November 8, 2024 Daily Dose of Discernment

“They will make war on the Lamb, but the Lamb will conquer them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with Him are called and chosen and faithful.” (Revelation 17:14)

John intentionally uses allegorical characters in his apocalyptic book to emphasize his message. The forces opposed to God are portrayed as savage beasts and dragons. They are defeated by a meek lamb which is far smaller and weaker. John's point is that Jesus' way of subverting the worldly way of domination is not by playing their violent game, but by the opposite - humility and love.

This will not be easy. People have died following Jesus. After two thousand years, there are still predatory beasts to overcome. But the same writing of John encourages us by revealing the endgame which is Jesus triumphing. And sharing in His victory are faithful imitators armed only with palm branches and embracing the nonviolent ways of the Prince of peace. His reign now and in the life of the world to come is worth the persecution we have to endure.