was the Red Sea parting a past fulfillment of this picture in Revelation?
The red sea parting is a literal sea and the figurative river is the Egyptian army. In Revelation, the woman was helped by the earth opening its mouth and swallowing the river that the dragon has poured out of his mouth
B. How does Dr. Campbell see Isaiah 51:6-11 (read it!) as a future fulfillment for believers?
Spiritual Israel will be restored by God by defeating the dragon so that spiritual Israel will enter Zion with singing. The redeemed will cross over the “sea” and there will be no more sorrow and sighing. These prophetic words are fulfilled in Christ and His church. His “salvation will last forever…” Isaiah 51:6
Friday: And he Stood on the Sand of the Sea
12. What picture does Revelation 13:1 give us? What do you learn from this? (Use your imagination.)
The dragon will have a partner in the scary beast coming out of the sea. Pharaoh reached the camp of Israel by the sea. Could it be that anything that pushes God’s people into their own “red sea” can be a time of our spiritual warfare but also of seeing the salvation of the Lord?
13. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The continuing warfare” to the end of the section.
A. How was faithful Israel represented in Isaiah 49:14-26? (Read it)
Faithful Israel was presented as a mother and her godly children.
B. How was unfaithful Israel represented in Ezekiel 16 and Hosea?
A prostitute/adulterous wife who offered herself to her many idols and was never satisfied and who broke her covenant with God.
14. Idolatry is equated with adultery in Scripture. How does this speak to you?
Jesus is my bridegroom and the one who sits on the throne of my heart. When I replace Jesus with an idol, I commit adultery with that idol. God is a jealous God. “God is “jealous” in the sense that He expects complete devotion, exclusive commitment; not merely a partial, lukewarm, half-hearted religious observance. Worship belongs to God; He is worthy of worship and has a right to be “jealous” of it. He wants to be known and recognized for who He is. “Other” gods are nothing. Oswald Chambers warned, “Beware of anything that competes with your loyalty to Jesus.”
In Ezekiel 39:25 God says, “I will be jealous for My holy Name;” and in Zechariah 1:14, He declares, “I am jealous for Jerusalem with a great jealousy.”
I ask myself, “am I fully devoted to God? What are my idols? how do I keep myself from being lukewarm?”
I’m so thankful for this group and that I was led to read this week’s blog tonight. Thanksgiving was the worst for me. My happiest holiday, and this one found me curled up in a ball in the dark all day alone. I’ve taken in many children as a single mom over the years who had no families or abusive families. But the 3 I’ve had the longest all had reasons to be elsewhere this Thanksgiving, including my newly adopted 13 year old. The reasons are too complicated to give here, but my heart was broken that I found myself so very alone. When I read about the purposeful leading of God sometimes into a wilderness, my heart rejoiced. He does not mean harm to me, but intends instead to speak comfort to my heart, taking away my idols and replacing them with Himself. Oh, to see how much He is for me and not against me in these trials of the soul. Thank you so much Dee and ladies for being such an encouragement to all of us!
Oh Miriam — I am so sorry for your pain — admire you so for choosing the hard high road. What a model you are to all of us and you being here reminds us to pray.
You are such a dear precious woman of God! Thank you.
Miriam, I am so sorry and I am stunned as I read this. You certainly had reason to feel that you were in the wilderness on Thanksgiving Day but….I am thinking that I am not so sure that it was God who led you there? Sometimes we find ourselves there when we are despitefully treated by others, through no fault of our own. But yes, He is there with us, with you. This just makes me so sad.
Thank you, Susan. I am comforted that God still allows what others do to us to draw us to Him.
Missy, I just lost what I wrote here. Let me try again:
My heart dropped and I felt the tears coming as I conjure your overwhelming loneliness on Thanksgiving Day. Am so sad to hear you were alone, Missy. I got prompted to look up this verse from Solomon 8:5 ” “Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved? ” Perhaps this wilderness is a time to be leaning hard on your Beloved and that you will experience His love and comfort like no other. “He does not mean harm to me, but intends instead to speak comfort to my heart, taking away my idols and replacing them with Himself.”
That is absolutely beautiful, Bing! The wilderness experience is so worth it if we can emerge leaning on our Beloved! Who wouldn’t want to go down into the wilderness with an outcome like this??!!
I love that verse from The Songs, Bing!
Missy, I understand your pain. I also know that this place got me through some of the worst times of my life. I thank God for the women here (and those who have left but remain close), and Dee. I’m glad you are clinging to your faith. Don’t leave us until you can fly by yourself 😘.
3. B. Describe the war in heaven and who won. (v. 7-8)
The great archangel Michael and the angels under his command fought the dragon and his angels. The dragon, who is Satan, lost the war and was forced out of heaven.
C. How is the dragon described in verse 9?
He is a great dragon – the ancient serpent called the Devil, or Satan. He is the one deceiving the whole world.
D. How is he described in verse 10?
He is the Accuser – the one who accused our brothers and sisters day and night before God.
E. How and when was he overcome according to verse 11?
He was defeated because of the blood of the Lamb, which I take to mean that when Jesus died on the cross for our sins, Satan’s defeat was sealed. It also says he was defeated by “their testimony”, and I take it that “their” refers to our brothers and sisters who were being accused day and night (going back to verse 10).
F. Why should heaven rejoice but why should the earth and sea feel woe? (verse 12)
The heavens and those who live there can rejoice because they are rid of Satan’s presence there, but the earth and the sea now has to deal with him. Satan was very angry at being thrown down from heaven and now he can terrorize them.
G. Why is the devil filled with fury now?
Because he knows he has little time left to work his evil.
4. Read Dr. Campbell’s first paragraph under Warfare In Heaven up to “the vision continues…”
A. Why does Campbell think it is not surprising that events in heaven parallel events on earth?
He says that the seven letters were written to the angels of the churches who represented these churches in the heavenly sphere.
B. Who was the power behind Israel’s oppressors of Greece and Persia? (Do you think he was and is also behind Hitler, Mussolini, and today’s terrorists?)
Daniel had visions about demonic rulers of Persia and Greece, nations that oppressed God’s people. Campbell says that the power behind Daniel’s demonic rulers of Persia and Greece is now revealed to be Satan himself. Do I think Satan was behind rulers such as Hitler? Yes. Especially with Hitler, as through him Satan tried to wipe out the Jews. I believe Satan was behind the terrorists who flew the planes into the World Trade Center towers, and the other plane that was headed for Washington. Perhaps it was Michael and the Lord who gave such courage to Todd Beamer and others on that plane to stop that wicked plan. Personally, I believe there are “wars” going on in the spiritual realm all the time that we cannot see with our eyes. Not that we can blame Satan every time, but some of the time he may be behind the wars that go on in our own hearts, when we feel driven by anger, jealousy, fear, or driven to behave or think sinfully.
C. What does “devil” mean? What does “Satan” mean?
Devil means “slanderer” and Satan means “adversary”.
D. Does anything stand out to you from this paragraph for which you can praise or give thanks to God?
I am thankful that God gives us a powerful ally and protector in Michael, as Campbell writes that Michael fights now on behalf of “the new covenant people of Christ from every nation.” In some faith traditions, angels are paid more attention to. I’ve never really given it much thought as to whether I have a “guardian angel” watching over me. What do others think? I know some people pray to their guardian angel.
Dee, I’ve read Dr. Campbell’s answer about Satan being thrown out of heaven and when that occurred. So, my question is since we were not even born at the time of Jesus’ death and resurrection, it wasn’t us that he was accusing before God in heaven? Revelation 12:10 talks about “brothers and sisters” who Satan was accusing day and night; were those believers who lived back then?
And, does Satan still accuse us today, but in a different way? Is he behind the voices I sometimes hear, for example, telling me “you don’t measure up…God could never forgive you for that…?”
Susan, so glad you asked this, as that was my question…does he still accuse us today or maybe that is something we are told which isn’t truth? I’ve seen plays of hell, where there is a court room and Satan is accusing and Christ is defending…
Good questions from Susan and Sharon — two of our scholars — so who am I to attempt — but I will, knowing I may not be right. We know Jesus is our Advocate, defending us, but now Satan has no case so not even allowed into court. As Keller often says it would not be just for God not to forgive as the payment has been paid and He wouldn’t ask for another payment. Christ’s blood is more effective than the blood of Abel crying out from the ground.
So what does Satan do now? He still accuses and lies to us, making us think the gospel ineffective, God’s love not sure, God’s wisdom not to be trusted, our sin too great for the blood. Based on Ephesians 6, I think the real battle is with the lies he tells us so we must put on the armor of faith.
Oh Dee, don’t know about being a scholar, but this teaching is new to me. I love learning new things, but what you say makes so much sense… “So what does Satan do now? He still accuses and lies to us, making us think the gospel ineffective, God’s love not sure, God’s wisdom not to be trusted, our sin too great for the blood. Based on Ephesians 6, I think the real battle is with the lies he tells us so we must put on the armor of faith.
I now ask, what does Jesus do now? He is our intercessor. According to Romans 8:34 He is now sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us and no one can condemn us. 1 John 2:1, Jesus is our advocate when we sin and pleads our case before the Father. He is the truly righteous one. Hebrews 7:25, because He saved those who came to God through Him once and forever, He lives to intercede with God on their behalf. I don’t look at this now as Jesus being in a courtroom (Satan is not allowed access there, YEA!) defending us against Satan’s accusations but rather praying for us so we can have strength in the battle against Satan’s lies. Susan put it well…And, does Satan still accuse us today, but in a different way? Is he behind the voices I sometimes hear, for example, telling me “you don’t measure up…God could never forgive you for that…?”
Thank you Dee for these challenges…grows and stretches me.
Oh Dee – I think you are very qualified to attempt to answer!! I do believe that Satan still accuses and lies to us, just not in the “courtroom”. I remember how you kept saying in your book, The God of All Comfort, that he wants to get us to back away from God.
5. In Revelation 12:10, what does the loud voice in heaven say after Satan is hurled to earth?
Finally, at last! The salvation and power and kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ! But this gives me another question! When was the great rebellion of Satan and the angels who took his side? If it happened before Jesus came to earth, why would God have put up with him for so long? Why couldn’t God have immediately thrown him out of heaven? This sort of makes it sound as if God’s power was increased by Jesus’ sacrifice, and that needed to happen before He could throw Satan out. This is very confusing!
Yes, it is confusing — probably made more so by the fact that time is different for God.
6. Read Dr. Campbell’s 2nd paragraph under Warfare in Heaven beginning with “the vision continues”.
A. What insight does Dr. Campbell give on Psalm 2?
Psalm 2:7-9 contain a prophetic word about the Messiah’s rule, as these verses have the only reference to “Lord” and “Christ” occurring together. According to the Psalm, the coming King will inherit the nations and possess the ends of the earth.
The king proclaims the Lord’s decree: The Lord said to me, ‘You are my son. Today I have become your Father. Only ask and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the ends of the earth as your possession. You will break them with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots.’ Psalm 2:7-9
B. What insight does he give on Luke 10:17-20?
Jesus links the fall of Satan from heaven with the fact that the disciples’ names are written in heaven, and that they are now empowered with the authority of the kingdom. In the Luke passage, it says that Jesus “saw” (past tense) Satan falling from heaven, but I thought that didn’t happen until He ascended?
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
Campbell says that Satan had a mandate, or a legal point, for accusing the saints, because God Himself had said that the penalty for sin is death, yet He welcomed OT saints into heaven. Then, at the moment of the resurrection, Satan is evicted from heaven because he no longer has any basis for his accusations. I still wonder though why an evil being like Satan had any say to begin with. The Bible teaches that man’s mouth is stopped before God. Why would God even listen to him in the first place? He is not on equal footing with God.
I often think of how Francis Schaeffer said to hold the mysteries lightly. The whole dilemma of why God permitted this for so long is one of those mysteries.
Friday: And he Stood on the Sand of the Sea
12. What picture does Revelation 13:1 give us? “And I saw a beast rising out of the sea, with ten horns and seven heads” The creature is frightening (rising from the sea- having seven heads) and powerful (10 horns with crowns)
I am not really sure I am being imaginative enough here.
13. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The continuing warfare” to the end of the section.
A. How was faithful Israel represented in Isaiah 49:14-26? (Read it)
As God’s children and as a bereaved and barren woman who now has children.
B. How was unfaithful Israel represents in Ezekiel 16 and Hosea?
As a mother whose unfaithful children are included.
14. Idolatry is equated with adultery in Scripture. How does this speak to you?
Loudly… I know that I am fickle. I need the gospel all the time, the power of the story over and over to guard my heart and the promised forgiveness when I forget.
I thought of this from Christ is Mine Forevermore:
Mine are days that God has numbered
I was made to walk with Him
Yet I look for worldly treasure
And forsake the King of kings
But mine is hope in my Redeemer
Though I fall, His love is sure
For Christ has paid for every failing
I am His forevermore
Lovely from Christ is Mine Forevermore.
Friday
12. What picture does Revelation 13:1 give us? What do you learn from this? (Use your imagination.)
A beast rising up from the sea with 7 heads, 10 horns, and 10 crowns on each horn and blasphemous names of God on each head.
13. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The continuing warfare” to the end of the section.
A. How was faithful Israel represented in Isaiah 49:14-26? (Read it)
As a mother to not just Israel but the church. I love verse 18, “Look around you and see, for all your children will come back to you. As surely as I live,” says the Lord, “they will be like jewels or bridal ornaments for you to display.”
B. How was unfaithful Israel represents in Ezekiel 16 and Hosea?
A female or mother, in whom her unfaithful children are included.
14. Idolatry is equated with adultery in Scripture. How does this speak to you?
It gives me a vivid picture of how much it must hurt the Lord when I place my affections elsewhere! That statement goes much deeper in my heart, easy to say but I continually do it.
I did not use my imagination because of how I have interpreted this in the past.
The beast here is full of symbolism and I’m curious to see how Campbell interprets it.
10 Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “Now comes Satan’s response…” up to “The picture of the Red Sea…”
A. How will Satan attempt to destroy the church from within? Deception From without? Persecution
B. Share how one of these has impacted you and how you can overcome it in the future. During a church break up there was a lot of talking behind peoples’ backs and it was hard to tell who was sincere and who was just looking for something to gossip about. When it came time to make a decision about which way to go, I was surprised, hurt and angry at some of the people that I thought were like minded who weren’t. I learned to do a lot less talking and a lot more praying and seeking God’s will, not my comfort.
C. What else do you learn from this paragraph? The different interpretation of Isaiah 43:2 to mean that the restoration of end-times Jerusalem will involve God drying up rivers and the deep. I’ve always thought of it as when I am being “overwhelmed” by life’s circumstances God will be with me and keep me from being totally destroyed by them.
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The picture of the Red Sea” up to “the continuing warfare…”
A. How was the Red Sea parting a past fulfillment of this picture in Revelation? The Red Sea drying up in the middle so that the Israelites could pass through is the earth coming to help the lady. The river being swallowed up was the Egyptians being drowned when the Red Sea went back to its natural state.
B. How does Dr. Campbell see Isaiah 51:6-11 (read it!) as a future fulfillment for believers? (In my kindle version it says Isaiah 51:11-6) God will repeat himself, just has He has rescued and restored in the past, He will continue to in the future.
Dawn, I resonate with what you said about the church break-up. My husband and I have been there before and it pained us to have seen the aftermath. During the pandemic, I have seen my husband/pastor stand for what he believed was the right thing to do for our church. He received criticisms and the ones that hurt the most were from people who we thought we ministered to in significant ways. I have learned, like you, to talk less and to pray more. Romans 8:28 still stands true for me.
Bing — it does hurt so to have people to whom you poured your heart out be so critical. So hard — so respect the way you handle it. Forgiving and pressing on.
Saturday
15. What is your take-a-way this week and why?
There was so much to take away this week…where do I begin? First I am reminded of the importance of keeping an attitude of grace and continually asking Him for a teachable spirit.
Second, I thank the Lord for the sisters here who teach and challenge me …great questions from Laura, Dawn and Susan which sparked much conversation and to which Dr. Campbell was so gracious in giving us more insight.
Lastly, may I apply all the truths taught and it not just remain “knowledge.”
10 Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “Now comes Satan’s response…” up to “The picture of the Red Sea…”
A. How will Satan attempt to destroy the church from within? From without?
From within, with deception. From without, persecution.
B. Share how one of these has impacted you and how you can overcome it in the future.
I guess the best example is those around me who are not believers, who disagree that Christians are accepting and non-judging people. They have this preconceived idea that we judge them or are better than them. They don’t understand that we know we are sinners who need God to help us out of our pit. They think we are pious and above them. I try to convey this through my actions, and I am getting better at it everyday. I have not been very good at it in the past.
C. What else do you learn from this paragraph?
There won’t be a flood as we know it (with water), however there is the potential of a “flood” of enemies trying to destroy us.
Laura — so wise to communicate to unbelievers our sin and failings!
11. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The picture of the Red Sea” up to “the continuing warfare…”
A. How was the Red Sea parting a past fulfillment of this picture in Revelation?
The Red Sea was parted (literal) for the Israelites, and the “river” (the Egyptian army) was eaten by the earth. In Revelation, the dragon tried to drown the woman but the earth swallowed the water.
B. How does Dr. Campbell see Isaiah 51:6-11 (read it!) as a future fulfillment for believers?
He sees it as a spiritual revival for Israel. All the earth will pass away but salvation will remain.
12. What picture does Revelation 13:1 give us? What do you learn from this? (Use your imagination.)
A beast with 7 heads and 10 horns. Each horn has a blasphemous writing on it towards God. Not sure what it means, but 7 is perfection. A perfect demon?
13. Read Dr. Campbell’s paragraph beginning with “The continuing warfare” to the end of the section.
A. How was faithful Israel represented in Isaiah 49:14-26? (Read it)
As a mother composed of her children also.
B. How was unfaithful Israel represents in Ezekiel 16 and Hosea?
As a female figure or a mother composed of her unfaithful children as well. The Lord is very unhappy with Israel and gives it a harsh lecture in Ezekiel! He compare it to Sodom and Samaria, but says it is worse.
14. Idolatry is equated with adultery in Scripture. How does this speak to you?
The things we love, lust, desire, are above the Lord, therefore we commit adultery on Him.
7. Read the paragraph that begins: “The assurance is now given to the saints on earth”.
A. The fact that our suffering parallels Christ should teach us what?
Our suffering parallels Christ’s suffering on the cross. The cross of Christ teaches us that what looked like an apparent defeat was not – it was a victory. So it is with our suffering: far from being a sign of defeat, it is a sign of our victory, because it cannot take away our eternal reward.
B. Why does this long time Satan has to torment us on earth seem short to him?
It seems short to him because it is short, when compared with the eternity he will spend in the lake of fire, and because he, too, does not know the day or hour of the Lord’s return; it could come at any moment.
C. What else stands out to you from this paragraph?
The reassurance that suffering, whether mild or intense, is not a sign of defeat. I often feel discouraged and want to “throw in the towel”, because I feel defeated. I need this reminder that I am not defeated.
D. Paige said “Our sufferings are stepping stones that lead to glory”. How can you see that in your life? Can you give thanks to God for one way you see that?
I’m picturing these stepping stones as crossing this life and going upwards. Stepping stones help you to walk over ground that might be uneven or make you slip and fall. Maybe our stepping stones help to keep us humble, or as Chris puts it, to make us the right size before God. Our suffering helps to transform us more and more into His image, and draws us closer to Him. I can thank God that my suffering never separates me from Him, but only serves to move me even closer.
8. Read Revelation 12:13-17.
A. What stands out to you from your initial reading and why?
This passage clearly states that the dragon, Satan, has declared war on the woman’s children, which is the church, all believers, us, and me.
B. Whom does the dragon pursue when he falls to earth?
He pursued the woman who had given birth to the child.
C. From what you have learned, who does the woman and the male child represent in addition to Mary and Jesus?
The woman represents the restored Israel of the end-times, identified in Revelation as the church. In the OT, Israel is often depicted as “pregnant” and giving birth to the faithful remnant.
D. What was the woman given, where did she fly, and for how long?
She was given two wings like eagle’s wings, and she flew to a place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be cared for, for a time, times, and half a time.
E. What will the dragon do in response to try to overcome her? What will the earth do?
The dragon tries to drown the woman with a gushing river of water coming from its mouth, but the earth helped the woman by swallowing up the water.
F. Whom does the enraged dragon then go after?
He goes after the rest of her children.
G. How have you been nearly swallowed up by the dragon, yet then rescued?
A time of overwhelming grief when my nephew died so tragically, and I was floundering spiritually. God provided Dee, and her online study of her book, The God of All Comfort, which was a lifeline for me.
Many times, I am nearly swallowed up by the accusations and lies of the enemy, telling me that I have no hope, no purpose, I’m a terrible person. When I listen to those lies, I am overwhelmed. God’s truth is what rescues me. I found a new truth to hold on to. Yesterday morning at church, I was looking at the Advent wreath in the front while waiting for the service to begin. I thought about how Advent is a season of waiting for Jesus to arrive. Then I thought, “What if He hadn’t come?” What a terrible thought! But then I thought, “But He did!” I was thanking Him for coming. He came to save, to rescue. He came for me.