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!