11.3 Identifying the Beast, Part 1
Origin and Authority of Power in Revelation

Read Revelation 13:1-2. Where does this beast come from, and who grants it authority?

The beast in Revelation 13:1-2 rises from the sea and receives its power and authority from the dragon. In biblical contexts, the sea often symbolizes peoples, nations, and multitudes (see Revelation 17:15). The dragon, identified as Satan (Revelation 12:9), gives this beast its power, throne, and great authority.

The prophecy in Revelation 13:1-2 speaks of a power that emerged from the Roman Empire, inheriting its power structures. Historically, this was fulfilled when Emperor Constantine moved his capital to Constantinople, leaving a power vacuum in Rome. This vacuum was filled by the Bishop of Rome, ultimately leading to the rise of the Papacy. Historians such as Isaac Backus and Thomas Hobbes confirm that the Papacy took on the spiritual succession of the Roman Empire.

This interpretation suggests that the beast in Revelation 13 represents a religious organization that exercises its power and influence through human decrees, replacing biblical truth. It is not a single person but a worldwide system of worship that emerged from ancient Rome.

Read Revelation 13:1-6. What key word is used to identify the beast’s power?

In Revelation 13:1-6, the beast is described in detail. A key word used to identify the beast’s power is “blasphemy.” Revelation 13:5-6 states: “And he was given a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies, and he was given authority to continue for forty-two months. Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven.”

The concept of blasphemy is defined in John 10:33 and Luke 5:21. In John 10:33, Jesus is accused of blasphemy for claiming to be God: “The Jews answered Him, saying, ‘For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being a man, make Yourself God.’” In Luke 5:21, Jesus is accused of blasphemy for claiming the power to forgive sins: “And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, ‘Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?’”

The Roman Papacy is historically interpreted as an institution embodying these forms of blasphemy. Two characteristic teachings of the Papacy that are seen as blasphemous are:

1. The claim that priests have the power to forgive sins: In Catholic doctrine, priests are assigned the sacrament of confession or reconciliation, where they have the authority to forgive sins in God’s name. This is viewed by some as an usurpation of divine prerogatives.

2. The claim that the Pope possesses the prerogatives of God on earth: The Pope is regarded as the Vicar of Christ on earth, claiming a special authority and honor, which some see as equivalent to divinity.

These aspects of Catholic doctrine have been viewed by critics as the fulfillment of the blasphemy described in Revelation, referring to the biblical passages in John and Luke to support their argument.

The interpretation of the beast in Revelation 13 and the associated concepts of power and blasphemy have profound implications for our daily lives and faith. Here are some considerations:

Connection with Daily Life

1. Vigilance towards Religious and Political Authorities:

   • The description of the beast and blasphemy in Revelation encourages believers to be critical and vigilant towards religious and political authorities. It serves as a reminder that power can often be abused and that people should remain alert to avoid being misled by false teachings or authoritarian structures.

2. Importance of Biblical Truth:

   • The emphasis on blasphemy as the replacement of biblical truth by human decrees highlights the importance of relying on the teachings of the Bible and maintaining personal Bible study and prayer. This helps strengthen one’s faith foundation and recognize false teachings.

3. Moral and Ethical Considerations:

   • Identifying power structures considered blasphemous encourages believers to reflect on their own moral and ethical decisions. It promotes striving for high ethical standards and maintaining integrity in all areas of life, whether at work, in the family, or in society.

Connection with Faith

1. Strengthening Personal Faith:

   • Understanding prophecies and their historical fulfillment can strengthen faith by showing how biblical predictions have come true in history. This can deepen trust in the Bible and God’s plan for humanity.

2. Awareness of Spiritual Dangers:

   • The warning against blasphemous teachings and power systems emphasizes the need to remain spiritually vigilant and regularly engage with biblical teachings. It reminds that faith must be continuously nurtured and defended.

3. Encouragement for Community and Exchange:

   • Discussing such topics within communities of believers fosters the exchange of thoughts and mutual encouragement to remain steadfast in faith and support each other in spiritual matters.

Practical Application

1. Daily Bible Study and Prayer:

   • Regular reading and studying of the Bible, combined with prayer, helps understand and apply biblical truth. This strengthens personal faith and the ability to recognize false teachings.

2. Participation in Worship Services and Bible Groups:

   • Attending worship services and participating in Bible study groups provide community and support. It enables the exchange of insights and strengthens the faith life.

3. Critical Reflection and Discussion:

   • Engaging critically with one’s own beliefs and the teachings conveyed in church and society is important. This can be done through discussions with other believers and studying theological works.

Through these practices and considerations, believers can ensure that they build their faith on a solid biblical foundation and protect themselves from spiritual dangers.

Be vigilant and critical towards the powers of this world, for true authority and truth come from God alone.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-the-impending-conflict-11-3-identifying-the-beast-part-1/

11.2 The Coming Crisis
The Climax in the Cosmic Struggle between Worship and Coercion

The prophecy about the mark of the beast in Revelation 13 describes the most intense phase of Satan’s war against God and His people. Since the death of Jesus on the cross, the enemy has been aware of his defeat, yet he attempts to drag as many as possible into the abyss. Deception is his primary weapon; when that fails, he resorts to violence. Eventually, a decree will be issued that anyone who does not worship the beast or accept its mark will be killed.

Religious persecution is a well-known phenomenon that has existed since the time of Cain and Abel. Jesus warned that such conflicts would even occur among believers. In the coming crisis, believers’ faith will be tested as they face the choice of either yielding to the world’s pressure or remaining steadfast in their loyalty to God. This prophecy reminds us that we must prepare for a time when our faith and loyalty to God will be of utmost importance.

Read John 16:2; Matthew 10:22; 2 Timothy 3:12; and 1 Peter 4:12. What did the New Testament church experience, and what does that mean for Christ’s end-time church?

What Did the New Testament Church Experience?

1. John 16:2: “They will put you out of the synagogue; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service.”

   • Experience: Exclusion from religious communities and deadly persecution by those believing they are acting in God’s name.

2. Matthew 10:22: “And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.”

   • Experience: Hatred and persecution for the sake of Jesus’ name. Only those who remain steadfast until the end will be saved.

3. 2 Timothy 3:12: “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.”

   • Experience: Inevitable persecution for all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus.

4. 1 Peter 4:12: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you.”

   • Experience: Expectation and encouragement to accept persecution and trials as normal parts of Christian life.

Meaning for Christ’s End-Time Church

The persecution experienced by the New Testament church serves as a model and warning for the end-time church. The challenges and trials faced by the early Christians reflect the trials that believers at the end of time will face.

1. Continuity of Persecution:

   • Historical Continuity: From the days of the early church through the persecutions by pagan Rome and the medieval church, persecution of believers has been a constant factor in Christian history. The prophecies in Revelation indicate that this persecution will reach its climax in the end times.

2. The Mark of the Beast:

   • Escalation of Persecution: Revelation 13 describes how persecution will begin with economic sanctions and escalate to a death decree against those who refuse to accept the mark of the beast.

   • Compulsion to Worship: As in previous persecutions, this aims to force people to conform to a specific belief system and recognized form of worship.

3. Preparation through Compromise:

   • Today’s Compromises: The devil is already preparing professed Christians to receive the mark of the beast by encouraging them to make compromises in their lives. These compromises weaken their spiritual steadfastness and make them susceptible to future deceptions and coercion.

4. Steadfastness of the Saints:

   • Revelation 14:12: “Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”

   • God’s People: Amid persecution and global apostasy, the end-time church will, by God’s grace, show steadfastness by keeping God’s commandments and remaining faithful to Jesus Christ. This faithfulness is described as the “patience of the saints.”

5. Following the Lamb:

   • Revelation 14:4: “These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes.”

   • Lifestyle: The end-time church follows Jesus unreservedly, even if it means going against the tide of worldly order and enduring immense trials.

Conclusion

The persecution of the New Testament church and the prophesied persecution of the end-time church are marked by a continuous struggle over worship and loyalty. As the deceptions and compulsion of the beast increase, God’s faithful followers are called to remain steadfast and follow the Lamb. This steadfastness is not only a sign of their loyalty but also evidence of their overcoming through the power of Christ, even when faced with the forces of hell arrayed against them.

How easily, if at all, do you allow economic considerations to affect your Sabbath observance?

There are certainly situations where economic factors can pressure believers to compromise their Sabbath observance. For example, work obligations or financial incentives might lead people to decide to work on the Sabbath or participate in activities that conflict with Sabbath observance.

However, it is important for believers to consciously choose to keep God’s commandments and to sanctify the Sabbath, regardless of economic considerations. This decision often requires courage, trust, and the willingness to accept possible financial losses or other disadvantages in order to remain faithful to God’s commandment.

Ultimately, it is a matter of priorities and faith. By holding fast to their faith and devotion to God, believers can look beyond economic considerations and respect the holy time of the Sabbath.

The prophecies in Revelation 13 about the mark of the beast and the coming crisis remind us that the cosmic battle between worship and compulsion will reach its climax. The New Testament church already experienced persecution and pressure because of their faith, a pattern that will continue into the end times. Today’s church must prepare for similar challenges.

The New Testament church was excluded from religious communities, hated, and persecuted (John 16:2; Matthew 10:22; 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Peter 4:12). These experiences offer a warning and model for the end-time church. The continuous persecution of believers, as seen in early church history, will reach its climax in the end times. The coming crisis will be marked by the mark of the beast, which will force people to conform to a specific belief system and recognized form of worship.

Believers will be faced with the choice of yielding to the world’s pressure or remaining steadfast in their loyalty to God. It is important to recognize that compromises in faith made today can weaken spiritual steadfastness and make believers susceptible to future deceptions and coercion. Amid persecution and global apostasy, the end-time church will, by God’s grace, show steadfastness by keeping God’s commandments and remaining faithful to Jesus Christ. This faithfulness is described as the “patience of the saints” (Revelation 14:12).

The question of whether economic considerations can affect Sabbath observance is crucial. There are certainly situations where believers feel economic pressure to compromise the Sabbath. Work obligations or financial incentives might lead them to decide to work on the Sabbath or participate in activities that conflict with Sabbath observance. Nevertheless, it is important for believers to make a conscious decision to keep God’s commandments and sanctify the Sabbath, regardless of economic considerations. This requires courage, trust, and a willingness to accept possible financial losses or other disadvantages in order to remain faithful to God’s commandment. Ultimately, it is a matter of priorities and faith. By holding fast to their faith and devotion to God, believers can look beyond economic considerations and respect the holy time of the Sabbath.

God has not promised us an easy path, but that He will be with us as we go through the coming crisis.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-the-impending-conflict-11-2-the-coming-crisis/

Lesson 11.The Impending Conflict
Deciphering the End-Time Conflict: Worship, Identity, and Steadfastness

Lesson 11 introduces us to the fascinating world of Revelation and its prophetic statements about the impending conflict. Revelation is a book full of symbols, images, and visions that provide insights into the end times and prepare us for the challenges we will face in the last days. In this lesson, we will delve into the prophecies about the beast from the sea, the beast from the earth, and the three angels’ messages as described in Revelation 13. These prophecies are crucial as they offer us a clear view of current events in the world and encourage us to be vigilant and steadfast in our faith. We will explore how these prophecies are relevant in our modern times and what lessons we can draw from them for our daily lives and faith. Our journey through Revelation will help us recognize the signs of the times and prepare us to face the impending conflict with a firm faith and unwavering hope.

11.1 Revelation’s Final Conflict
Revelation: Worship in the Cosmic Conflict

Revelation, the final book of the Bible, is known for its symbolic and often mysterious portrayal of visions and events. Yet behind these symbols lies a profound message that is central to believers. Revelation speaks of a cosmic conflict between Christ and Satan that has been ongoing since the beginning of time. At the core of this conflict is a battle over worship and loyalty.

From the beginning of this conflict, it has been about whom humanity would give their adoration and allegiance to. Satan, once an angel of light, rebelled against God and desired to be worshipped himself. This rebellion led to a war in heaven, as described in Revelation 12, where Satan and his followers were eventually cast out of heaven.

Throughout history, Satan has sought to distract people from true worship by introducing false gods, ideologies, and practices. Revelation reveals that this battle will continue until the end of time and that the question of worship remains central.

The end-time prophecies of Revelation speak of a final showdown where humanity’s loyalties will be clearly revealed. Will humanity give worship and honor to the Creator, the true God, or will they succumb to the deceptions and temptations of Satan?

This message is an urgent call to faithfulness and devotion to God. It reminds believers that despite the challenges and persecutions that may come, the promise of victory and eternal life exists for those who remain steadfast until the end. The final conflict in Revelation is not only a prophetic prediction but also a call to spiritual vigilance and fidelity in the worship of God.

Compare Revelation 14:7, 9 with Revelation 4:11. What is the overarching theme of Revelation in this cosmic conflict between good and evil?

Revelation 14:7, 9:

• “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come! And worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water!” (14:7).

• “And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, ‘If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger’” (14:9).

Revelation 4:11:

• “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”

Overarching theme:

The overarching theme of Revelation in the context of this cosmic conflict between good and evil is the worship of the Creator as opposed to the worship of false gods or powers. In Revelation 4:11, God’s worthiness to receive worship is clearly grounded in His role as Creator. In Revelation 14:7, humanity is called to worship the Creator, while Revelation 14:9 warns against the worship of the beast, which is a symbol of satanic forces and their worldly representations.

Worship and Creation:

Throughout Revelation, worship and creation are inseparably linked. Worship is portrayed as a fundamental response to the fact of creation. Revelation 14:7 emphasizes the worship of God as the Creator of heaven, earth, and the water sources, underscoring the fundamental relationship between creation and worship. This connection is particularly significant in a world where the theory of evolution has challenged the creation narrative.

Sabbath and Identity:

The Sabbath serves as an eternal reminder of our identity as created beings and reminds us that our Creator is worthy of our worship and loyalty. The Sabbath is a symbol of creation and the rest that God instituted on the seventh day after creating the world. This day represents a weekly remembrance of creation and emphasizes humanity’s dependence on its Creator.

Satan and the Sabbath:

Satan’s hatred of the Sabbath can be understood as part of his larger plan to distract people from worshiping the Creator and instead lure them into worshiping false gods or living without God. By undermining the significance of the Sabbath, Satan seeks to alienate people from their true identity and their relationship with God.

The overarching theme of Revelation in this cosmic conflict between good and evil is the worship of the Creator. Worship and creation are inseparably linked, and the Sabbath is a continual reminder of our identity as creatures of God and the need to worship Him alone. These themes are central to understanding Revelation and the cosmic conflict described therein.

Read Revelation 12:17 and 14:12. Where does the worship of the Creator find its ultimate expression?

Worship of the Creator in Revelation:

The worship of the Creator finds its ultimate expression in keeping the commandments of God and maintaining faith in Jesus Christ. This faithfulness to God stands in direct contrast to the worship of the beast, which serves as a symbol for satanic powers and their worldly representatives.

Revelation 12:17: “Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.”

Revelation 14:12: “Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.”

Ultimate expression of worshiping the Creator:

In these two verses, it is clear that worshiping the Creator is expressed through keeping the commandments of God and holding fast to faith in Jesus Christ. This means that true worship is not merely a formal act but a life lived in accordance with God’s will and in loyalty to Jesus Christ.

Contrast with the worship of the beast:

The worship of the beast stands in sharp contrast to the worship of the Creator. While worshiping the beast symbolizes obedience to worldly and satanic powers, worshiping the Creator represents faithfulness and obedience to God, even in the midst of persecution and resistance.

The Sabbath as a sign of loyalty:

“The observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, The mark of the beast will then be set upon them” (The Great Controversy, 553). The Sabbath is highlighted here as a crucial sign of loyalty to God. By keeping the true Sabbath, believers profess their allegiance to the Creator and oppose the false powers that rebel against God.

Faith of Jesus:

Revelation 14:12 further emphasizes that these faithful followers will also “have the faith of Jesus.” This faith of Jesus is a deep, unwavering trust in God, even when circumstances are difficult and incomprehensible. It is a faith that relies on God’s promises and endures trials and persecutions.

The worship of the Creator finds its ultimate expression in keeping the commandments of God and maintaining faith in Jesus Christ. This is particularly emphasized by observing the Sabbath as a sign of loyalty and faithfulness to God. In the end times, God will have a people who remain faithful to Him despite the greatest opposition and persecution. The faith of Jesus, a faith that perseveres and trusts, even when circumstances are challenging, will sustain these believers through the coming conflict.

The Seventh-day Sabbath is such a fundamental symbol of God as Creator that it dates back to the Garden of Eden. Therefore, when attempting to seize it, as Rome did (see Daniel 7:25), one is trying to usurp God’s authority at the most fundamental level, that of God as Creator. How does this truth help us understand why this will be such a contentious point in the end times?

The Seventh-day Sabbath as a fundamental symbol of God as Creator, dating back to the Garden of Eden, plays a central role in understanding the cosmic conflict between good and evil, especially in the end times. This symbol is more than just a day of rest; it represents the acknowledgment and worship of God as the Creator of the universe. When this day is attacked or replaced, it is about more than just a change in the calendar—it is an attack on the authority and sovereignty of God Himself.

Significance of the Sabbath:

1. Memory of Creation: The Sabbath is a weekly commemoration of creation. It reminds humanity that God is the Creator and we are His creatures. This memory is deeply rooted in human history and faith, extending back to the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:2-3).

2. Sign of Loyalty: In the Bible, the Sabbath is described as a sign of the covenant between God and His people (Exodus 31:13). Observing the Sabbath is a visible sign of loyalty and obedience to God.

Attack on the Sabbath as an Attack on God’s Authority:

In Daniel 7:25, it is prophesied that a power will attempt to “change times and the law.” Historically, this has often been associated with Rome and the change of the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday. This act is seen as an attempt to usurp divine order and authority.

End-Time Conflict:

1. Symbol of Resistance: In the end times, the Sabbath becomes a focal point of conflict because it is a visible sign of loyalty to God. Observing the biblical Sabbath is understood as resistance against worldly and satanic powers attempting to undermine God’s authority.

2. Test of Loyalty: The Sabbath becomes a test of loyalty for believers. In a time when laws and societal norms contradict God’s commandments, keeping the Sabbath will be a clear demonstration of loyalty to God. This loyalty requires courage and steadfastness in the face of resistance and persecution.

3. Defense of Creation: Observing the Sabbath defends the biblical teaching of creation against alternative explanations like evolutionism. By keeping the Sabbath, believers affirm their conviction that God is the Creator and the world was created according to His plan.

The Sabbath as a symbol of God as Creator is a contentious point in the end times because it questions the fundamental authority and sovereignty of God. The attack on the Sabbath by worldly powers is an attempt to usurp God’s role as Creator and change divine order. In this cosmic conflict, observing the Sabbath becomes a sign of loyalty and resistance against these powers, identifying believers as followers of the true God. This truth helps us understand why the Sabbath will be such a contentious point in the end times: it concerns the recognition and worship of the Creator and loyalty to His divine authority.

The Revelation portrays a cosmic conflict between good and evil, where worship and loyalty play central roles. This theme is not merely theoretical but has practical implications for our daily lives and our faith.

Connection to Everyday Life:

1. Worship and Lifestyle: The Revelation calls us to live out our worship in our daily lives. This means that our daily decisions and actions should reflect our loyalty to God. By keeping God’s commandments and holding fast to faith in Jesus Christ (Revelation 12:17; 14:12), we demonstrate our worship and loyalty through practical deeds.

2. Sabbath as a Weekly Reminder: The Seventh-day Sabbath serves as a weekly reminder of our identity as creatures of God and our acknowledgment of His role as Creator. In our busy lives, the Sabbath offers a regular opportunity to pause, reflect on God, and remember our relationship with Him. This helps us reassess our priorities and place our faith at the forefront.

3. Steadfastness in Persecution: The Revelation prophesies times of great persecution for those who remain faithful to God (Revelation 13:15-17). In our daily lives, this means we must remain steadfast despite obstacles and challenges. This steadfastness requires a deep faith and trust in God, akin to the “faith of Jesus,” which endures and trusts even in the face of adversity.

4. Witness in Daily Life: Our daily conduct serves as a testimony to our faith. When our behavior, decisions, and attitudes reflect God’s principles, we bear witness to our loyalty to Him before others. This can be manifested through honesty, compassion, justice, and other Christian virtues.

5. Defense of Creation and Biblical Teachings: In a world where the theory of evolution is widespread, the Sabbath reminds us of the biblical creation narrative. This affects our understanding of the world and our role within it. By observing the Sabbath and celebrating creation, we affirm our belief that God is the Creator and reject alternative explanations that undermine this truth.

The Controversial Sabbath in the End Times:

1. Attack on God’s Authority: The attempt to change the Sabbath is an assault on God’s authority. This is evident in historical changes to the Sabbath and is prophetically described in Daniel 7:25. In the end times, it will be a sign of conflict between the forces of God and the powers of Satan.

2. Test of Loyalty and Faithfulness: The Sabbath becomes a test of loyalty for believers. In an era where laws and societal norms contradict God’s commandments, observing the Sabbath will be a clear demonstration of faithfulness to God. This loyalty requires courage and perseverance in the face of opposition and persecution.

Conclusion:

The Revelation urges us to live out our worship and loyalty to God in our daily lives. The Sabbath plays a central role in this, reminding us of our creation and our relationship with God. In the end times, the Sabbath will be a contentious point, testing our loyalty and faithfulness to God. By keeping God’s commandments and holding fast to faith in Jesus Christ, we testify to our worship of the Creator in our daily lives and prepare ourselves for the challenges of the end times.

In the final conflict of the Revelation, our true loyalty to God is evident in the worship of the Creator and the steadfast preservation of His commandments, even in the face of the greatest challenges and resistance.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-the-impending-conflict-11-1-revelations-final-conflict/