Revelation 12:11

They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. And they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.

Study Bible

They have conquered him
The phrase "They have conquered him" refers to the victory of believers over Satan, the accuser. The Greek word for "conquered" is "nikaō," which means to overcome or prevail. This victory is not through human strength but through divine power. Historically, the early Christians faced severe persecution, yet they triumphed spiritually by remaining faithful. This phrase emphasizes the ultimate triumph of good over evil, a recurring theme in Revelation.

by the blood of the Lamb
The "blood of the Lamb" is a central theme in Christian theology, symbolizing the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "haima" for blood signifies life and atonement. In the Old Testament, blood sacrifices were required for the atonement of sins, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice. The Lamb, a reference to Jesus, is a symbol of purity and innocence. This phrase underscores the belief that salvation and victory over sin and Satan are achieved through Christ's sacrifice.

and by the word of their testimony
The "word of their testimony" highlights the power of personal witness and confession of faith. The Greek word "logos" for word implies a message or declaration. Early Christians bore witness to their faith even in the face of persecution, and their testimony was a powerful tool in spreading the Gospel. This phrase encourages believers to boldly proclaim their faith, trusting in the transformative power of their testimony.

and they did not love their lives
This phrase reflects the selflessness and dedication of the early Christians. The Greek word "agapaō" for love indicates a deep, sacrificial love. The believers prioritized their faith over their own lives, demonstrating a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of Christ. This attitude is a call to Christians to value eternal life over earthly existence, embodying the teachings of Jesus about self-denial and taking up one's cross.

so as to shy away from death
The phrase "so as to shy away from death" speaks to the courage and steadfastness of the believers. The Greek word "phobeō" for shy away means to fear or be afraid. Despite the threat of death, the early Christians remained resolute in their faith. This phrase serves as an inspiration for modern believers to stand firm in their convictions, trusting in the promise of eternal life and the ultimate victory over death through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Overcomers
These are the faithful believers who have triumphed over Satan. They are characterized by their steadfast faith and willingness to testify about Jesus, even at the cost of their lives.

2. The Blood of the Lamb
Refers to the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood provides redemption and victory over sin and Satan.

3. The Word of Their Testimony
This signifies the believers' proclamation of their faith in Jesus Christ and the truth of the Gospel, which is a powerful weapon against the enemy.

4. Satan (the Accuser)
The adversary of believers, who is overcome by the power of Christ's sacrifice and the believers' testimony.

5. Death
Represents the ultimate sacrifice that believers are willing to make, showing their complete devotion and trust in God.

Teaching Points

Victory Through Christ
Our ultimate victory over sin and Satan is secured through the blood of Jesus. Believers should live in the confidence of this victory.

Power of Testimony
Sharing our faith and testimony is a powerful tool in spiritual warfare. Believers are encouraged to boldly proclaim the Gospel.

Sacrificial Living
True discipleship may require us to lay down our lives. We are called to prioritize our faith over our earthly lives.

Faithfulness in Persecution
In times of trial and persecution, believers are reminded to remain steadfast, trusting in God's promises and eternal reward.

Eternal Perspective
Keeping an eternal perspective helps us to endure hardships and remain faithful, knowing that our ultimate home is with Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the significance of "the blood of the Lamb" impact your daily walk with Christ?

2. In what ways can you actively share "the word of your testimony" in your community or workplace?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced a challenge to your faith. How did you respond, and what can you learn from Revelation 12:11 about overcoming such challenges?

4. How can the concept of not loving your life even unto death change your perspective on current struggles or fears?

5. What practical steps can you take to strengthen your faith and prepare for spiritual battles, as described in Ephesians 6:10-18?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 John 5:4-5
This passage speaks about the victory that overcomes the world—our faith. It connects to the theme of overcoming through faith in Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 12:1-2
Encourages believers to run the race with perseverance, fixing their eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, which aligns with the call to remain faithful even unto death.

Ephesians 6:10-18
Describes the armor of God, emphasizing the importance of standing firm against the devil's schemes, which relates to the spiritual battle depicted in Revelation 12:11.

Matthew 10:32-33
Jesus speaks about acknowledging Him before others, which ties into the concept of the word of testimony.

Philippians 1:21
Paul’s declaration that to live is Christ and to die is gain reflects the attitude of not loving one's life even unto death.