The beast in Revelation 13 is a superpower to which the dragon (Satan) gives over his throne and authority. Because of this, people worship not only the dragon but also this great power, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who can make war against him?”
If you were paying close attention to verses 1-4, you might have noticed that the words he, his and him were used in connection with the beast. For example, “He had ten horns.” An equal number of translations read “It had ten horns,” etc. “It” is generally considered the more-accurate translation.
Many scholars see this beast as the Antichrist, and they like he, his and him. My opinion is that the beast is a superpower, as explained in the previous lesson. That’s why I prefer a translation that reads, “Who can make war against it?”, etc.
This is probably a moot point, because I believe the Antichrist will be the ruling head of this beast / superpower. I only mention the matter so you won’t be confused by the pronouns.
Can we pick up the problem of the beast’s one head having a fatal wound at another time? That’s in order to put the emphasis on this being a frightening passage. Satan has combined forces with a great superpower. Blasphemies are spoken against God, and war is waged against His followers. Everyone is commanded to worship the beast—no exceptions. What happens is in God’s permissive will. Therefore, violent resistance on the part of the saints is not an option. There is no use trying to fight back.
What God’s followers who are alive at the time should demonstrate is patient endurance and faithfulness. Faithfulness is an unshakeable loyalty. So regardless of the cost, they are to remain true to Christ. This won’t be easy, but in so doing, believers will not only save their own souls, but serve as a powerful testimony to onlookers still contemplating becoming Christ-followers.
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