NT25 FASTSample

Day 26: Revelation 13-22

Michael Miller, Founder + Senior Leader at UPPERROOM

The Victory of Christ

Focus Verses:

• Revelation 13:8: “All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the Lamb’s book of life, the Lamb who was slain from the creation of the world.”
• Revelation 19:11–16: “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war… On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”

Guys! You made it through the New Testament.
What an accomplishment, and what a great way to start out the new year.

Let’s reflect on some of the chapters we read today.

The book of Revelation, with its vivid imagery and symbolic language, reveals the ultimate triumph of Christ over all opposition. Chapters 13–22 paint a picture of the intense spiritual battle between the forces of evil—represented by the Beast, the False Prophet, and Babylon—and the victorious Christ, who reigns eternally as King. These chapters remind us that while evil may seem powerful in the present age, it is Christ who holds the final victory.

The Beast and the False Prophet (Revelation 13):

In Revelation 13, we encounter the rise of the Beast, a symbol of oppressive political and religious powers that lead people away from God. The Beast represents everything that opposes God’s kingdom: tyranny, deception, and idolatry. The False Prophet works in tandem with the Beast, deceiving the nations and compelling them to worship the Beast.

It’s a sobering reminder of how easily humanity can be swayed by false ideologies and forces of evil when we fail to remain rooted in the truth of God’s Word. However, the Beast’s reign is not eternal. Though it may seem as if evil has the upper hand, John reminds us that the ultimate authority rests with God.

In Revelation 13:8, we read that the Lamb (Jesus) was slain from the creation of the world, pointing to God’s eternal plan for redemption. Jesus’ victory over sin and death was secured at the cross, and that victory will be fully realized when He returns to judge and restore.

The Return of the King (Revelation 19):

Revelation 19 presents a striking contrast to the terror and deception of the Beast. Jesus, the rider on the white horse, returns as the Faithful and True judge, bringing justice and wrath against the forces of evil. His robe is dipped in blood—a reminder of the sacrifice He made for us on the cross.

He is not just the Savior but also the righteous King who will defeat all His enemies. The ultimate victory is not in human hands but in the hands of Christ, whose reign is just, perfect, and eternal.

In this victory, we find our hope. Even in the midst of suffering, injustice, and spiritual warfare, we are called to remain faithful, knowing that Christ will return to make all things new. Revelation 19:16 proclaims that on Christ’s robe and thigh is written: “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” This declares Christ’s sovereignty over all creation. He will not only defeat evil but also establish His kingdom of peace and righteousness.

The New Jerusalem (Revelation 21–22):

The final chapters of Revelation present a breathtaking vision of the new heaven and the new earth. The old order of things, marked by suffering, sin, and death, will pass away. God will dwell with His people, wiping every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4.)

The New Jerusalem, described as a glorious, radiant city, will be the eternal dwelling place of God’s people, where we will live in perfect harmony with Him forever.

As we look toward the future, we are reminded that this is our ultimate hope. The pain and trials of this world are temporary. Our citizenship is in heaven, and our future is secure in Christ.

The last chapter of Revelation invites us to live with that hope in mind:
“The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’”(Revelation 22:17.)

It’s an invitation to partake in the eternal joy and peace of God’s kingdom. As we live in anticipation of Christ’s return, we are called to keep our hearts fixed on Him, living in holiness, faithful in witness, and eager for the coming of our King.

When applying this to our lives, let’s keep these things in mind:

• Live in Hope of Christ’s Return:
  When facing challenges or suffering, remember that Christ is coming again. The struggles of this life are temporary, and Christ will return to set all things right. Let this hope fuel your endurance and faithfulness.
• Proclaim the Good News:
  As we await the return of Christ, we are called to share the gospel with others, inviting them into the kingdom of God. Let the call of Revelation 22:17, “Come!” echo in our hearts as we extend the invitation to others to come and know the salvation found in Christ.
• Anticipate the New Creation:
  Fix your eyes on the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with His people forever. Let this future reality shape how you live today—seeking holiness, pursuing justice, and living in the light of God’s eternal kingdom.

May Jesus enrich you in this season.

Thank you for walking through the New Testament with us. We love you.