1

What does it mean that the devil's time on earth will be short in Revelation 12:12?

Was the devil on earth before the birth of Jesus?

Revelation 12:12

ESV - 12 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!

Clarify Share Report Asked December 08 2016 Mini Anonymous

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

3
Mini Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army
References to the devil's activity on earth are found in multiple places in the Old Testament, starting almost immediately after creation with the serpent through whom Satan spoke in Genesis 3. Satan himself mentions specifically in Job 1:7 that he has been "going to and fro on the earth, and...walking up and down on it." He has been performing this activity ever since he and the angels who followed him were initially cast out of heaven by God following their rebellion. They have been trying to deceive humanity, and to lead people away from God and the salvation that He offers in Christ.

By the time of the events prophesied in Revelation (which, whenever they may occur, will certainly be imminent signs of Christ's return and His judgment of humanity at the close of the present age), Satan will be aware (as Christians also will, because of the warnings of Jesus -- as in Matthew 24, for example -- and the text of Revelation itself) that his (Satan's) final consignment to eternal punishment (Revelation 20:10) is very near (in comparison to the vast expanse since the beginning of time).

He will therefore be all the more desperate in his attempts to thwart or prevent God's final triumph. But, despite these efforts on Satan's part, his ultimate defeat has been assured ever since the victory over him that Jesus gained through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and resurrection.

December 09 2016 1 response Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining