In Revelation 13, two beasts rise: one from the sea and one from the earth. This Sunday, we will discuss the beast rising from the sea. The following Sunday, we will cover the beast rising from the earth.
At the end of Revelation 12, the dragon stands at the sea and waits for the beast to rise. This dragon is Satan waiting for the right person to emerge from the nations. The beast has seven heads, which represents a coalition of nations. He has ten horns with ten crowns, signifying a convergence of power.
Many countries will come together under his leadership. In a spiritual war, there is no neutrality between light and dark. For example, Jesus drives out a demon in Luke 11, which amazes everyone. The people ask: “Who has this kind of power?” Some claim that Jesus must have struck a deal with Satan.
Jesus reminds them that a house divided against itself will not stand. Jesus tells them how He will overcome the strong man, Satan.
“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.” Jesus is Luke 11:23 (NLT) Satan wants to destroy you. God wants to save you. A battle is raging, and we’re in the middle of it. The struggle came to earth after the rebellion in heaven. Satan—the lead angel—led other angels to rebel against God. They fell to earth.
“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.” Jesus is Luke 11:23 (NLT) Satan wants to destroy you. God wants to save you. A battle is raging, and we’re in the middle of it. The struggle came to earth after the rebellion in heaven. Satan—the lead angel—led other angels to rebel against God. They fell to earth.
Jesus said, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like a lightning bolt.” There’s rebellion against God on earth now. It’s a battle for souls. Revelation 13 is the beginning of the end of the story. The last few battles. This chapter reveals you will be on God’s side or the side of the antichrist.
– You will be marked by 666 or in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
– You will worship the beast or Jesus.
– You will blaspheme God or champion His name.
The beast in Revelation 13 is the antichrist, the one who is against Christ. The word “antichrist” does not appear in Revelation, but it does appear in other parts of the Bible. There is a clear connection in Scripture.
– The beast is called the “little horn” in Daniel 7:8.
– The beast is the “ruler” or prince in Daniel 9:26.
– The beast is the “man of lawlessness” in 2 Thessalonians 2.
– The beast is the “antichrist” in 1 and 2 John.
What does the antichrist try to do during the end of days? He blasphemes God. He tries to steal God’s glory. How will this beast gain power? With a counterfeit death and resurrection. He becomes a fake Messiah. Find out more on Sunday. Onward!