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Revelation 12:9
Verse
Context
Sermons
Zac Poonen
J. Vernon McGee
Ralph Sexton
Willie Mullan
Brian BrodersenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Rev 12:9 per Adam Clarke That old serpent - The rabbins speak much of this being, sometimes under the notion of יצר הרע yetser hara, the evil principle, and sometimes Samael. He was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him - This is very like a saying in the book Bahir, in Sohar Gen., fol. 27, col. 107: "And God cast out Samael and his troops from the place of their holiness." Rev 12:9 per John Edward Clarke And the great dragon was cast out, etc. - By the terms Devil and Satan mentioned in this verse, Pareus, Faber, and many other commentators, understand literally the great spiritual enemy of mankind. But this view of the passage cannot be correct, from the circumstance that it is the dragon which is thus called. Now, if by the dragon be meant the devil, then use are necessarily led to this conclusion, that the great apostate spirit is a monster, having seven heads and ten horns; and also that he has a tail, with which he drags after him the third part of the stars of heaven. The appellations, old serpent, devil, and Satan, must, therefore, be understood figuratively. The heathen power is called that old serpent which deceived the whole world, from its subtlety against the Christians, and its causing the whole Roman world, as far as it was in its power, to embrace the absurdities of paganism. It is called the devil, from its continual false accusations and slanders against the true worshippers of God, for the devil is a liar from the beginning; and it is also called Satan, שטן, which is a Hebrew word signifying an adversary, from its frequent persecutions of the Christian Church. The dragon and his angels are said to be cast out, which is more than was said in the preceding verse. There mention is made of his being found no longer in heaven, or on the throne of the Roman empire, here he is entirely cast out from all offices of trust in the empire; his religion is first only tolerated, and then totally abolished, by the imperial power. This great event was not the work of a reign; it took up many years, for it had to contend with the deep-rooted prejudices of the heathen, who to the very last endeavored to uphold their declining superstition. Paganism received several mortal strokes in the time of Constantine and his sons Constans and Constantius. It was farther reduced by the great zeal of Jovian, Valentinian, and Valens; and was finally suppressed by the edicts of Gratian, Theodosius I., and his successors. It was not till a.d. 388 that Rome itself, the residence of the emperor, was generally reformed from the absurdities of paganism; but the total suppression of paganism soon followed the conversion of the metropolitan city, and about a.d. 395 the dragon may be considered, in an eminent sense, to have been cast into the earth, that is, into a state of utter subjection to the ruling dynasty of Christian emperors.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
that old serpent--alluding to Gen 3:1, Gen 3:4. Devil--the Greek, for "accuser," or "slanderer." Satan--the Hebrew for "adversary," especially in a court of justice. The twofold designation, Greek and Hebrew, marks the twofold objects of his accusations and temptations, the elect Gentiles and the elect Jews. world--Greek, "habitable world."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the great dragon was cast out,.... From heaven, or from power and authority in the Roman empire, namely, the devil, where he had long presided; it is observable that Constantine himself speaks of "the dragon" being removed from the government of the commonwealth by the providence of God, and by the ministry, or means of him (m); and he had his own effigies on a table placed before the porch of his palace, with the cross over his head, and a dragon under his feet thrust through with darts, and falling headlong (n); the old serpent; who is so called, because, of old, from the beginning, almost as soon as the world was, he appeared in the form of a serpent, or rather made use of it as an instrument and means, by which he seduced Eve, and so brought on the ruin of mankind, it is very usual with the Jews to call the devil , "the old serpent" (o); wherefore John uses this phrase as a known one, to explain who was meant by the great dragon: called the devil and Satan; the first of these names signifies an accuser, and a forger of calumnies, and such is the old serpent; he accuses God to men, as if he was envious of their happiness, as in the case of our first parents, and of men to God, of which there is an instance in the case of Job; and hence he is in Rev 12:10 called the accuser of the brethren; and the latter of them signifies an enemy, one that is filled with hatred and enmity to God and Christ, and to his church and people, whose adversary he is said to be, and at whose right hand he stands to resist, as he did Joshua the high priest: which deceiveth the whole world; which he did by deceiving our first parents, from whom all mankind spring, and in whose loins they were when they were deceived; so the Jews say (p) of the old serpent, that , "he deceives the whole world"; and so he deceived and corrupted the old world before the flood; and so he seduces every age and generation of men in the world; but here the Roman empire, sometimes called all the world, as in Luk 2:1, is meant, whom Satan deceived by drawing it into idolatry and superstition; he was cast out into the earth; he was cast out of the Roman empire, from the rule of it, and worship in it, the Heathen gods and Heathen emperors being no more; when he possessed and instigated, and influenced the Huns, Goths, and Vandals, a meaner and baser sort of people, hereafter in this chapter called the earth, which is said to help the woman, contrary to the intention of Satan; the phrase denotes the greatness of the fall of Satan, his loss of power, and the meanness and low estate of the persons he afterwards had the power of, both the savage people before mentioned, and the antichristian party: and his angels were cast out with him; the Heathen emperors, magistrates, priests, and other votaries of his, which he made use of as instruments to do his will. (m) Euseb. de Vita Constantini, l. 2. c. 46. (n) Ib. l. 3. c. 3. (o) T. Bab. Sota, fol. 9. 2. & Sanhedrin, fol. 29. 1. Imre Binah in Zohar in Gen. fol. 3. 1. & 15. 2. & passim, Raya Mehimna in Zohar in Exod. fol. 50. 1. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 7. 3. & 8. 2. & 26. 3. & 46. 1. & Caphtor, fol. 101. 2. (p) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 13. 3.
Revelation 12:9
The War in Heaven
8But the dragon was not strong enough, and no longer was any place found in heaven for him and his angels.9And the great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Blood Covenant) the Mark of God or the Mark of the Beast - 2
By Milton Green4.7K1:08:02Blood CovenantMAT 24:27MRK 13:222PE 1:42PE 2:1REV 12:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of possessing the land and entering into God's rest. He emphasizes the need to fear falling short of this promise and encourages the audience to set their minds on things above. The preacher also warns against being deceived by false signs and images, referencing the book of Revelation. He concludes by urging the listeners to listen to the entire series of teachings in order to fully understand the message.
8 Ways to Deceive Ourselves
By Zac Poonen3.8K1:00:531CO 3:182CO 11:3GAL 6:7JAS 1:22JAS 1:261JN 1:8REV 12:9
This sermon emphasizes the dangers of self-deception, focusing on the need to be vigilant against deception in various aspects of our lives. It highlights the importance of humility, being prepared to address conflicts, controlling our speech, and acknowledging our sinful nature. The message underscores the significance of being doers of God's word, recognizing the impact of our actions and words, and avoiding self-deception by staying grounded in truth.
(Genesis) Genesis 3 Introduction
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K06:34GenesisGEN 3:12CO 11:14REV 12:9REV 20:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the temptation and fall of man in the Garden of Eden. He starts by mentioning that man is a responsible creature and introduces the serpent as a creature used by Satan. The preacher then delves into the setting of the temptation, highlighting the subtlety of the serpent and questioning why it approached the woman instead of the man. He explains that the woman received her information from the man and emphasizes that man was created innocent, not righteous. The preacher also mentions that the serpent's origin and transformation can be found in Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28.
Now Do You Believe God?
By Ralph Sexton2.0K39:56BelieveGEN 3:15ROM 3:14ROM 16:20REV 12:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the imminent return of the Lord. He believes that society has become too focused on materialism, which has caused a loss of love for God and the Bible. The preacher references the story of Adam and Eve and how their sin brought about consequences such as broken fellowship with God, pain in childbirth, and the need to work for food. He also mentions the recent natural disasters and the biblical prophecies that have been fulfilled, suggesting that these events are signs of the approaching end times. The preacher urges the congregation to love and reach out to the lost, and to actively serve in the church in anticipation of Christ's return.
Eight Ways of Deceiving Ourselves - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.6K09:59MAT 24:242CO 11:32TH 2:9REV 12:9REV 20:2REV 20:7
This sermon delves into the theme of deception as highlighted in 2 Corinthians 11 and Revelation, emphasizing how deception has been a tool of the enemy from the beginning with Eve and will continue until the end times. It explores the concept of self-deception and warns about the prevalence of deception even among believers, stressing the need for discernment and reliance on God's mercy to avoid falling into deception.
(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.
The First Gospel Message
By Brian Brodersen1.3K27:57Gospel MessageGEN 3:15MAT 6:33JHN 1:1ROM 5:122CO 5:20HEB 4:12REV 12:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses various topics related to the existence and nature of God. They explore the idea that it is reasonable to believe in God and delve into the concept of God becoming a man. The speaker also emphasizes that humans have been created in the image of God. They then focus on the fall of humanity and the explanation of what went wrong in the world according to the Bible. The sermon concludes with a message about the gospel being preached to the first two people and the importance of accepting Jesus as the payment for our sins.
Freedom of Spirit - Part 5
By Norman Grubb69109:30GEN 3:1JHN 8:44JHN 14:91JN 4:4REV 12:9
This sermon delves into the concept of how our lives are meant to be reflections of God's character, emphasizing the choice between being self-centered or selfless. It explores the deception of Satan in making us believe that our actions stem from ourselves when in reality, it is either the spirit of error or the spirit of truth working through us. The importance lies in understanding that our sins are a result of aligning with the wrong deity, and the need to recognize the true producer of our actions.
The Driving Force of Satan
By Danny Bond62044:19GEN 37:9MAT 6:33LUK 15:20REV 12:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Revelation and its significance in understanding God's goodness and love. He emphasizes that God runs to forgive when we come to him for forgiveness. The sermon also delves into the symbolism and crisscross of time in Revelation, highlighting the importance of verse-by-verse teaching to correct false thinking and theology. The preacher then focuses on three key elements in Revelation: the woman, the dragon, and the male child, explaining their significance in the biblical context.
Therefore, Be Serious
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual WarfareVigilance in FaithMAT 4:1LUK 22:31JHN 10:102CO 2:11EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the urgency of being serious in our spiritual lives, warning that those who follow Jesus are marked by Satan for destruction. He cites 1 Peter 4:7, urging believers to be sober-minded and vigilant in prayer as the end times approach and the enemy intensifies his attacks. Wilkerson highlights the reality of the devil, countering the notion that he can be ignored or reasoned away, and stresses the importance of recognizing his presence and tactics. The sermon calls for Christians to resist the devil with steadfast faith, as outlined in 1 Peter 5:8-9, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Ultimately, it is a call to take our spiritual battles seriously and to remain alert in our faith.
(Know Your Enemy) 5. the Methods of Satan
By Zac Poonen0Spiritual WarfareTemptationGEN 3:1MAT 4:1REV 12:9Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity for young people to understand and resist the methods of Satan, who begins his attacks early in life. He warns against the common misconceptions of Satan's appearance and tactics, explaining that he often comes disguised as an 'angel of light' to deceive. Poonen illustrates how Jesus confronted Satan's temptations with Scripture, highlighting the importance of knowing God's Word to overcome the enemy's schemes. He urges listeners to recognize the subtle ways Satan tempts them, particularly through legitimate desires pursued in illegitimate ways, and to prioritize God's Word above all else. Ultimately, Poonen calls for repentance and a commitment to follow Jesus' example in resisting temptation.
Snake Handlers
By David Wilkerson0Faith in ActionSpiritual ProtectionECC 10:8MRK 16:18LUK 11:11LUK 14:23REV 12:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of taking risks for Christ, likening the challenges faced by believers to handling serpents. He points out that while the wicked are like poisonous serpents, Jesus assures us that we can overcome these dangers through faith. Wilkerson highlights the importance of being spiritually protected from the world's poison as we engage in soul-winning, reminding us that the Holy Spirit cleanses and empowers us. He encourages believers to step out boldly into the world, trusting in God's promise of safety and protection. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a fearless approach to evangelism, grounded in the assurance of Christ's power.
The Introduction; With a Particular Consideration of That First Prophecy, Respecting the Messiah, Recorded in Genesis 3:15.
By John Gill0ProphecyRedemptionGEN 3:15ISA 7:14LUK 1:70LUK 24:27JHN 5:39ACT 10:43ACT 26:22HEB 2:141PE 1:10REV 12:9John Gill emphasizes the significance of the first prophecy regarding the Messiah found in Genesis 3:15, which foretells the enmity between the serpent and the woman's seed. He explains that this prophecy not only highlights the coming of Jesus Christ but also affirms the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the New Testament, reinforcing the truth of the Christian faith. Gill discusses the nature of the serpent as a representation of Satan and the implications of the curse pronounced upon it, illustrating the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and evil. He asserts that the Messiah's role includes the forgiveness of sins and the destruction of Satan's power, which is central to the gospel message. The sermon concludes by affirming that the promise of salvation was made immediately after the fall, showcasing God's grace and plan for redemption.
1 John 2:2
By A.W. Pink0AtonementAssurance of SalvationISA 53:11ISA 64:10JHN 11:51ROM 1:8ROM 3:25GAL 2:9COL 1:5HEB 2:171JN 2:2REV 12:9A.W. Pink examines 1 John 2:2, arguing against the interpretation that Christ's propitiation is universal for all humanity. He emphasizes that the verse is specifically addressing believers, particularly Jewish believers, and that the term 'whole world' refers to Gentile believers as well. Pink asserts that the atonement is effective and not a failure, as it is designed to accomplish God's purpose without ambiguity. He warns against the implications of a universal atonement that could undermine the assurance of salvation for believers. Ultimately, Pink calls for a return to the biblical understanding of Christ's propitiation as limited to those who have faith.
When He Was but a Young Serpent
By Thomas Brooks0Vigilance Against TemptationSpiritual WarfareEPH 6:11REV 12:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the cunning and envious nature of Satan, who has spent ages perfecting his traps to ensnare the souls of men. He warns Christians to be vigilant and spiritually aware, as Satan's snares can come in various forms and at any time. Brooks encourages believers to seek heavenly wisdom, maintain close communion with God, and rely on the strength provided by Jesus to resist temptation. He highlights the importance of prayer as a powerful weapon against the devil's schemes. Ultimately, Brooks calls for a proactive approach to spiritual warfare, urging Christians to be armed and ready to stand firm against the enemy.
I. the Origin of the Tempter
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareThe Nature of TemptationGEN 3:5ISA 14:13JHN 14:302CO 4:4EPH 2:21TI 3:61PE 5:82PE 2:4REV 2:9REV 12:9Watchman Nee explores the origin of the tempter, revealing that he was once a beautiful and wise creature who fell from grace by aspiring to be equal with God. This pride led to his judgment and the establishment of his kingdom, where he tempts humanity with the allure of becoming like gods. Nee emphasizes the importance of recognizing the tempter's various names and roles, as well as the reality of his influence in the world today. He warns Christians to remain vigilant against pride and to fully embrace Christ as their identity to avoid falling into the same judgment as the devil. Ultimately, Nee calls for a deeper understanding of the tempter's tactics and the need for believers to be watchful and discerning.
Of the Sin and Fall of Our First Parents.
By John Gill0SinFree WillGEN 2:17GEN 3:6LAM 3:37ACT 2:23ROM 5:122CO 11:31TI 2:13JAS 1:151PE 1:20REV 12:9John Gill preaches on the sin and fall of Adam and Eve, emphasizing how they transgressed God's command and fell from their original state of integrity into sin and misery. He explains that Eve was deceived by the serpent and, despite her initial innocence, succumbed to temptation, leading Adam to also sin by heeding her. Gill highlights that their fall was not caused by God or Satan directly, but rather by their own choices and desires, illustrating the nature of free will and the consequences of disobedience. He stresses that while God foreknew their sin, He did not compel them to sin, and that Adam's transgression has lasting implications for all humanity. The sermon serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's word and the dangers of temptation.
The Soul and Deception
By T. Austin-Sparks0DeceptionSpiritual UnderstandingGEN 3:1ROM 8:201CO 2:142CO 4:4GAL 2:201TI 4:1JAS 3:15REV 12:9REV 20:3REV 20:10T. Austin-Sparks addresses the pervasive nature of deception in humanity, tracing its roots back to the Fall and emphasizing that enlightenment through civilization and education has only deepened this deception. He explains that man, by nature, is deceived and often unaware of his condition, likening it to a disease that distorts perception and understanding. The sermon highlights the role of the Deceiver, Satan, who exploits the soul's desires and independence from God, leading to a false existence and tragic disillusionment. Sparks warns that reliance on one's own intellect, emotions, or will can open the door to further deception, urging believers to submit to God's authority and the community of the Church to safeguard against these dangers. Ultimately, he emphasizes the necessity of spiritual understanding and the transformative power of the Cross in overcoming deception.
Of Evil Angels
By John Wesley0Spiritual WarfareThe Nature of EvilPSA 91:11MAT 4:8LUK 10:19ROM 16:202CO 11:14EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 12:9John Wesley addresses the reality of evil angels, emphasizing that our true struggle is not against human adversaries but against powerful spiritual forces. He explains that all angels were created good, but some, led by Satan, fell from grace and now work to oppose God's purposes. Wesley warns that these evil spirits are constantly seeking to tempt and deceive humanity, using various means to instill doubt, malice, and discord. He encourages believers to be vigilant, don the armor of God, and resist these spiritual attacks through faith and reliance on Christ. Ultimately, Wesley calls for awareness of the subtlety and malice of evil angels, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith.
Armageddon and the Second Coming of Christ
By John F. Walvoord0REV 12:9John F. Walvoord delves into the dramatic conclusion of the 'times of the Gentiles,' describing a colossal world war culminating in the second coming of Christ as God's response to Satan's opposition. The conflict unfolds with the rise of a world government during the great tribulation, led by a world ruler who receives worship and control over the global economy but faces divine judgments. The 'trinity of evil' emerges, comprising Satan, the world ruler, and the false prophet, orchestrating a final great world war in the Middle East.
The History of Satan
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0GEN 3:15ISA 14:12REV 12:9REV 20:10REV 21:1Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the person and history of Satan as revealed in the Bible. Satan, a fallen creature, was once a majestic being full of wisdom and beauty, but his pride led to his rebellion against God. His attempts to thwart God's plan, from the fall of man to opposing the promised seed, are traced throughout history. Despite his opposition, Satan's ultimate defeat is prophesied, culminating in his eternal punishment in the lake of fire and the establishment of a new heaven and earth where God dwells with His people.
The Days of Noah
By G.H. Pember0GEN 6:5JOB 38:7LUK 3:38JHN 1:122PE 2:4REV 12:9G.H. Pember preaches on the account of Noah in Genesis 6 and the impending judgment of God on the world due to increasing wickedness, corruption, and intermarriage between the 'sons of God' (interpreted as fallen angels) and human women. The narrative highlights the rapid increase in population, industry, and culture leading to a society filled with corruption, violence, and immorality. Despite warnings, only Noah and his family found grace in God's sight, leading to the construction of the ark and the eventual global flood as a means of judgment and salvation.
Epistle 138
By George Fox0ISA 42:6JER 23:16JHN 1:3JHN 8:44ACT 20:28ROM 5:91CO 6:19PHM 1:9HEB 1:3HEB 4:121PE 1:231JN 1:7REV 12:9REV 13:7REV 15:3George Fox preaches to the prisoners of the Lord Jesus Christ, reminding them that they are not their own but purchased with His blood, cleansed, and justified. He encourages them to stand as witnesses for their master, king, and prophet against the powers of darkness, emphasizing victory through being born of the Word and the power that upholds all things. Fox warns against the deceiver, false prophets, and beasts that make war against the Lamb and His saints, urging the children of light to heed the Word of God, which is powerful and sharper than a two-edged sword.
(Knowing God's Way) 5. Three Marks of a Spiritual Man
By Zac Poonen0PSA 73:25MAT 5:23MAT 7:15MAT 7:22LUK 10:30ACT 10:38ACT 24:161CO 3:12CO 4:10REV 12:9Zac Poonen preaches on the distinction between being gifted and being truly spiritual, emphasizing that spiritual maturity is not measured by eloquence, knowledge, or miraculous gifts, but by one's devotion to God, repentance of unChristlikeness, and selfless service to others. He warns against false prophets who may have supernatural abilities but lack genuine fruit in their character, as Jesus Himself warned that many who perform miracles in His name may not truly belong to Him. A spiritual man constantly looks upward in worship, inward in repentance and self-examination, and outward in compassion and service to others, seeking to bless and help those in need without expecting anything in return.
An Epistle on Good Order.
By John Banks0PSA 119:110PRO 10:17PRO 28:10JER 23:13MAT 24:41CO 6:9HEB 3:13JAS 1:161PE 2:25REV 12:9In this sermon on deception, the preacher delves into the Greek word 'planao' meaning 'to wander astray', emphasizing how various influences like false teachers, signs, and even one's own heart can lead individuals away from God's truth. The passive voice of 'planao' in the Bible indicates an external force causing deception, highlighting the continuous danger of being misled from the right path. Deception can come from signs, sorcery, false prophets, and even self-deception, ultimately leading individuals away from God's righteousness and truth.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Rev 12:9 per Adam Clarke That old serpent - The rabbins speak much of this being, sometimes under the notion of יצר הרע yetser hara, the evil principle, and sometimes Samael. He was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him - This is very like a saying in the book Bahir, in Sohar Gen., fol. 27, col. 107: "And God cast out Samael and his troops from the place of their holiness." Rev 12:9 per John Edward Clarke And the great dragon was cast out, etc. - By the terms Devil and Satan mentioned in this verse, Pareus, Faber, and many other commentators, understand literally the great spiritual enemy of mankind. But this view of the passage cannot be correct, from the circumstance that it is the dragon which is thus called. Now, if by the dragon be meant the devil, then use are necessarily led to this conclusion, that the great apostate spirit is a monster, having seven heads and ten horns; and also that he has a tail, with which he drags after him the third part of the stars of heaven. The appellations, old serpent, devil, and Satan, must, therefore, be understood figuratively. The heathen power is called that old serpent which deceived the whole world, from its subtlety against the Christians, and its causing the whole Roman world, as far as it was in its power, to embrace the absurdities of paganism. It is called the devil, from its continual false accusations and slanders against the true worshippers of God, for the devil is a liar from the beginning; and it is also called Satan, שטן, which is a Hebrew word signifying an adversary, from its frequent persecutions of the Christian Church. The dragon and his angels are said to be cast out, which is more than was said in the preceding verse. There mention is made of his being found no longer in heaven, or on the throne of the Roman empire, here he is entirely cast out from all offices of trust in the empire; his religion is first only tolerated, and then totally abolished, by the imperial power. This great event was not the work of a reign; it took up many years, for it had to contend with the deep-rooted prejudices of the heathen, who to the very last endeavored to uphold their declining superstition. Paganism received several mortal strokes in the time of Constantine and his sons Constans and Constantius. It was farther reduced by the great zeal of Jovian, Valentinian, and Valens; and was finally suppressed by the edicts of Gratian, Theodosius I., and his successors. It was not till a.d. 388 that Rome itself, the residence of the emperor, was generally reformed from the absurdities of paganism; but the total suppression of paganism soon followed the conversion of the metropolitan city, and about a.d. 395 the dragon may be considered, in an eminent sense, to have been cast into the earth, that is, into a state of utter subjection to the ruling dynasty of Christian emperors.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
that old serpent--alluding to Gen 3:1, Gen 3:4. Devil--the Greek, for "accuser," or "slanderer." Satan--the Hebrew for "adversary," especially in a court of justice. The twofold designation, Greek and Hebrew, marks the twofold objects of his accusations and temptations, the elect Gentiles and the elect Jews. world--Greek, "habitable world."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the great dragon was cast out,.... From heaven, or from power and authority in the Roman empire, namely, the devil, where he had long presided; it is observable that Constantine himself speaks of "the dragon" being removed from the government of the commonwealth by the providence of God, and by the ministry, or means of him (m); and he had his own effigies on a table placed before the porch of his palace, with the cross over his head, and a dragon under his feet thrust through with darts, and falling headlong (n); the old serpent; who is so called, because, of old, from the beginning, almost as soon as the world was, he appeared in the form of a serpent, or rather made use of it as an instrument and means, by which he seduced Eve, and so brought on the ruin of mankind, it is very usual with the Jews to call the devil , "the old serpent" (o); wherefore John uses this phrase as a known one, to explain who was meant by the great dragon: called the devil and Satan; the first of these names signifies an accuser, and a forger of calumnies, and such is the old serpent; he accuses God to men, as if he was envious of their happiness, as in the case of our first parents, and of men to God, of which there is an instance in the case of Job; and hence he is in Rev 12:10 called the accuser of the brethren; and the latter of them signifies an enemy, one that is filled with hatred and enmity to God and Christ, and to his church and people, whose adversary he is said to be, and at whose right hand he stands to resist, as he did Joshua the high priest: which deceiveth the whole world; which he did by deceiving our first parents, from whom all mankind spring, and in whose loins they were when they were deceived; so the Jews say (p) of the old serpent, that , "he deceives the whole world"; and so he deceived and corrupted the old world before the flood; and so he seduces every age and generation of men in the world; but here the Roman empire, sometimes called all the world, as in Luk 2:1, is meant, whom Satan deceived by drawing it into idolatry and superstition; he was cast out into the earth; he was cast out of the Roman empire, from the rule of it, and worship in it, the Heathen gods and Heathen emperors being no more; when he possessed and instigated, and influenced the Huns, Goths, and Vandals, a meaner and baser sort of people, hereafter in this chapter called the earth, which is said to help the woman, contrary to the intention of Satan; the phrase denotes the greatness of the fall of Satan, his loss of power, and the meanness and low estate of the persons he afterwards had the power of, both the savage people before mentioned, and the antichristian party: and his angels were cast out with him; the Heathen emperors, magistrates, priests, and other votaries of his, which he made use of as instruments to do his will. (m) Euseb. de Vita Constantini, l. 2. c. 46. (n) Ib. l. 3. c. 3. (o) T. Bab. Sota, fol. 9. 2. & Sanhedrin, fol. 29. 1. Imre Binah in Zohar in Gen. fol. 3. 1. & 15. 2. & passim, Raya Mehimna in Zohar in Exod. fol. 50. 1. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 7. 3. & 8. 2. & 26. 3. & 46. 1. & Caphtor, fol. 101. 2. (p) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 13. 3.