(Chapter 13)

We saw spiritual details of the great tribulation period in chapters eight and nine. In chapter seven - a juxtaposition was highlighted; and it was seen that the Bride of Christ would be spared from experiencing the great tribulation and testing of the inhabitants of the earth. In chapter ten - we see Jesus on the earth protecting His wife; and he announces that the seventh trumpet is about to be blown - for the great tribulation period has ended. In chapter eleven, we see the details of the two witnesses taking a stand; and bringing plagues and judgements on the inhabitants of the earth; and ultimately allowing themselves to be overpowered and killed by the beast - and the seventh trumpet declares itself 3.5 days after their death. In chapter twelve - Satan and the details of his reign are started to be revealed in more detail; while it is also made clear again - that the Bride will be spared and not experience the great tribulation.

The dragon is Satan.

The great dragon was hurled down - that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. (R12:9)

And the dragon or Satan is going to go to the multitudes of peoples who reject God; and he will find some very deceived individuals - who will serve him utterly. Chapter thirteen; discusses how Satan is going to deceive the entire world; and cause HUGE amounts of people to walk willingly - to utter destruction and torment of burning fire - for absolutely FOREVER. Chapter twelve ends with the following verse:

Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to make war against the rest of her offspring - those who obey God’s commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus. (R12:17)

Chapter thirteen opens with Satan standing on the shore of the sea. In other words - Satan is looking out at the huge sea of mankind; furious, hateful, vengeful; and looking for people to help him accomplish his very wicked and deceiving deeds. He has very little time left - before he is destroyed in Hell; and he desperately desires to destroy as many of God’s most wondrous creation (mankind - who have a glorious calling - if we will just embrace God) as he possibly can - before his rule is ended.

And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea. And I saw a beast coming out of the sea. He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority. One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast. (Rev 13:1 - 3)

“This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits. They are also seven kings. . . . “The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast. (Rev 17:9 - 12 edited)

Satan commands a person to come out of the sea of humanity. A very notable individual comes out - one who has or forms allegiances with other influential people in various governments. All of these individuals - have submitted themselves to Satan and to his power. In return - they RULE over the earth. They are given power, and great authority. The word throne means exactly that. A THRONE. Ruling over a kingdom. In this case - the kingdom is all the numerous, numerous deceived peoples of the earth.

The Greek (G2585) word throne qrovnon (throne) means THRONE, and all of the included cultural and historical traditions and references. It is the same word used in (Matthew 5:34) where Jesus makes the following statement: But I tell you, do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne . . .

The word is found in the Greek 62 times; and is always translated as throne or thrones except for two times. Those two instances are found in Revelation at: R4:2 & R4:4 The word it; and them obviously carry the meaning of throne in these two verses.

At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it.

Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads.

And in one specific instance, the Greek word qrovnon is not translated. This instance is located at (Rev 4:6) where the word appears three times in the Greek - but is only translated twice in the English.

Finally - this Greek (G2585) word qrovnon is the only word translated as Throne - in the entire New Testament - except for one instance. The one exception is found at: Acts 12:21 bhvmato" (G1037)

Now, I really do not wish to focus tremendously on various Greek definitions, etc. But for possibly those who might not readily recognize that Satan does in fact have an actual Kingdom, and currently RULES the earth - thought to point out that this word always references or is translated as THRONE. And Satan does in fact have a kingdom and tremendous authority. We should just not desire to have any part or parcel of it!

The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. So if you worship me, it will all be yours.” (Luke 4:5 - 7)

Satan is also dealing with and deceiving a total of seventeen Kings. The ten horns are ten kings; and the seven heads are seven Kings. Do these words mean there will be seventeen different rulers? Don’t really know. I haven’t spent much time contemplating the meaning of the horns and heads.

We DO know that an individual is not going to come walking out of an ocean; capable of breathing underwater; with fins, green slime, seven heads (with one of those heads flopping around dead); and ten horns at various places on those seven heads. And who knows how many eyes? Two eyes per head - and this individual would have fourteen eyes!

We DO know that this is NOT what the Beast will look like - don’t we? Because if that IS what the Beast did look like - we (mankind - whatever nation saw it) - would DISINTEGRATE it first; and dissect it second . . . That would be our initial reaction to any such entity. But scriptures state that we WORSHIP this creature - so described as possessing seven heads and ten horns!

Plus - we have an angel (R17) giving an explanation of the meaning of this apparition. And - no explanation or meaning is given in (R13) because of the juxtaposition which God gives. God desires for us to acquire wisdom, and learn to hear the Holy Spirit; our personal TEACHER. GOD Himself - desires to TEACH each and every one of us!

What is the juxtaposition which is created? The following: (R13:1 - 3)

And I saw a beast coming out of the sea. He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion.

The description of the above, and this:

The whole world was astonished and followed the beast.

In both (R13:18) & (R17:9) - we are told wisdom is required.

Most governments have numerous ‘right hand’ men. Influential individuals who are delegated power and authority. So too - with the seven heads, and ten horns. Various individuals totally submitting to one person - Satan.

Plus, in (R13:11) - we have the statement of another beast, coming out of the earth. In chapter eleven - we see that ALL of the inhabitants of the earth - EVERY person - GLOATS and REJOICES in the death of Christians, and those following Jesus!

Here, in chapter thirteen; where we are being given more details of how that came about - we see that the WHOLE world followed, and worshiped the beast. Worshiped something with seven heads, and ten horns, and probably fourteen eyes, with one head flopping around; and feet with massive paws as from a bear; and faces from lions??

So, God gives us this juxtaposition; and expects us to grasp the relevant meaning . . .

Some might state that the seven heads represent seven kings who have already existed over the centuries. And died. Or five or six kings who have already existed, ruled and died. And the sixth or seventh are about to receive power.

And that might be true. Don’t know. If we focus on the seven heads, and the ten horns - we become somewhat detoured in the purposes and understanding of this prophecy. Somewhat, since an angel takes the time to explain to John what the meaning of the seven heads, and ten horns are - in chapter Seventeen. So they obviously have some importance. But here, in chapter Thirteen; the prophecy narrows down to an individual. And yes, this individual will have assistants - who will love deception and unrighteousness.

But notice the progression of the description. We start with a beast with multiple heads and horns. And a beast with multiple heads - would still have only one set of feet. But with multiple heads - we would expect multiple mouths . . . Instead we go from this hideous initial description - to one set of feet; and ONE mouth.

The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a to; ((often not translated) the, this, that, who) mouth like that of a lion.

The to; (G3836) word is used 19,885 times in (Greek) scripture. It is translated in 11,071 instances.

The word is translated in numerous ways:

the (7,564)

who (385)

that (150)

a (169)

the son (77)

whoever (35)

anyone (32)

its (21)

        Jesus (4)

this man (1)

the wife (1)

the news (1)

The above is just a paltry beginning sample. The word is translated 650 different ways. And we also have the 8,814 instances - where it is not translated. This word in various contexts, does indeed carry a broad range of meanings.

However, I am attempting to highlight the fact that here, in (R13:2) - the word is translated; and translated as: a mouth.

The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion.

So, in our description of this ‘beast’ with seven heads, and ten horns - we go to one set of feet; and ONE mouth. In other words - one individual.

ONE person on whom the world will be focused. He will have assistants, leaders, and other kings who will listen to him; but he will be filled with charisma, authority, power, deception, charm, and wisdom.

Now, in regards to his immense charisma, charm, and wisdom - we should note that No scripture states that he will possess these qualities. However; the word anti-Christ - which does exist in scripture - carries with it the tradition of opposite. The word anti [indicates: 1. Opposition to, effectiveness against, or counteraction; for example, antacid, antibody. 2. Situation opposite to; for example, antimere. 3. Reciprocal correspondence to; for example, antilogarithm. 4. Converse operation to; for example, anticyclone, antinode. Note: Many compounds other than those entered here may be formed with anti-. In forming compounds . . . ] [pg 56; The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language; 1973]

We have the term antimatter signifying an opposite type of matter. The antithesis of matter.

Jesus, who was, and is - the Christ; was foretold in scripture as:

. . . He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. (Isaiah 53:2 - 3)

The attraction of Jesus was NOT his appearance. He was NOT a good looking man. He had NOTHING in his appearance to attract man or to cause men to desire him. He was a poor and hard working person.

Since the world runs after ‘looks’; celebrates the ‘beautiful looking people’; and glorifies sex, power, and money - the common view of the anti-Christ - is that he will be a very desirable man. People will WANT to look like him; and to be around him. People will wish that they were him, be jealous of his good looks, etc. But, except that scripture specifically states that Jesus was NOT good looking - we have nothing in scripture to back up the viewpoint that the anti-Christ will be good looking, and charismatic, etc. The word anti; signifies the opposite. Christ was not good looking. So the anti-Christ is assumed to be good looking.

I tend towards this assumed point of view. But we should remember, that POWER attracts; and the anti-Christ will not necessarily be good looking! That IS an assumption. The evil, nefarious, part Jewish, German leader Hitler - who was very evil - and murdered MILLIONS of Jews and others - this individual was NOT handsome, or necessarily good looking. But, for the time that he was in power, he was almost worshiped; and he himself had a girlfriend. It is an assumption that the anti-Christ will be good looking. Probably will be. Might not. But because of some other scriptures which we will shortly consider - I do believe that the anti-Christ will be filled with charisma, authority, power, deception, charm, and wisdom.

Both Jesus and the anti-Christ are filled with wisdom, power, and authority. However, Christ’s wisdom, authority and power - came directly from God. And Christ is God. The anti-Christ’s wisdom, power, and authority come directly from Satan. And the anti-Christ will be Satan incarnate. Please also remember that Satan is a created being. He was created by God. He was the most beautiful and powerful being that God ever created. But - he is a created being. Jesus is GOD. God is three distinct beings - who are totally ONE in purpose and intent. Nothing is impossible for God. So, God became a man - in order to redeem us back to himself. Jesus, who was and is fully God, functioned totally as a man while walking this earth. All of his authority, and power came directly from God.

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:5 - 8)

And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. (John 17:5)

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (Matthew 25:31 -32)

Now, this fiendish beast individual, will be Satan incarnate. He will sit on Satan’s throne; have all of Satan’s great power and wisdom; and he will DECEIVE the entire earth - into believing that he is God!

If you believe that this will be a “walk in the park”; and you will just not ‘take’ the mark of the beast; you are sadly mistaken. The authority, power, his words; and the many, many miraculous signs, and numerous miracles that this person will perform - will be totally astonishing. Without a deep, deep, DEEP and intimate relationship with God, you WILL take the mark of the beast yourself!

Let’s take another quick look at the opening verses of chapter thirteen.

And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea. And I saw a beast qhrivon ((wild) animal, (fiendish) beast, snake) coming out of the sea. He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion. The dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority. One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast. Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?” The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority for forty-two months. He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven. (Rev 13:1 - 6)

What does the following phrase indicate:

The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion . . . (R13:2)

Leopard: Deception. Deception is part of its very nature. A great deceiver.

But he said, “Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing.” Esau said, “Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? He has deceived me these two times . . . (Genesis 27:35 - 36)

Let me go through all your flocks today and remove from them every speckled or spotted sheep, every dark-colored lamb and every spotted or speckled goat. They will be my wages. And my honesty will testify for me . . . (Genesis 30:32 - 33)

Moreover, Jacob deceived Laban the Aramean by not telling him he was running away. (Genesis 31:20)

Then Laban said to Jacob, “What have you done? You’ve deceived me . . . (Genesis 31:26)

Therefore a lion from the forest will attack them, a wolf from the desert will ravage them, a leopard will lie in wait near their towns to tear to pieces any who venture out . . . (Jer 5:6)

Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil. (Jeremiah 13:23)

Bear: Power, Anger, and great destruction.

Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked man ruling over a helpless people. (Proverbs 28:15)

Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly. (Proverbs 17:12)

Like a bear lying in wait, like a lion in hiding, he dragged me from the path and mangled me and left me without help. (Lamentations 3:10 - 11)

So I will come upon them like a lion, like a leopard I will lurk by the path. Like a bear robbed of her cubs, I will attack them and rip them open. Like a lion I will devour them; a wild animal will tear them apart. (Hosea 13:7 - 8)

Lion: Great ferocity, cunning, and strength. A lion is also associated with Jesus, courage, faithfulness, and God.

. . . Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness - who dares to rouse him? (Genesis 49:9)

Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the desert. They were brave warriors, ready for battle and able to handle the shield and spear. Their faces were the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles in the mountains. (1Chronicles 12:8)

The throne had six steps, and a footstool of gold was attached to it. On both sides of the seat were armrests, with a lion standing beside each of them. Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step. Nothing like it had ever been made for any other kingdom. (2Chronicles 9:18 - 19)

If I hold my head high, you stalk me like a lion and again display your awesome power against me. (Job 10:16)

They are like a lion hungry for prey, like a great lion crouching in cover. (Psalms 17:12)

Roaring lions tearing their prey open their mouths wide against me. (Psalms 22:13)

A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion . . . (Proverbs 19:12)

Like a bear lying in wait, like a lion in hiding, he dragged me from the path and mangled me and left me without help. (Lamentations 3:10 - 11)

. . .“Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” (R5:5)

The beast I saw resembled a leopard, but had feet like those of a bear and a mouth like that of a lion . . . (R13:2)

The beast - will have great power, strength, rage, cunning, & deceptions, and will be seeking to devour all peoples, while stating (falsely) that he is God; and speaking with the authority of God, and from God.

Now, I believe these three descriptions of a leopard, bear, and a mouth like that of a lion; are three aspects of how the beast will operate and function. But, these three descriptions could have multiple meanings. Some consider them to be representative of historical empires. Some wish to shoehorn the Pope and the Catholic church into this description. (Sigh).

My thoughts on the meaning of these three descriptions might very well be wrong. Wow. Who’d have thought? But, does it really matter?? The beast is WORSHIPED. Undeniable. One man. Worshiped. Let us not get caught up into arguments of minutia in this prophecy. Let us stay on focus of what it teaches . . .

The beast has a mouth like a Lion. I do believe that this also means that he will be stating that he is GOD. He will be stating that he is JESUS, come back to earth! His words will be as those of the Lion of the tribe of Judah! Jesus’ words are pure, true, and Holy. The beast will convince people, thru deception - that he is Jesus Christ returned.

What of the following verses:

 He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name . . . The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority for forty-two months. He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name . . . (R13)

How is the word Blaspheme (and its derivatives) being used, and the meaning??

First, in the New Testament; there are only three words which are translated in any form as Blaspheme. Sometimes these three Greek words might be referenced as: heap abuse on; slander; malicious, etc.

1. blasfhmevw [G/K 1059] (to blaspheme, insult, slander, curse) [4x in Revelation]

2. blasfhmiva [G/K 1060] (blasphemy, slander, malicious talk) [5x in Revelation]

3. blavsfhmo" [G/K 1061] (blasphemous, slanderous, abusive, evil, hurtful (speech); as a noun, a reviler, blasphemer) [0x in Revelation]

The Strong’s equivalents are (987; 988; & 989) respectively. In Revelation - only blasfhmevw & blasfhmiva are found. And any English derivative of the word Blasphemy is always (G/K 1060). (G/K 1059) is translated as (slander 1x; cursed 3x). (G/K 1060) is also translated as slander (R2:9).

What constitutes slander and blasphemy in the prophecy which is Revelation?

In Revelation - the Blasphemy which the anti-Christ commits - is declaring that he is GOD. I am sure that many other nuances exist within this framework; but that is the gist of it. He will not be proclaiming that God is bad, or evil. Or that God does not exist. NOPE! He will be declaring that he IS GOD; and deserving of worship as God. And since he is very aware that he is NOT God; and is deceiving that part of God’s most wondrous creation which was made in God’s image - this is indeed Blasphemy.

 Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?”

proskunevw [G/K 4686] (to worship, pay homage, show reverence, to kneel down (before)) is the Greek word being translated above as a derivative of Worship. The word means to WORSHIP. Worship as GOD!

The reason I bring this up - is because a few months back (today is 12/24/10); I had someone tell me that Satan and the Beast were not going to be worshiped as God. The person stated they were very well versed in Greek and Hebrew; and worship did not mean actual worship. The individual whom I was speaking with - was and is - a pastor of a church. He is also a man who loves God, and loves Jesus. And he is deeply immersed in end time doctrine; and events happening around the world.

However, once again - people are messed up with Revelation - because rather than just READING it; and learning to HEAR the Holy Spirit; and giving Him our ears and TIME to understand this prophecy - we again ‘study’ it! Delving into the Greek and the Hebrew - so that we can get the actual understanding of the meaning of the term - WORSHIP! Which in this case - of a man shepherding and guarding a segment of the Lord’s people - he declares that the word worship - does not mean and indicate worship; because of his ‘study’ and his understanding of Hebrew and Greek!

First - the ONLY word which is EVER translated in ANY form in the prophecy which is Revelation - as worship (or its derivatives); is the Greek word proskunevw

Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and WORSHIP him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne . . . (Rev 4:9 - 10)

The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and WORSHIPED. (R5:14)

All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and WORSHIPED God . . . (R7:11)

. . . “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. WORSHIP him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.” (R14:7)

Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and WORSHIP before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” (R15:4)

But he said to me, “Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers the prophets and of all who keep the words of this book. WORSHIP God!” (R22:9)

EVERY instance of proskunevw is translated in some derivative form of the word worship - in the prophecy which is Revelation. It is also the ONLY Greek word translated in any form as worship - in Revelation.

He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. (R13:15)

mh; proskunhvswsin is a combination of [G/K 3590 + G/K 4686] (no, not, (with {4024}) absolutely not; a marker that negates a statement. At the beginning of a Greek question, it anticipates a negative response) + (to worship, pay homage, show reverence; to kneel down (before)) translated as: refused to worship.

And we have the following small sampling of verses (the Greek [4686] word occurs 60 times in scripture; and 55x of those are in direct reference to worship):

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him . . . (Matthew 2:11)

Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:33)

Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. (Matthew 28:9)

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’’” (Luke 4:8)

Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. (Luke 24:52)

Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” (John 4:20)

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)

Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. (John 9:38)

You can easily verify that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. (Acts 24:11)

And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.” (Hebrews 1:6)

Every instance in the above scriptures are of the Greek word proskunevw [G/K 4686] (to worship, pay homage, show reverence, to kneel down (before)); which obviously (from numerous scriptural examples) means to WORSHIP. The Strong’s equivalent is #SG4352 if you desire to cross reference it . . .

Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?” (R13:4)

The beast will declare himself God, and he will be worshiped by the entire world. EVERYONE who is not of God - will worship him. But - what does it mean when it states that men will worship the dragon? Is this a great red creature flying around breathing fire - who has a large scaled tail - and we will all worship this Dragon??

NOPE.

The dragon is Satan. And he does have a tail; and his color is red. [see R12] He is also described as the serpent, or the devil. These are illustrative descriptions of the great deceiver - Satan. His color is red because of the fires of hell; and that is where those who ‘follow’ him - are destined to reside FOREVER.

But - are numerous deceived people going to worship a fire breathing dragon?? Like that depicted in numerous films? Nope.

Satan, Dragon, or the devil - has GREAT power, and authority. He gives that power and authority to the beast. The beast - is then worshiped as God; and revered by the entire world - as GOD! This worship will occur because of the mighty miracles, and deceptions which the Beast will display to man - convincing man - that he is in fact GOD.

Consequently - by default - Satan is worshiped. The beast will be Satan in the flesh. Satan incarnate. And mankind (all the inhabitants of the earth) will worship the beast because of his tremendous power, authority, miracles, wisdom, etc. Since ALL of that - will be coming directly from Satan - worship of the Beast - IS worshiping Satan. So, yes - everyone who takes the mark of the beast, or who bows down before his image - WILL be worshiping the dragon, or that ancient serpent called the devil or Satan.

I find it astonishing to listen to numerous people state that Science has proven God does not exist! Evolutionary ‘science’ is king! And yet - it is quite clear - that when the anti-Christ rules; NO atheists will exist. NO ONE will be questioning the existence and reality of GOD. If you are worshiping the one true God - He who is Holy and sovereign; and patiently enduring this terrible time till the end - you know and understand that GOD exists. And evolutionary theory is RUBBISH. However, if you are a man of learned knowledge; who insists that God does not exist - then the deceptions of Satan will overcome you; and you will fall down onto your knees before him! And you will ultimately spend FOREVER in Hell. A burning lake of fire and judgement.

When the anti-Christ comes into power and rules - No more fence sitting! Jesus stated that he would rather have us ‘cold’ than lukewarm. So be it! Here - individuals will either become HOT for Jesus; or HOT for the beast and Satan. There will be NO fence sitters!

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! (R3:15)

Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?” The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise his authority for forty-two months. He opened his mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven. (R13:4 - 6)

The beast will slander those who hold fast to the one true God; and do not acknowledge or worship the beast as God. He will insult and curse godly men. Individuals who recognize that if you follow the beast, kneel before him; or take or receive his mark - that you will spend eternity in Hell . . . Godly individuals will be crying out and stating: DO NOT do this!!

They will be put to death for stating the truth. They will be whipped; laughed at; stripped; publically humiliated; starved; tortured; etc.; and ultimately killed.

All for stating the truth.

As I watched, I heard an eagle that was flying in midair call out in a loud voice: “Woe! Woe! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth, because of the trumpet blasts about to be sounded by the other three angels!” (R8:13)

A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark on the forehead or on the hand, he, too, will drink of the wine of God’s fury . . . (R14:9 - 10)

And all the inhabitants of the earth - all those whose names have not been written into the Lamb’s book of Life since the creation of the world - will worship the beast. They will do so because of his miracles, and authority, and power.

These miracles, and displays of power - will have NOTHING to do - with what man has accomplished. No lasers; no missiles; no tanks; no electromagnet rail guns; no disintegrating rays; etc.

Do you believe that when Jesus comes back - he is going to mass produce jet airplanes or trains? With the flick of a finger? Jesus is GOD. He is going to rule the nations with a rod of iron.

Which brings us back to the anti-Christ. He will rule with a rod of iron as well . . . Demanding that you obey - or die.

Jesus is going to write his name on our foreheads. (R22:4) What a wonder, because Satan is going to write his name on foreheads as well . . .

He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead . . . (Rev 13:16)

Jesus had fatal wounds, which were still visible after he had risen from the dead. He showed his wounds to Thomas.

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:27 - 28)

The anti-Christ is going to have a visible fatal wound. That he will show the world. And the world will be astonished - just as Thomas was astonished!

Thomas however - KNEW Jesus. He knew who Jesus was! Do you KNOW Christ? Do you KNOW Jesus? Or are you going to be deceived; because a man arrives - with fatal wounds - performing GREAT and MIRACULOUS deeds; who is claiming to be the Christ! Who states that he is GOD; and asks you to receive his name on your forehead. Just as Jesus will actually do . . .

. . . had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast. (R13:3)

Yes, but the anti-Christ will write something on your right hand. Jesus never said that he would write on our right hand . . . That’s correct. Jesus stated that to a special group (the Bride) he would:

. . . I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name. (R3:12)

The wife will be receiving three different types of marks or names. Are they ALL going onto your forehead? Again, about the Wife of the Lamb - the following scripture exists:

. . . who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads. (R14:1)

Ok - so we have two items which Jesus stated would be written on our foreheads. However - Revelation states three items might be written on a believer. And - is there a difference in his name; and the name no one knows but he himself?? [see R19:12]

They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. (R22:4)

Jesus has multiple names. Numerous names. KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS; is another of the numerous names of Jesus. That is written on His thigh, and His Robe!

Satan and Jesus discussed scripture! Satan attempted to deceive; Jesus responded. [see Luke or Matthew chapter 4] Do you believe that you would have overcome Satan in that situation?? Do you possess the wisdom and grace under pressure - to properly respond?

But that is PRECISELY what is going to happen when Satan takes his seat on the throne of desolation! He will be discussing and stating scripture! Are you really going to refuse to take the name of Jesus onto your forehead? Don’t you WANT to be part of Christ’s own?? Everything that Jesus states he is going to do - Revelation states Satan is going to do! How are you going to stand against him? With the raising of the dead; the healing of the sick; the moving of mountains; the instantaneous travel - from one point of the planet to the other; the control of the weather; and the calling down of fire from Heaven. (R13:13) The last is a dual reference to Elijah [1Kings 18:38]; and where the disciples asked if they should call fire down from Heaven to destroy unbelievers [Luke 9:54].

Do you know what your one protection is against all of this?? READING Revelation! And NOT just twice a year! This book has so many, many blessings pronounced upon it; and yet people refuse to read it. They state they get ‘bored’ reading it . . . READING Revelation, and learning to HEAR the Spirit of God - are your only two defenses. In other words - KNOWING what is going to happen, and LISTENING to GOD - so that you have the strength, courage, faithfulness, and patient endurance to overcome!

Another terrible, terrible, doctrine - which comes straight from the pit of HELL - is that Christian believers are going to be residing on or inhabiting earth - when Jesus returns!

“Jesus can return any time!” “It’s almost time for his return!” “I can’t wait till Jesus comes back!” “Won’t it be exciting to see Jesus return on a white horse?” “Jesus could come back TODAY!” “No one knows the day or the hour - so He could come back today, tomorrow, or next week! I sure hope he comes back soon!”

Unfortunately - ALL of those above statements; come directly from Satan. They are not biblical statements. And the attitude and scriptural understanding displayed in the above statements - are WHY millions, and millions of believers are going to be deceived, and ultimately receive and take the mark of the beast; rejecting the one true Christ!

Some of the above statements - are actually true. It is the context and understanding of what is being stated - when they are stated; that determines the source. When Satan was arguing scripture, and attempting to deceive Jesus; what was his source of scripture? God, or a wicked heart? Jesus stated that Satan was the Father of Lies, and there is no truth in him! You see - both were stating scripture. Jesus was quoting from the Father; and Satan was quoting from a vile and wicked heart. The source was not the same . . .

. . . He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44)

1. Jesus can return any time! Totally, totally false. He has a specific day, and hour appointed. He stated that we should watch and know the seasons. Revelation makes quite clear - very specific events - which must occur before Jesus will come back as prophesied.

2. It’s almost time for his return! True statement. Just not in the context in which it is usually stated.

3. I can’t wait till Jesus comes back! This has a good heart, and is expressing love for Jesus and an eagerness for his return. Unfortunately - it comes from a total lack of genuine understanding; and is a sentiment which both Jesus and Satan desire for you to have; for different reasons.

4. Won’t it be exciting to see Jesus return on a white horse? YES - it will be. But this statement assumes that you are going to be on the EARTH watching Jesus come back. And scripture makes quite clear that ALL (everyone) on earth (R1:7) will MOURN when Jesus returns. It will only be exciting when Jesus returns on a white horse - if you are WITH Him; and RIDING a White Horse yourself - when He returns! (R17:14  &  R19:14)

5. Jesus could come back TODAY! Absolutely false! Jesus has total capability of visiting someone on earth; and ministering to he/she or them - as He sees fit! But the statement of coming back today - is referring to His prophesied, triumphal return. When he takes up rulership. And returns on the White Horse. This requires various prophecies to be fulfilled first . . . They have not as yet been fulfilled; ergo - He cannot return today or tomorrow, or next week; or (at this point) even in the next three years!

6. No one knows the day or the hour - so He could come back today, tomorrow, or next week! I sure hope he comes back soon! Well, I hope He comes back soon as well! So does the Spirit and the Bride; and even Jesus! (see R22) But the context of the above statement is wrong. Just because we do not know the day, or the hour - does not mean that Jesus wants us to be mindless idiots! That is one of the many reasons why JESUS gave us the Revelation prophecy! So that we would not be deceived and lose our inheritance of salvation. And prophecies have to be fulfilled. (See #5 above.)

Here is an absolute, and TRUE scriptural statement: NO believers will be living on or inhabiting the earth - when Jesus Christ returns. The ‘return’ being that ‘return’ signified as His lightning coming!

“But in those days, following that distress, “ ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’ “At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens. (Mk 13:24 - 27)

Then he said to his disciples, “The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. Men will tell you, ‘There he is!’ or ‘Here he is!’ Do not go running off after them. For the Son of Man in his day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other. (Lk 17:22 - 24)

“It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. “It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. Remember Lot’s wife! (Lk 17:28 - 32)

If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect - if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time. “So if anyone tells you, ‘There he is, out in the desert,’ do not go out; or, ‘Here he is, in the inner rooms,’ do not believe it. For as lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. Wherever there is a carcass, there the vultures will gather. “Immediately after the distress of those days “ ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’ “At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other. (Mt 24:22 - 31)

From the above scriptures - it would seem to appear that I am wrong. Christians will be on earth when Jesus returns. But that is because of a lack of understanding of scripture, and a total lack of understanding of the book of Revelation. And remember - Revelation was given - so that we might know what is to come and must soon take place! Scripture (not just Revelation) repeats itself, and makes statements from various perspectives.

For repetition - those four quoted above are from Matthew, Mark, & Luke.

“But in those days, following that distress, “ ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’ “At that time men will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens. (Mk 13:24 - 27)

Ok - the above scripture states that a DISTRESS will occur; and after the distress - Jesus will appear and gather the elect from the four winds and all of the earth.

“It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. “It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. Remember Lot’s wife! (Lk 17:28 - 32)

Now, the above scripture does not mention ANY distress. Rather - it gives the impression of NO distress. And it references Lot and Sodom. Sodom was NOT in distress when Lot left! They were going about their daily lives. In fact - the men who were pledged to marry the daughters of Lot - refused to leave Sodom! Not much distress happening.

Then Jesus states that on the day He is revealed - we should leave all of our possessions behind. I thought His day would be one of Rejoicing! Instead - referencing Sodom - (where FLEEING was required); Jesus essentially states that on the day He is revealed - we should FLEE! Why would I flee from Jesus?? And Matthew 24 quoted above - states that a DISTRESS will happen; and then Jesus will return - and ALL the nations will MOURN. And it continues to state that He will appear with power and great glory - and with a loud trumpet call; will gather His elect. When we consider just the two above scriptures; then Jesus would have us praying that He not return on the Sabbath or in the Winter! [see Mt 24:20]

So - which is it? Am I to RUN and FLEE from Jesus? Will He come back when everyone is just partying, singing, and dancing? Like Sodom - I am to FLEE from him, and not even go get my coat?? When He comes - will it be after a time of distress, or not?? Which is it - from the above scriptures?

You see, the above scriptures are the reason why people are confused, and believe that they will be residing on Earth; when Jesus returns! It is when we don’t understand the context of scriptures, and do not understand that Jesus makes Broad, and Sweeping statements - that we become mis-informed.

Will Jesus send an angel to gather His elect? Absolutely. Will this happen at a loud trumpet call? YES. Is this his ‘lightning’ coming? NOPE.

What are the two items above - which these scriptures agree on?

1. Jesus is coming back. And He will return in great power and glory.

2. No matter WHO you are - NO ONE will have to tell you that Jesus has returned. Even the DEAD will know that Jesus has returned!

These scriptures agree on the fact that His return will be like LIGHTNING. NO ONE will have to tell you! You could be Ten MILES below the surface of the Earth; BLIND; and in a locked up 5x5 soundproof box - and you would still be aware that Jesus had returned!

But our other understanding of these scriptures - is very confused - since we do not READ Revelation, and let the Holy Spirit TEACH us! We insist on studying the Greek; or even in reading commentary.

God has given me what I am giving you. After many years of just reading and listening. When you are done reading this commentary; READ Revelation; and tear my commentary apart. Prove me wrong; or prove me correct. But READ Revelation - constantly! Give God the TIME - to teach you!

With regards to the dead knowing that Jesus has returned:

Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen. (R 1:7)

Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” (R 5:13)

Matthew and Mark above mention distress before Jesus returns. Matthew even states that great signs and miracles will be being performed - before Jesus returns. Luke indicates that no distress will be occurring - but that we should FLEE and run without anything! The analogy of the destruction of Sodom - is quite important in Luke. We are not fleeing from Jesus - we are fleeing from eminent destruction and disaster. But what disaster?

and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. (Mt 24:11)

“So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation,’ spoken of through the prophet Daniel - let the reader understand - then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let no one on the roof of his house go down to take anything out of the house. Let no one in the field go back to get his cloak. How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now - and never to be equaled again. (Mt 24:15 - 21)

For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect - if that were possible. (Mt 24:24)

First notice - that verses eleven & twenty-four; are a repeat of each other. And sandwiched between them; are the verses which state an abomination that causes desolation will occur. And we should FLEE.

Verse 22 states that these days will be shortened. Remember chapter Eight of Revelation?

If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. (Mt 24:22)

What is the abomination which causes desolation? That is the anti-Christ appearing and coming into power. What is desolation? [1. The act of rendering desolate. 2. The state of being desolate; ruin. 3. A wasteland. 4. Loneliness or misery; wretchedness.]* What is the meaning of desolate? [1. Devoid of inhabitants; deserted: “streets which were usually so thronged now grown desolate” (Defoe). 2. Rendered unfit for habitation; laid waste; devastated. 3. Dreary; dismal; gloomy. 4. Without friends or hope; forlorn; lonely.]* (* both from pg 358; The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language; 1973)

The word desolation means to be put into ruin; and to be made a wasteland. To cause misery and wretchedness. Which is PRECISELY what the anti-Christ is going to cause. He will cause people to be deceived; and to spend eternity in HELL! He will require people to worship him as God!

But in Matthew 24 - we see that we should flee from the anti-Christ; the one who causes desolation! This puts Luke 17 more in context. We are not fleeing from Jesus; we are fleeing from the anti-Christ!

“It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. “It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. Remember Lot’s wife! (Lk 17:28 - 32)

So we see that Jesus refers to the phrase ‘revealed’ rather loosely. Sort of like behold, I am coming soon! (R22:12) What soon is - depends on your perspective. Jesus made that statement - just about two thousand years ago . . .

Matthew 24:31 (quoted above) mentions a loud trumpet call. Do we have a loud trumpet call? Yes, we do. In chapter Eleven of Revelation; 3 ½ days after the two witnesses have been killed; we have the very last trumpet in all of scripture; and a loud voice from Heaven. And this is a time of great distress - since the anti-Christ has been ruling for 1,260 days!

What of Revelation chapter Fourteen?

This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus. Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” I looked, and there before me was a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was one “like a son of man” with a crown of gold on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. Then another angel came out of the temple and called in a loud voice to him who was sitting on the cloud, “Take your sickle and reap, because the time to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is ripe.” So he who was seated on the cloud swung his sickle over the earth, and the earth was harvested. Another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. Still another angel, who had charge of the fire, came from the altar and called in a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, “Take your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of grapes from the earth’s vine, because its grapes are ripe.” The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God’s wrath. They were trampled in the winepress outside the city, and blood flowed out of the press, rising as high as the horses’ bridles for a distance of 1,600 stadia. (R14:12 - 20)

From Revelation chapter One, Three, Seven, Eight, Nine, Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen & Sixteen - we see that Christians will be residing on earth when the anti-Christ rules. They will be persecuted and killed. (R6:9) The dead in Christ will be raised first; then the Wife of the Lamb will meet Him in the air; and then the bowls of God’s wrath will be poured out; and Jesus will come (Lightning) and meet the armies of the world at Armageddon; and defeat them. Jesus’ chosen and faithful (R17:4 & R19:14) will be With Him on white horses - when He comes and fights the world’s armies at Armageddon. And so He will then take up ruling - with a rod of iron!

I have stated all of the above - because we are discussing chapter Thirteen of Revelation. And chapter thirteen makes abundantly clear - that people are going to be Killed - if they do not worship Satan as God. And Satan or the anti-Christ is going to be performing GREAT and MIGHTY miracles - totally to deceive. He will be declaring that he is Jesus; and will be asking you to take the name of God on your forehead - just as Jesus will do!

Couple with this - the insidious, and evil lie - that Christian believers are going to be ‘raptured’ out; and not have to experience the tribulation period; and we see why this brief explanation above, and examination of some scriptures - was necessary.

When JESUS comes to fight the battle at Armageddon - NO Christians will be living on earth. Period. And the entire earth will MOURN at His appearance and coming!

They are spirits of demons performing miraculous signs, and they go out to the kings of the whole world, to gather them for the battle on the great day of God Almighty. “Behold, I come like a thief! Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.” Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon. (R16:14 - 16)

All inhabitants of the earth, will be terrified at the dead being raised with the last trumpet blast. (R11) And then we were caught up into the air with Jesus our Lord. And our bodies were made indestructible. But, that is not the lightning coming! It is a MAJOR event and ‘coming’ to be sure. And some might actually call it the lightning coming. But still - Jesus fights the battle, and all of his armies (us) are with Him - at the battle of Armageddon. Which will not occur; and does not occur - until the bowls of God’s WRATH have been poured out on the earth; and onto those inhabitants who utterly, utterly rejected God and His Son!

And so we see that it is a terrible, terrible, doctrine - which comes straight from the pit of HELL - of Christian believers residing on or inhabiting earth - when Jesus returns! This is what gives rise to those statements of “Jesus can return any time”; & “I can’t wait for His return”; etc. Those are the statements with which I somewhat opened up this slight detour.

But it is necessary - because if you believe that you are going to be on the earth - living your life - when Jesus returns - you become RIPE for deception; and believing that Satan is the Christ! After all - the majority of Christians are not going to qualify for the Bride of the Lamb. (Unfortunately.) So, we will not be in the protected wilderness desert place which God has prepared. And we will be subjected to Satan’s deceiving rule. And since He will call fire down from Heaven - PROVING that He is God; and He will have obviously been raised from the dead - with his fatal wound . . . and he will be ‘indestructible”; why would you NOT believe that he is the Christ? You’re not READING Revelation; and taking it to heart . . . and consequently - you are ripe for deception.

The anti-Christ is going to quote so much scripture; and he will rule with a rod of iron. OBEY or DIE! What do you think Jesus is going to do . . . He will demand obedience as well . . . If you believe that your going to see Jesus’ lightning coming from a vantage point of earth - rather than being on a white horse - with Him in front of you - you are ripe for deception. I mean - Satan will probably mimic the ‘lightning’ coming as well . . . especially since so few people actually understand when or how it is going to occur; and believe that Jesus is going to snatch them away from all trouble . . .

Ok - back to chapter thirteen.

. . . had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast. Men worshiped the dragon because he had given authority to the beast, and they also worshiped the beast and asked, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?” (R13:3 - 4)

He has a wound, (just like Jesus) and the world is utterly astonished! He displays such supreme power and authority - that he is recognized as GOD, and the entire world rejoices in his arrival; and worships and praises him. He is obviously sovereign and can never be conquered in any war or battle.

As was previously discussed; he will require you to take his name. Just like Jesus. He will rule with authority. Just like Jesus.

He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them. And he was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation. All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast - all whose names have not been written in the book of life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world. He who has an ear, let him hear. If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed. This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints. (R13:7 - 10)

He makes war against God’s Holy people. And he conquers them. To stand against him (and everyone else on the planet); requires major endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s Holy people - or saints. There are two ways he can conquer the saints of God. One, to cause you to become deceived; and to receive his name and his authority. To essentially denounce Jesus; because unwittingly - you have become convinced that he is Jesus; and to serve God - you serve him. Or two; to persevere; and remain faithful to Jesus; and then he will kill you; while declaring that he is sending you into eternal judgement.

Then I saw another beast, coming out of the earth. He had two horns like a lamb, but he spoke like a dragon. He exercised all the authority of the first beast on his behalf, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed. And he performed great and miraculous signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in full view of men. Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. (Rev 13:11 - 18)

Jesus stated he would:

. . . I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it. (R2:17)

Names have tremendous significance in scripture. Jesus is going to write his name on the foreheads of his servants. He will also be giving us a name known only to the individual who receives it.

The anti-Christ will be giving his followers more than one name or identifying mark. As discussed previously; he will be putting his name on your forehead. Marking you as one of his own. And to the inhabitants of the earth - they will believe this is marking them as a servant of the most High God.

You will also be receiving the number of his name. A unique number or identifier. One of the benefits of this identifier - will be the continued ability to buy and or to sell. Jesus gives many names and special rewards to his servants. And we must wrench ourselves out of the idea that the “mark of the beast” will be just one specific mark. Just as Jesus writes several names onto his servants - so too - will the anti-Christ have more than one identifier for his ‘people’. Remember - Jesus LOVES us; while the anti-Christ HATES us! He absolutely HATES every person; because we are made in the image of God; and have a tremendous and wonderful calling - if we would just turn to the one true God. But he HATES everyone - even those he deceives - while telling them that he loves them . . .

. . . in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. (R13:14)

Jesus was not wounded by a sword. He was pierced in the side by a spear. (John 19:34) It is possible that this spear - was in actuality a sword. That is possible, but not necessarily likely. The Greek word translated as spear lovgch [G/K 3365] (spear, lance) is found only ONCE in all of scripture.

On the other hand - Jesus was not so simply ‘wounded’ as being hung on a cross; and then having his side pierced. He was so severely beaten - that his body was not even recognizable as that of a human being. (Isa 52:14) However; after his resurrection; he was obviously recognizable as a person, and human being; while still carrying his fatal wounds. So it is possible that He might have a sword wound . . . I bring it up - because it is a difference between the beast and Jesus. The beast will be mimicking Jesus and His authority.

Then I saw another beast, coming out of the earth. He had two horns like a lamb, but he spoke like a dragon. He exercised all the authority of the first beast on his behalf, and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the first beast, whose fatal wound had been healed. And he performed great and miraculous signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in full view of men. Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. (Rev 13:11 - 18)

The other beast - probably immediately follows the first. Just as Jesus states “It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. On that day no one who is on the roof of his house . . . And we see the term “the day the Son of Man is revealed” is somewhat generic - so too - would be the idea that the second beast appears a significant amount of time - after the first beast. They probably appear almost simultaneously and together.

Be that correct or not - this second beast receives all of the power and authority which the first was given. He performs great and miraculous signs - and these wonders which he was given power to do - deceive the inhabitants of the earth. These great and miraculous signs - encourage and cause people to worship the first beast.

We must realize - that these are NOT miracles which man is performing or doing! Dow Chemical Corp. is not a miracle. Laser weapons, and cell phones are not miracles.

When was the last time that you worshiped your Microwave Oven?? How about the Military? We might give them respect, and deem them worthy of honor; because they are willing to DIE to defend the country - but we don’t assign them Godhood! Neither do we fall down and WORSHIP a man with a machine gun! Depending on the circumstances - we might be on our knees begging for our lives - but we are not worshiping the person holding the gun!

And yet - so many, many people - assign to the above scriptures - our Military might! And they’re not even lumping in all military - to include the Military might of the entire world! However - weapons do not convey GODHOOD!

Yet, concerning the beast - the WORLD declares this: “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?” What is the meaning of the above statement? Would it not by necessity include the idea that NONE of the world’s military might - is sufficient to stop this guy? That NO weapon which could ever be designed or thought of - would be able to stop him??

We fight, we argue, we go to war against each other. We blockade, request economic sanctions; invade, conquer, torture, maim; defend, attack, develop biological, chemical, nuclear, laser, exploding weapons, etc.

We have cell phones, radios, genetically altered food; vaccines; knowledge, running water . . . and we are going to be ‘impressed’ because some guy comes on the scene with a bigger laser??

PLEASE! Get real! The SPIRITUAL exists; and the SPIRITUAL is going to be making a HUGE impression on mankind!

Do you KNOW who GOD is?? Because the beast or anti-Christ is going to display GOD power. He will do WHATEVER he wants INSTANTLY! He will be WORSHIPED as GOD! Because of the miraculous signs and wonders which he and his cohorts will perform.

And he performed great and miraculous signs, even causing fire to come down from heaven to earth in full view of men. Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. (R13:13 - 14)

Scripturally, causing fire to come down from heaven to earth - declares a person to be a servant of God. In this case, along with this sign, and many more; the beast will be declared and worshiped as God.

At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, O LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.” Then the fire of the LORD fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The LORD - he is God! The LORD - he is God!” Then Elijah commanded them, “Seize the prophets of Baal. Don’t let anyone get away!” They seized them, and Elijah had them brought down to the Kishon Valley and slaughtered there. (1Kings 18:36 - 40)

but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” (Luke 9:53 - 54)

. . . “Man of God, the king says, ‘Come down!’ ” Elijah answered the captain, “If I am a man of God, may fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty men!” Then fire fell from heaven and consumed the captain and his men. (2Ki 1:9 - 10)

So the king sent a third captain with his fifty men. This third captain went up and fell on his knees before Elijah. “Man of God,” he begged, “please have respect for my life and the lives of these fifty men, your servants! See, fire has fallen from heaven and consumed the first two captains and all their men. But now have respect for my life!” (2Ki 1:13 - 14)

When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple. The priests could not enter the temple of the LORD because the glory of the LORD filled it. When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the LORD above the temple . . . (2Chronicles 7:1 - 3)

Satan or the beast - will be consuming ARMIES! When is Jesus’ lightning coming? When He appears and fights the world’s armies at Armageddon. Do you not understand that Satan can gather some of the world’s military together at Armageddon? He can appear on a white horse and FIGHT them - defeating them utterly??

He is a LIAR and a deceiver. He will do ANYTHING to cause us to believe that he is God! It would not be hard or difficult for him to appear at Armageddon and fight and destroy some military.

When a person states that they are going to RULE the world; and that they are GOD; and will be worshiped as GOD - what would be the normal response of various countries??

Fire will be called down from heaven and consume entire armies. Tanks, helicopter gunships; battle ships; cruise missiles; etc. He will not be harmed; and will destroy ANYONE who stands in his way - with barely a flick of his finger . . .

And he performed great and miraculous signs . . . (R13:13)

Please, let’s get real! If you are afflicted with celiac disease, or gluten enteropathy; so that any ingestion of wheat or gluten causes atrophy of the lining of the small intestine; and a man waves his tiny finger; or just speaks a word - and you are instantly healed - what will be your response?

If you are paralyzed and unable to walk; and a man’s shadow instantly heals you - what is going to be your response? If your daughter is dying from Leukemia, and with a wave of his hand - she and thousands of others are instantly free from all physical ailments - what will be your response? Raising of the dead - no problem!

What of people who start believing in him; and take his mark or name? What when they start doing the same thing - healing people, and performing massive miracles?? Are you not going to RUN to him - to be freed from your arthritis; and heart disease? To be promised eternal life - if you will just kneel and worship the one true God? Do you not understand that this deception will be MASSIVE, and totally convincing! If you have not been being truly intimate with the one true Lord before this deception arrives - you will be very, very ripe for deception. When all of your friends state: “What is your problem? He is obviously GOD - he is fulfilling all of the prophecies about Jesus; he has brought peace to the earth; and he is ruling with a rod of iron; and look at the millions and millions of people that he has healed . . .”

When your friends state that; and the entire world is falling all over themselves to just get anywhere near this God person - what will be your response???

Now, a somewhat obvious question might also be: but what of chapters Eight and Nine? Where plagues and judgments are coming from Heaven; and the anti-Christ is powerless to stop those! What of the two witnesses who shut up the sky, and prevent it from raining?

Jesus stated a kingdom divided against itself could not stand.

Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them: “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall. If Satan is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? I say this because you claim that I drive out demons by Beelzebub. Now if I drive out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your followers drive them out? . . . (Luke 11:17 - 19)

Is not Satan the destroyer? Is not Satan the great deceiver? Is he not a liar and a thief?

The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from the sky to the earth. The star was given the key to the shaft of the Abyss. (R9:1)

His tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to the earth . . . And there was war in heaven . . . and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down - that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth . . . (R12:4 - 9)

They had as king over them the angel of the Abyss, whose name in Hebrew Abaddon, jAbaddwvn [G/K 3] (Abaddon, “{destruction}”) and in Greek, Apollyon. jApolluvwn [G/K 661] (Apollyon, “{destroyer}”) (R9:11)

They were told not to harm the grass of the earth or any plant or tree, but only those people who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads. They were not given power to kill them, but only to torture them for five months . . . (R 9:4 - 5)

These demonic ‘locusts’ submit and are totally ruled by Satan. Satan and these demonic fallen angels - are not allowed to touch servants of the most High God. But Satan is a deceiver. He is convincing people that he is God.

What is to stop the great deceiver from commanding these fallen angles to only torment those who have not submitted to him - but have not also submitted to God? Lots of people do not worship and revere Jesus as God. They are not sealed to God.

As these do not come to worship the beast; and they have resisted God - Satan causes his minions to attack and torment them . . . Anyone who cries out to Satan for help - gets instant relief. Have his name written on your forehead; and voilaˊ; the torment ceases because you have submitted to God.

Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake. (R8:5)

Now, the above happen all over the earth. These are from God, to cause men to turn to him; and they are also from God to harden men’s hearts - and to increase deception.

Here Satan is coming into total power. And what happens? Major thunder, and LIGHTNING! And how would you think Satan or the anti-Christ will use a bunch of Lightning which happens all over the earth as he comes into power and rulership? He will just deceptively reference comments Jesus made . . .

The first angel sounded his trumpet, and there came hail and fire mixed with blood, and it was hurled down upon the earth. A third of the earth was burned up, a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up. (R8:7)

Fire comes down from Heaven onto the earth. Destroying only trees and plants. REALLY?? Trees and plants are destroyed and consumed - but nothing else?? How about Satan stating that he is causing the fire to come down from Heaven; and consume buildings, trees, grass, and all life in these vast areas - including people. People whom he will state have not taken his name. The name of Jesus, the name of God.

And, how do we know that Satan isn’t causing this, and in total control? Did GOD hurt, punish, and afflict Job? Or, wasn’t it for the purpose of testing - that God allowed, and gave authority to Satan - to hurt, punish and afflict Job? What is Jesus’ statement with regards to this time?

Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth. (R3:10)

test peiravzw [G/K 4279] (to test, tempt; to try to trap; to examine (oneself). The difference between a test and a temptation is found in the tester's motivations and expectations; the devil tempts that the believer might fail God's standards of faith and so sin; God tests that he might determine and sharpen true character, with no focus on making the believer fail)

Note the definition of test in the above - is to temp, and try to trap. The scholars who have generally accurately defined the Greek word used; also state that God’s purpose is always to sharpen true character, with no focus on making the believer fail.

Well, that may be. God doesn’t want or desire for believers to fail. And Jesus did state that he no longer wanted any believer to be lukewarm. He would like us HOT for him; but if you are not going to be HOT for Him; than Jesus stated he would rather have you totally COLD; and subsequently against Him! That is the meaning of COLD - when we couple that with no longer allowing someone to be ‘lukewarm’. [see R3:15]

God does desire for believers to triumph in these circumstances. He is also very aware - that many are going to fall away, and turn away from Him. At this point - He is sharpening true character. Are you going to persevere and have patient endurance - or not??

Finally, a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD and said, ‘I will entice him.’ “ ‘By what means?’ the LORD asked. “ ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets,’ he said. “ ‘You will succeed in enticing him,’ said the LORD. ‘Go and do it.’ (1Kings 22:21 - 22)

The LORD said to Moses, “When you return to Egypt, see that you perform before Pharaoh all the wonders I have given you the power to do. But I will harden his heart so that he will not let the people go. (Exodus 4:21)

In the above scriptures; God is declaring that He will harden the heart of Pharaoh - before Moses has even arrived back in Egypt! And God has a lying, satanic spirit - go out and perform His will - enticing an ungodly King to his death . . .

So we see that God has used; and uses lying, wicked, hateful spirits - for his own purposes and will. Allowing them to carry out, and to CAUSE various events to happen. God ordained the judgements and plagues which are described in chapters eight and nine of Revelation. But it is entirely possible - that Satan and his minions; are the ones who are ‘doing’ them! Carrying out a dual purpose. God desires to test and to sharpen; to cause people to make an absolute determination in regards to Him; and Satan desires to deceive; and cause people to worship him as God.

The third angel sounded his trumpet, and a great star, blazing like a torch, fell from the sky on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water - the name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters turned bitter, and many people died from the waters that had become bitter. (R8:10 - 11)

Many people died . . . Yes, those who are resisting receiving taking the name of the anti-Christ. Who have not submitted to God; but are resisting Satan. They are used as examples of his power - if you worship me; you will not die or be affected by my great power. I will RULE the earth! I AM GOD; and you will OBEY or DIE!

We consider that healing, or raising from the dead - are BIG things. WOW! LOOK at what this man can do!! But what did Jesus state - with the obvious reflecting answer:

. . . “Why are you thinking these things? Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins . . . .” He said to the paralytic, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone . . . (Mark 2:8 - 12)

In God’s economy - Forgiving sin - is hard and difficult. Restoring our body, healing the sick, etc. that is easy for God. It provides temporary relief, but no long term solution. And God did in fact - CREATE this entire world and setup the entire system and our physical bodies - in just six, short days!

And just as restoring our bodies is easy for God - so too for Satan! He has been causing our numerous infirmities for years; using various methods. How easy it is for him - to undo what he has done; and to restore us to perfect health! Probably even reversing our aging; and causing people who are 90 years of age - to be as though they were 25 and in the peak of physical perfection. And all you have to do - is acknowledge that he is GOD; and is ruling the earth with a rod of iron . . .

Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?” (Luke 13:16)

These 1,260 days of ruling - are going to be days of MASSIVE, MASSIVE deception. And you really need to understand and realize that fact - or you will be taken in and deceived by him yourself.

What of the two witnesses (R11); the two lampstands who stand before the Lord of the earth? Satan will not be able to stop them!

And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” (Mk 16:17 - 18)

Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’” (Mt 17:19 - 20)

As various people come to worship and acknowledge Satan (anti-Christ) as God; they will receive his name, and become followers. They will receive power and authority; and will themselves perform many miracles. This will of course - increase the perception that Satan is God. As many people come to be able to work signs and wonders - the deception will of course be increasing . . .

However - God asks ALL believers to RUN from the anti-Christ or Satan. If you are in Judea - he states to FLEE to the hills; and don’t bother (actually a COMMAND) to NOT even get your coat. FLEE. If anything is important to you - you are in danger of being deceived. Your very life must mean NOTHING! You must put off ALL and EVERYTHING! Any item of this world - no matter how much, or how little - you might think of it as important - is a hindrance.

God asks ALL believers to FLEE! All except for two. The two witnesses. They alone are allowed to stay in Jerusalem; and to be a voice for God. The anti-Christ cannot touch them. They will be refuting his proud words; while he attempts to make a mockery of their statements.

They will shut up the sky - so that it cannot rain. But he will cause it to rain in other places; while withholding rain from others. He will cause plants to grow in a desert! We have a spiritual battle going on . . . Deception and Truth. And in truth; it is not known if the forces which cause it not to rain - might not indeed be those of the anti-Christ. The two witnesses are making godly judgements and plagues - but a substantial amount of times in scripture - these are caused by demonic or ungodly forces. God uses them for his own purposes.

So too - at this point; with the two witnesses - who are declaring truth; quite possibly Satanic forces are doing some of the plagues. Just as Satan spoke scriptural truths to Jesus; but they were lies for the purposes and evidences for which they were being uttered.

Now, Satan knows that he cannot stand against these two. Therefore - he makes NO move against them! He allows his new followers to come against these ‘blasphemers’ of God. And each and every one of the endowed with power and authority believers of ‘Jesus’ - the anti-Christ - are killed by fire from the two witnesses.

The response will be that you didn’t have great enough faith; or that you were actually some false believer; who was following ‘Satan’. (Since Satan will have declared himself to be GOD!.)

Just as the disciples asked Jesus why they could not drive out a particular demon - so too here! Everyone who attempts will fail - but the anti-Christ will have an answer.

Finally - the anti-Christ will make his final deception. ALL other Christian believers whom the world is aware of - will have been killed. The anti-Christ (Satan) will come against the two witnesses. They will (for purposes of prophecy fulfillment) allow themselves to be overcome, and killed. Satan will be perceived as the ultimate Victor - having totally overcome these two individuals who have just spent the last 3½ years ‘blaspheming’ God. The world will go into absolute JOY and sending each other gifts, and congratulatory notices, etc.

The two witnesses will have been speaking truth. But Satan will use their words - for his own gain. And Satan will - ultimately - destroy and kill the two witnesses; while the entire world watches!

What of the ‘mark of the beast’; or the number of his name? The number which is 666?

Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. (Rev 13:14 - 18)

First, these verses specifically state they need wisdom. Or, at least the part which is discussing the name or mark of the beast - requires wisdom.

So, the mark or name(s); are not so specifically designated that we can understand what they are or represent - UNLESS - we receive wisdom. Wisdom from God and the Holy Spirit.

The mark is specifically stated to be the name of the beast or the number of his name. We easily see in scripture that Jesus is going to be giving us more than one name. And we will receive at least two names, marks, or identifying characteristics of belonging to Jesus - on our foreheads.

And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever. There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or for anyone who receives the mark of his name.” (R14:11)

The idea that Satan will require everyone on the planet to receive a mark or branding - which states SATAN in 2 inch high letters - is ludicrous. Same with the number 666. For one, deception is paramount in everything which is happening. So we need to realize, that BILLIONS of people are going to be receiving the number 666 - and not realizing it! No signs will exist - stating to: “Step right up folks, receive the mark of the beast, and go to Hell . . .”

DECEPTION is the modus operandi of the ancient Serpent.

So, his name, and or mark - are obviously NOT the number 666.

And, by the way - the Beast does not have just one name. Why are we so hung up on thinking that his mark - is just going to be one specific name? “I just won’t receive the mark.” As if, without wisdom from God - you will actually even know what the mark consists of . . .

Jesus has multiple names.

KING of KINGS, and LORD of LORDS; Word of God; Emanuel; Son of Man; Son of God; Lamb of God; Great Shepherd; Faithful and True; Alpha and the Omega; Beginning and the End . . . for a couple of examples of various names of our Lord.

As Jesus has multiple names; so too - does Satan.

1. Beast

2. Great Dragon

3. Roaring Lion

4. Devil

5. Ancient Serpent

6. Satan

7. Morning Star

8. Son of the Dawn

9. Lucifer (KJV)

10. King of Tyre

11. Guardian Cherub

12. Fallen Angel

13. Star

14. Angel of the Abyss

15. Abaddon

16. Apollyon

And probably other names exist for Satan. Just as Jesus has multiple names, so does Satan. Some of the names are even similar.

Jesus is called: “Lion of the Tribe of Judah”. Satan is called: “a roaring Lion.”

Jesus is called: “Christ”. Satan is called: “anti-Christ”.

Jesus is called: “Bright Morning Star”. Satan is called: “morning star.”

And the term “morning star” - is also a name, position or title which Jesus is going to give to us! (R2:28)

Jesus has multiple names; and Jesus is going to be giving us multiple names.

Satan has multiple names; and Satan will be giving his followers - multiple names.

. . . I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it. (R2:17)

We are going to be given new names, various names of God, etc. Why would we think that Satan is only going to give us one specific mark? Scripture states this requires WISDOM!

The anti-Christ will be ruling with DECEPTION.

Jesus will be ruling with a Rod of Iron. So will Satan.

Jesus has a name written on his thigh. Possibly Jesus will write a name on believers thighs . . .

Jesus will write more than one name on the foreheads of his chosen and faithful . . .

Yet, we consider the following scripture:

. . . to receive a mark on his right hand OR on his forehead . . . (R13:16)

And we say, “Oh, it is a ‘mark’ on your hand or your forehead! I just won’t take a mark on either my left or right hand; and I won’t take a mark on my forehead.”

We constantly view scripture in this: A → B → C → D → E progression, and never comprehend that although scripture is true - it doesn’t necessarily mean what we think it means.

For example: Jesus NEVER stated that ANY believers would be on earth when he returned as the lightning flashes from the east to the west.

What he stated was: to NOT go and see false prophets and false Christs. And DO NOT believe it - when someone stated that Jesus had returned! He NEVER stated that you would be on earth waiting for him to return - at the time of his “Lightning” return.

Earlier, we saw that . . .“It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. On that day no one who is on the roof of his house, with his goods inside, should go down to get them.” . . . (Lk17:30 - 31)

The Son Man returns AFTER the tremendous distress which is being referenced with regards to your goods and being out in a field or on the roof of your house.

In Revelation chapter Eleven - we see the Last trumpet. The very LAST trumpet in ALL of scripture! On first read - it would seem that the last trumpet is blown AFTER the dead have been raised! But with a proper understanding that scripture changes its perspectives and views which it is giving the reader - ALL the time - we know that first we were viewing events from an earthly view; and then we went back to a spiritual view . . .

The TRUMPET sounded first; along with a LOUD voice; and THEN the dead were raised!

In chapter Thirteen - we read this “if, and, or” statement. And we read it like: Either the right hand - OR the FOREHEAD!

But, we don’t realize that it is BOTH! If you take a name onto your forehead - you WILL take a name onto your right hand! If you kneel or worship before the anti-Christ and or his representatives - you WILL take a name onto your right hand; and you WILL take a name onto your forehead!

DECEPTION is the modus operandi . . .

Now, it is possible - that I am wrong with the statement that EVERYONE will receive multiple names!

The reason is because the anti-Christ will be mimicking Jesus and the Millennium. During the 1,000 year period of the millennium; not everyone will be saved or joyfully serving Jesus. We know that although the tree of life will be bearing fruit each month; and its leaves will be for the healing of the nations [R22:2]; not everyone will be saved - since not everyone will be allowed to even enter the Holy City!

We also know that the waters of life [R22:1] flow from the throne of God, out into the world; where eventually men are seen - fishing from the waters . . .

He asked me, “Son of man, do you see this?” Then he led me back to the bank of the river. When I arrived there, I saw a great number of trees on each side of the river. He said to me, “This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, where it enters the Sea. When it empties into the Sea, the water there becomes fresh. Swarms of living creatures will live wherever the river flows. There will be large numbers of fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows everything will live. Fishermen will stand along the shore; from En Gedi to En Eglaim there will be places for spreading nets. The fish will be of many kinds - like the fish of the Great Sea. But the swamps and marshes will not become fresh; they will be left for salt. Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.” (Ezekiel 47:6 - 12)

We also know that some people during the Millennium reign of Christ - will still be judged accursed!

“Never again will there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not live out his years; he who dies at a hundred will be thought a mere youth; he who fails to reach a hundred will be considered accursed. (Isaiah 65:20)

DEATH is not destroyed until after the Millennial reign; and the 2^nd resurrection. [see R20:14]

Jesus will rule during the Millennium period with a Rod of Iron. So not everyone will cheerfully submit; and not everyone will necessarily have the name of God, and the Lamb’s name written onto their foreheads! Some will still be found wanting, and will die early . . .

Consequently - it could be stated that during the anti-Christ’s rule of massive deception; not necessarily everyone will embrace him fully; while still submitting to his power and authority. Just as will happen during Jesus’ initial Millennium rule.

We should also remember that the right hand - is a positional symbol of great Honor, and Authority.

“I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Mark 14:62)

. . . Then he placed his right hand on me and said: Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. (Rev 1:17)

which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. (Ephesians 1:20 - 21)

but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.” (Mark 10:40)

So it will not be a dishonor to receive a ‘mark’ on your right hand - but rather a great privilege. And many, many people will gladly receive a name on their right hand, and ALSO a name on their foreheads! Multiple names . . .

Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. (Rev 13:14 - 18)

You don’t even have to receive any mark or name of the Beast; to be guaranteed admittance into Hell. All you have to do is to WORSHIP the image of the beast.

During Jesus’ Millennial reign - not everyone will be happy. That is why even His ruling will require discipline, punishment, and a Rod of Iron. Scripture states that Jesus will force people to obey; and some will not be allowed into the Holy City.

“Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Rev 22:14 - 15)

Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful . . . (R21:27)

It is written: “ ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.’ ” (Romans 14:11)

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9 - 11)

I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars - I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. (R3:9)

As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace.” (Daniel 3:5 - 6)

Bowing is spiritually significant. Jesus will make individuals bow before His wife; and acknowledge that He loves them. Satan will also make individuals bow before or Worship the image of the Beast. If you refuse to acknowledge his authority and greatness - you will be killed.

Now, I desire to ask you a question. Do YOU look like GOD? If your reading this commentary, it is fairly safe to state: you are a human being. So, do you look like GOD?? People are made in the image of God after all. This must mean that when we look in a mirror - we see what God looks like . . . right??

And Satan HATES every single person on the planet, and every person who has ever lived; or will live - simply because we are made in the image of God.

So God created man in his own image, in the image µl,x&, [H7512] (image (usually referring to an object of worship), idol) of God he created him; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27)

The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image eijkwvn [G/K 1635] (image, likeness, portrait) of God. (2Corinthians 4:4)

We can create, bless, encourage, punish, reward, etc. We have a sense of justice; right; wrong, evil; good; true; faithful . . . We are made in the image of God.

Satan is a liar. Jesus stated that no truth was in Satan. (see John 8:44) The first beast is alive (Satan incarnate); but an image is made of him. This image is made alive.

He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak . . . (R13:15)

Is this image going to LOOK like the beast? Nope. Is this image going to LOOK like Satan, or even the 2^nd beast?? Nope.

His nature and attributes will be the same. Satan or the anti-Christ is a DECEIVER. The modus operandi is DECEPTION. The image is given life - solely and totally to help deceive. The soul of the image; after it is given life - is deception. To help the beast or the anti-Christ to rule and deceive all of mankind into worshiping the beast and the image as GOD. To be amazed at the powers of the image; and to be amazed and awed at the power and authority which the first beast gives to anyone whom he chooses . . .

Scripturally - we know that the reason this manifestation is made in the ‘image’ of the beast - is because its sole purpose is to deceive. The reason it was made alive - was to deceive. The very fact that it appears ‘alive’ is a deception. The words which it speaks - are all lies and a great deception. That is how it is made into the image of the beast.

But what is this object which is given breath to speak; and is made in the image of the beast?

This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight nou'" [G/K 3808] (mind, thinking, understanding, insight; “to open the mind” means “to understand something”), let him CALCULATE the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. (Rev 13: 18)

Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding COUNT the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six. (R13:18 KJV)

[. . . because the symbolical significance of the number 6 as the signature [emphasis mine] of human activity . . . ] (Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament (PC Study Bible v4.2B))

[Six is the Satanic number. As the darkest hour immediately precedes the dawn, and the darkest years are the last before the millennial Sabbath, so the number immediately preceding the complete seven is the worst of all. The sixth body in the solar system is a shattered one. The sixth epistle to the churches tells of an hour of universal trial and suffering; the sixth seal brings destruction and death; the sixth trumpet destroys the third part of mankind; and the sixth vial introduces the unclean spirits who gather the kings of the earth and of the whole world to the war of the great day of God Almighty. The antichrist's number is three sixes: six units, six tens, and six hundreds-666-the individual completion of everything evil. And Christ was crucified on the sixth day, which is still the common execution day, and is popularly regarded as the most unlucky of the seven.] (The Apocalypse; An Exposition of the Book of Revelation / Joseph Seiss {1823 - 1904} (PC Study Bible v4.2B))

[. . . the first special-purpose electronic computer may actually have been invented by John Vincent Atanasoff, a physicist and mathematician at Iowa State College [emphasis mine] (now Iowa State University), during 1937–42. (Atanasoff also claimed to have invented the term analog computer to describe machines such as Vannevar Bush's Differential Analyzer.) Together with his graduate assistant Clifford E. Berry, Atanasoff built a successful small prototype in 1939 [emphasis mine] for the purpose of testing two ideas central to his design: capacitors to store data in binary form and electronic logic circuits to perform addition and subtraction. They then began the design and construction of a larger, more general-purpose computer, known as the Atanasoff-Berry Computer, or ABC.

Various components of the ABC were designed and built from 1939 to 1942, but development was discontinued with the onset of World War II. The ABC featured about 300 vacuum tubes for control and arithmetic calculations, use of binary numbers, logic operations (instead of direct counting), memory capacitors, and punched cards as input/output units . . . ] (Copyright © 1994-2002 Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc; 2002 Deluxe Edition CD-Rom v2002.01.0002.0)

The symbolic signature of the number 6 is human activity. This is why Revelation declares that it is man’s number. And Seiss states that it is a Satanic number as well; which is why the number of the beast consists of all sixes.

Two meanings in one. And even more than that . . . God is triune, and three in one. As I have previously stated; if you believe that a huge banner is going to exist - with a large sign stating: “Hurry, Hurry - step right up folks and receive the mark of the beast. We’ll just stamp 666 right here on your right hand; or your forehead if you wish - and you’ll get your ticket to Hell!” than you are ripe for the plucking.

Deception.

Scripture states to understand the name - you must have wisdom. It also states that you must count or calculate - when considering the meaning or significance.

The very first functional computer was completed in the United States in 1939 at Iowa State College.

A computer is a calculating device; which is currently used in virtually every portion of the globe - to enable commerce. The buying and selling of goods. Goods of all forms. Wall street and stocks and bonds; barrels of oil; gold; food; transportation; information; life support; teaching, etc.

A computer is involved in virtually every aspect of the buying and selling of goods. An education to help ensure your productivity. Communication with one another; and across the world.

The first electronic computer which was ever built - was built in the United States. The unifying language of the United States - used to be English. Individuals were required to speak English - in order to obtain a drivers license. You were required to speak English if you wanted to become a citizen.

English is the language of commerce. The majority of all countries in the world - require students to learn English. Saudi Arabia; Japan, China, France, Germany, Russia, Philippines, Iran - virtually anywhere in the entire globe - if you wish to prosper - you are expected to learn English. So that you are able to participate in the language of global commerce.

We see that the number six - has significance towards human activity. The activities of men.

Previously, I posted a small chart giving the English alphabet. The alphabet of commerce. Starting with the first letter - we assigned a numerical value to each letter of the alphabet. The first value was six. We then increased each value for the following alphabetical letter - by an addition of six. Consequently - every word in the English language - now has a numerical value.

A computer by definition is a calculator. It is also so much more these days; but today - in addition to being a calculator - it is the single most important device for the continuation of our lives and any type of commerce. So, what is the numerical value of a computer?

18 + 90 + 78 + 96 + 126 + 120 +30 + 108 = 666

What has man been desperately attempting to also accomplish with this significant invention?

AI

Artificial Intelligence. A thinking machine.

In the United States, and a significant portion of the world - EVERY item sold - has a bar code; or a transaction number.

A network of computers enables the Internet or the Web. That bastion of purity and total truth. One of the definitions of the word web is the following:

[something that ensnares or entangles] (pg 1452; The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language; 1973)

[The letter W is a descendant of the letter V (see). Around 1000 B.C. the Phoenicians and other Semites of Syria and Palestine began to use a graphic sign . . . They gave it the name wāw and used it for a semiconsonant w, as in English know, knows. After 900 B.C., when the Greeks borrowed the alphabet from the Phoenicians, they developed two signs from wāw. The first sign, which they called upsilon, “bare u,” they used for the vowel u. (For the other sign, see F.) The Greek form without the tail passed from Etruscan to the Roman alphabet, in which it was used for two sounds, semiconsonantal w and vocalic u, as in the writing of VENIO and IVLIVS. In later Roman times the sound w became v. Before the Norman Conquest of England the Anglo-Saxons used the Latin letter V, as in the Uncal form, for the sounds u, v, and w. Later the habit developed to use V for u and v, but to write V doubly for the sound w. Gradually the two separate letters were linked to form a new character . . . ] (pg 1439; The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language; 1973)

So, our letter W is descended from the letter V. And a graphic symbol was created, signifying both - called the wāw.

The letter wāw w“ or Vav is the sixth letter of the Hebrew alphabet; and also has the numeric value of six. It is the number 6 in Hebrew.

Consequently - when we use a computer to access the Web (entanglement); the address always includes ‘www’ for World Wide Web. However, the letter w comes from the Hebrew letter w“ which is also the number six!

Therefore, every “www’ internet address - is also 666.

And, as we have seen, the machine which man invented - the Computer - which allows and enables all of this modern day commerce; has the numerical value of 666.

Because of the signs he was given power to do on behalf of the first beast, he deceived the inhabitants of the earth. He ordered them to set up an image in honor of the beast who was wounded by the sword and yet lived. He was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that it could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed. He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name. This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666. (Rev 13:14 - 18)

We are extremely security conscious in our society. Identity theft causes billions of dollars in loss each and every year; and the problem is increasing. Do I believe that the image - which is given breath to speak - is a computer??

Yes - I do. Because it is a ‘computer’ which is very, very advanced - we will believe that it cannot lie, or speak an untruth. The path of enlightenment which it lays out - should be followed and obeyed. But the core of its being - is deception. It is made in the image of the first beast. Its entire purpose is to deceive.

 We are already so very caught up with our financial lives; have phones stuck into our ears; and believe that the Internet or Web - is so full of true information . . . it will solve all of your problems. Don’t feel well?? What does the web say . . .?

Chapter Eleven states people gloat with the death of the two witnesses. They send gifts to each other in celebration! These can easily be physical packages; and yet a vast majority of them are probably E-cards; and social networking congratulations; twitter references; etc.

The image will be a very fast computer which demonic spirits will enter; and give it true Artificial Intelligence. The world will marvel at this great wonder; and how the perfect machine has finally arrived. Thru this intelligent machine - which is alive - we will have perfect security. No more theft. Receive a special type of identification code; and all of your bank funds will be totally secure; and you can access them any time - day or night. With just a wave of your right hand . . .

As a somewhat interesting aside - an ‘artist’ (Caleb Larsen) created a square black box computer (2009) piece of ‘artwork’ titled: A Tool to Deceive and Slaughter.

The entire purpose of this artwork computer - is to continually sell itself. In other words - to continually engage in buying and selling. On ebay^®. It always must sell for more than it was last purchased. I find the name of this computer artwork intriguing. Since I totally believe that eventually a computer is going to engage in precisely that activity (Deceiving & Slaughtering) - under the guidance of Satan.

Now, what if a computer is NOT involved. What if this is all totally spiritual? And no man made computer machine is required? And Satan makes a stone statute; carved out to physically look like the first beast - be able to open its mouth and speak??

So be it. Does it change the focus of the prophecy - if I am wrong?? Nope. If these two described scenarios are incorrect - what of it? I contend it does not matter. We really need to get hold of the fundamental teaching of the prophecy which is Revelation.

Satan is going to rule the inhabitants of the earth - in an extremely real and very vivid way; during the tribulation period. The anti-Christ will be Satan in the flesh. He will have GREAT POWER and AUTHORITY. It will be a time of ‘distress’ such as the world has NEVER seen; and it will NOT be a walk in the park! It will be a time of MASSIVE deceptions, and the workings of great miracles. And I sincerely hope that you are prepared; and have an ear to hear the Spirit of God; and also have patient endurance.

*Chapter 12*   *Chapter 14*

"Questions??? Give a shout!"

All Greek/Hebrew definitions (unless otherwise noted) are taken from
The NIV Exhaustive Concordance by Edward W. Goodrick & John R. Kohlenberger III © 1990 by The Zondervan Corporation. ISBN 0-310-436970-7

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, International Version®, NIV84®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™
Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Copyright 2011 - Revelation Disclosed Updated 10/14/11

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