by Dorcas Kulwa | 4 October 2020 08:46 pm10
“KNOWING THAT HE HAS ONLY A SHORT TIME”
(based on Revelation 12:12, ESV)
“Therefore rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in great wrath, because he knows that his time is short.” — Revelation 12:12 (ESV)
Satan’s Limited Time
The verse underscores a crucial eschatological truth: Satan’s power is not unlimited. He is fierce (“great wrath”) but aware that his reign is temporary. Commentary on Revelation suggests that this “short time” implies a defined eschatological window for his activity. (Revelation Commentary)
Some interpreters connect this “short time” with the period of the Great Tribulation (see Daniel’s prophecy of “time, times, and half a time”). (RevelationLogic)
This limitation fuels the intensity of his attacks — he lashes out in a “last gasp” manner, knowing his ultimate defeat is certain. (Expository)
Theologically, this fits the Christian narrative of already-but-not-yet: believers already have victory in Christ, but the final realization (Satan’s ultimate overthrow) awaits the eschaton (the end times).
Heaven’s Rejoicing & Earth’s Woe
“Rejoice, you heavens” — this is not just poetic, but theological. In Revelation, heaven’s celebration often means that Satan’s heavenly role is ended. (Revelation Commentary)
The “woe” to earth and sea signals real spiritual danger. The wrath of the dragon (Satan) will be poured out on the present world. (Expository)
This contrast (rejoicing in heaven vs. woe on earth) underscores that the war is cosmic: spiritual forces are active, and human history is deeply implicated.
Satan’s Defeat and the Saints’ Role
Revelation 12 also points to believers (“brethren” / the saints) who persevere. They “overcame … by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” (Rev 12:11, ESV)
Theologically, Christians are not passive — their testimony and perseverance play a part in the cosmic conflict. Their endurance contributes to Satan’s defeat, even if he still rages.
Let me bring more depth into your exhortation about the Holy Spirit, using
Ephesians 4:30 (ESV):
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
Personhood of the Holy Spirit
The Apostle Paul speaks as though the Holy Spirit can be grieved. This suggests the Spirit is not an impersonal power but a divine Person who experiences relational sorrow. (Bible Hub)
That sorrow arises when believers sin, disobey, or act contrary to God’s will. (Verse-by-Verse Commentary)
Sealing by the Spirit
To be “sealed” by the Spirit means more than a metaphorical mark. In the ancient world, a seal signified ownership, authenticity, and security. (Precept Austin)
Paul describes believers as sealed “for the day of redemption,” meaning that the Holy Spirit is God’s guarantee of their future full salvation (often linked with the final redemption when Christ returns). (Bible Hub)
According to some theological traditions, this seal functions as a divine pledge that believers truly belong to God. (Verse-by-Verse Commentary)
Grieving the Spirit as a Call to Holiness
When Paul warns not to grieve the Spirit, he is appealing to believers to live in a way that honors God’s presence in them. (Bible Hub)
This grief is not the same as losing salvation (from many theological perspectives). Rather, it’s about disrupted fellowship, resistance to sanctifying work, and a failure to reflect the Spirit’s character in one’s life.
The Day of Redemption
The “day of redemption” refers to an eschatological hope — the final day when believers are fully redeemed, not just in spirit but in resurrection / glorification. (Precept Austin)
The sealing points toward this future consummation, reminding Christians that their salvation has a present guarantee and a future fulfillment.
Urgency in Faith: Given that Satan “knows his time is short,” Christians should live with eternal perspective, staying vigilant, prayerful, and devoted.
Repentance and Holiness: Since grieving the Holy Spirit is possible, believers are called to repent when they sin and strive toward holiness in dependence on the Spirit.
Assurance of Salvation: The seal of the Spirit provides assurance—not just for now, but for the day of full redemption.
Mission and Perseverance: Christians are in a cosmic battle. Their testimony, faith, and endurance matter.
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