The Dragon

Revelation 12:9 (Berean Study Bible)

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

Myth is myth, and fact is fact: unless one is proven to be wrong, that is. One of the most infamous historical myths lies around the existence of dragons, those menacing beasts that gave our ancient poets so much inspiration. However, the question of whether or not dragons exist has already been answered -- by the Holy Bible!

The Great Dragon has been living right under our nose for years, scheming for our demise since before we were born. The book of Revelation explains the Great Dragon in detail, showcasing his many dangers, tools, and weapons. He is mentioned most notably in Revelation 12:9, which betrays the Great Dragon’s true name: that old serpent called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world.

Why would the Bible use the term ‘dragon’ to call attention to Satan? The Great Dragon’s name used in Revelation symbolizes so much more than just physical attributes. The connotations of power, evil, and foul intentions are all included under Satan’s hideous second name.

This is an incredibly powerful and important concept for us to understand. While we may not necessarily visualize Satan as a Great Dragon in our day to day lives, it may do us good to remember that the Devil is not our friend. He may offer us gifts, temptations, and accolades, but we must remember that these are in exchange for our very souls.

Ancient mythology has a lot to say about dragons and their attributes. According to most major legends, Dragons were large, terrifying beasts with the scales of lizards, the wings of bats, and the cunning of humans. These creatures were the embodiment of greed, pride, gluttony, and every other one of the seven deadly sins. They were cruel, merciless, and deceitful, with no regard for human life.

In the same vein, The Great Dragon cares nothing for you or for your soul. He seeks to kill, steal, and destroy, just as it says in John 10:10. The Devil can use any manner of trickery, any course of flattery, and many different kinds of deceit in order to lure you from the path of righteousness. Satan is no fool. He knows what your weaknesses are, and knows exactly how to manipulate you into doing what he wants.

Now you know thy enemy. Now how do you stay strong in the face of the Great Dragon?

• You are not strong enough to resist the Devil alone. You must rely on God’s strength.

• Jesus was tempted by Satan, and used Scripture to repel him. Commit yourself to learning and memorizing Scripture.

• The Devil has already been beaten by Jesus. You should not be afraid of him, but you should be cautious of him in your mortal life.

Friends, let us resist the Great Dragon together today!

Closing Thoughts:

What kind of lies can you refute about your enemy, the Dragon? How does this impact the way you will live your life moving forward? How can you encourage those around you to resist the temptations of ‘that old serpent’ the Devil? Remember that if Satan is able to disguise himself through many different means and methods. No matter what temptations he lays before you, remember that he lies in wait to steal your very soul. Resist The Dragon today!

Genesis 3:1 (New English Standard Version)

1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field that the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Did God really say, 'You must not eat of any tree in the garden?'"

2 Corinthians 11:3 (Berean Study Bible)

3 I am afraid, however, that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may be led astray from your simple and pure devotion to Christ.