The Real Fright Night

 

Then I heard a loud voice from the temple telling the seven angels, “Go and pour out on the earth the seven bowls of the wrath of God.” So the first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and harmful and painful sores came upon the people who bore the mark of the beast and worshiped its image. The second angel poured out his bowl into the sea, and it became like the blood of a corpse, and every living thing died that was in the sea. The third angel poured out his bowl into the rivers and the springs of water, and they became blood. And I heard the angel in charge of the waters say, “Just are you, O Holy One, who is and who was, for you brought these judgments. For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and you have given them blood to drink. It is what they deserve!” And I heard the altar saying, “Yes, Lord God the Almighty, true and just are your judgments!” (Revelation 16:1-7 ESV).

 

All Hallows Eve, or as it is commonly known – Halloween. I have noticed an increased emphasis on various “news” channels about Halloween this year. One newscaster mentioned how Halloween has now become a week-long event with school parties, dress up days at work and school, and of course, trick or treating on the night itself. There are various segments of things to do or not do, what to wear, and how to make sure everyone is safe. I learned a new safety precaution as well. Did you know that blue buckets for children to carry collecting their treats indicates they have food allergies? Good idea, but Halloween is not the real fright night. That happens when God tells the angels to being to pour the bowls of wrath. We have the first of those in our reading today.

 

When it comes to divine judgment, timing is also everything. God will not pour out the fullness of His wrath until the right time for that wrath has arrived. Our reading today conveys this same idea that the fullness of God’s wrath will come once the appropriate measure of wickedness has been achieved. The entire chapter describes the pouring out of the first six bowls of wrath, which is expressed in the form of plagues. Note that these plagues parallel the judgments expressed in the sounding of the seven trumpets (cf. Revelation 8:6–13). However, whereas the earlier judgments afflicted only a portion of sinful humanity, the plagues from the bowls of wrath fall on everyone not united to Christ by faith alone (vv. 1–16). The complete measure of judgment has arrived, for humanity has made itself fully deserving of the Lord’s wrath. The same notion of the fullness and appropriateness of God’s wrath at the right time is also expressed in 16:4–6, where the impenitent are forced to drink blood. This is because the enemies of God’s people have shed the blood “of saints and prophets,” having persecuted believers under both the old and new covenants. Their behavior merits punishment in kind.

 

Because these plagues are like the earlier judgments but greater in their scope, they show us that what comes at the final expression of God’s wrath is the full escalation of the Lord’s earlier judgments. There is a connection between the disaster at the end and the suffering that the world experiences before then. Plagues, wars, and natural disasters are a foretaste of the wrath to come and warnings that people must repent now before it is too late. God is calling out to the world for repentance, and one of the ways He does this is by reminding us of our frailty. I hope you understand your frailty and remind people that they need to know Christ before it is too late.

 

The Bowls of Wrath

 

After this I looked, and the sanctuary of the tent of witness in heaven was opened, and out of the sanctuary came the seven angels with the seven plagues, clothed in pure, bright linen, with golden sashes around their chests. And one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God who lives forever and ever, and the sanctuary was filled with smoke from the glory of God and from his power, and no one could enter the sanctuary until the seven plagues of the seven angels were finished. (Revelation 15:5-8 ESV).

 

Pausing his introduction of the seven plagues to give us a picture of the worship of God’s people in heaven before His throne, John has reminded us that as the judgments of the Lord occur on the earth, those who die in faith are safe in our Creator’s presence. In today’s reading, John returns to the seven plagues, telling us more about the angels who bear them.

 

The curtains of the heavenly tabernacle open, and seven angels with the seven plagues come out. Dressed in bright linen with golden sashes, they resemble the old covenant high priest when he entered the Holy Place (cf. Leviticus 16:4). As heavenly priests, these angels are especially holy, which says something about the wrath that they are about to pour out. God’s wrath is not the petulant outburst of an impatient being or an expression of petty vindictiveness. It is not an overreaction to minor transgressions. God’s wrath expresses His perfect holiness. It is the consequence of an infinitely righteous being encountering sin that has not been covered by a sacrifice of atonement. The holy angels pour out the holy wrath of the holy God. It is right for them to do this, and the Lord’s wrath is the perfect expression of His justice against those who deserve it (cf. Ezekiel 36:16–21).

 

After the angels exit the heavenly tabernacle, the four living creatures around the throne of God give them “seven gold bowls full of the wrath of God who lives forever and ever” (v. 7). These contain the seven plagues. These bowls are most likely bowls that are ordinarily used for incense, which contain the prayers of the saints, which brought about the judgments of the seven trumpets. God’s final wrath and consummation are connected to our prayers. As we ask for Him to defeat His enemies and pray for the return of Christ, the day of consummation fast approaches. Once the seven angels receive the seven bowls, God’s glory fills the tabernacle, and no one can go in until the wrath is fulfilled (v. 8). The final, consummated creation where God dwells among His people in the new heavens and earth cannot occur until His wrath against sin has been fully and finally expressed.

 

I hope you are encouraged to pray for the return of Christ. It deepens and strengthens our hope for the future and gives us strength to continue in our broken world.

 

The Song of Moses

 

Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished. And I saw what appeared to be a sea of glass mingled with fire—and also those who had conquered the beast and its image and the number of its name, standing beside the sea of glass with harps of God in their hands. And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and amazing are your deeds, O Lord God the Almighty! Just and true are your ways, O King of the nations! Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” Revelation `5:1-4 ESV).

 

Seven churches have received a message from Jesus, seven seals have been opened, and seven trumpets have been sounded thus far in the book of Revelation. Now, as we see in today’s reading, seven plagues are about to be unleashed (15:1). These “plagues are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished.” The plague judgments represent the final outpouring of judgment, the end of the present age consummated at the return of Jesus. Revelation does not end here, for it goes on to describe some more things that will happen before the end, but the plagues are a foretaste of a more complete description of the end that lies ahead in John’s record of his visions.

 

Before we learn more about these seven plagues, we see again “those who had conquered the beast and its image and the number of its name” (v. 2). Of course, this group consists of the 144,000 saints who have been sealed with the name of God and of His Son (7:1–8; 14:1–5), the congregation that is much larger than 144,000 because the 144,000 symbolize the people of God redeemed from all tribes and tongues (7:9–12). This group stands beside “a sea of glass mingled with fire” (15:2). We are reminded of the clear expanse the base of God’s throne (Ex. 24:10; Ezek. 1:22). These saints who have conquered the beast, in other words, are standing in the very presence of our reigning Lord. They have maintained their profession to the end, clinging to Christ in life and in death, and now they get to see God.

 

These saints do not stand idly by; rather, they “sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb”. John alludes here to Moses’ song of victory over Pharaoh at the Red Sea (cf. Ex. 15) and the new song that the same saints sing in Revelation 14:3. It is not that the song of Moses from Exodus 15 and the song of the Lamb are identical. Instead, John is saying that the songs stand in continuity with one another. The incontestable victory the Lord won at the Red Sea over Pharaoh is the paradigm for God’s final victory over all evil. When God defeated Pharaoh at the Red Sea, the surrounding nations trembled (Joshua 2:9–11). When God defeats all evil, the nations will fear and worship Him. That is what the saints declare in their new song. The great acts of God reveal His holiness and inspire the nations to come and worship Him forever (vv. 3–4). When God defeats His enemies and judges His foes, people are inspired to worship Him. Sometimes we are tempted to forget this, thinking that talking about God’s judgment will scare them away. But God’s victory over His enemies is part of the good news of the gospel.

 

The Third Angel's Warning

 

And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name.” (Revelation 14:9-11 ESV).

 

Roman persecution was a real threat for the early Christians, and the prospect was no doubt terrifying for many of them. After all, Rome controlled most of the known world and seemed invincible. But as the first angel declares Babylon—that is, Rome—cannot endure (v. 8). She will be judged for leading others into sin. Remember, this book is written for both those first readers and all who followed. Rome is one prominent example of a human empire that is opposed to God and persecutes His people. Its fall confirms that no power that sets itself up against Christ and His true church will endure.

 

When we think of the fall of the Roman Empire, we might think only of the fall of its Caesars, senators, and other leading officials. Yet, as today’s passage indicates, the fall of Rome has consequences for everyone who wars against the Lord. Coupled with the fall of Rome is the eternal destruction of those who worship the beast and receive his mark. We read about the beast from the sea who demands worship, and he is closely associated with Rome, whose Caesars also demand worship. Many people will go along with this worship, which entails receiving his mark on their right hands and foreheads. This does not likely refer to a literal mark but to the beast’s control of his worshipers’ thoughts and actions (vv. 16–17; 14:9). In that way, the mark exists as a perversion of what God has given to control our thoughts and actions—namely, His revealed law (cf. Deuteronomy 11:18). Many people in the Roman Empire bowed to the Roman gods and took part in Roman paganism because it was required for them to engage in certain professions and to fully take part in the economy. They allowed pagan religion and morals to control their thoughts and actions. In other words, they served the corrupt religious, political, and economic goals of the beast.

 

Choosing to serve the beast might have led to short-term success, but it brings eternal destruction. Our reading today announces the surety of this destruction, which will be described more fully in later passages. God will make those who worship false gods and reject the Savior drink the full strength of His wrath forever. In light of the chaos of our nation and the world in general, we would do well to heed the warning of this angel. He may be speaking to us today! The answer in is in our refusal to follow anyone who does not both believe and behave in a manner that reflects the Gospel!

 

The Fall of Babylon

 

Another angel, a second, followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality.” (Revelation 14:8 ESV).

 

The second angle is now introduced bearing news of the fall of Babylon in our reading today. Babylon no longer existed as an imperial threat in the first century, so the name represents a different power. A minority of commentators hold that Babylon is the city of Jerusalem, which had rejected Christ. That is possible if Revelation was written before AD 70. However, even if Revelation was written that early, Babylon does not have to represent Jerusalem. In fact, Babylon almost certainly stands in for Rome and its empire. First-century Jews sometimes used Babylon as a code word for “Rome,” including Christian Jews such as Peter (cf. 1 Peter 5:13). This use makes a lot of sense. Like Babylon, Rome was a pagan empire that ruled over the Jews and ultimately destroyed the Jerusalem temple. Note also that the reason for Babylon’s fall here is that she “made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality.” In Scripture, “sexual immorality” could refer to all forms of illicit sexual behavior, but the prophets also used it metaphorically to refer to idolatry (cf. Hosea 1:2–3). First-century Jerusalem was certainly guilty of many sins, but the ancient Jews uniformly rejected actual sexual immorality and did not practice pagan idolatry. Rome and its empire, however, frequently celebrated sexual immorality and worshiped pagan deities.

 

Our reading today announces the fall of Babylon, that is, Rome, but it does not get into this description of this event until later (cf. Revelation 17–18). This announcement, then, foreshadows Rome’s defeat, giving hope to John’s original audience that the immoral, pagan empire oppressing them could not and would not last. Significantly, though, the announcement of Rome’s fall comes after the preaching of the gospel. That points us to an important truth: the defeat of Rome comes because of the gospel. In the gospel, God announces His reconciliation with His people, which is achieved through Christ’s defeat of all His and our enemies (cf. Isaiah 52; Col. 2:13–15). Jesus has already defeated all His foes, which means that no power that wars against His people can finally endure.

 

The defeat of God’s enemies does not come through human means. Instead, this defeat has been achieved already by Christ, and we wait for its fullness to be made manifest. We must never put our ultimate hopes in politics, military strength, or human strategies. The defeat of the church’s enemies comes about only by the power of God.

The Everlasting Gospel

 

Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.” (Revelation 14:6-7 ESV).

 

After looking at the first thirteen chapters we are forced to wonder if there is any hope for the people of the world. We have seen that hope exists for the servants of Christ, who are marked out by God for preservation and salvation (cf. Revelation 7; 14:1–5). Yet, it is not yet too late for those who are outside Christ. Though we are in the final era of God’s plan of salvation, while the earth remains and people draw breath, they may still find redemption in Christ. This is the message of the reading today.

 

John sees an angel flying overhead with an eternal gospel that is to be proclaimed to all the world, a gospel that announces God’s imminent judgment and exhorts hearers to worship the Lord. Revelation tells us about the kinds of sufferings the church will face before Christ returns and the periodic judgments on God’s enemies during that period, which culminate in the final judgment of all creation. However, Revelation tells us here that while these things are going on, the gospel is being preached widely. Only the gospel can create a people for God from every tribe and tongue, so it must be preached to everyone. No people group is beyond the reach of God’s grace. But the gospel is not only for those outside the church. It is the means of reform and edification for those who are already believers. Matthew Henry writes:

 

“When idolatry creeps into the churches of God, it is by the preaching of the gospel, attended by the power of the Holy Spirit, that men are turned from idols to serve the living God, as the Creator of the heaven, and the earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.”

 

Around the world, the church is suffering at the hands of many different enemies. But this same church is preaching the gospel, and we are seeing church growth on many continents. Their example encourages us to preach the gospel in our own context so that we may see the church renewed. We should do be faithful to pray for these messengers and the leaders for our churches who preach and teach the biblical gospel.

 

The New Song

 

Then I looked, and behold, on Mount Zion stood the Lamb, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven like the roar of many waters and like the sound of loud thunder. The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps, and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders. No one could learn that song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth. It is these who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins. It is these who follow the Lamb wherever he goes. These have been redeemed from mankind as first fruits for God and the Lamb, and in their mouth no lie was found, for they are blameless. (Revelation 14:1-5 ESV).

 

Today we begin a new section in our study. We have already seen the People who devote their lives to the worship of false gods, whether the Roman emperor or any other false claimant to deity, are marked with the sign of the beast (cf. Revelation 13). But there is another group of people in the book of Revelation who receive a mark. These are the 144,000 who receive the seal of the Lord (cf. Revelation 7:1–8). John’s record of his visions takes us back to this group in today’s reading.

 

The mark of the beast was the name of the beast, designating his ownership of the enemies of God’s people (13:16–18). The mark on the 144,000, however, is the name of the Son and the Father, identifying them as belonging to God (14:1). But of course, the mark on the 144,000 designates more than just ownership. Their mark is a seal, which also signifies security and protection. The followers of the beast worshiped him to be marked off for participation in the economy, to be protected by being able to buy and sell goods and services. Yet this is not a seal, so the beast cannot provide the security he promises to his followers, making their decision to obey him even more foolish. God gives His people a seal, however, for He can finally protect them and establish them secure in a new creation. The great hope of the Aaronic blessing for God’s name to be on God’s people is fulfilled as we receive God’s name and protection through faith in Christ (cf. Numbers 6:22–27; John 16:23).

 

God’s people in Revelation 14 sing a song of victory because the Lamb has triumphed over sin and evil. One of the purposes of our singing as Christians is to celebrate the victory that Jesus has won and that we get to share in by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. He has conquered the enemy and won a victory worth celebrating more than any other. This is the New Song. There is none like it and it is being finally sung as eternity changes to the ultimate King of all kings!

 

The Other Beast - Pt. 5

 

This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:18 ESV).

 

We come to the end of the 13^th chapter with this great encouragement: This calls for wisdom (v. 18). Perhaps you are an older believer, as I am. I’ve been watching, eagerly waiting for the Lord's return for over fifty years. It started when I first entered seminary in 1971. So much has happened during these five decades. There have been wars, rumors of wars, pestilence, diseases, famine, earthquakes and terrible storms. However, none of these things have precipitated the coming of Jesus. Perhaps the greatest terrorist attack on Israel has just occurred. We have yet to see the conclusion of this war. Nd, again, our attention is turned to the Middle East, but I want to be very clear. Our task is not in predicting the coming of Jesus, but in being ready for it. That is the foundation of real wisdom.

 

All of the events that have occurred are merely a small glimpse of what is coming, where the propaganda, the pressure, the dictates, the loss of liberty, and the consequences of not going along with the coming global leader will be far more intense. But it was still a glimpse into the type of global control that many desire, are actively working on today and will ultimately achieve under the Antichrist tomorrow. While true members of the Church won't see this coming Antichrist, we do already see the spirit of antichrist working and increasing in the world right now. And we see 'antichrists' with a lowercase 'a' acting and deceiving in that spirit. So, the need to be alert and watchful is important right here, right now. We should not be surprised or unprepared when we see things moving in a darker direction in the world. As we explore where things end up, we can more clearly see where we currently are in the plan of God. And as we can see various technologies, attitudes and players moving into position these all point to the season of His return. And that is the good news!  

 

There is a very real sense of awakening in the world. This is especially true among the Jews. They are, in their own words, seeing that evil exists and coming to the realization that if the darkness is real, then so is the light; if evil exists, then so must God. God is always at work but it's even more evident when the enemy comes in like a flood. God will always use dark days for His good! So always be encouraged about what God is, and will do, during the time we have left.

The Other Beast - Pt. 4

 

Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. It exercises all the authority of the first beast in its presence, and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose mortal wound was healed. It performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast that was wounded by the sword and yet lived. And it was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain. Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:11-18 ESV).

 

The Bible tells us that this mark will either be in the name of the beast or his number. So, it's not just a microchip, it is specifically the Beast's name or number. This has caused people to wildly speculate trying to find out who has a name related to “666”. Now the Bible does tell believers to “calculate” his number, so clearly it will be possible to do that, but I don't believe it is viable until he is revealed. So how can his name be calculated? Well, we have another name in scripture that, when “calculated” reveals something important about their character. You probably know that every letter in both Hebrew and Greek, the two languages used to write the Bible have a numeric value. It is interesting to see what happens when we look at the names “Jesus” and “Jesus Christ” in Greek? Jesus, in Greek, has a numeric value of 888. In the Bible, 8 is the number for new life and resurrection so this is telling us that there is perfect resurrection and new life in Jesus! But it doesn't stop there. Consider the following how every part of Jesus' name (even the vowels and consonants), speak of resurrection and new life when examining the numeric value:

 

Jesus = 888 or 37 x 8 x 3

Christ = 1480 or 37 x 8 x 5

Jesus Christ = 2368 or 37 x 8 x 8

Vowels in Jesus Christ = 568 or 8 x 71

Consonants in Jesus Christ = 1800 or 8 x 225

Vowels in Jesus = 488 or 8 x 61

Consonants in Jesus = 400 or 8 x 50

Vowels in Christ = 80 or 8 x 10

Consonants in Christ = 1400 or 8 x 175

And note that the '3', '5' and '8' in the multiples of 'Jesus', 'Christ' and 'Jesus Christ'. 3 speaks of the trinity or God-head, 5 speaks of grace and 8 is new life/resurrection. All amazing pointers to our amazing Lord!

 

So just as Jesus' name totals 888, so the name of the Antichrist will total 666. 6 is the number of man as he was created on the 6th day and always falls short of God's complete number 7. We've seen pictures of the coming Antichrist in the Old Testament which are associated with '6'. Goliath, you might remember, was 6 cubits and a span tall (1 Samuel 17:4). And as mentioned, King Nebuchadnezzar's image that he set up to be worshipped was 60 cubits high and 6 cubits across (Daniel 3:1). So yes, people will be able to 'calculate' the number of the beast. But again, this is for those that find themselves living when he is revealed. And he is not truly revealed until the restrainer, the Holy Spirit, along with the Church that He works through, are taken out of the way (2 Thessalonians 2:7-8).

 

Tomorrow I will draw a few conclusions from these past days looking at the “Other Beast.” Today, be assured that Jesus will protect and eternally provide for every believer. He has not lost one and won’t then.

 

The Other Beast - Pt. 3

 

Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. It exercises all the authority of the first beast in its presence, and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose mortal wound was healed. It performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast that was wounded by the sword and yet lived. And it was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain. Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:11-18 ESV).

 

This “other beast” doesn’t make it any easier for those who are left behind. Here we find the first mention of the “mark of the beast” (vv. 16-18). This next verse doesn't get any lighter. Everyone, small and great, will be forced to take a mark, without which you cannot buy or sell. It seems that Satan again tries to imitate God who places His own mark upon His servants' foreheads (cf. Revelation 7:3-4). Note the word “forced”. The False Prophet will force everyone to take this mark. There is no choice, and no one will be able to escape the coming system. There have been many interpretations (really guesses) as to what this “mark” could be. Is it an RFID chip, a digital tattoo, a neurological link to a computer system or some new technology? We simply cannot say with certainty. What matters are the implications of the level of control that is coming. People that oppose this coming global leader, his system and do not take his mark will likely be outcasts and forced to flee to safety. Try to imagine a world where you are not allowed to buy and sell. Even in our day we see the stage being set for this global control. Many politicians, world leaders and financial experts are speaking of a coming great reset of the entire financial system as most countries wallow in unresolvable levels of debt. What they need to do this is just the right war or similar scale crisis.

 

I do want to be as clear as possible. Some believers are fearful thinking that the mark of the beast is here now and that they might accidentally take it without really knowing it. Let me mention three things. First, the mark of the beast first requires the beast to be present and he hasn't been revealed yet. So, no, it is not a vaccine or current microchip that some have implanted. The mark of the beast won't be in operation until the Beast is in full control in the second half of the Tribulation. Second, no one will ever take the mark of the beast “accidently”. We read in Revelation 14 that even an angel in heaven will be proclaiming the solemn consequences if someone takes the mark. Taking the mark is ultimately about declaring worship and allegiance to Satan over God and thus God makes it very clear on that day that the judgment of taking this mark is eternal (cf. Isaiah 42:8). Third, we should also remember that the Church of today are given promises that we will not see this time (Luke 21:36, 1 Thessalonians 1:10, Revelation 3:10). Our hope and expectation is in the coming of the Lord Jesus for His bride. We look for Christ, not the Antichrist. But as we see the signs of Revelation 13 rising, we know even more that the days of Jesus' return are at hand! 

 

 

The Other Beast - Pt. 2

 

Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. It exercises all the authority of the first beast in its presence, and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose mortal wound was healed. It performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast that was wounded by the sword and yet lived. And it was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain. Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:11-18 ESV).

 

There are several mysteries around the image of the beast that won't be clear until the day arrives but note three interesting aspects from our text.  First note who makes the image. Several Bible teachers believe that the Antichrist sets up an image in the rebuilt temple and this is part of the abomination of desolation. But the Bible doesn't specifically state this, and we should note that it is not the Antichrist or the False Prophet that makes the image. It is all who dwell on the earth who are instructed to do so. So, is there one image or are all instructed to make an image? It is possible that everyone has a personal image of the beast.

 

Second, the image, whom the inhabitants of the earth make will be given breath and life so that it can speak. From this people have wondered if this is a satanic miracle similar to Egypt's magicians throwing down their staffs and having them turn into serpents (Exodus 7:12). Or could it be an AI empowered hologram that is given the ability to watch and speak? We do not know at this stage.

 

This leads to the even spookier third point. This satanically empowered image can kill anyone that won't worship it. This is one of the reasons, along with the fact that it is made by the inhabitants of the world, that each family may have an image of the beast. And note that this image can watch and see and even kill! It can somehow take note of who is worshiping and who isn't. Is this death through demonic spirits who watch or could there be some type of kill-switch built into the mark of the beast? Again, we do not know how this will all play out but imagine if each home had an empowered image watching what you were doing, listening to what you were saying, and noting whether you were falling down and worshiping this image or not. All freedom, even within your own home, would be gone, with fatal consequences for not complying. It is a scary thought.

 

One thing that's clear is that the image of the beast will play a huge role in the tribulation. The image of the beast is mentioned another 6 times after our reading and every time it links the worship of the beast with the worship of his image. And the Bible also says that anyone that is victorious over the beast is also victorious over his image (cf. Revelation 14:9, 11, 15:2, 16:2, 19:20, 20:4). So whatever this image is, it will have a profound impact and influence on each person on this earth. The only means to victory is through our faith in Christ!

Happy Birthday, Aaron!

 

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. (Psalm 127:3-5 ESV).

 

There are holidays people observe that are based on events related to a nation’s history, such as the Fourth of July and Memorial Day. Other holidays, such as Christmas or Easter, are based on remembering religious historical events. But each of us has a peculiar holiday linked to our own person. Today is one of those holidays for me. My youngest son, Aaron, was born four decades ago today. Happy Birthday, Aaron. The picture I’ve attached was taken several years ago on the campus of Georgetown University, where he is an Associate Teaching Professor. Because birthdays are a “personal holiday” I have taken a little break from our series in the Revelation to celebrate a bit. And, I hope my celebration will bring some encouragement to you.

 

While the Bible doesn’t command a celebration of birthdays, there are good reasons to continue to celebrate the birth of a person. It is good to affirm the value of a person (cf. Genesis 1-3). God goes about creating a beautiful and good creation. His most celebrated creation is man. God forms humanity in a very personal way. We are unique. That uniqueness is called “fearful and majestic” (Psalm 139:13-14). We also celebrate simply because people are blessings from God. In Scripture we hear about the wonderful blessing that children are and how God cares for them while they are still in the womb (Psalm 127:3). Birthdays are a also a time for thankfulness. There is so much complaining, strife, and conflict that swirls around us. It is easy to be pulled down into focusing on troubles and trials and take people and things for granted. Birthdays provide an opportunity to thank God for the life of a person who is made in the image of the God of the universe and is an amazing creation.

 

So, today I celebrate the incredible gift God has given to Mary and me in our son. I pray you have the same love given and received from your children. If there are impediments to that joy of relationship, perhaps this might encourage you to restore that in the coming days to what God desires for you.

 

Happy Birthday, Aaron!

 

the Other Beast - Pt. 1

 

Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon. It exercises all the authority of the first beast in its presence, and makes the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose mortal wound was healed. It performs great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in front of people, and by the signs that it is allowed to work in the presence of the beast it deceives those who dwell on earth, telling them to make an image for the beast that was wounded by the sword and yet lived. And it was allowed to give breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain. Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name. This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666. (Revelation 13:11-18 ESV).

 

We turn our attention today to the “other” beast. The Greek word here is allos meaning another of the same kind. This second beast looks different. He looks like a lamb instead of the first beast which had characteristics of the leopard, the bear and the lion. Yet any thought that this one is different in nature and purpose is removed when he opens his mouth, for he speaks like a dragon. That he looks like a lamb shows that he will come as a religious figure in some way trying again to mimic the true Lamb, the Lord Jesus. Yet this one is a counterfeit lamb. This is seen further in the verses to come when we will see how he acts. So, if you want to talk about wolves in sheep's clothing, this coming second beast will surpass them all. But despite how he looks and the image he tries to portray, he is but another beast of the same kind. 

 

The mission of this beast is to make all the world worship the first beast whose fatal wound has healed. So, in these first two verses we see a Satanic trinity working together in a perfect unholy alliance. I have previously mentioned that Satan and the Beast try to mimic the Lord Jesus with a counterfeit resurrection, thus “he will rise from a fatal wound.” And we see this mimicry again in this satanic trinity. The first beast, the Antichrist, comes to do the will of the dragon just as the Son came to do the will of the Father. The second beast comes to bring worship and glory to the first beast just as the Holy Spirit comes to glorify Christ. Even the use of miraculous signs is mimicking the real thing.

 

Tomorrow we will see more of this deception. Today I would encourage you to be very careful of those who claim faith but their actions prove a life much different. James helps us a great deal as he writes concerning genuine faith: But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. (James 2:18). Be wise in these last days!

 

The Antichrist

 

One of its heads seemed to have a mortal wound, but its mortal wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled as they followed the beast. And they worshiped the dragon, for he had given his authority to the beast, and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it?” (Revelation 13:3-4 ESV).

 

It should be noted that the word 'Antichrist' means both against and in place of. That is, the coming Antichrist, while hating Christ, will usurp the place of Jesus and even try to mimic the real King in some ways. We see this with “the fatal wound” that he received. The Greek word here translated fatal is thanatos which literally means death. There will be some type of “death and resurrection” event that will leave the whole world in awe and mesmerized by the Antichrist. This will be Satan's day and if you think people are easily swayed today, what is coming is on a whole different level.   

 

Notice also that it says that men will worship both the dragon and the beast. Remember again that the dragon is Satan. Men will worship Satan. Think about that! Everything will be twisted and turned upside down in the coming day. Satan will be revered, and the God of heaven despised. Satan will be seen as the good guy and Yahweh as the evil one. And the coming day will not have atheists. There will be a choice that all have to make as to who they will worship - God or Satan, Antichrist or Jesus Christ. And scripture says that the vast majority will marvel at the Antichrist.

 

A.W Pink writes of this character that he will be an intellectual genius, an oratorical genius, a political genius, a military genius, a commercial genius, a governmental genius and a religious genius. And when examining scripture, we see how this is all possible (Daniel 8:23-25). He will rise in leadership, yet be fierce, insolent and skilled in the dark arts. He will be mighty in power, yet not through his own power. He will prosper while destroying to an extraordinary degree everything he touches. He will succeed through deceit and shrewdness. He will bring peace, and destroy many while they are at ease. He will magnify himself while opposing even the Prince of princes. He will be finally broken yet not through human hands.

 

As terrifying as it appears, hope and victory are on the horizon! Jesus is coming soon to right this wrong once and for all!

 

The Coming Beast from the Sea

 

And I saw a beast rising out of the sea, with ten horns and seven heads, with ten diadems on its horns and blasphemous names on its heads. And the beast that I saw was like a leopard; its feet were like a bear’s, and its mouth was like a lion’s mouth. And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority. (Revelation 13:1-2 ESV).

 

This chapter begins the end in earnest. There is one coming who will literally take this world by storm. And that's not a good thing. Scripture knows him by several names. Probably the most famous is 'the Antichrist' though we only see this name in the first two epistles of John. In Revelation “the beast” is used extensively with 37 mentions in 29 verses. A few other names and titles that he is known by is “the man of sin”, “the son of destruction”, “the lawless one”, “the little horn” and “the prince that is to come”. There is plenty of speculation about who it is and this has gone on for centuries, going right back to the time of Nero. It is none of these. However, he may have been born and is now awaiting his time.

 

We do have a clear description of what this person will be like. We see in this passage that the dragon Satan, whom we spoke of a lot in the previous two studies, stands on the shore of the sea. Since these last days will be a time when the Restrainer, the Holy Spirit and His work through the Church, have been taken out of the way. Having been kicked out of heaven the enemy knows that his time is now short and is allowed to bring forth his “beast”. Let's just make a few quick points on this passage:

 

§  The imagery of the beast, especially looking like a leopard, a bear and a lion, is from the book of Daniel. You might remember that while king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon had a dream about a glorious statue of a man, symbolizing the coming kingdoms on this earth, God gave His impression of those same kingdoms by picturing them as various vicious beasts. Thus, the one who is coming will combine aspects of these various previous kingdoms.

§  The beast comes out of the sea. The sea in scripture, as seen in the book of Revelation, speaks of the Gentile nations. And as we shall see in a few days, this stands in contrast with the second beast that comes from the land.

§  The beast has ten horns. Horns in scripture speak of strength and the ten horns are a pointer to the kingdom of the last days coming out of the revived Roman Empire, from which the Antichrist arises. This corresponds to the 10 toes of Nebuchadnezzar's dream and the 10 horns in Belshazzar's dream (cf. Daniel 7:7,24). The ten horns are also interpreted for us later (cf. Revelation 17:12-13). These are ten nations that give power to the beast.

§  The beast has seven heads. The seven heads are both seven mountains and seven kings (or kingdoms) that exist throughout history (cf. Revelation 17). Each head is blasphemous, displaying gross disrespect for God, taking glory for itself and dwelling in pride. In future devotionals we'll see that the coming Antichrist, as Satan's man, will specifically speak out and blaspheme the God of heaven. He won't be able to hide his hatred for God desiring all worship for himself.

§  The beast resembles a leopard, a bear, and a lion. These represent the empires of Greece, Medo-Persia, and Babylon from the Old Testament (cf. Daniel 7). They are placed in the reverse order to what we see in Daniel because John is now looking back in time instead of forwards as seen in the days of Daniel.

§  The coming Antichrist will be specifically empowered and even possessed by Satan Himself. It is Satanic power that will grant Antichrist the ability to accomplish incredible feats, goals and wonders (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).

 

It is a time of great difficulty for the believer. Yet, there is great hope. This calamity will not last forever and the result will be the victory of the King of Kings, Jesus Himself!

 

The War in Heaven - Pt. 3

 

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. (Revelation 12:7-9 ESV).

 

Satan, this vile creature, is cast out permanently from having any access to heaven and is hurled to the earth. That is very good news for heaven, but very bad news for earth. It is always interesting to see the little glimpses into the spiritual realm that scripture gives us. I mentioned earlier that one book that clearly presents this is the book of Job. There we read:

 

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them. The LORD said to Satan, "From where do you come?" Then Satan answered the LORD and said, "From roaming about on the earth and walking around on it." The LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from evil." Then Satan answered the LORD, "Does Job fear God for nothing? Have You not made a hedge about him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But put forth Your hand now and touch all that he has; he will surely curse You to Your face." Then the LORD said to Satan, "Behold, all that he has is in your power, only do not put forth your hand on him." So Satan departed from the presence of the LORD. (Job 1:6-12).

 

In this amazing scene, the sons of God, angelic beings, present themselves before God to give an account of their activity. Among them is one called Satan. He has been watching one on earth called Job and when God raises the integrity of Job, His servant, Satan is quick to accuse him and pronounce that he is only faithful to God because of God's blessing and protection. God allows Satan to test Job, but with clear boundaries on what Satan can and cannot do. It is a truly remarkable scene. Now, in our reading today, Satan accuses the brethren before God day and night! We need to acknowledge that we see and understand these things dimly! But what is clear is that with this coming war, this all changes! Never again will Satan have access to the heavenly courts of God's presence. And never again will he be able to accuse one of God's children before the Lord. This begins the greatest affliction Satan could inflict on humanity still remaining on the earth. The end is very near!

The War in Heaven - Pt. 2

 

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. (Revelation 12:7-9 ESV).

 

The second question is who fights this war? Let's be clear that this is not God vs Satan! This is not Jesus vs Satan. That would be like George Foreman in his prime versus a high school featherweight. This is an angelic war with Michael and his angels in one corner, and Satan and his fallen angels in the other. So let's explore what we can learn about these two.

 

First, let’s look at “the Dragon” (Satan). The imagery of a dragon speaks of a fierce and powerful being, known for its ability to attack, harm and destroy. He is also linked to the serpent in the garden of Eden where Satan entered into the serpent. The serpent was sly, cunning, and deceptive. The serpent put deceptive questions into the minds of Adam and Eve.  saying 'Did God really say...' Satan, in the form of the serpent, loves to mix truth and error in a poisonous cocktail. The last days before the return of Jesus Christ will see Satan's attack in both the form of the dragon and the serpent. But it predominantly starts with the serpent. It starts with deception. He is also the “accuser.” The title “Devil” is from the Greek diabolos, which has the meaning of “defaming or “slandering.”  He is the master accuser of the brethren. He is also called Satan. The word Satan means “adversary” and reminds us that whatever form Satan takes, whether it is as a dragon or an angel of light, he is still and will always be, the adversary. He has different tactics and forms, but his goal remains the same.

 

We should also look at the angel Michael. On God’s side we have the angel Michael who is mentioned in only five verses in the Bible. These tell us that Michael is one of the chief princes in the angelic realm (Daniel 10:13). The first mention of Michael is to do with warfare. And what we will find is that every mention of Michael in the Bible is in relation to conflict and warfare. Michael was required to come to help the angel Gabriel bring his message to Daniel because Gabriel had been opposed by other powerful fallen angels. Michael is also Israel's protector (Daniel 10:21).  Speaking to the Jewish prophet Daniel, Michael is called “your prince”. We also see that Michael will take his stand against the enemy in the tribulation period (Daniel 12:1). Michael is also an archangel and has fought with Satan before (Judges 1:9). He is also the “chief, highest leader of the angels”. He is the only angel with this title in scripture. Finally, at just the right time Michael will battle Satan again, driving Satan and all the other demons out of heaven once and for all. Hallelujah!

 

The War in Heaven - Pt. 1

 

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. (Revelation 12:7-9 ESV).

 

The last few days we have looked at the first six verses in Revelation 12 and saw that it had some interesting characters. We've got the pregnant woman, crowned with 12 stars. We've got the wrathful dragon, out to devour. And then there is the promised child who is born and caught up into heaven, escaping the dragon. There is enough right there for an extensive book series. As we also saw, this vision opens up a panoramic view of scripture extending from the garden of Eden to the Second Coming of Jesus. In this ancient conflict, taking place both in heaven and on earth, we noted that the dragon failed to prevent the coming of the promised child despite numerous attempts at destroying both the promised line of the woman and the child himself.

 

When we think about heaven it is easy to think about God's throne and presence. Most of the time we also associate thoughts of peace, holiness and fullness of joy along with thoughts of heaven. We could also think of the praise and worship surrounding the glory and majesty of God. Rarely do we think of war. However, a war in heaven is coming. Currently, as we see in the book of Job, Satan is allowed to come before God and does so to live up to his name as the accuser of the brethren. A day is coming, however, when this will no longer be allowed. So, the key questions are when does this war occur, who fights in this battle and what is the outcome?

 

Let’s consider the first of these questions today. Many Biblical scholars place the time of this war in the mid-point of the Tribulation because of its context in this chapter and by linking it to the prophecy in Daniel 12 which states that Michael will take his stand to protect the people of Israel at this point. That could well be the end point for this war, but we don't know for sure. It is possible that this war begins at the rapture of the church. Knowing that the rapture of the church is a fulfillment of the Jewish wedding model, I don’t think Satan will have access to heaven when the bride is taken back to her heavenly home to be with her bridegroom. I won’t be dogmatic in this belief, but it makes sense to me that Satan will be filled with rage at the rapture of the body of Christ as this fulfillment of the child. He will then realize that the Church age believers have truly overcome him and will never come under his influence ever again. That is the essence of our hope! Once we are in our heavenly home, we won't have to see him, hear him, or come under his influence or accusations ever again. Now, that is truly good news!