“Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back” (Revelation 12:7 NIV).
It’s important to note the participants in this conflict: “…Michael and his angels battled with the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back” (Phillips). This reminds us that Satan (or “the dragon” as he is referred to in this passage), is not God’s equal. Instead, a more accurate comparison would involve Michael, the archangel, along with the other angels mentioned in this passage.
The Old Testament book of the prophet Daniel may offer some additional insight into this period when it tells us, “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then” (Daniels 12:1 NIV). That battle will end with a decisive blow…
“And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. This great dragon–the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world–was thrown down to the earth with all his angels” (Revelation 12:8-9 NLT).
This passage employs several descriptive phrases with respect to this great spiritual enemy…
- Dragon. One dictionary reference to the word “dragon” includes the following definition: “Something very formidable or dangerous.” (1) This aligns with the warning given to us in 1 Peter 5:8: “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (NLT).
- Serpent or “snake.” In the context of human relationships, the word “snake” describes a deceitful, underhanded, or treacherous individual. But in this case, these words are not merely descriptive of Satan’s conduct; they form the very basis of his character.
- Devil. The word “devil” refers to a “false accuser,” and finds its origin in a word that means “slanderer.” (2)
- Satan. The name “Satan” means “adversary.” (3)
Finally, these verses add one additional descriptive phrase in speaking of the one “…who deceives the whole world” (NET). So we can include “deception” to this list of negative characteristics as well.
The Biblical book of Job suggests that the devil, even in his fallen state, retained some degree of access to the heavenly realm (see Job 1:6-10 for an example). But that time has come to an end, as chronicled here in verses eight and nine. As we’ll see over the next few verses, this new reality will lead to a period of rejoicing for the inhabitants of heaven. But what was good news for them will mean something very different for the world’s inhabitants.
(1) dragon. (n.d.) American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. (2011). Retrieved February 14 2025 from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/dragon
(2) G1228 – diabolos – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (kjv). (n.d.). Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1228/kjv/tr/0-1/
(3) G4567 – satanas – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (rsv). (n.d.). Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4567/rsv/mgnt/0-1/