Judgment of the Beasts
Judgment of the Beasts
Who hasn't heard of “The Battle of Armageddon”? Those who believe in a future reign of Christ on earth for 1000 years, see this battle as the final great war on earth leading up to Judgment Day. But in the visions of Revelation there was no battle. It was planned. The armies gathered. But the battle did not happen.
There are at least six passages that we should note when considering the battle of Armageddon. These are:
Rev 12:7-12 This is a vision of a war between two armies: Michael the archangel with his angelic armies, and the Dragon with his demonic armies. Satan loses and is cast down to earth. This signifies how the crucifixion of Christ was not a loss but a victory. When Christ was "caught up to God and to his throne" (Rev 12:5-6), there was no place for Satan and his angels in heaven. So in the vision he was cast out and confined to earth. This vision signifies the victory and power of Jesus Christ. It is not the battle of Armageddon, but it is connected.
Rev 14:19-20 This is a vision of the wrath of God represented as a great wine press. The grapes of "the vine of the earth" were trodden in this winepress outside the city, but it was blood that flowed out. The blood came "up to the horses' bridles over a distance of 1600 stadia". This vision signifies the fullness of the wrath of God against those who choose to be his enemies.
Rev 16:14-16 In this vision, the three beasts (the Dragon, the Beast, and the False Prophet) spew from their mouths frog demons who go out and deceive the kings of the earth into gathering in Har-Mageddon to make war against God. This vision shows that, though cast down from heaven, Satan is still determined to do his worst.
Rev 17:14 "They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them, because he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and with him will be his called and chosen and faithful followers." Another reminder that, as insane as it seems, the enemies of Christ have the temerity to make war against him!
Rev 19:19-21 Later John sees the Beast and the kings of the earth assembled to make war against the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev 19:11-16). How tragic that the earth's kings are making war against their King instead of fighting with him!
Rev 20:7-10 This vision shows the evil armies moving in to attack the army of God. But it's a complete fiasco. "fire came down from heaven and devoured them" We might have expected a battle with a bit of to and fro, a bit of touch and go, a bit of suspense about who is going to win.
But there is no battle of Armageddon, no battle of Armageddon at all! After all their preparations and gathering for battle, they do no more than march to the city and surround it. They thrust no sword. They fire no shot. Fire comes down from heaven and devours them. The the battle of Armageddon didn't happen. Are you disappointed, or are you relieved?
The Real Battle