In this sermon, Pastor Mark Deering teaches on Revelation chapter 12, using a sports analogy to present it as a “scouting report” on Satan (identified as the dragon in the text). Pastor Mark analyzes the chapter through three sections that depict the woman representing God’s people, the war in heaven resulting in Satan’s expulsion to earth, and Satan’s continued attacks on believers. He makes three key points: Satan is a master deceiver who misleads even faithful Christians through misconceptions about his power and nature, Satan has already decisively lost through Christ’s cross victory and heavenly defeat, making believers victorious, and Satan actively targets Jesus’ followers on earth. He concludes by urging us to recognize where we’ve been deceived, maintain a victorious rather than fearful posture, and remain aware of spiritual warfare while standing firm through prayer and community.
Reflection Questions
- “What stuck out from the message? What did you find challenging and encouraging? Did you learn anything new?
- What are some contrasts between the dragon, the woman, and Jesus/the Lamb from this chapter and earlier chapters in Revelation?
- What are the dragon’s goals, and how does he operate?
- Where do you see similar tactics from the dragon in this chapter in your life or the world today?
- What spiritual practice(s) help you stay grounded in Christ during temptation and remind you that Jesus has already won the battle?
- Take time this week to reflect on how you are being fooled:
- What areas of your life are you being fooled by the schemes of the dragon?
- How would you describe your posture in the last few weeks? What has contributed to that posture? What steps can you take this week to grow in your encouragement that Jesus has already won?
- Are you aware of how the Church is being targeted, either on a local or global level?
- The book of Revelation is intended to bring hope and encouragement to the Church. How do this passage bring hope and encouragement?”
