As we continue exploring this revelation, it is important to pause and reflect on the one through whom God chose to unveil these mysteries of the future, John. Some readers may not fully understand who John was, so let us briefly revisit his story and the reason he was entrusted with such visions.
John was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus, the youngest among them, likely still in his late teens when he was called. His older brother was James, and together they worked as fishermen with their father, Zebedee. Scripture tells us that Jesus saw them in a boat, mending their nets. At His call, they immediately left their father and the men working with him, choosing instead to follow Christ. This act of obedience marked the beginning of John’s journey as a disciple and later as the one who would receive the Revelation.
Years later, while in exile on the island of Patmos, John was given visions that revealed the mysteries of God’s plan for the future. Among these visions, he wrote of a striking image: “The woman fled into the wilderness to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days.” This passage reminds us that God not only reveals the coming trials but also shows His provision and care for those who remain faithful.
Before John’s exile, however, he recorded another powerful moment in his Gospel. After Jesus’ resurrection, He appeared to His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. John writes: “Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. ‘I’m going out to fish,’ Simon Peter told them, and they said, ‘We’ll go with you.’ So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.” (John 21:3).
It was in these post-resurrection appearances that Jesus gave His final instructions. With the eleven disciples (for Judas Iscariot had betrayed Him and perished), Jesus ate with them and commanded: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” This was the sealing of their anointing, the empowerment to become His emissaries and spread the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Before ascending into heaven, the disciples asked Him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” Jesus replied: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Then, before their very eyes, He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight.
After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples began their full ministry. They often traveled in pairs or groups of three, proclaiming the good news. John frequently partnered with his brother James and with Peter, forming a strong team of witnesses.
Now, returning to the vision given to John on Patmos, God mentioned the 1,260 days. What do these days represent? Our current year is 365 days, so is this a literal number of days, or does it symbolize something greater? John was shown that the woman would be cared for during this time, preserved by God’s hand. The question remains, when will this happen, and how will it unfold?
As we ponder this vision, let us remember: God’s Word is not given to satisfy curiosity about dates, but to strengthen faith, encourage perseverance, and remind us of His sovereignty. Just as John was faithful to record what he saw, we too must be faithful to read, pray, and live according to God’s Word.