Revelation 12:7-9 NIV
Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.
Satan’s Rebellion and Deception
Revelation 12:7-9 describes the war in heaven, where Satan and his followers were cast down to earth. Jesus affirmed this fall, saying, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven” (Luke 10:18). Even now, Satan works to deceive and lead us away from God. He disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14) and prowls like a roaring lion, seeking to devour (1 Peter 5:8). But Scripture assures us of his final defeat—eternal punishment in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10).
Is our rebellion against God today any different from Satan’s?
We often live as if God does not see our thoughts and actions, yet Matthew 12:36-37 warns that we will give an account for every careless word we speak. Hebrews 4:13 reminds us that nothing is hidden from God’s sight, and Hebrews 10:26-27 warns that if we continue in sin after knowing the truth, only judgment remains.
Are you merely a Sunday benchwarmer—attending church and participating in activities without truly being the Church? God calls us to more than just outward religion; He desires transformation through His Word and the Holy Spirit. What does that transformation look like? Romans 6:11-23 explains that when we profess to follow Christ, our old self—the flesh—dies. Our desires and will no longer control us; instead, we are called to live in the power of Christ’s resurrection, free from the bondage of sin.
Are you living a resurrected life, or are you still enslaved by sin? Jesus sees and knows everything—there’s no use pretending. Are you lukewarm, trying to hold onto both the world and Jesus? If so, repent before His return. He warns in Revelation 3:15-16 that He will spit out the lukewarm, just as He warned the church of Laodicea.
God wants all of you—your soul, mind, and body. As we prepare to celebrate Palm Sunday, reflect on this: What does Jesus’ journey to the cross mean to you? Jesus is ready to free your soul from Satan’s schemes, but are you ready to surrender? Persisting in rebellion means aligning with His enemies. Let us choose obedience, fully surrender to Him, and walk in His grace.
