The Dragon and Christmas | Revelation 12 (Novemver 6, 2022)

1. In verse 1, John gives a description of this woman. Other than Mary, who
could this woman represent? Read Genesis 37: 9-10. Who would the 12 stars
represent?

2. Who do the son and the dragon represent in these verses? Why do you think
John uses the imagery of a dragon?

3. If Revelation 12 is telling the Christmas story, why does John illustrate the
war going on instead of the peaceful night in Bethlehem we so often think
about? What emotion is John trying to stir within us in the way he narrates this
story?

4. Eugene Peterson said, ‘Jesus’ birth excites more than wonder, it excites
evil.’ In other words, Jesus’ birth in the manger stirred the enemy into action as
we see the dragon in Revelation 12. Why would the birth of Jesus move the
enemy to stir up violence and evil?

5. If Jesus’ birth stirred up this much spiritual warfare, does that change the way
you think of His holy life? Read Hebrews 4: 15. Does this bring comfort? Why?

6. Read verse 17. What does this verse tell us we can expect from the enemy
when we pursue holiness?

7. What do you think John means by ‘hold to the testimony of Jesus?’