The Beast from the Sea

Pliny, governor of Bothnia, wrote Trajan the Emperor regarding how he flushed out Christians in his area: “I gave these men a chance to worship the gods of Rome, offer sacrifice to the image of the Emperor, and finally to curse the name of Christ,” adding, “none of … More

Blasphemy

Chapter 13 gives much insight into what will take place during the last three and one half hears of the Tribulation. A study of Daniel 7; 9 and 11 will be very helpful to the understanding of this vital chapter. It will be a time of one world government and one world religion with one economic system. Those who resist the one world ruler and refuse to worship him will run the risk of being put to death. In fact, the martyrs may outnumber the believers who survive this time. This chapter introduces the two main characters of Revelation: the beast and the false prophet. In today’s Scripture we learn what this beast is like and how he will use his power.

      1.   The Beast (vv. 1-10)      

a.   Comes from the sea indicating he is a Gentile representing many nations (v. 1).

b.   Will be the political ruler over 10 nations (Possibly Common Market Nations) (v. 1).

c.   Appears to gather three proceeding empires under his power (v. 2). 

        - Greece (a leopard - Dan 7:6)

        - Medo-Persia (a bear - Dan 7:5) 

        - Babylon (a lion - Dan 7:4) 

    d.   The seven heads of the beast seems to represent important rulers, one of which suffered   a fatal wound and was miraculously healed by Satan himself (v. 3).

e.   Because of his supernatural character he is worshiped (v. 4).

f.    Was a blasphemer against God (vv. 5-6). 

 g.   A worldwide ruler; extends his authority over every tribe, people, and nation (vv. 7-9).

 h.   Leads many into captivity and kills them with the sword) (v. 10).

Application

Who have been some of the beasts or idols in my life? By that I mean people, forces, institutions, etc. that have tested my allegiance to Christ.

Revelation 13:1-10 (English Standard Version)


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