- Home
- Bible
- Revelation
- Chapter 12
- Verse 12
Revelation 12:17
Verse
Context
The Woman Persecuted
16But the earth helped the woman and opened its mouth to swallow up the river that had poured from the dragon’s mouth. 17And the dragon was enraged at the woman, and went to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And the dragon was wroth with the woman - The heathen party, foiled in their subtle attempt to destroy Christianity, were greatly enraged, and endeavored to excite the hatred of the multitude against the religion of Jesus. "They alleged that before the coming of Christ the world was blessed with peace and prosperity; but that since the progress of their religion everywhere, the gods, filled with indignation to see their worship neglected and their altars abandoned, had visited the earth with those plagues and desolations which increased every day." See Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History, cent. V., part 1, and other works on this subject. Went to make war with the remnant of her seed - The dragon απηλθε, departed, i.e., into the wilderness, whither the woman had fled; and in another form commenced a new species of persecution, directed only against the remnant of her seed, who keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. See on Rev 13:13 of the following chapter (note) for an illustration of this remarkable passage.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
wroth with--Greek, "at." went--Greek, "went away." the remnant of her seed--distinct in some sense from the woman herself. Satan's first effort was to root out the Christian Church, so that there should be no visible profession of Christianity. Foiled in this, he wars (Rev 11:7; Rev 13:7) against the invisible Church, namely, "those who keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus" (A, B, and C omit "Christ"). These are "the remnant," or rest of her seed, as distinguished from her seed, "the man-child" (Rev 12:5), on one hand, and from mere professors on the other. The Church, in her beauty and unity (Israel at the head of Christendom, the whole forming one perfect Church), is now not manifested, but awaiting the manifestations of the sons of God at Christ's coming. Unable to destroy Christianity and the Church as a whole, Satan directs his enmity against true Christians, the elect remnant: the others he leaves unmolested. Next: Revelation Chapter 13
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the dragon was wroth with the woman,.... The devil was very angry with the church, because he could not destroy her by the Arian persecution he had raised; and because he could not carry her away with the flood, either of errors and heresies, or of the barbarous nations; and because he could not, by any means, come at her, and indeed did not well know where she was, a place being prepared for her of God in the wilderness, where she was taken care of: wherefore he took another method as follows, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed; which refers to the war the beast, to whom he gave his power, seat, and authority, is said to make with the saints; and which was entered into and carried on by his instigation, of which there is an account in the following chapter: the persons with whom he went to make war are described as "her seed"; the seed of the church, her spiritual offspring, the sons and daughters she brought forth to Christ; between which seed, and Satan and his seed, there always was an enmity: and these are "the remnant" of her seed, a few persons scattered up and down, a remnant according to the election of grace; who were not in bodies, or in church states, regularly formed, as heretofore, but in private families, and some here, and some there; and who were called out to bear a testimony for Christ in corrupt times: and these are further described as such who keep the commandments of God: and not the traditions of men: nor are the commands of the moral law of God so much designed, though it is true that these were kept by the seed of the church; but rather the ordinances of the Gospel, the commands of God our Saviour, such as baptism and the Lord's supper; which were kept by these faithful ones, as they had been delivered, when they began now to be sadly corrupted by the antichristian party: and have the testimony of Jesus Christ; the Gospel, which is a testimony concerning him; See Gill on Rev 1:2. This they had in their hearts, a spiritual knowledge and saving experience of it; and this they had in their hands, they made a profession of it, they held it forth, and held it fast; all which was the reason of Satan's enmity against them, and war with them. Next: Revelation Chapter 13
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:17 The dragon turns his hostility against the woman’s children (believers) who keep God’s commandments and continue in their testimony for Jesus.
Revelation 12:17
The Woman Persecuted
16But the earth helped the woman and opened its mouth to swallow up the river that had poured from the dragon’s mouth. 17And the dragon was enraged at the woman, and went to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus. And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
War in Heaven
By David Wilkerson5.8K55:40MAT 24:22ROM 9:28REV 12:7REV 12:15REV 12:17REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being ready for the return of Jesus Christ. He uses the analogy of a house on fire to illustrate the urgency of the situation. The preacher warns against being deceived and encourages the audience to be steadfast in their faith. He also references Romans 9 and highlights the idea that God will finish the work and cut it short in righteousness. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God has a plan and that the battle against Satan will ultimately be won by God.
(Excerpt) the Great Falling Away
By Milton Green3.0K04:31Falling AwayMAT 15:3MRK 7:8MRK 7:13REV 12:17REV 14:12In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of the falling away from the faith in the last days. He criticizes the church for prioritizing their traditions over the commandments of God. He refers to this church as a poor harlot-bablin church that glorifies and boasts in worldly achievements. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holding to the testimony of Jesus and following the commandments of God, rather than teaching the opinions of men.
(Revelation) Part 2 the Desolation in Isreal
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:09:44IsrealMAT 2:1MAT 2:16REV 12:1REV 12:9REV 12:17REV 19:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the battle between good and evil as described in the book of Revelation. He focuses on the imagery of a woman clothed with the sun and a great red dragon with seven heads and ten horns. The speaker emphasizes the importance of fellowship and agreement with God, as symbolized by the number three representing the Trinity. He also mentions the significance of numbers in biblical interpretation, such as four representing the whole world and seven representing perfection. The sermon concludes with a reference to the story of the wise men visiting Jesus, highlighting the importance of recognizing Jesus as the central figure.
K-470 Signs of the Times
By Art Katz1.4K1:03:37End TimesACT 7:55REV 12:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the rapid and unexpected changes happening in the world, particularly in Eastern Europe. He emphasizes how our lives have become consumed with materialism and the constant need for more. The speaker also highlights the negative impact of this consumerist culture on the younger generation, who are becoming culturally illiterate and lacking critical thinking skills. He warns that this societal decline and the rise of anarchy will ultimately lead to a global imposition of a repressive system known as the beast system.
Testimony of Jesus - Reality of the Testimony
By Stephen Kaung1.3K36:32TestimonyMAT 16:24GAL 2:20REV 1:17REV 12:1REV 12:7REV 12:11REV 12:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the testimony of Jesus and its significance in opening the way for the return of the king. The sermon mentions that there will be war in heaven, with Satan and his angels fighting against Satan and his followers. Satan is eventually thrown down to earth. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having a vision of the risen Lord and the privilege of having the testimony of Jesus. The sermon also mentions the costliness of having the testimony of Jesus and the challenges that the Church of God faces in bringing forth its purpose.
The 1st Vision: The Testimony of Jesus
By Stephen Kaung1.1K1:06:04TestimonyREV 1:1REV 1:9REV 6:9REV 11:7REV 12:17REV 19:10REV 20:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the testimony of Jesus Christ as revealed in the book of Revelation. The speaker highlights that it is God's pleasure and duty to reveal his Son to us through the Holy Spirit. However, the speaker also points out that many people receive little of this revelation due to their lack of faithfulness. The theme of the book of Revelation is not just about future events, but rather the spirit of prophecy and the testimony of Jesus.
The Day of the Seventh Angel
By Robert B. Thompson5961:09:47PSA 119:105ISA 60:13MAT 22:37ROM 16:20REV 10:1REV 12:17In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the congregation to be vigilant and alert in the face of conflict in the coming year. He emphasizes the importance of putting on the whole armor of God to stand against evil. The preacher then discusses the issue of seeking power in the charismatic movement, stating that what is truly needed is a desire for God rather than just power. He concludes by highlighting the significance of God's power and the need for a genuine relationship with Him.
Refuse to Be Intimidated by the Error of Replacement Theology
By Mike Bickle401:15:20Replacement TheologyIsrael's Role in God's PlanISA 60:1JOL 3:2MAT 21:43ACT 3:19ROM 11:1ROM 11:11ROM 11:18ROM 11:22GAL 3:29REV 12:17Mike Bickle addresses the issue of replacement theology, urging pastors and believers to overcome the intimidation surrounding discussions about Israel's significance in God's plan. He emphasizes that many church leaders have been silenced by historical theological errors and encourages them to embrace the biblical narrative that affirms Israel's ongoing role in God's purposes. Bickle highlights the recent surge in prayer for Israel among Gentile believers as a pivotal moment in church history, calling for a deeper understanding and engagement with the topic. He warns against the dangers of replacement theology, which has led to anti-Semitism and a lack of preparedness in the church for the end times. Ultimately, he calls for unity and love between Gentiles and Jews as part of God's grand design.
The Battle for Jerusalem: Litmus Test for the End-Time Church
By Mike Bickle221:08:26The Battle for JerusalemEnd Times ProphecyJER 31:7DAN 12:1ZEC 14:2MAT 5:14MAT 23:37ACT 3:19ROM 11:11EPH 5:27REV 12:17REV 19:11Mike Bickle emphasizes the spiritual and military significance of the battle for Jerusalem, asserting that it is a pivotal conflict in the end times that will determine the fate of nations and the church. He explains that Jesus will return as a military leader to reclaim Jerusalem, and this battle is intrinsically linked to Satan's ultimate fate of imprisonment. Bickle calls for believers to engage in this spiritual battle, highlighting the necessity for the church to stand firm in their faith and support God's purposes for Israel. He warns that the battle will force every individual to make a choice regarding their allegiance to Christ, ultimately leading to the purification of the church and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Satan's War Against the Church
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfareGod's GracePSA 38:1PSA 69:1ECC 3:12CO 10:3REV 12:17REV 13:7David Wilkerson emphasizes that in the last days, Satan will wage war against the Church, targeting the remnant of believers who uphold God's commandments and the testimony of Jesus. He explains that this spiritual warfare is not just a collective battle but also a personal struggle for each believer, who must rely on God's grace and mercy during their private conflicts. Wilkerson highlights the importance of recognizing the spiritual nature of this warfare, as the weapons we fight with are not of the flesh but are divine in nature. He encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, drawing strength from God's lovingkindness, especially during times of personal trials. The sermon serves as a reminder that while we may face various battles, God's grace is always sufficient to see us through.
The New Anti-Semitism
By Art Katz0Anti-SemitismVigilance in FaithGEN 12:3DEU 28:10PSA 83:4ISA 54:17JER 30:7EZK 37:21ZEC 2:8MAT 24:9ROM 11:1REV 12:17Art Katz addresses the alarming rise of anti-Semitism, which he describes as 'the new anti-Semitism,' highlighting its resurgence in mainstream society, including universities and social movements. He notes that this form of anti-Semitism is not only more widespread but also more accepted, with individuals openly expressing hostility towards Israel and the Jewish people. Katz draws parallels to historical events, warning that societal attitudes can shift dramatically and rapidly, as seen in Nazi Germany. He emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparedness as these sentiments become more commonplace, suggesting that we are approaching a critical time for the Jewish people, referred to as the Time of Jacob's Trouble.
Day 250, Revelation 12
By David Servant0DAN 7:25MAT 24:15REV 12:5REV 12:10REV 12:13REV 12:17David Servant delves into Revelation's chapter on the devil's history in relation to Israel, highlighting the symbolic representation of Israel through the unnamed woman and her child, who is Christ. The chapter portrays Satan as a dragon, the accuser of the brethren, and a persecutor of Israel, with references to end-times governments and political leaders under his influence. Satan's expulsion from heaven and future persecution of Israel are discussed, along with the divine assistance provided to some of Israel's descendants during this time of tribulation.
Epistle 91
By George Fox0JER 23:32MAT 7:6JHN 1:4JHN 16:22PE 2:1JUD 1:19REV 12:17REV 13:6George Fox preaches about the signs of the end times and the presence of false prophets, deceivers, and mockers who lead people astray with their ungodly ways and teachings. He warns against those who seek personal gain, manipulate the words of God, and persecute the followers of Christ. Fox emphasizes the importance of discernment and staying true to the light and life of God amidst the darkness and deception of the world.
Epistle 234
By George Fox0ISA 9:6ISA 50:6JHN 3:201CO 13:7EPH 4:1EPH 6:10COL 1:13COL 2:81PE 3:18REV 12:17George Fox preaches about the importance of patience, love, and meekness in overcoming evil inventions, traditions, and self-righteousness. He emphasizes the victory of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, over unclean spirits and the importance of following His example of suffering and forgiveness. Fox encourages putting on courage, patience, and loyalty to the King who conquered all, walking in righteousness, peace, and truth, and feeling the power of God working within. He highlights the power of God that brings peace, unity, and strength, enabling believers to overcome darkness and be filled with revelation and inspiration.
Epistle 291
By George Fox0GEN 2:18GEN 3:16ACT 9:36ACT 18:241CO 7:141CO 14:34COL 2:61TH 5:20TIT 2:3REV 12:17George Fox preaches about the importance of women in the church, highlighting their roles as disciples, prophetesses, teachers, and elders. He emphasizes that women are to be obedient to Christ, prophesy, and keep the comely order of the gospel just like men. Fox encourages women to take their possession in the gospel order, walk in Christ Jesus, and fulfill their stewardship in the Lord. He also addresses the significance of elder women, referring to them as mothers in the church who nurture, teach, and admonish others in spiritual matters.
The Laws of Paradise
By Jane Lead02CO 10:3EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 5:8REV 12:17Jane Lead, a Paradisiacal inhabitant, resists the temptations and threats of the King-Crowned Beast, standing firm in her commitment to the Laws of Wisdom. Despite the opposition and seduction, she rejects the false laws and dominion of the Beast, choosing to adhere to the divine laws of Wisdom. She boldly defies the Beast's attempts to sway her, knowing that her allegiance lies with the Virgin Wisdom and the principles of the Paradisiacal Kingdom.
Consideration of a Position Conc. the Book of Common Prayer
By Isaac Penington0JHN 17:161CO 1:272CO 4:7REV 12:17REV 17:2Isaac Penington preaches about the kingdom, laws, and government of Christ in the heart and conscience, emphasizing the inoffensiveness of this spiritual kingdom to all just laws and governments of the kingdoms of men. He highlights the importance of being subject to the Spirit of Christ, following His leadings faithfully, and living in obedience to His righteous laws written in the heart. Penington warns about the false church and ministry set up by the power of the dragon, urging rulers, teachers, and people to consider their ways, worship, and ministry to avoid being deceived by antichristian influences. He emphasizes the need for humility, surrender to God's will, and discernment of the true Spirit of Christ in the midst of religious deceptions and worldly wisdom.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And the dragon was wroth with the woman - The heathen party, foiled in their subtle attempt to destroy Christianity, were greatly enraged, and endeavored to excite the hatred of the multitude against the religion of Jesus. "They alleged that before the coming of Christ the world was blessed with peace and prosperity; but that since the progress of their religion everywhere, the gods, filled with indignation to see their worship neglected and their altars abandoned, had visited the earth with those plagues and desolations which increased every day." See Mosheim's Ecclesiastical History, cent. V., part 1, and other works on this subject. Went to make war with the remnant of her seed - The dragon απηλθε, departed, i.e., into the wilderness, whither the woman had fled; and in another form commenced a new species of persecution, directed only against the remnant of her seed, who keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. See on Rev 13:13 of the following chapter (note) for an illustration of this remarkable passage.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
wroth with--Greek, "at." went--Greek, "went away." the remnant of her seed--distinct in some sense from the woman herself. Satan's first effort was to root out the Christian Church, so that there should be no visible profession of Christianity. Foiled in this, he wars (Rev 11:7; Rev 13:7) against the invisible Church, namely, "those who keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus" (A, B, and C omit "Christ"). These are "the remnant," or rest of her seed, as distinguished from her seed, "the man-child" (Rev 12:5), on one hand, and from mere professors on the other. The Church, in her beauty and unity (Israel at the head of Christendom, the whole forming one perfect Church), is now not manifested, but awaiting the manifestations of the sons of God at Christ's coming. Unable to destroy Christianity and the Church as a whole, Satan directs his enmity against true Christians, the elect remnant: the others he leaves unmolested. Next: Revelation Chapter 13
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the dragon was wroth with the woman,.... The devil was very angry with the church, because he could not destroy her by the Arian persecution he had raised; and because he could not carry her away with the flood, either of errors and heresies, or of the barbarous nations; and because he could not, by any means, come at her, and indeed did not well know where she was, a place being prepared for her of God in the wilderness, where she was taken care of: wherefore he took another method as follows, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed; which refers to the war the beast, to whom he gave his power, seat, and authority, is said to make with the saints; and which was entered into and carried on by his instigation, of which there is an account in the following chapter: the persons with whom he went to make war are described as "her seed"; the seed of the church, her spiritual offspring, the sons and daughters she brought forth to Christ; between which seed, and Satan and his seed, there always was an enmity: and these are "the remnant" of her seed, a few persons scattered up and down, a remnant according to the election of grace; who were not in bodies, or in church states, regularly formed, as heretofore, but in private families, and some here, and some there; and who were called out to bear a testimony for Christ in corrupt times: and these are further described as such who keep the commandments of God: and not the traditions of men: nor are the commands of the moral law of God so much designed, though it is true that these were kept by the seed of the church; but rather the ordinances of the Gospel, the commands of God our Saviour, such as baptism and the Lord's supper; which were kept by these faithful ones, as they had been delivered, when they began now to be sadly corrupted by the antichristian party: and have the testimony of Jesus Christ; the Gospel, which is a testimony concerning him; See Gill on Rev 1:2. This they had in their hearts, a spiritual knowledge and saving experience of it; and this they had in their hands, they made a profession of it, they held it forth, and held it fast; all which was the reason of Satan's enmity against them, and war with them. Next: Revelation Chapter 13
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:17 The dragon turns his hostility against the woman’s children (believers) who keep God’s commandments and continue in their testimony for Jesus.