Revelation 12:15

Then from the mouth of the serpent spewed water like a river to overtake the woman and sweep her away in the torrent.

Study Bible

Then from the mouth of the serpent
The "serpent" here is a direct reference to Satan, as identified earlier in Revelation 12:9. The imagery of the serpent is deeply rooted in biblical history, harking back to the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), where the serpent deceived Eve. The "mouth" signifies the source of deceit and lies, as Satan is often depicted as the father of lies (John 8:44). This phrase suggests an aggressive and direct attack from Satan, emphasizing his role as the adversary of God's people.

spewed water like a river
The act of spewing "water like a river" symbolizes a powerful and overwhelming force. In biblical literature, water can represent chaos and destruction, as seen in the flood narrative of Genesis. The Greek word for "spewed" (ἐβάλεν) conveys a forceful expulsion, indicating the intensity of the attack. This imagery suggests an attempt by Satan to drown or overwhelm the woman, representing the people of God, with trials, persecutions, or false teachings.

to overtake the woman
The "woman" in this context is often interpreted as a symbol of God's faithful people, possibly representing Israel or the Church. The serpent's intention "to overtake" her indicates a pursuit to conquer or destroy. Historically, God's people have faced numerous attempts by evil forces to undermine their faith and existence, from the oppression in Egypt to the persecutions in the early Church. This phrase underscores the relentless nature of spiritual warfare against the faithful.

and sweep her away in the torrent
The "torrent" signifies a violent and uncontrollable flood, further emphasizing the destructive intent of the serpent. The Greek word for "torrent" (ποταμός) can also mean a river or stream, but in this context, it conveys the idea of a deluge meant to carry away and obliterate. This imagery is reminiscent of the trials and tribulations faced by believers, where the forces of evil seek to erode their faith and commitment to God. However, the broader narrative of Revelation assures believers of God's ultimate victory and protection over such adversities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Serpent
Symbolic of Satan, the serpent is depicted as the adversary of the woman and her offspring. In Revelation 12, the serpent is actively pursuing the woman, representing the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil.

2. The Woman
Often interpreted as a symbol of Israel or the Church, the woman is portrayed as being pursued by the serpent. She represents God's people who are under attack but are divinely protected.

3. The River
The river spewed by the serpent is symbolic of the overwhelming flood of persecution or false teachings aimed at destroying the woman. It represents the various tactics used by Satan to undermine and attack God's people.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Warfare
Recognize that believers are engaged in a spiritual battle. The serpent's pursuit of the woman is a reminder of the ongoing conflict between good and evil.

Divine Protection
Trust in God's protection. Just as the earth helped the woman by swallowing the river, God provides ways of escape and protection for His people.

Perseverance in Faith
Stand firm in faith despite persecution or false teachings. The river represents the trials and challenges believers face, but perseverance leads to victory.

Discernment Against Deception
Be vigilant against false teachings and deceptions that aim to lead believers astray. The flood from the serpent can be seen as symbolic of such deceptions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the serpent and the river in Revelation 12:15 help us understand the nature of spiritual warfare today?

2. In what ways can we see God's protection in our lives, similar to how the earth helped the woman in Revelation 12?

3. How can the account of the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14 inspire us to trust in God's deliverance in times of trouble?

4. What practical steps can we take to stand firm in our faith when faced with persecution or false teachings?

5. How does understanding the enmity between the serpent and the woman from Genesis 3:15 enhance our comprehension of the spiritual conflict described in Revelation 12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3:15
This verse introduces the enmity between the serpent and the woman, which is echoed in Revelation 12. It highlights the ongoing spiritual conflict that began in the Garden of Eden.

Exodus 14:21-22
The parting of the Red Sea is a parallel to the divine protection and deliverance of God's people, similar to how the earth helps the woman in Revelation 12.

Isaiah 59:19
This verse speaks of the Spirit of the Lord raising a standard against the enemy, akin to the earth swallowing the river in Revelation 12, symbolizing divine intervention.