The preceding verses showed a drama which reached back to the incarnation and ascension of Jesus Christ, explaining Satan's failed attempts to destroy Him and setting the stage for his final conflict with Jesus (Revelation 12:1-5). As John watches the vision, and writes it down as encouragement to churches under pressure, the scene once again moves back to heaven. These verses reach back further, to describe the expulsion of Satan from the company of angels in heaven.

'Angels' are messengers – the servants of God to do His will. Michael seems to be a leader of the angelic band (Daniel 10:13-21; 12:1) and he had God's authority to depose Satan, who resisted God's will. It was a struggle but Satan lost. We have scant information about this battle in heaven or of the reasons for Satan's rebellion – although something of Satan's character can be discerned in Isaiah 14:12-17 and Ezekiel 38:11-19 which describe evil rulers who have been corrupted like Satan. We know that the devil is not alone but has other rebellious angels at his command, now called demons. But none of these is more powerful than Jesus (Matthew 17:14-18).

In Revelation ch 12 Satan is identified by different names, some pictorial and some descriptive. He has the violent nature of the dragon which was first described in Job 41:19-21. The imagery is fierce, dominating, all consuming (Revelation 12:4) and hostile to God. The snake or serpent was his representation in the Garden of Eden, tempting the woman and man to disobey God (Genesis 3:1-4). The name 'Satan' means 'adversary' or 'accuser' in a law court – for he is against God and His people; he is a legalist and can only do what God allows him to do (Job 1:6-12). He can only take authority over us if we believe his lies (John 8:44). The name 'devil' means 'slanderer', and describes his activity of misrepresenting God and truth (Matthew 4:1-11).

The Bible never encourages us to focus on Satan as though he has ultimate control, or that we have control over him. However the Bible is clear that Jesus has full authority over Satan and will ensure his destruction (Revelation 20:10). But this passage gives sufficient information to let us know that in our trials and temptations, we are not just dealing with powerful people who act in an evil way. We are caught up in the conflict between Christ and Satan, and his 'principalities and powers' (Ephesians 6:12): their demonic reach permeates the world with lies. That is why we need the Word of God to tell us the truth, and faith in God's promise that Jesus already has authority over every evil agent (Hebrews 2:8) and one day will destroy all that stands against Him (John 13:3). Whatever evil is afflicting us, it does not have the last word – Jesus does. However often Satan and his demons tell you lies, you can resist him if you have submitted yourself to the Lord Jesus and accept His authority (James 4:7). Be encouraged; although the rule of evil is very real now, it will be decisively ended when Jesus returns. Until then trust the Lord: He is stronger by far.