The Book of Revelation: Chapter 13
Scripture References:
Introduction
As we journey through Revelation, we must remember where we've been to understand where we're going. In chapter 12, we witnessed an epic cosmic battle. We saw the dragon (Satan himself) cast out of heaven by Michael the archangel. Unable to prevail against Israel (represented by the woman), the dragon turned his fury toward all believers, both Jews and Gentiles.
Satan knows his time is limited. How much time does he have left? About three and a half years. And in his rage, knowing his days are numbered, he unleashes his counterfeit trinity upon the earth.
The Counterfeit Trinity
We must never forget that anything God has, Satan has a counterfeit. God exists as the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), so Satan creates his own unholy trinity:
In Revelation 13, we are introduced to two beasts. The first ten verses focus on the beast from the sea, the Antichrist. The remaining verses introduce the beast from the earth, the False Prophet. Together with Satan, they form this satanic trinity that will deceive the world during the tribulation period.
Understanding the Symbolism
It's crucial to remember that we are still in a symbolic portion of Revelation, rich with imagery. John is seeing images that represent reality, but not necessarily literal in themselves. When John sees the Antichrist, he describes him as a beast because that is the best description of his character. When you think of a beast, what comes to mind Something awful, mean, vicious, and destructive. The Antichrist will be all those things.
However, don't picture an ugly monster. This will likely be a well-polished figure, the most well-spoken individual ever to walk planet Earth. In fact, he will bring temporary peace to the Middle East, something never before experienced. He will bring worldwide peace everywhere, and people will flock to him. But as we read through Revelation, we'll understand that this Antichrist will live up to his name as a servant of Satan, and he will serve his master very well.
The Beast from the Sea: The Antichrist (Verses 1-10)
Revelation 13:1 - "Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name."
No, the Antichrist is not a sea monster. This imagery is rich with meaning. To understand what John means by "rising up out of the sea," we must compare Scripture with Scripture.
Daniel linked beasts and the sea together in Daniel 7:2-3: "Daniel spoke, saying, 'I saw in my vision by night, and behold, the four winds of heaven were stirring up the Great Sea. And four great beasts came up from the sea, each different from the other.'"
The four beasts Daniel saw represent four empires: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Looking ahead to Revelation 17:15, John tells us that "the waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues."
So, the sea in Daniel 7 and the waters in Revelation are the same thing; they represent the nations from which will come empires, and eventually, the Antichrist.
Unusual Appearance and Reversed Order
Revelation 13:2 - "Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority."
This beast is very unusual in appearance. Like the dragon in chapter 12, he has seven heads and ten horns. Daniel provides a parallel description in Daniel 7:4-6, mentioning the lion (Babylon), the bear (Medo-Persia), and the leopard (Greece).
Notice something fascinating: the order we see in Revelation is exactly reversed from what we see in Daniel. Why? Because Daniel's vision looks forward; Babylon had already come, and the next empires would be Medo-Persia, then Greece, then Rome. Unlike Daniel, John is looking backward. This isn't the future for him; it's history. So, he starts with the most recent empire and lists them in reverse order.
The Seven Heads and Ten Horns
What about the seven heads, ten horns, and ten crowns? Again, Scripture interprets Scripture. Revelation 17:9-12 explains that the seven heads represent seven mountains and seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and one is yet to come. The ten horns represent ten kings who will receive authority for one hour with the beast.
The fourth beast in Daniel is the great Roman Empire. It was different from the others, and out of this empire, the Antichrist will emerge. In some manner or form, the power and influence of the Roman Empire will be revived at the time of the tribulation, and from there, the Antichrist will rise.
If you watch what's happening in the Middle East with Iran, Israel, Egypt, and other nations you'll see that everything is taking place to set up everything we're reading about here. Bible prophecy is literally coming to life before our very eyes. This should not scare the child of God; it should excite you and motivate you to be prepared and to make sure everybody around you is prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ.
A Counterfeit Death and Resurrection
Revelation 13:3-4 - "And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, 'Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?'"
What we have here is nothing less than a counterfeit death and resurrection taking place near the end of the tribulation period. At some point, the Antichrist will be mortally wounded, and Satan, the dragon, will give him power to come back to life. What more proof would people need that someone is God than dying and rising again?
Do you understand how the world will look to the Antichrist and say, "He really is God"? Satan has always wanted to be like God. He desires worship. And guess what? God gives him this for a short time, three and a half years, 42 months.
Amazed at this resurrection, the whole earth will begin to submit to his authority. Verse 4 says they will worship the dragon who gave authority to the beast. Satan has always desired to be God. He always has, and he always will.
God Is Still in Control
But here's something critical in verse 5:
Revelation 13:5 - "And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months."
Notice the phrase "he was given." Who gave him this authority? Ultimately, God is in control of every single detail. As Adrian Rogers said, "The Antichrist, like Satan, is God's beast on God's leash."
Everything that happens, God says, "You can do this for this time, but I'm still in control." We may not understand God's ways, but all His ways are perfect.
Blasphemy and Persecution
Revelation 13:6-8 - "Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."
Daniel tells us that the Antichrist will go into the rebuilt temple and commit the "abomination of desolation;" he will declare himself to be God. Jesus warned that when that happens, people should flee to the hills because they're about to experience wrath and judgment on a scale they cannot begin to comprehend.
During these last three and a half years, the Antichrist will speak against God and His people, and he will act against God and His people. A multitude of Christians will perish. They will be killed. At the end of this chapter, we learn about the mark of the beast, 666, and if you don't have that mark on your wrist, arm, or forehead, you can't buy food, gas, or anything else. At the same time, people will be trying to kill you.
It's not going to be good for Christians during the tribulation period.
God's Remnant
But notice verse 8; there is another group. There is still a remnant whose names are found in the Book of Life. There are still some who will not believe the lies and deception of the Antichrist, nor will they worship him.
God always has a remnant. Most people in those days will worship Satan and the Antichrist, but there will always be those who stand firm. We're living in a day and hour, even here in what we call the "East Tennessee Bible Belt," when many people aren't truly pursuing Jesus. A lot of people know Jesus by name, but they're fans of Jesus, not followers. There's a difference.
Even in these tribulation times, it will cost believers dearly to not accept the mark of the beast, to not follow the beast, to stand for Christ. It will cost them their lives. Everything they know will be turned upside down.
A Call to Spiritual Discernment
Revelation 13:9-10 - "If anyone has an ear, let him hear. He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints."
Verse 9 is simply an invitation to pay attention and be spiritually discerning. This will be a great reminder for those saints alive during that time, but it's also a great reminder for us today.
Verse 10 is somewhat difficult to understand, but I believe it's referring to what lies ahead for those saints. In other words, these believers can expect to be captured, imprisoned, or even killed, but they are to endure and remain faithful to the end.
While this is probably speaking to those saints during the tribulation, the application is also for us today. As David Platt wrote in his book Following Jesus: "It is, and it will be, costly to follow Jesus in this world, but don't compromise. Even if it means you're being slain, hold fast to your faith. Even if it means you lose your job and all your money, hold fast to your faith. Even if it means ridicule and oppression and isolation or imprisonment or death, follow the Lamb! And one day you will stand with Him, you will sing with Him, and you will be completely satisfied in Him."
The Beast from the Earth: The False Prophet (Verses 11-18)
Revelation 13:11 - "Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon."
If you thought one beast was more than enough, the world is about to get double trouble as a new beast arrives on the scene. It's not until chapter 16 that we're given the identity of this new beast, but he is the False Prophet.
Remember the counterfeit trinity: the Dragon (Satan) is the counterfeit Father, the Antichrist is the counterfeit Christ, and the False Prophet is the counterfeit Holy Spirit.
Deceptive Appearance
Notice his appearance in verse 11: he has two horns. How many horns did the other beast have? Ten. That's significant. The two horns represent strength, but not great strength compared to the Antichrist's ten horns.
His appearance is also described as being "like a lamb." The word "lamb" appears 29 times in Revelation, and 28 of those times it refers to Jesus. This is the only time in Revelation that it refers to someone else. What does that mean? This false prophet is deceptive. There is deception in this person, and we're reminded that looks can be deceiving.
Even now, there are false prophets among God's people. The Bible says that in the last days more and more false prophets will come on the scene. Jesus warned His followers that when the last days come, they need to be careful because there will be wolves in sheep's clothing.
When you hear somebody speak for the Lord (a teacher, a preacher, whatever) you better make sure what they're saying lines up with God's Word. Not most of it, but all of it. Satan knows God's Word. Satan twists God's Word. Remember how he got Eve? "Has God really said?" He got her to doubt God's Word.
The Ministry of the False Prophet
One of the main ministries of the Holy Spirit is to convict us, to glorify Christ, and to lead us to trust and worship the King of Kings. That's what the Holy Spirit does for us.
So likewise, what's the False Prophet going to do? He's going to turn the hearts of people toward the Antichrist and Satan. He's essentially the public relations person for the satanic trinity.
We can think of this beast as Beast 2.0, as he will come with great signs and wonders.
Revelation 13:13-14 - "He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men. And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived."
Who called fire down from heaven in the Old Testament? Elijah did. As the False Prophet begins to do all these wonders, people will be amazed. Our Bible passage says everybody is going to take note and be astonished at the power, and they will no doubt do whatever the False Prophet tells them to do.
Two Demanding Tasks
Once the False Prophet has them where he wants them, he's going to give them two tasks to do:
Remember another story in the Old Testament about someone making an image of themselves? King Nebuchadnezzar built a statue of himself and commanded everyone to bow down to it.
Revelation 13:15 - "He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed."
Through satanic, demonic activity, this image will come to life, and all people will be commanded to worship it. Is there an option here? If you don't worship it, you're killed.
As one theologian states, "It's here that the rule of the Antichrist moves from autocracy to theocracy." The Antichrist will no longer be content to be followed as just a great leader. It's here and now that he will demand to be worshiped as all-powerful God.
And the Bible says when that happens, run to the hills. You better pray you don't have a little one because it's going to be hard and tough in those days.
One-World Government, Religion, and Economy
Revelation 13:16-17 - "He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name."
Verses 16-18 tell us that "beast worship" is not a choice. It will be demanded as a new one-world religion. At this time:
Everyone will have to fall 100% in line with the demands of this new world government led by the Antichrist, a one-world government, one-world system.
It's here in our passage (verses 11-18) that we see the False Prophet, empowered by Satan himself, bringing about this one-world government, one-world religion, and one-world economy.
Already in Motion
Did you know that an attempt to unify the world in a single one-world religion is already underway?
In a recent article titled "U.N. Faithful Eye Global Religion," author James Harder writes:
"The secretary-general of the United Nations Millennium Peace Summit thinks that all religious apples fall from the same tree and are equally delicious. At a recent international meeting, he told 1,000 delegates that religions need to accept the validity of all religions or else it will be difficult to attain world peace. Recently, the notion has emerged that the pathway to peace necessitates the unification of religions. The Universal Religion Initiative (URI) recently convened with 300 people present representing 39 religions and signed a charter, which officially launched the movement. The goal is that there will come a day in which 'religious people will no longer insist on a single truth.' Episcopal Bishop Swing, a leader in the movement, goes even further: 'There will have to be a godly cease-fire, a temporary truce where the absolute exclusive claims of each religion will be honored but an agreed upon neutrality will be exercised in terms of proselytizing, condemning, murdering, or dominating. These will not be tolerated in the United Religions Zone.'"
This is happening right now within the United Nations. They are wanting a one-world religion, a one-world government, a one-world order. Why? Because it's setting everything up just the way God said it was going to happen.
Everything is shaping up. Folks, we're about to go home. When you read prophecy and you see things come to life, it should not make you nervous. Number one, you should look up because our redemption draws near. Number two, it should motivate us to go warn everybody around us that the judgment of God is coming, ready or not. And I hope you're ready to meet Jesus.
The Powerful Delusion
Paul tells us in 2 Thessalonians 2:11 that during the tribulation, God will send the world a powerful delusion. What is Paul talking about? I believe Paul is referring to the claim that the Antichrist is actually the Messiah.
What has Satan always wanted? He wanted to be God. "I want to ascend to the Most High. I want to be God." And now he's going to get his wish for a short, short season.
Can you imagine what it will be like for believers at this time? It's going to be awful. No doubt they will be huddled in their homes or other secret places for church. Countless ones will lose their jobs. They will be reduced to begging for bread on the streets where they will face unfathomable ridicule and persecution for not accepting the mark of the beast.
But there's going to be a remnant. Some of God's people (God's chosen people, as well as some Gentile Christians) will still be alive. Some will run to the mountains, probably to Petra. But there will be others who will have to endure the most trying time that's ever been on planet Earth.
The believers in those days will still have God's Word. They'll be huddled up in homes, hiding, still sharing the gospel, still holding out hope because they know that even if they starve to death, when they breathe their last breath, they're going to be with Jesus. They know that their life will just begin when they die. So they persevere to the very end, no doubt having hope in Jesus.
But folks, it's going to be awful for those who belong to Him at this time.
The Mark of the Beast: 666
Revelation 13:18 - "Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666."
This verse gets a lot of attention in Revelation. If you ask people what Revelation is about, they're going to say the Antichrist and the mark of the beast. The infamous trio of numbers, 666, has generated more speculation than perhaps any other number in history.
What We Know
We know the mark will be in one of two places on your body: your forehead or your hand/wrist. You might ask, "How is that going to happen? Is it going to be like a tattoo? A microchip?"
Consider the technological advancements we're making daily. Many of us were alive when the internet came about. We've seen incredible progress in just the last 25 years. Daniel prophesied about this: that in the last days, there would be tremendous advancement in the world.
Elon Musk recently said something fascinating: "Consider all the advancement that you've seen in the last 25 years. From this point forward, we're going to see as much advancement in one year as we did in 25 years."
Technology is already here that could facilitate the mark of the beast. In Sweden, thousands of people have already been microchipped, a tiny chip the size of a grain of rice inserted in their hand that serves as their keys, ID, and wallet. They can open doors, make purchases, and access buildings all with a wave of their hand.
A Description, Not Just an ID
There's been so much speculation concerning the mark of the beast, but speculation has not been helpful, and in many cases, it's been rather harmful. People have tried to identify the Antichrist for centuries, attempting to make names add up to 666 using all sorts of numerical gymnastics. But here's the truth: if God wanted us to know for sure who the Antichrist is, He would have told us.
An important statement in verse 18 might cause us to make a careful, cautious suggestion. The verse says, "It is the number of a man. His number is 666."
I think the number is more of a description than it is an ID. Here's what I mean:
Even though this Antichrist and satanic trinity will have power, they are not omnipotent. Everything that transpires is under the constraint of God Almighty. The superlative of six is seven (777). The Antichrist is a great man, but he's still just a man. He's not God. He's not seven.
So, he, along with Satan and the False Prophet, is 666, a trinity of imperfection. They will never be perfect. They will never be all-powerful.
Don't get lost in the weeds trying to figure out who these numbers represent. If God wanted us to know, He would have told us. Just know that one day, Satan is going to have his rule for a space of time. But he's on the leash of God Almighty for a purpose.
The Consequence of the Mark
What happens to those who receive the mark of the beast? They have sentenced themselves to eternity in hell. That's when God's mercy will say no more. This is not a decision to be taken lightly or one that happens accidentally. It will be a deliberate choice to worship the Antichrist and reject God.
Living in Light of These Truths
As bad as it's going to be in those days for the believers who are still alive, they will be encouraged by their hope in Jesus Christ. They know their life here will probably end. They may die of starvation, or they may die by the sword. They have no idea what lies ahead, but they're going to have this precious book of Revelation.
It's going to encourage them. They're going to read how they ought to be patient and faithful to the very end. And when they don't feel like they can go on, you know what they're going to do? They're going to draw strength from God's Word.
Friend, that's what we do too. There are going to be times when we're not going to be faced with a sword, but we're going to be faced with sickness, separation, heartache, grief, and loss. The same encouragement and peace that's going to be available for those saints in that day is available to us today.
Aren't you thankful for that? That even in the midst of chaos (and anybody who's ever lived in chaotic situations knows that family can sometimes get messy, and you have no idea how you're going to get through it) you can trust in Jesus.
There's a hymn that says, "Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus." The last verse includes the line, "Oh, for grace to trust Him more." But you better be careful praying that prayer, because you don't learn to trust Jesus when life is easy. You learn to trust God when you're walking through the valley.
But so many of us can testify that in the midnight hour when our soul was crushed and our world was caving in, we opened that precious Word of God and found the peace that passes all understanding. We got hope and encouragement to make it one more day. And one day led to a week, and then that pain and that wound turned into a scar and a testimony for His glory.
It's Going to Take Faithfulness
Just like it's going to take patience, perseverance, and faithfulness of the saints in those tribulation days, it's going to take faithfulness of saints in these days too.
Can we determine to finish well? May all of our desire be just to be found faithful.
When we first get saved, especially when called into ministry, we have these big dreams. "May God bless our ministry. I want to see hundreds of people come to Jesus Christ." But over time, after seeing so many people tap out, so many men and women of God who quit short of the finish line, my prayer has changed.
I don't care about numbers anymore. My prayer is: "God, let me be found faithful. Help me finish well."
May that be your desire as well. I don't care if my name is ever in lights. But one day, I'm going to stand before the King of Kings, and He's going to open that Lamb's Book of Life. He's going to go down the list, and there I am. Right there. And guess what? Nothing can pluck me from His hand.
Satan will try. He'll say, "Surely you're not really a Christian." He's the old accuser of the brethren, right? But I'm thankful for the precious blood of Jesus.
Conclusion: God Is in Control
We cannot forget that God is in control of every detail. Even when the dragon, even when the Antichrist, even when the False Prophet come on the scene and deceive the masses God is allowing that to happen. God is still on the throne, and God is going to have the final word.
If you want to take a peek, just go over about five or six chapters and see what happens to this satanic trinity. It doesn't end well for them, but it ends really well for us and God's people.
Everything that happens in Revelation 13, as dark and terrifying as it seems, is all part of God's sovereign plan. Through all the chaos, from Revelation chapter 1 verse 1 all the way through to the end of the book, guess who's in control of every single detail? God.
Even in these times, it's going to cost us to stand up for Jesus Christ. We're quickly getting to a point in our lives where standing for Christ may cost us. It may cost us some friendships. It may cost us a promotion. It may cost us something. May we be found faithful, like the remnant will be in those days.
If we have 50 years left or 50 hours left, help us be found faithful. We can't wait to stand before Jesus one day and worship Him and serve Him for all of eternity. But until that day comes, may we have wisdom. Help us to be men and women of this great Book. Help us to have God's Word hidden in our hearts that we may not sin against Him.
Help us to finish well.
All for Him,
Pastor Dustin
- Revelation 13 - The introduction of two beasts: the Antichrist (beast from the sea) and the False Prophet (beast from the earth)
- Daniel 7:2-3 - Daniel's vision of four beasts rising from the sea, representing four empires
- Daniel 7:4-6 - Descriptions of the lion, bear, and leopard beasts representing Babylon, Medo-Persia, and Greece
- Daniel 7:7-8 - The fourth beast (Rome) with ten horns and the little horn (Antichrist) rising among them
- Daniel 9 - Reference to the "prince/ruler who is to come"
- 1 John 2 - Reference to the Antichrist
- 2 John 7 - Warning about deceivers and the Antichrist
- 2 Thessalonians 2 - The lawless one or man of sin
- Revelation 12 - The dragon (Satan), the woman (Israel), and the child (Jesus Christ); war in heaven
- Revelation 17:9-12 - Explanation of the seven heads and ten horns
- Revelation 17:15 - The waters representing peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues
Introduction
As we journey through Revelation, we must remember where we've been to understand where we're going. In chapter 12, we witnessed an epic cosmic battle. We saw the dragon (Satan himself) cast out of heaven by Michael the archangel. Unable to prevail against Israel (represented by the woman), the dragon turned his fury toward all believers, both Jews and Gentiles.
Satan knows his time is limited. How much time does he have left? About three and a half years. And in his rage, knowing his days are numbered, he unleashes his counterfeit trinity upon the earth.
The Counterfeit Trinity
We must never forget that anything God has, Satan has a counterfeit. God exists as the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), so Satan creates his own unholy trinity:
- The Dragon (Satan) - The counterfeit Father
- The Beast from the Sea (The Antichrist) - The counterfeit Christ
- The Beast from the Earth (The False Prophet) - The counterfeit Holy Spirit
In Revelation 13, we are introduced to two beasts. The first ten verses focus on the beast from the sea, the Antichrist. The remaining verses introduce the beast from the earth, the False Prophet. Together with Satan, they form this satanic trinity that will deceive the world during the tribulation period.
Understanding the Symbolism
It's crucial to remember that we are still in a symbolic portion of Revelation, rich with imagery. John is seeing images that represent reality, but not necessarily literal in themselves. When John sees the Antichrist, he describes him as a beast because that is the best description of his character. When you think of a beast, what comes to mind Something awful, mean, vicious, and destructive. The Antichrist will be all those things.
However, don't picture an ugly monster. This will likely be a well-polished figure, the most well-spoken individual ever to walk planet Earth. In fact, he will bring temporary peace to the Middle East, something never before experienced. He will bring worldwide peace everywhere, and people will flock to him. But as we read through Revelation, we'll understand that this Antichrist will live up to his name as a servant of Satan, and he will serve his master very well.
The Beast from the Sea: The Antichrist (Verses 1-10)
Revelation 13:1 - "Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name."
No, the Antichrist is not a sea monster. This imagery is rich with meaning. To understand what John means by "rising up out of the sea," we must compare Scripture with Scripture.
Daniel linked beasts and the sea together in Daniel 7:2-3: "Daniel spoke, saying, 'I saw in my vision by night, and behold, the four winds of heaven were stirring up the Great Sea. And four great beasts came up from the sea, each different from the other.'"
The four beasts Daniel saw represent four empires: Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Looking ahead to Revelation 17:15, John tells us that "the waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues."
So, the sea in Daniel 7 and the waters in Revelation are the same thing; they represent the nations from which will come empires, and eventually, the Antichrist.
Unusual Appearance and Reversed Order
Revelation 13:2 - "Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority."
This beast is very unusual in appearance. Like the dragon in chapter 12, he has seven heads and ten horns. Daniel provides a parallel description in Daniel 7:4-6, mentioning the lion (Babylon), the bear (Medo-Persia), and the leopard (Greece).
Notice something fascinating: the order we see in Revelation is exactly reversed from what we see in Daniel. Why? Because Daniel's vision looks forward; Babylon had already come, and the next empires would be Medo-Persia, then Greece, then Rome. Unlike Daniel, John is looking backward. This isn't the future for him; it's history. So, he starts with the most recent empire and lists them in reverse order.
The Seven Heads and Ten Horns
What about the seven heads, ten horns, and ten crowns? Again, Scripture interprets Scripture. Revelation 17:9-12 explains that the seven heads represent seven mountains and seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and one is yet to come. The ten horns represent ten kings who will receive authority for one hour with the beast.
The fourth beast in Daniel is the great Roman Empire. It was different from the others, and out of this empire, the Antichrist will emerge. In some manner or form, the power and influence of the Roman Empire will be revived at the time of the tribulation, and from there, the Antichrist will rise.
If you watch what's happening in the Middle East with Iran, Israel, Egypt, and other nations you'll see that everything is taking place to set up everything we're reading about here. Bible prophecy is literally coming to life before our very eyes. This should not scare the child of God; it should excite you and motivate you to be prepared and to make sure everybody around you is prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ.
A Counterfeit Death and Resurrection
Revelation 13:3-4 - "And I saw one of his heads as if it had been mortally wounded, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the world marveled and followed the beast. So they worshiped the dragon who gave authority to the beast; and they worshiped the beast, saying, 'Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?'"
What we have here is nothing less than a counterfeit death and resurrection taking place near the end of the tribulation period. At some point, the Antichrist will be mortally wounded, and Satan, the dragon, will give him power to come back to life. What more proof would people need that someone is God than dying and rising again?
Do you understand how the world will look to the Antichrist and say, "He really is God"? Satan has always wanted to be like God. He desires worship. And guess what? God gives him this for a short time, three and a half years, 42 months.
Amazed at this resurrection, the whole earth will begin to submit to his authority. Verse 4 says they will worship the dragon who gave authority to the beast. Satan has always desired to be God. He always has, and he always will.
God Is Still in Control
But here's something critical in verse 5:
Revelation 13:5 - "And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months."
Notice the phrase "he was given." Who gave him this authority? Ultimately, God is in control of every single detail. As Adrian Rogers said, "The Antichrist, like Satan, is God's beast on God's leash."
Everything that happens, God says, "You can do this for this time, but I'm still in control." We may not understand God's ways, but all His ways are perfect.
Blasphemy and Persecution
Revelation 13:6-8 - "Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."
Daniel tells us that the Antichrist will go into the rebuilt temple and commit the "abomination of desolation;" he will declare himself to be God. Jesus warned that when that happens, people should flee to the hills because they're about to experience wrath and judgment on a scale they cannot begin to comprehend.
During these last three and a half years, the Antichrist will speak against God and His people, and he will act against God and His people. A multitude of Christians will perish. They will be killed. At the end of this chapter, we learn about the mark of the beast, 666, and if you don't have that mark on your wrist, arm, or forehead, you can't buy food, gas, or anything else. At the same time, people will be trying to kill you.
It's not going to be good for Christians during the tribulation period.
God's Remnant
But notice verse 8; there is another group. There is still a remnant whose names are found in the Book of Life. There are still some who will not believe the lies and deception of the Antichrist, nor will they worship him.
God always has a remnant. Most people in those days will worship Satan and the Antichrist, but there will always be those who stand firm. We're living in a day and hour, even here in what we call the "East Tennessee Bible Belt," when many people aren't truly pursuing Jesus. A lot of people know Jesus by name, but they're fans of Jesus, not followers. There's a difference.
Even in these tribulation times, it will cost believers dearly to not accept the mark of the beast, to not follow the beast, to stand for Christ. It will cost them their lives. Everything they know will be turned upside down.
A Call to Spiritual Discernment
Revelation 13:9-10 - "If anyone has an ear, let him hear. He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints."
Verse 9 is simply an invitation to pay attention and be spiritually discerning. This will be a great reminder for those saints alive during that time, but it's also a great reminder for us today.
Verse 10 is somewhat difficult to understand, but I believe it's referring to what lies ahead for those saints. In other words, these believers can expect to be captured, imprisoned, or even killed, but they are to endure and remain faithful to the end.
While this is probably speaking to those saints during the tribulation, the application is also for us today. As David Platt wrote in his book Following Jesus: "It is, and it will be, costly to follow Jesus in this world, but don't compromise. Even if it means you're being slain, hold fast to your faith. Even if it means you lose your job and all your money, hold fast to your faith. Even if it means ridicule and oppression and isolation or imprisonment or death, follow the Lamb! And one day you will stand with Him, you will sing with Him, and you will be completely satisfied in Him."
The Beast from the Earth: The False Prophet (Verses 11-18)
Revelation 13:11 - "Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon."
If you thought one beast was more than enough, the world is about to get double trouble as a new beast arrives on the scene. It's not until chapter 16 that we're given the identity of this new beast, but he is the False Prophet.
Remember the counterfeit trinity: the Dragon (Satan) is the counterfeit Father, the Antichrist is the counterfeit Christ, and the False Prophet is the counterfeit Holy Spirit.
Deceptive Appearance
Notice his appearance in verse 11: he has two horns. How many horns did the other beast have? Ten. That's significant. The two horns represent strength, but not great strength compared to the Antichrist's ten horns.
His appearance is also described as being "like a lamb." The word "lamb" appears 29 times in Revelation, and 28 of those times it refers to Jesus. This is the only time in Revelation that it refers to someone else. What does that mean? This false prophet is deceptive. There is deception in this person, and we're reminded that looks can be deceiving.
Even now, there are false prophets among God's people. The Bible says that in the last days more and more false prophets will come on the scene. Jesus warned His followers that when the last days come, they need to be careful because there will be wolves in sheep's clothing.
When you hear somebody speak for the Lord (a teacher, a preacher, whatever) you better make sure what they're saying lines up with God's Word. Not most of it, but all of it. Satan knows God's Word. Satan twists God's Word. Remember how he got Eve? "Has God really said?" He got her to doubt God's Word.
The Ministry of the False Prophet
One of the main ministries of the Holy Spirit is to convict us, to glorify Christ, and to lead us to trust and worship the King of Kings. That's what the Holy Spirit does for us.
So likewise, what's the False Prophet going to do? He's going to turn the hearts of people toward the Antichrist and Satan. He's essentially the public relations person for the satanic trinity.
We can think of this beast as Beast 2.0, as he will come with great signs and wonders.
Revelation 13:13-14 - "He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men. And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived."
Who called fire down from heaven in the Old Testament? Elijah did. As the False Prophet begins to do all these wonders, people will be amazed. Our Bible passage says everybody is going to take note and be astonished at the power, and they will no doubt do whatever the False Prophet tells them to do.
Two Demanding Tasks
Once the False Prophet has them where he wants them, he's going to give them two tasks to do:
- Make an image of the Antichrist (verse 14)
- Worship the image (verse 15)
Remember another story in the Old Testament about someone making an image of themselves? King Nebuchadnezzar built a statue of himself and commanded everyone to bow down to it.
Revelation 13:15 - "He was granted power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be killed."
Through satanic, demonic activity, this image will come to life, and all people will be commanded to worship it. Is there an option here? If you don't worship it, you're killed.
As one theologian states, "It's here that the rule of the Antichrist moves from autocracy to theocracy." The Antichrist will no longer be content to be followed as just a great leader. It's here and now that he will demand to be worshiped as all-powerful God.
And the Bible says when that happens, run to the hills. You better pray you don't have a little one because it's going to be hard and tough in those days.
One-World Government, Religion, and Economy
Revelation 13:16-17 - "He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name."
Verses 16-18 tell us that "beast worship" is not a choice. It will be demanded as a new one-world religion. At this time:
- Freedom of worship no longer exists
- Freedom of expression is gone
- Freedom of the press is gone
Everyone will have to fall 100% in line with the demands of this new world government led by the Antichrist, a one-world government, one-world system.
It's here in our passage (verses 11-18) that we see the False Prophet, empowered by Satan himself, bringing about this one-world government, one-world religion, and one-world economy.
Already in Motion
Did you know that an attempt to unify the world in a single one-world religion is already underway?
In a recent article titled "U.N. Faithful Eye Global Religion," author James Harder writes:
"The secretary-general of the United Nations Millennium Peace Summit thinks that all religious apples fall from the same tree and are equally delicious. At a recent international meeting, he told 1,000 delegates that religions need to accept the validity of all religions or else it will be difficult to attain world peace. Recently, the notion has emerged that the pathway to peace necessitates the unification of religions. The Universal Religion Initiative (URI) recently convened with 300 people present representing 39 religions and signed a charter, which officially launched the movement. The goal is that there will come a day in which 'religious people will no longer insist on a single truth.' Episcopal Bishop Swing, a leader in the movement, goes even further: 'There will have to be a godly cease-fire, a temporary truce where the absolute exclusive claims of each religion will be honored but an agreed upon neutrality will be exercised in terms of proselytizing, condemning, murdering, or dominating. These will not be tolerated in the United Religions Zone.'"
This is happening right now within the United Nations. They are wanting a one-world religion, a one-world government, a one-world order. Why? Because it's setting everything up just the way God said it was going to happen.
Everything is shaping up. Folks, we're about to go home. When you read prophecy and you see things come to life, it should not make you nervous. Number one, you should look up because our redemption draws near. Number two, it should motivate us to go warn everybody around us that the judgment of God is coming, ready or not. And I hope you're ready to meet Jesus.
The Powerful Delusion
Paul tells us in 2 Thessalonians 2:11 that during the tribulation, God will send the world a powerful delusion. What is Paul talking about? I believe Paul is referring to the claim that the Antichrist is actually the Messiah.
What has Satan always wanted? He wanted to be God. "I want to ascend to the Most High. I want to be God." And now he's going to get his wish for a short, short season.
Can you imagine what it will be like for believers at this time? It's going to be awful. No doubt they will be huddled in their homes or other secret places for church. Countless ones will lose their jobs. They will be reduced to begging for bread on the streets where they will face unfathomable ridicule and persecution for not accepting the mark of the beast.
But there's going to be a remnant. Some of God's people (God's chosen people, as well as some Gentile Christians) will still be alive. Some will run to the mountains, probably to Petra. But there will be others who will have to endure the most trying time that's ever been on planet Earth.
The believers in those days will still have God's Word. They'll be huddled up in homes, hiding, still sharing the gospel, still holding out hope because they know that even if they starve to death, when they breathe their last breath, they're going to be with Jesus. They know that their life will just begin when they die. So they persevere to the very end, no doubt having hope in Jesus.
But folks, it's going to be awful for those who belong to Him at this time.
The Mark of the Beast: 666
Revelation 13:18 - "Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666."
This verse gets a lot of attention in Revelation. If you ask people what Revelation is about, they're going to say the Antichrist and the mark of the beast. The infamous trio of numbers, 666, has generated more speculation than perhaps any other number in history.
What We Know
We know the mark will be in one of two places on your body: your forehead or your hand/wrist. You might ask, "How is that going to happen? Is it going to be like a tattoo? A microchip?"
Consider the technological advancements we're making daily. Many of us were alive when the internet came about. We've seen incredible progress in just the last 25 years. Daniel prophesied about this: that in the last days, there would be tremendous advancement in the world.
Elon Musk recently said something fascinating: "Consider all the advancement that you've seen in the last 25 years. From this point forward, we're going to see as much advancement in one year as we did in 25 years."
Technology is already here that could facilitate the mark of the beast. In Sweden, thousands of people have already been microchipped, a tiny chip the size of a grain of rice inserted in their hand that serves as their keys, ID, and wallet. They can open doors, make purchases, and access buildings all with a wave of their hand.
A Description, Not Just an ID
There's been so much speculation concerning the mark of the beast, but speculation has not been helpful, and in many cases, it's been rather harmful. People have tried to identify the Antichrist for centuries, attempting to make names add up to 666 using all sorts of numerical gymnastics. But here's the truth: if God wanted us to know for sure who the Antichrist is, He would have told us.
An important statement in verse 18 might cause us to make a careful, cautious suggestion. The verse says, "It is the number of a man. His number is 666."
I think the number is more of a description than it is an ID. Here's what I mean:
- Six is the number of man. Man was created on the sixth day, and he was to work six days.
- Seven is the number of perfection. We've already learned in our study that seven represents perfection and completeness. Who is perfect and complete? Jesus. He's the only one who's perfect.
Even though this Antichrist and satanic trinity will have power, they are not omnipotent. Everything that transpires is under the constraint of God Almighty. The superlative of six is seven (777). The Antichrist is a great man, but he's still just a man. He's not God. He's not seven.
So, he, along with Satan and the False Prophet, is 666, a trinity of imperfection. They will never be perfect. They will never be all-powerful.
Don't get lost in the weeds trying to figure out who these numbers represent. If God wanted us to know, He would have told us. Just know that one day, Satan is going to have his rule for a space of time. But he's on the leash of God Almighty for a purpose.
The Consequence of the Mark
What happens to those who receive the mark of the beast? They have sentenced themselves to eternity in hell. That's when God's mercy will say no more. This is not a decision to be taken lightly or one that happens accidentally. It will be a deliberate choice to worship the Antichrist and reject God.
Living in Light of These Truths
As bad as it's going to be in those days for the believers who are still alive, they will be encouraged by their hope in Jesus Christ. They know their life here will probably end. They may die of starvation, or they may die by the sword. They have no idea what lies ahead, but they're going to have this precious book of Revelation.
It's going to encourage them. They're going to read how they ought to be patient and faithful to the very end. And when they don't feel like they can go on, you know what they're going to do? They're going to draw strength from God's Word.
Friend, that's what we do too. There are going to be times when we're not going to be faced with a sword, but we're going to be faced with sickness, separation, heartache, grief, and loss. The same encouragement and peace that's going to be available for those saints in that day is available to us today.
Aren't you thankful for that? That even in the midst of chaos (and anybody who's ever lived in chaotic situations knows that family can sometimes get messy, and you have no idea how you're going to get through it) you can trust in Jesus.
There's a hymn that says, "Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus." The last verse includes the line, "Oh, for grace to trust Him more." But you better be careful praying that prayer, because you don't learn to trust Jesus when life is easy. You learn to trust God when you're walking through the valley.
But so many of us can testify that in the midnight hour when our soul was crushed and our world was caving in, we opened that precious Word of God and found the peace that passes all understanding. We got hope and encouragement to make it one more day. And one day led to a week, and then that pain and that wound turned into a scar and a testimony for His glory.
It's Going to Take Faithfulness
Just like it's going to take patience, perseverance, and faithfulness of the saints in those tribulation days, it's going to take faithfulness of saints in these days too.
Can we determine to finish well? May all of our desire be just to be found faithful.
When we first get saved, especially when called into ministry, we have these big dreams. "May God bless our ministry. I want to see hundreds of people come to Jesus Christ." But over time, after seeing so many people tap out, so many men and women of God who quit short of the finish line, my prayer has changed.
I don't care about numbers anymore. My prayer is: "God, let me be found faithful. Help me finish well."
May that be your desire as well. I don't care if my name is ever in lights. But one day, I'm going to stand before the King of Kings, and He's going to open that Lamb's Book of Life. He's going to go down the list, and there I am. Right there. And guess what? Nothing can pluck me from His hand.
Satan will try. He'll say, "Surely you're not really a Christian." He's the old accuser of the brethren, right? But I'm thankful for the precious blood of Jesus.
Conclusion: God Is in Control
We cannot forget that God is in control of every detail. Even when the dragon, even when the Antichrist, even when the False Prophet come on the scene and deceive the masses God is allowing that to happen. God is still on the throne, and God is going to have the final word.
If you want to take a peek, just go over about five or six chapters and see what happens to this satanic trinity. It doesn't end well for them, but it ends really well for us and God's people.
Everything that happens in Revelation 13, as dark and terrifying as it seems, is all part of God's sovereign plan. Through all the chaos, from Revelation chapter 1 verse 1 all the way through to the end of the book, guess who's in control of every single detail? God.
Even in these times, it's going to cost us to stand up for Jesus Christ. We're quickly getting to a point in our lives where standing for Christ may cost us. It may cost us some friendships. It may cost us a promotion. It may cost us something. May we be found faithful, like the remnant will be in those days.
If we have 50 years left or 50 hours left, help us be found faithful. We can't wait to stand before Jesus one day and worship Him and serve Him for all of eternity. But until that day comes, may we have wisdom. Help us to be men and women of this great Book. Help us to have God's Word hidden in our hearts that we may not sin against Him.
Help us to finish well.
All for Him,
Pastor Dustin
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2025
February
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From the Pit to Praise: Finding God's Purpose in Dark TimesThe Two Paths of Life: Choosing Blessing or DestructionThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 1 (Part 1)The Power of a Godly Legacy: Walking in Faith and Leading by ExampleThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 1 (Part 2)The Path to Restoration: Finding Grace in Our Darkest MomentsThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 2
July
Finding True Freedom in ChristThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 3Finding Joy in God's Promises: A Reflection on Prosperity and FaithThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 4Weathering Life's Storms: Finding Strength in God's FaithfulnessBuilding a Godly Home: The Foundation of Faith, Family, and PurposeThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 5The Book of Revelation: Chapter 6
August
The Power of the Gospel: Transforming Lives and CommunitiesThe Book of Revelation: Chapter 7The Book of Revelation: Chapter 8Finding Peace in Uncertainty: Trusting God's PlanLiving with Purpose: Making Your Life Count for ChristLiving a Life Worthy of the Gospel: Consistency, Cooperation, and Confidence
September