Revelation 12:1

There appeared. Chapter 12 begins a new line of prophecy, which continues to the end of the book. This section of prophecy sets forth the church of God in conflict with the powers of evil, and the church’s ultimate triumph over them.

Wonder. Gr. sēmeion, “a sign,” “a mark,” “a token,” from sēmaino, “to give a sign,” “to signify,” “to indicate” (see on ch. 1:1). The word is frequently translated “miracle” (Luke 23:8; John 4:54) where a miracle is described from the point of view of a sign of authority (see Vol. V, p. 209). In Rev. 12:1 sēmeion means a sign portending forthcoming events.

Heaven. Here doubtless meaning the sky, not the heaven where God dwells. For the nature of symbolic visions see on Eze. 1:10.

Woman. In OT figure the true church is at times represented by a woman (Isa. 54:5, 6; Jer. 6:2). When the church apostatized it was compared with a corrupt woman (Jer. 3:20; Eze. 23:2–4). The same figures appear in the NT (2 Cor. 11:2; Eph. 5:25–32; Rev. 17:1–3).

In Rev. 12 the woman represents the true church. Since she is presented as about to give birth to Christ (see vs. 2, 4, 5) and later as being persecuted, following the ascension of Christ (vs. 5, 13–17), she represents the church of both the OT and the NT. Compare Acts 7:38.

Clothed with the sun. This may be thought of as representing the glory of God, especially as revealed in the gospel. By contrast the woman representing the false church is portrayed as arrayed in gaudy garments and as carrying a cup filled with abominations (ch. 17:4).

Moon. This symbol is understood by many commentators as representing the system of types and shadows of OT times, which were eclipsed by the greater revelation that came through Christ. The ceremonial law, being fulfilled in the life and death of Christ, could well be represented by the moon, which shines with light borrowed from the sun.

Crown. Gr. stephanos, a victor’s crown (see on Matt. 27:29; Rev. 2:10), not diadēma, a kingly crown (see on ch. 12:3).

Twelve stars. In general commentators have applied this symbol to either the 12 patriarchs or the 12 apostles or to both. Since the principal emphasis in ch. 12 is on the NT church, the emphasis is doubtless on the 12 apostles. At the same time, the picture of 12 tribes is also carried over into the NT church (see on Rev. 7:4).