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Lesson 182
12:17. AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan)
WAS WROTH (or infuriated, or enraged)
WITH THE WOMAN (which is Israel),
AND WENT TO MAKE WAR (or fight)
WITH THE REMNANT (or the rest)
OF HER SEED (or children, or offspring), WHICH KEEP (or obey)
THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE (or hold to)
THE TESTIMONY (or bear witness)
OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua).
HERE IS SPIRITUAL WARFARE
God had warned the Jews, when they see the "abomination of desolation," they were to flee. They were warned not to hesitate for anything, not to enter or take anything out of their house, not even clothes. They were warned not to turn back from the field. The message is clear—obey God and not your emotions or desires. The Bible warns, woe to them that are pregnant or nursing. Consider. Those that obey God and do not hesitate, but flee immediately, will escape and be part of the group that Satan tries to kill with the flood; however, God will be with them. They will escape and, in some way, be provided swift flight to the place God has prepared for them.
Now, consider the other group. This is the group that has a thought or hears a voice, such as, "Surely there will be no harm to delay just one minute to grab a coat, or a pair of shoes, or a quick snack. It will only take a moment." But that short delay will, undoubtedly, cost them their life. They grab a shirt and then flee. However, they are just a bit behind the faithful and obedient group. When God’s special way comes that enables the obedient ones to fly into the wilderness, this group is just a bit too late—they miss the flight.
It is like the person that knows their airplane is about to leave, but they run down to the bathroom just for a moment. They then run back to the airplane, only to find that the door has been closed, and it is pulling out. They may have been only a few seconds too late.
Consider the mother with a baby. What does she do? If she flees and leaves her baby behind, she will escape and spare her life. However, if she rushes to get her baby and then flees, she will undoubtedly miss the flight and be captured along with her baby. Both may be tortured and killed, unless she renounces her faith in Jesus Christ. As it is written, FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION-Mt 24:21. Satan’s raw hatred will be poured out against those that follow Jesus.
PARTS OF REV 12, AND MT 24, AND MK 13
(In Chronological Order)
WOE TO THE INHABITERS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE SEA! FOR THE DEVIL (or the Adversary) IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU, HAVING GREAT WRATH (or he is very angry), BECAUSE HE KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME (or knows that his time is short!-JNT151). AND WHEN THE DRAGON SAW THAT HE WAS CAST (or hurled) UNTO THE EARTH, HE PERSECUTED THE WOMAN (or pursued the woman-NIV) WHICH BROUGHT FORTH THE MAN CHILD-Rev 12:12,13.
Israel is warned, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STAND IN THE HOLY PLACE, (WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND:) THEN LET THEM WHICH BE IN JUDAEA FLEE INTO THE MOUNTAINS: LET HIM WHICH IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE ANY THING OUT OF HIS HOUSE-Mt 24:15-17. AND LET HIM THAT IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT GO DOWN INTO THE HOUSE, NEITHER ENTER THEREIN, TO TAKE ANY THING OUT OF HIS HOUSE-Mk 13:15. NEITHER LET HIM WHICH IS IN THE FIELD RETURN BACK TO TAKE HIS CLOTHES. AND WOE UNTO THEM THAT ARE WITH CHILD, AND TO THEM THAT GIVE SUCK IN THOSE DAYS! BUT PRAY YE THAT YOUR FLIGHT BE NOT IN THE WINTER, NEITHER ON THE SABBATH DAY: FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION, SUCH AS WAS NOT SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WORLD TO THIS TIME, NO, NOR EVER SHALL BE-Mt 24:18-21.
AND THE WOMAN (Israel) FLED INTO THE WILDERNESS (or desert)-Rev 12:6.
AND THE SERPENT CAST (or spewed) OUT OF HIS MOUTH WATER AS A FLOOD (or river) AFTER (or to overtake) THE WOMAN, THAT HE MIGHT CAUSE HER TO BE CARRIED (or sweep her) AWAY OF THE FLOOD (or torrent). AND THE EARTH HELPED THE WOMAN (or the land came to her rescue-JNT152), AND THE EARTH OPENED HER MOUTH, AND SWALLOWED UP THE FLOOD (or river) WHICH THE DRAGON CAST (or spewed) OUT OF HIS MOUTH-Rev 12:15,16.
AND TO THE WOMAN WERE GIVEN TWO WINGS OF A GREAT EAGLE, THAT SHE MIGHT FLY INTO THE WILDERNESS, INTO HER PLACE (in the desert), WHERE SHE IS NOURISHED (or taken care of) FOR A TIME, AND TIMES, AND HALF A TIME (or for a season and two seasons and half a season-JNT152.1), FROM THE FACE OF THE SERPENT (or out of the serpent's reach-NIV)-Rev 12:14. WHERE SHE HATH A PLACE PREPARED OF GOD, THAT THEY SHOULD FEED HER (or so that she can be taken care of-JNT153) THERE A THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE DAYS (or 1260 days)-Rev 12:6.
AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS WROTH (or infuriated, or enraged) WITH THE WOMAN, AND WENT TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH THE REMNANT (or the rest) OF HER SEED (or children, or offspring), WHICH KEEP (or obey) THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE (or hold to) THE TESTIMONY (or bear witness) OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua)-Rev 12:17.
As we begin chapter 13 and the first beast, there are vast amounts of information that can be combined with these verses to give a far more, in-depth picture. These include verses from Revelation chapter 17 and many chapters in Daniel. In addition, there are numerous verses throughout the Bible dealing with the subject of the "beast." To adequately cover each verse, could take several pages.
13:1. AND I STOOD UPON THE SAND OF THE SEA, AND SAW A BEAST RISE (or come) UP OUT OF THE SEA, HAVING SEVEN HEADS AND TEN HORNS, AND UPON HIS HORNS TEN (royal) CROWNS, AND UPON HIS HEADS THE NAME OF BLASPHEMY (or blasphemous names). Ref Rev 12:3; 17:3,5,7-18; Dan 7:7,8,15-27. BT, T.
13:1. AND I (or he)
STOOD UPON THE SAND OF THE SEA, AND SAW A BEAST. (Note number 1, which follows this verse.)
RISE (or come). (Note number 2, which follows.)
UP OUT OF THE SEA. There is similar wording in Dan 7:3. Rev 17:15 should also be considered. Both seem to imply "nations in unrest or turmoil."
HAVING SEVEN HEADS. (Note number 3 which follows.)
AND TEN HORNS. (Note number 4 which follows.)
AND UPON HIS HORNS TEN (royal)
CROWNS. (Note number 5 which follows.)
AND UPON HIS HEADS THE NAME OF BLASPHEMY (or blasphemous names). To briefly summarize v.1, it is showing the revived Roman Empire, headed by the Antichrist, during the Tribulation. It is full of blasphemy against God-ref Rev 17:3,7-18.
The word "beast" is sometimes used interchangeably to describe two things.
1. The name "beast" is used to describe the Antichrist. The Scriptures give extensive information about this man of sin.
2. The name "beast" is also used to describe what some call the revived Roman Empire, headed by the "beast" or Antichrist. This is believed to be the European Economic Community or EEC. It is the fourth beast of Daniel chapter 7-ref Dan 7:7,8,19-27.
3. The seven heads are seven mountains, and there are seven kings. These should be covered in more detail in Rev 17:3,9,10. There is some debate, however, if the seven kings apply here.
4. The ten horns are ten kings or kingdoms during the Tribulation. These should be covered in more detail in Rev 17:3,12; Dan 7:7,20,24. They are also represented by the ten toes of Dan 2:40-45. The ten horns can also signify power.
5. Each of the horns represent a king or kingdom. Thus, there is a crown for each horn, symbolic of kingship or authority.
Some of the same terminology is used, in Rev 12:3, describing a great red dragon, which is Satan.
(The European Economic Community - EEC, EC, or EU)
The EEC (European Economic Community), also called the EC (European Community), EU (European Union), or revived Roman Empire, was formed not long after the rebirth of Israel.
In 1948, the nation of Israel was reborn as God's Word said it would be.
In 1949, the Council of Europe was established.
In 1951, the European Coal and Steel Community was organized, consisting of Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. It was created to begin removing barriers and assist in the flow of capital, goods, and services among its member nations.
In 1957, the Treaty of Rome was signed. These six nations became known as the European Community. The same year, they agreed to establish the European Atomic Energy Community.
In 1967, they adopted the name of the European Common Market.
In January of l973, Denmark, Ireland, and Great Britain became members, bringing the total to nine.
In 1979, the ECU, (European Currency Unit) was established.
In 1979, the European Parliament was formed; it convened in January of 1980.
In 1981, Greece became the tenth member.
In 1986, Spain and Portugal joined.
In 1995, Austria, Finland, and Sweden boosted the membership total to fifteen.
More nations are expected to join.
During the Tribulation, however, there will be ten kings, nations, or regions. The Scriptures also give many details about this empire. It will consist of the Old Roman Empire nations. It will be a strong economic empire with a military arm.
13:2. AND THE BEAST WHICH I SAW WAS LIKE UNTO (or resembled) A LEOPARD, AND HIS FEET WERE AS THE FEET OF A BEAR, AND HIS MOUTH AS THE MOUTH OF A LION: AND THE DRAGON GAVE HIM HIS POWER, AND HIS SEAT (or throne), AND GREAT AUTHORITY. Ref Dan 7:4-6; Mt 4:8-10. BT, T.
13:2. AND THE BEAST (or Antichrist)
WHICH I SAW WAS LIKE UNTO (or resembled)
1. A LEOPARD. The body of the beast was as a leopard. This denotes quick to seize, swiftness, and agility. This was characteristic of the Greek Empire under Alexander-ref Dan 7:6.
2. AND HIS FEET WERE AS THE FEET OF A BEAR. This implies something very strong, large, or of great power. The feet may represent stamping upon his enemies. This was characteristic of the Medo-Persian Empire-ref Dan 7:5.
3. AND HIS MOUTH AS THE MOUTH OF A LION. This denotes pride and majesty. The Antichrist will have a mouth that speaks great things and blasphemies. This was characteristic of the Babylonian Empire-ref Dan 7:4.
It is interesting to note the order in which the characteristics are listed: first is swiftness; followed by the large size, strength, and stamping under foot; and then, the proud mouth that speaks great things. The fourth kingdom, the Antichrist and his empire, seem to possess the characteristics of the three kingdoms—the Babylonian, the Medo-Persian, and the Greek.
The Antichrist’s father is the devil. He is the seed of Satan. Apparently, he will be a skillful diplomat and strategist, possessing superhuman intelligence and charisma; yet he will be the most evil and deceitful man that has ever walked the earth.
AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan)
GAVE HIM HIS
(1) POWER, AND HIS
(2) SEAT (or throne), AND
(3) GREAT AUTHORITY. Satan had shown Jesus ALL THE KINGDOMS OF THE WORLD, AND THE GLORY OF THEM. Then he told Jesus, ALL THESE THINGS WILL I GIVE THEE, IF THOU WILT FALL DOWN AND WORSHIP ME-Mt 4:8,9. Jesus responded by saying, GET THEE HENCE, SATAN: FOR IT IS WRITTEN, THOU SHALT WORSHIP THE LORD THY GOD, AND HIM ONLY SHALT THOU SERVE-Mt 4:10. Satan obviously makes the same promise to the Antichrist. The Antichrist does honor Satan, and Satan does give him all the kingdoms of the world. What Satan did not seem to tell him, however, was that it would only last for 42 months, and then would come the lake of fire for eternity. The description of the Antichrist, in v.1, and Satan, in Rev 12:3, resemble one another greatly. This is because the Antichrist is the son of Satan, and his power, seat, and authority come from Satan.
13:3. AND I SAW ONE OF HIS HEADS AS IT WERE WOUNDED TO DEATH (or a fatal wound); AND HIS DEADLY (or fatal) WOUND WAS HEALED: AND ALL THE WORLD (or the whole earth) WONDERED (or was astonished) (and followed) AFTER THE BEAST (in amazement). Ref Rev 13:14. TM.
13:3. AND I SAW ONE OF HIS HEADS AS IT WERE WOUNDED TO DEATH (or a fatal wound). This is referring to the head of the Antichrist.
AND HIS DEADLY (or fatal)
WOUND WAS HEALED: AND ALL THE WORLD (or the whole earth)
WONDERED (or was astonished) (and followed)
AFTER THE BEAST (in amazement). The Antichrist is apparently killed with a fatal wound in the head. This wound is inflicted by some kind of weapon-ref Rev 13:14. But, afterward, his fatal wound was healed. As a result, the entire world is astonished. The Scriptures do not give details of how the wound is inflicted; perhaps, it is by an assassin.
Some would have you believe that v.3 does not mean exactly what it says. Beware. What the Bible states will come to pass exactly as it is written.
SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THE REAL CHRIST AND THE ANTICHRIST
(A partial list)
1853-5A-6
13:4. AND THEY WORSHIPED THE DRAGON WHICH GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST (or because he had given his authority to the beast-JNT154): AND THEY WORSHIPED THE BEAST, SAYING, WHO IS LIKE UNTO THE BEAST? WHO IS ABLE TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH HIM? Ref Isa 14:14; Mt 4:9. TM, T2.
13:4. AND THEY WORSHIPED THE DRAGON (or Satan). The world now appears to worship Satan openly. Obviously, they do not understand that they are really worshiping Satan, but they apparently think he is God. They ascribe to him deity. They do not realize the consequences of their actions. It is the same today. The people of the world don’t understand that if they do not receive Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation, they will perish to hell. By not following Jesus, a person is following the devil.
They worshiped Satan,
WHICH GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST (which is the Antichrist) (or because he had given his authority to the beast-JNT154):
AND THEY WORSHIPED THE BEAST (which is the Antichrist),
SAYING, WHO IS LIKE UNTO THE BEAST? WHO IS ABLE TO MAKE WAR (or fight)
WITH HIM? Billions of people are deceived, even as today, but do not realize until it is too late. Because the Antichrist was killed, yet came back to life, the people of the world are astonished and will consider that there is none like him. There is none that can prevail against him, as death, seemingly, has no power over him.
Satan craves worship. He said, I WILL BE LIKE THE MOST HIGH-Isa 14:14. He offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world, if He would fall down and worship him-ref Mt 4:9. He is the great counterfeit. Satan seeks the worship that is reserved only for God the Father.
13:5. AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A MOUTH SPEAKING GREAT THINGS (or proud words) AND (arrogant) BLASPHEMIES; AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM TO CONTINUE (or exercise his authority for) FORTY AND TWO MONTHS. Ref Dan 7:8,25; 11:36; 2 Thes 2:4. TM, T2.
13:5. AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A MOUTH SPEAKING GREAT THINGS (or proud words). This is also repeated in Dan 7:8. The Antichrist also spoke (arrogant)
BLASPHEMIES. Dan 7:25 says, HE SHALL SPEAK GREAT WORDS AGAINST THE MOST HIGH. Dan 11:36 states, HE SHALL...SPEAK...AGAINST THE GOD OF GODS.
The verse continues,
AND POWER (or authority)
WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM TO CONTINUE (or exercise his authority for)
FORTY AND TWO MONTHS. The Antichrist will continue in power for 1260 days or 3½ years.
The Antichrist moves into the temple at Jerusalem. He OPPOSETH AND EXALTETH HIMSELF ABOVE ALL THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED; SO THAT HE AS GOD SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, SHEWING HIMSELF THAT HE IS GOD-2 Thes 2:4.
THE ANTICHRIST: INFORMATION ABOUT HIM,
WHAT HE DOES, HIS EMPIRE, AND HIS END
(The Four Kingdoms)
Four GREAT BEASTS...ARE FOUR KINGS-Dan 7:17.
Four beasts ARISE OUT OF THE EARTH-Dan 7:17.
Four BEASTS CAME UP FROM THE SEA-Dan 7:3.
Kingdom one, the HEAD OF GOLD; Nebuchadnezzar - Babylonian Empire-Dan 2:32,38.
Kingdom one, LIKE A LION, AND HAD EAGLE’S WINGS-Dan 7:4.
Kingdom two, HIS BREAST AND HIS ARMS OF SILVER. Note the two arms, signifying the Medes and the Persians-Dan 2:33.
Kingdom two, ANOTHER KINGDOM INFERIOR TO THEE-Dan 2:39.
Kingdom two, LIKE...A BEAR-Dan 7:5.
Kingdom three, HIS THIGHS OF BRASS-Dan 2:32.
Kingdom three, the THIRD KINGDOM OF BRASS, WHICH SHALL BEAR RULE OVER ALL THE EARTH; the Greek Empire - Alexander the Great-Dan 2:39.
Kingdom three, LIKE A LEOPARD...FOUR WINGS...FOUR HEADS. After Alexander's death, the empire was divided into four parts-Dan 7:6.
Kingdom four-Dan 2:40-43.
Kingdom four, HIS LEGS OF IRON, HIS FEET PART OF IRON AND PART OF CLAY-Dan 2:33 and TOES OF THE FEET-Dan 2:42. The Roman Empire was divided into two parts, approximately 300 A.D. The city of Rome fell, approximately 476 A.D. The Roman Empire collapsed, but its nations remained divided in Europe. Ultimately, European nations that were once part of it will become the ten toe empire (referred to in Daniel) under the Antichrist during the Tribulation. The ten toes and the ten horns represent the same thing. It is believed that the European Economic Community is the organization from which the final empire of the Antichrist will arise.
Kingdom four, SAW IN THE NIGHT VISIONS-Dan 7:7. (Note the "Fourth Kingdom," further on in this section.)
(His Identity)
A man-ref Rev 13:18
Comes symbolized as a rider on a WHITE HORSE-Rev 6:2
Comes with a BOW, but no arrows-ref Rev 6:2
Comes in his own name-ref Jn 5:43
Is called the Assyrian-ref Isa 30:31; also Mic 5:6
ANOTHER LITTLE HORN-Dan 7:8
THE OTHER horn WHICH CAME UP-Dan 7:20
ANOTHER horn or king SHALL RISE AFTER THEM-Dan 7:24
THAT HORN THAT HAD EYES-Dan 7:20
Is from THE PEOPLE OF THE PRINCE THAT SHALL COME (the Old Roman Empire
nations)-Dan 9:26
DIVERSE FROM THE FIRST-Dan 7:24
A KING OF FIERCE COUNTENANCE-Dan 8:23
Does not REGARD THE GOD OF HIS FATHERS-Dan 11:37 (indicates he is from one of the
tribes of Israel)
SHALL...HONOR...A GOD WHOM HIS FATHERS KNEW NOT-Dan 11:38 (also indicates
he is from one of the tribes of Israel)
No DESIRE OF WOMEN-Dan 11:37 (indicates he is single)
THE BEAST...ASCENDETH OUT OF THE BOTTOMLESS PIT-Rev 11:7; ref 17:8
THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST...IS...666-Rev 13:18 NIV
IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN-Rev 13:18
THE BEAST...WAS, AND IS NOT-Rev 17:8,11
THE BEAST...YET IS-Rev 17:8
THE BEAST...IS THE EIGHTH-Rev 17:11
THE BEAST...IS OF THE SEVEN-Rev 17:11
THE BEAST...SHALL ASCEND OUT OF THE BOTTOMLESS PIT-Rev 17:8
IS NOT YET COME-Rev 17:10
(Characteristics)
THE BEAST...LIKE...A LEOPARD-Rev 13:2
THE BEAST...HIS FEET WERE AS THE FEET OF A BEAR-Rev 13:2
THE BEAST...HIS MOUTH AS THE MOUTH OF A LION-Rev 13:2
THE EYES OF A MAN-Dan 7:8 NIV
WHOSE LOOK WAS MORE STOUT THAN HIS FELLOWS-Dan 7:20
A MOUTH SPEAKING GREAT THINGS-Dan 7:8; ref Dan 7:20
HORN SPAKE great words-Dan 7:11
UNDERSTANDING DARK SENTENCES-Dan 8:23
The beast has an UNCLEAN spirit like a frog-Rev 16:13
The beast has a spirit of a devil-ref Rev 16:14,13
THE BEAST...HATH THE SEVEN HEADS AND TEN HORNS-Rev 17:7 (note the ten horns
under the fourth kingdom)
(His Position, Power, Authority, and Seat)
Satan GAVE HIM HIS POWER-Rev 13:2
Satan GAVE HIM...HIS SEAT-Rev 13:2
Satan GAVE HIM...GREAT AUTHORITY-Rev 13:2
A CROWN WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM-Rev 6:2
A KING-Dan 11:36
KING OF FIERCE COUNTENANCE-Dan 8:23
HIS POWER...MIGHTY-Dan 8:24
NOT BY HIS OWN POWER-Dan 8:24
(The Antichrist Shall Do)
SHALL CONFIRM THE COVENANT WITH MANY FOR ONE WEEK-Dan 9:27
Goes FORTH CONQUERING, AND TO CONQUER-Rev 6:2
SHALL DO ACCORDING TO HIS WILL-Dan 11:36
The beast shall carry the woman (Rome)-ref Rev 17:7
HE SHALL SUBDUE THREE KINGS-Dan 7:24
BEFORE WHOM THERE WERE THREE OF THE FIRST HORNS PLUCKED UP BY THE
ROOTS-Dan 7:8
BEFORE WHOM THREE FELL-Dan 7:20 (note the ten horns under the "Fourth Kingdom")
He shall work MIRACLES-Rev 16:14
BY PEACE SHALL DESTROY MANY-Dan 8:25
SHALL DIVIDE THE LAND FOR GAIN-Dan 11:39
ONE OF HIS HEADS...WOUNDED TO DEATH-Rev 13:3 (approximately the midst of the
Tribulation)
HIS DEADLY WOUND WAS HEALED-Rev 13:3
THE WORLD WONDERED AFTER THE BEAST-Rev 13:3
THEY WORSHIPED THE BEAST-Rev 13:4
ALL...UPON THE EARTH SHALL WORSHIP HIM, WHOSE NAMES ARE NOT WRITTEN
IN THE BOOK OF LIFE OF THE LAMB-Rev 13:8
He shall CONTINUE FORTY AND TWO MONTHS-Rev 13:5
HE MUST CONTINUE A SHORT SPACE-Rev 17:10
HE SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND...OBLATION TO CEASE-Dan 9:27
HE SHALL…overspread ABOMINATIONS-Dan 9:27
HE SHALL MAKE IT DESOLATE-Dan 9:27
HE SHALL EXALT HIMSELF-Dan 11:36
HE SHALL MAGNIFY HIMSELF-Dan 8:25
HE SHALL MAGNIFY HIMSELF ABOVE ALL-Dan 11:37
HE SHALL…MAGNIFY HIMSELF ABOVE EVERY GOD-Dan 11:36
He SHALL…HONOR THE GOD OF FORCES-Dan 11:38
He SHALL…HONOR…A GOD WHOM HIS FATHERS KNEW NOT-Dan 11:38
He SHALL…HONOR…that god WITH PRECIOUS STONES, AND PLEASANT THINGS-
Dan 11:38
HE SHALL ACKNOWLEDGE a strange god-Dan 11:39
HE SHALL...INCREASE WITH GLORY a strange god-Dan 11:39
He SHALL...DO IN THE MOST STRONG HOLDS WITH A STRANGE GOD-Dan 11:39
HE SHALL SPEAK GREAT WORDS AGAINST THE MOST HIGH-Dan 7:25
He shall speak GREAT...BLASPHEMIES-Rev 13:5
HE OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD-Rev 13:6
He shall BLASPHEME...God's TABERNACLE-Rev 13:6
He shall BLASPHEME...THEM THAT DWELL IN HEAVEN-Rev 13:6
SHALL SPEAK MARVELOUS (or unheard-of) THINGS-Dan 11:36
He shall speak GREAT THINGS-Rev 13:5
He SHALL PROSPER-Dan 8:24
He SHALL PROSPER TILL THE INDIGNATION BE ACCOMPLISHED-Dan 11:36
HE SHALL...PRACTISE-Dan 8:24
He SHALL DESTROY THE MIGHTY AND THE HOLY PEOPLE-Dan 8:24
He shall MAKE WAR WITH THE SAINTS-Rev 13:7
MADE WAR WITH THE SAINTS, AND PREVAILED AGAINST THEM-Dan 7:21
He shall OVERCOME the saints-Rev 13:7
HE…SHALL WEAR OUT THE SAINTS-Dan 7:25
The saints SHALL BE GIVEN INTO HIS HAND-Dan 7:25
Saints given into his hand for 3 1/2 years-ref Dan 7:25
He shall THINK TO CHANGE TIMES-Dan 7:25
He shall THINK TO CHANGE...LAWS-Dan 7:25
HE SHALL CAUSE CRAFT TO PROSPER-Dan 8:25
He is given power over ALL KINDREDS, AND TONGUES, AND NATIONS-Rev 13:7
HE SHALL CAUSE THEM TO RULE OVER MANY-Dan 11:39
He SHALL MAKE WAR AGAINST the two prophets of God-Rev 11:7
He SHALL OVERCOME the two prophets of God-Rev 11:7
He SHALL...KILL the two prophets of God-Rev 11:7
His spirit shall GO FORTH UNTO THE KINGS OF THE EARTH...TO GATHER THEM TO
THE BATTLE OF THAT GREAT DAY-Rev 16:14
THE BEAST shall...MAKE WAR AGAINST HIM THAT SAT ON THE HORSE-Rev 19:19
The Antichrist SHALL…STAND UP AGAINST THE PRINCE OF PRINCES-Dan 8:25
The Antichrist SHALL…GO INTO PERDITION-Rev 17:8
FOR THAT THAT IS DETERMINED SHALL BE DONE-Dan 11:36
(The Dragon)
(Note the "dragon" is another name for the devil)
SHALL CAST SOME OF YOU INTO PRISON-Rev 2:10
HAVING SEVEN HEADS-Rev 12:3
HAVING...TEN HORNS-Rev 12:3
HAVING...SEVEN CROWNS UPON HIS HEADS-Rev 12:3
TAIL DREW THE THIRD PART OF THE STARS OF HEAVEN-Rev 12:4
DID CAST THEM (the stars) TO THE EARTH-Rev 12:4
THE DRAGON STOOD BEFORE THE WOMAN-Rev 12:4
The dragon wanted to DEVOUR the woman’s CHILD AS SOON AS IT WAS BORN-Rev 12:4
MICHAEL AND HIS ANGELS FOUGHT AGAINST THE DRAGON-Rev 12:7
THE DRAGON FOUGHT AND HIS ANGELS-Rev 12:7
THE DRAGON…PREVAILED NOT-Rev 12:7,8
There was no place found anymore in heaven for the dragon-ref Rev 12:8
THE GREAT DRAGON WAS CAST OUT-Rev 12:9
THE GREAT DRAGON is called THAT OLD SERPENT-Rev 12:9
THE GREAT DRAGON is CALLED THE DEVIL-Rev 12:9; ref 20:2
THE GREAT DRAGON is called SATAN-Rev 12:9; ref 20:2
THE DRAGON is called THAT OLD SERPENT-Rev 20:2
THE GREAT DRAGON is THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN-Rev 12:9,10
THE GREAT DRAGON...DECEIVETH THE WHOLE WORLD-Rev 12:9
The great dragon’s angels WERE CAST OUT-Rev 12:9
The great dragon accused the brethren before God day and night-ref Rev 12:10
THE DEVIL IS COME DOWN to the earth-Rev 12:12
THE DEVIL...HAVING GREAT WRATH-Rev 12:12
THE DEVIL...KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME-Rev 12:12
THE DRAGON...PERSECUTED THE WOMAN-Rev 12:13
THE SERPENT CAST OUT OF HIS MOUTH WATER AS A FLOOD-Rev 12:15
THE SERPENT…wanted the woman TO BE CARRIED AWAY OF THE FLOOD-Rev 12:15
THE DRAGON WAS WROTH WITH THE WOMAN-Rev 12:17
THE DRAGON...WENT TO MAKE WAR WITH THE REMNANT OF HER SEED-Rev 12:17
THE DRAGON…GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST-Rev 13:4; ref 13:2
THE DRAGON GAVE the beast his seat-Rev 13:2
THE DRAGON GAVE great authority to the beast-Rev 13:2
THE WORLD...WORSHIPED THE DRAGON-Rev 13:3,4
ANOTHER BEAST...HE SPAKE AS A DRAGON-Rev 13:11
An unclean spirit came OUT OF THE MOUTH OF THE DRAGON-Rev 16:13
The dragon has a spirit of a devil-ref Rev 16:13,14
The spirit of the dragon works miracles-ref Rev 16:13,14
The spirit of the dragon goes forth unto the kings of the earth-ref Rev 16:13,14
The spirit of the dragon gathers the kings and the whole world together to the Battle of
Armageddon-ref Rev 16:13,14,16
THE DRAGON was bound for A THOUSAND YEARS-Rev 20:2
He was cast INTO THE BOTTOMLESS PIT-Rev 20:3
He was SHUT…UP-Rev 20:3
He had a seal placed upon him-ref Rev 20:3
During the thousand years, he can DECEIVE THE NATIONS NO MORE-Rev 20:3
After the thousand years, HE MUST BE LOOSED A LITTLE SEASON-Rev 20:3
WHEN THE THOUSAND YEARS ARE EXPIRED, SATAN SHALL BE LOOSED-Rev 20:7
He SHALL GO OUT TO DECEIVE THE NATIONS-Rev 20:8
He SHALL...GATHER THEM TOGETHER TO BATTLE-Rev 20:8
THE DEVIL…WAS CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE-Rev 20:10
THE DEVIL...SHALL BE TORMENTED DAY AND NIGHT FOR EVER AND EVER-
Rev 20:10
(About the Fourth Kingdom)
THE FOURTH KINGDOM-Dan 2:40
FOURTH BEAST...THE FOURTH KINGDOM-Dan 7:23
DIVERSE FROM ALL THE BEASTS-Dan 7:7; ref 7:19
DIVERSE FROM ALL KINGDOMS-Dan 7:23
A BEAST RISE UP OUT OF THE SEA-Rev 13:1; ref Dan 7:3
A BEAST...HAVING SEVEN HEADS-Rev 13:1; ref 17:7
UPON HIS HEADS THE NAME OF BLASPHEMY-Rev 13:1
FEET PART OF IRON AND PART OF CLAY-Dan 2:33
**TOES...PART OF IRON, AND PART OF CLAY-Dan 2:42
**FEET AND TOES, PART OF POTTERS' CLAY, AND PART OF IRON-Dan 2:41
KINGDOM…DIVIDED-Dan 2:41
PARTLY STRONG, AND PARTLY BROKEN-Dan 2:42
**THEY SHALL MINGLE...WITH THE SEED OF MEN-Dan 2:43
**THEY SHALL NOT CLEAVE ONE TO ANOTHER-Dan 2:43 (AS IRON IS NOT MIXED
WITH CLAY)
STRENGTH OF…IRON-Dan 2:41
STRONG AS IRON-Dan 2:40
STRONG EXCEEDINGLY-Dan 7:7
GREAT IRON TEETH-Dan 7:7; ref 7:19
NAILS OF BRASS-Dan 7:19
DREADFUL AND TERRIBLE-Dan 7:7
EXCEEDINGLY DREADFUL-Dan 7:19
A BEAST...HAVING…TEN HORNS-Rev 13:1; ref 17:7; Dan 7:7
TEN HORNS THAT WERE IN HIS HEAD-Dan 7:20; ref 7:8
A BEAST...UPON HIS HORNS TEN CROWNS-Rev 13:1
TEN HORNS OUT OF THIS KINGDOM ARE TEN KINGS-Dan 7:24; ref Rev 17:11,12
THE TEN HORNS...HAVE RECEIVED NO KINGDOM AS YET-Rev 17:12
THE TEN HORNS...RECEIVE POWER AS KINGS ONE HOUR WITH THE BEAST-
Rev 17:12
THE TEN HORNS...HAVE ONE MIND-Rev 17:12,13
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL GIVE THEIR POWER...UNTO THE BEAST-Rev 17:12,13
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL GIVE THEIR...STRENGTH UNTO THE BEAST-Rev 17:12,13
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL...GIVE THEIR KINGDOM UNTO THE BEAST-Rev 17:16,17
THE TEN HORNS...UPON THE BEAST...SHALL HATE THE WHORE-Rev 17:16
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL MAKE HER DESOLATE-Rev 17:16
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL MAKE HER...NAKED-Rev 17:16
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL EAT HER FLESH-Rev 17:16
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL...BURN HER WITH FIRE-Rev 17:16
THE TEN HORNS...GOD HATH PUT IN THEIR HEARTS TO FULFILL HIS WILL-Rev
17:16,17; ref 17:13
THE TEN HORNS...GOD HATH PUT IN THEIR HEARTS...TO AGREE-Rev 17:16,17
THE TEN HORNS...SHALL MAKE WAR WITH THE LAMB-Rev 17:12,14
The Lamb shall overcome them-ref Rev 17:14
(Note part 1858-5A-6, "Antichrist," he shall subdue three kings.)
(Note the ** on the toes, which also symbolize the ten horns)
(Fourth Kingdom Shall Do)
Carried the woman-ref Rev 17:7
DEVOURED AND BRAKE IN PIECES-Dan 7:7; ref 7:19
DEVOUR THE WHOLE EARTH-Dan 7:23
TREAD...DOWN the whole earth-Dan 7:23
STAMPED THE RESIDUE WITH THE FEET OF IT-Dan 7:7; ref 7:19
BREAKETH IN PIECES-Dan 2:40; ref 7:23
SUBDUETH ALL THINGS-Dan 2:40
IT SHALL...BRUISE-Dan 2:40
SHALL...SCATTER THE POWER OF THE HOLY PEOPLE-Dan 12:7
Then shall ALL THESE THINGS BE FINISHED-Dan 12:7
WONDERS (3 ½ years)-Dan 12:6,7
(The End)
THE TEN HORNS...(Jesus) SHALL OVERCOME THEM-Rev 17:12,14
THAT DETERMINED SHALL BE POURED UPON THE DESOLATE-Dan 9:27
THE BEAST WAS TAKEN-Rev 19:20
The Antichrist SHALL BE BROKEN WITHOUT HAND-Dan 8:25
THE BEAST WAS SLAIN-Dan 7:11
THE BEAST...SHALL...GO INTO PERDITION-Rev 17:8; ref 17:11
THE BEAST…HIS BODY DESTROYED-Dan 7:11
THE BEAST WAS…CAST ALIVE INTO A LAKE OF FIRE BURNING WITH BRIMSTONE-
Rev 19:20
The beast's BODY...GIVEN TO THE BURNING FLAME-Dan 7:11
THE BEAST...SHALL BE TORMENTED DAY AND NIGHT FOR EVER AND EVER-
Rev 20:10
THE JUDGMENT SHALL SIT-Dan 7:26
THE ANCIENT OF DAYS CAME-Dan 7:22
THE GOD OF HEAVEN...SHALL BREAK IN PIECES-Dan 2:44
THE STONE...IT BREAK IN PIECES-Dan 2:45
THE THRONES WERE CAST DOWN-Dan 7:9
The STONE shall smite the FEET THAT WERE OF IRON AND CLAY-Dan 2:34
The STONE shall BREAK THEM TO PIECES-Dan 2:34
(The Saints)
JUDGMENT...GIVEN TO THE SAINTS-Dan 7:22
THEY SHALL TAKE AWAY HIS DOMINION-Dan 7:26
THEY SHALL...CONSUME AND...DESTROY IT UNTO THE END-Dan 7:26
The SAINTS...SHALL TAKE THE KINGDOM-Dan 7:18
THE SAINTS POSSESSED THE KINGDOM-Dan 7:22
The people of the saints of the Most High shall BE GIVEN the kingdom-Dan 7:27
The people of the saints of the Most High shall BE GIVEN the dominion-Dan 7:27
The saints (or children) shall be JOINT-HEIRS WITH CHRIST-Ro 8:17
They that have PART IN THE FIRST RESURRECTION…SHALL BE PRIESTS OF GOD AND OF CHRIST-Rev 20:6; ref Rev 1:6; 5:5,10
Those THAT WERE BEHEADED FOR THE WITNESS OF JESUS…REIGNED WITH CHRIST A THOUSAND YEARS-Rev 20:4
Those that SUFFER (or endure) SHALL ALSO REIGN WITH HIM-2 Tim 2:12
THOSE THAT WAIT UPON THE LORD, THEY SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH-Ps 37:9
THE MEEK SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH-Ps 37:11
THE SAINTS SHALL JUDGE THE WORLD-1 Cor 6:2
Some shall HAVE…AUTHORITY OVER…CITIES-Lk 19:17,19
Some will be given POWER OVER THE NATIONS-Rev 2:26
Some will be a RULER OVER MANY THINGS-Mt 25:21,23
Note, there are many more items in the Scriptures concerning the Antichrist, what he does, and his empire. Most included here are from Daniel and the Revelation.
13:6. AND HE (or it) OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD, TO BLASPHEME (or slander, or insult) HIS NAME, AND HIS TABERNACLE (or dwelling place), AND THEM THAT DWELL (or live) IN HEAVEN. TM, T2.
13:6. AND HE (or it) (which is the Antichrist)
OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD, TO BLASPHEME (or slander, or insult)
HIS NAME, AND HIS TABERNACLE (or dwelling place),
AND THEM THAT DWELL (or live)
IN HEAVEN.
13:7. AND IT WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM (or it was allowed) TO MAKE WAR WITH THE SAINTS (or God's holy people), AND TO OVERCOME (or conquer, or defeat) THEM: AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN HIM OVER ALL KINDREDS (or every tribe) (or people), AND TONGUES (or language), AND NATIONS. Ref Dan 7:21,25. TM, T2.
13:7. AND IT WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM (or it was allowed)
TO MAKE WAR WITH THE SAINTS (or God's holy people),
AND TO OVERCOME (or conquer, or defeat)
THEM. It is also written, THE SAME HORN (which is the Antichrist) MADE WAR WITH THE SAINTS, AND PREVAILED AGAINST THEM-Dan 7:21. THE SAINTS...SHALL BE GIVEN INTO HIS HAND for 3 ½ years-Dan 7:25. During the Tribulation, especially the second part, the saints will be persecuted and butchered. The Antichrist will overcome them, and they will be given into his hand. They will not be able to buy or sell. Most will be killed by having their head chopped off.
There are some people that falsely teach the saints will not be raptured prior to the Tribulation, but will go through it. This can mislead people by causing them not to watch as the Bible commands. They lack understanding of how terrible the Tribulation will be.
The vast majority of people that get saved, during the Tribulation, will not go through it, but will be killed. It appears that many, when faced with horrible persecutions, starvation, and execution; when faced with their children being taken from them and possibly being tortured, will renounce their faith in Jesus Christ. Multitudes will take the mark of the beast and worship the image. For a short time, they will save their earthly life, but they will lose it for eternity.
The born-again Jews had been told to flee when the abomination of desolation occurs. The Bible seems to indicate that if they delay, even for a moment, they could be caught and killed. The Gentile saints should also have to run and hide for their lives, during the last three and a half years. Most, apparently, will be caught and killed. The Antichrist wants all saints eliminated.
The verse continues, AND POWER (or authority)
WAS GIVEN HIM OVER ALL KINDREDS (or every tribe) (or people),
AND TONGUES (or language),
AND NATIONS. The Antichrist is given authority or power over the entire world; he becomes both the political and religious leader.
There is much talk these days about a one-world government, new world order, global economy, and many international organizations. That government will be established during the Tribulation, but even now can be seen manifesting itself through the European Community.
13:8. AND ALL (or everyone, or all inhabitants) THAT DWELL UPON THE EARTH SHALL WORSHIP HIM (the beast), (all) WHOSE NAMES ARE NOT WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE OF THE LAMB SLAIN (or slaughtered) FROM THE FOUNDATION (or creation) OF THE WORLD. Ref Jn 5:43; Rev 13:15. TM, T2.
13:8. AND ALL (or everyone, or all inhabitants)
THAT DWELL UPON THE EARTH SHALL WORSHIP HIM (the beast), (all)
WHOSE NAMES ARE NOT WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE OF THE LAMB SLAIN (or slaughtered)
FROM THE FOUNDATION (or creation)
OF THE WORLD. All the world, except those whose names are in the book of life, will submit to the Antichrist. They will worship him. He proclaims himself to be God, and the world receives him. Jesus foretold in the Bible that this would be so, yet people refuse to believe God's Word. It is written, I AM COME IN MY FATHER'S NAME, AND YE RECEIVE ME NOT: IF ANOTHER (the Antichrist) SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME, HIM YE WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43.
Those that are caught and refuse to worship the image, SHOULD BE KILLED-Rev 13:15.
By His foreknowledge, God knows who are His from the foundation of the world. He knows who will be faithful and who will deny Him.
Verse 6 tells of the blasphemy of the Antichrist. Verse 7 shows the Antichrist will overcome the saints and will have power over the entire world. Verse 8 reveals that all the unsaved shall worship the Antichrist.
13:9. IF ANY MAN HAVE AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR. TM, T2.
13:9. IF ANY MAN HAVE AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR. God’s Word has inserted this at this particular place to bring attention to what is being said. He is saying, whosoever is capable of understanding what is being said—let him understand.
13:10. HE THAT LEADETH INTO (or is destined for) CAPTIVITY SHALL GO INTO CAPTIVITY: HE (or anyone) THAT KILLETH WITH THE SWORD MUST BE KILLED WITH THE SWORD. HERE IS THE PATIENCE (or patient endurance) AND THE FAITH (or faithfulness) OF THE SAINTS (or this is when God's holy people must persevere and trust!-JNT155). TM, T2.
THE SECOND BEAST
THE FALSE PROPHET
13:10. HE THAT LEADETH INTO (or is destined for)
CAPTIVITY SHALL GO INTO CAPTIVITY: HE (or anyone)
THAT KILLETH WITH THE SWORD MUST BE KILLED WITH THE SWORD. Whatever a person does to a saint, must, in turn, be done to that person. If someone leads a saint into captivity, they, themselves, will go into captivity. If someone kills a saint with a sword, they, likewise, will be killed with a sword.
HERE IS THE PATIENCE (or patient endurance)
AND THE FAITH (or faithfulness)
OF THE SAINTS (or this is when God's holy people must persevere and trust!-JNT155). Let us run the race that is set before us with patience. God's Word can be trusted. What has been said will surely come to pass. The saints are exhorted to be patient and endure in faith.
13:11. AND I BEHELD ANOTHER BEAST COMING UP OUT OF THE EARTH; AND HE HAD TWO HORNS LIKE A LAMB, AND HE SPAKE AS A DRAGON. Ref Rev 16:13,14; 19:20; 20:10; Mt 7:15; Jn 1:29. TM, T2.
13:11. AND I BEHELD ANOTHER BEAST COMING UP OUT OF THE EARTH (or land). Some believe that "coming up out of the earth" denotes that he comes from the land of Israel. It is possible he may be a Jew. The second beast is called the false prophet in Rev 16:13; 19:20; and 20:10. He has the spirit of a devil-ref Rev 16:14. There is no mention of this false prophet prior to the Antichrist being killed and his deadly wound healed. Apparently, he masquerades as being of the light, but he is of the darkness. During approximately the midst of the Tribulation, the Antichrist moves into the temple. This being the case, it would appear that the entire public ministry of the false prophet will be in Israel.
It should be noted that the first beast (the Antichrist) came out of the sea. This may denote the nations. He may have been born and raised in some place other than Israel. His rise to power seems to come through the EEC. He comes from the Old Roman Empire nations, yet he is probably a Jew. It would seem impossible for the Jews to accept any person as their Messiah, if he were not from the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The second beast,
AND HE HAD TWO HORNS LIKE A LAMB. One would think of a lamb as being harmless. The Scriptures warn, BEWARE OF FALSE PROPHETS, WHICH COME TO YOU IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING, BUT INWARDLY THEY ARE RAVENING WOLVES-Mt 7:15. This false prophet seems to have the deceptive outward appearance of purity and great power and the meekness and humility of a lamb. There are varied opinions of the meaning of the two horns.
John the Baptist said of Jesus, BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD-Jn 1:29. However, while this beast (or false prophet) may take on the appearance of a lamb, it is written,
AND HE SPAKE AS A DRAGON. He speaks as the devil. He is a counterfeit of the Holy Spirit. He is an actual person—he is called the "false prophet."
THE TRINITY OF GOD; THE TRINITY OF SATAN
The Trinity of God: The trinity of Satan:
God the Father Satan
God the Son The Antichrist Brings glory to Satan (the dragon)
God the Holy Spirit The false prophet Brings glory to the Antichrist (the beast)
13:12. AND HE EXERCISETH ALL THE POWER (or authority) OF THE FIRST BEAST BEFORE HIM (or in its presence, or on his behalf), AND CAUSETH (or makes) THE EARTH AND THEM WHICH DWELL THEREIN (or its inhabitants) TO WORSHIP THE FIRST BEAST, WHOSE DEADLY (or fatal) WOUND WAS HEALED. Ref Jn 16:13,14. TM, T2.
13:12. AND HE EXERCISETH ALL THE POWER (or authority)
OF THE FIRST BEAST (which is the Antichrist)
BEFORE HIM (or in its presence, or on his behalf),
AND CAUSETH (or makes)
THE EARTH AND THEM WHICH DWELL THEREIN (or its inhabitants)
TO WORSHIP THE FIRST BEAST, WHOSE DEADLY (or fatal)
WOUND WAS HEALED. The false prophet brings glory to the Antichrist. He causes the people of the world to worship the Antichrist. He is the third person of Satan's trinity.
Consider the Holy Spirit. He is the third Person of the Trinity of God. It is written, HOWBEIT WHEN HE, THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, IS COME, HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL TRUTH: FOR HE SHALL NOT SPEAK OF HIMSELF; BUT WHATSOEVER HE SHALL HEAR, THAT SHALL HE SPEAK: AND HE WILL SHOW YOU THINGS TO COME. HE SHALL GLORIFY ME: FOR HE SHALL RECEIVE OF MINE, AND SHALL SHOW IT UNTO YOU-Jn 16:13,14.
In v.12, once again, the deadly wound of the Antichrist is mentioned. This caused the world to be amazed, and, as a result, people worshiped the Antichrist and Satan-ref Rev 13:3,4.
13:13. AND HE DOETH GREAT WONDERS (or miracles, or miraculous signs), SO THAT HE MAKETH (or causing) FIRE (to) COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN ON THE EARTH IN THE SIGHT OF MEN (or as people watch, or in full view of men-NIV). TM, T2.
13:13. AND HE (the false prophet)
DOETH GREAT WONDERS (or miracles, or miraculous signs),
SO THAT HE MAKETH (or causing)
FIRE (to)
COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN ON THE EARTH IN THE SIGHT OF MEN (or as people watch, or in full view of men-NIV).
Elijah also called fire down from heaven in the Old Testament. He did many miracles. The Jews look for the coming of Elijah prior to the coming of Messiah, leaving a vacant seat for him at the Passover feast. The false prophet may also represent a counterfeit Elijah or John the Baptist. John the Baptist was filled with the Spirit of God from his birth.
13:14. AND DECEIVETH THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH (or the people living on earth-JNT156) BY THE MEANS OF THOSE MIRACLES (or signs) WHICH HE HAD POWER TO DO IN THE SIGHT (or on behalf) OF THE (first) BEAST. TM, T2.
THE IMAGE TO THE BEAST
OR ANTICHRIST
13:14. The verse continues, SAYING TO THEM (or he ordered them) THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH, THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST (honoring the beast), WHICH HAD THE WOUND BY A SWORD, AND (yet) DID LIVE (or that was struck by the sword but came alive again-JNT156). TM, T2.
13:14. AND (the false prophet)
DECEIVETH THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH (or the people living on earth-JNT156)
BY THE MEANS OF THOSE MIRACLES (or signs)
WHICH HE HAD POWER TO DO IN THE SIGHT (or on behalf)
OF THE (first)
BEAST (which is the Antichrist).
Jesus did great miracles, and many believed on Him. The Antichrist will do great wonders; many will be deceived by these and will believe that he is the real Christ.
THE FALSE PROPHET’S PURPOSE
(From the Revelation)
Has the spirit of a devil-ref 16:13,14
To deceive people-ref 13:11-14
To speak as the Antichrist-ref 13:11,12
To exercise the power or authority of the Antichrist-ref 13:12
To cause the earth to worship the Antichrist-ref 13:12
To do great wonders or miracles-ref 13:13; 19:20
To make fire come down from heaven-ref 13:13
To deceive the people of the earth-ref 13:14; 19:20
To say to the people THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST-13:14
To GIVE LIFE UNTO THE IMAGE-13:15
To cause ALL...TO RECEIVE A MARK-13:16
To stop anyone from buying or selling unless they have the mark-ref 13:17
To go forth to gather the people to the battle of the great day, which is Armageddon-ref 16:13,14
SAYING TO THEM (or he ordered them)
THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH, THAT THEY (the people)
SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST (honoring the beast). The false prophet ordered the people to make an image, honoring the Antichrist. No description of it is given. It might resemble the image that Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream or, perhaps, even the Antichrist himself.
The verse continues,
WHICH HAD THE WOUND BY A SWORD, AND (yet)
DID LIVE (or that was struck by the sword but came alive again-JNT156). This is the third time the wound is mentioned.
13:15. AND HE HAD POWER TO GIVE LIFE (or breath) UNTO (or into) THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST, (so) THAT THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD (or even) BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED (or put to death). Ref Rev 16:13. TM, T2.
THE MARK
THE NAME OF THE BEAST
THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME
13:15. AND HE (the false prophet)
HAD POWER TO GIVE LIFE (or breath)
UNTO (or into)
THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST. At this point, apparently, the image of the beast is completed. The false prophet had the power of Satan to actually give "life, breath, or spirit" to the image. The image of the Antichrist comes to life. The power of Satan will be invoked by the false prophet.
Some think this image will be a super computerized robot that can speak. There is no great power or miracle needed, in this generation, to make such an object. Such things already exist.
Nevertheless, when the Scripture says that the false prophet gives the image "life," it means exactly what it says. It is a supernatural event, involving supernatural power.
The Antichrist was killed. People were astonished when he came back to life. They were amazed at the great wonders and signs that were done by the false prophet. It can be expected that people will be further terrified and amazed at the image of the beast receiving life and the awesome powers they see. Undoubtedly, they will think that this is the great power of God. They will believe that Satan is the true God and the Antichrist is the real Christ.
The word "life," used in this verse, comes from the Greek word "pneuma." This word means "a current of air, breath, even spirit or demon (life, spirit, breath, air)." The verse continues, (so)
THAT THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST (or the image of the Antichrist)
SHOULD (or even)
BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED (or put to death). The instrument used to put people to death should be the guillotine-ref Rev 20:4.
The image comes to life and is able to speak. Note carefully, the image causes those that would not worship it (the image) to be put to death. The image causes people to worship itself. The image has life. It craves worship so much that anyone who refuses to worship it is put to death.
Satan craves worship. Satan is a spirit. Remember the trinity of Satan? Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet-ref Rev 16:13. The false prophet directs worship to the Antichrist. The Antichrist honors Satan. The spirit of Satan appears to enter the image of the beast. The image receives life and speaks. Thus, when the verse says that the image causes people to be put to death, it evidently means that Satan is causing people to be put to death, because they refuse to worship him. Again, the spirit of Satan appears to occupy the image of the beast. We may say, the image itself is indwelled by Satan. Whether everyone in the world will be required to worship the image is not made clear. If they are, then how they all will be able to worship the image, during this time, is not explained.
By worshiping the beast and his image, the people appear to be attributing the work of God (the creation) to the devil.
Remember that Nebuchadnezzar, THE KING MADE AN IMAGE OF GOLD…HE SET IT UP IN THE PLAIN OF DURA, IN THE PROVINCE OF BABYLON. Then the people, nations, and languages were commanded THAT AT WHAT TIME YE HEAR THE SOUND OF THE CORNET, FLUTE, HARP, SACKBUT, PSALTERY, DULCIMER, AND ALL KINDS OF MUSIC, YE FALL DOWN AND WORSHIP THE GOLDEN IMAGE THAT NEBUCHADNEZZAR THE KING HATH SET UP: AND WHOSO FALLETH NOT DOWN AND WORSHIPPETH SHALL THE SAME HOUR BE CAST INTO THE MIDST OF A BURNING FIERY FURNACE-Dan 3:1,5,6.
THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION
Daniel mentions the sanctuary and then the ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE-Dan 12:11; ref 11:31. The ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION is also mentioned in Mt 24:15 and Mk 13:14. The Antichrist moving into the temple is certainly an abomination.
Setting up an image of the beast (which is indwelled by Satan) in the temple and causing the people to worship it—God forbid—this is an abomination!
13:16. AND HE CAUSETH (or forced) ALL (or everyone), BOTH SMALL AND GREAT, RICH AND POOR, FREE AND BOND (or slave), TO RECEIVE A MARK IN (or on) THEIR RIGHT HAND, OR IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS. TM, T2. 13:16. The subject now changes to the mark.
AND HE (which is the false prophet)
CAUSETH (or forced)
ALL (or everyone),
BOTH SMALL AND GREAT, RICH AND POOR, FREE AND BOND (or slave),
TO RECEIVE A MARK IN (or on)
THEIR RIGHT HAND, OR IN (or on)
THEIR FOREHEADS. No one will be exempt from the requirement of taking the mark. The KJV indicates the mark is "in." Some other translations use the word "on." Which is correct will be known when it happens. From kings to slaves, every person is required to receive the mark.
13:17. AND THAT NO MAN MIGHT BUY OR SELL (or preventing anyone from buying or selling-JNT157), SAVE (or unless) HE THAT HAD THE MARK, OR (that is, or which is) THE NAME OF THE BEAST, OR THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME. Ref Rev 15:2. TM, T2.
13:17. The purpose of the mark is
THAT NO MAN MIGHT BUY OR SELL (or preventing anyone from buying or selling-JNT157),
SAVE (or unless)
HE THAT HAD THE MARK, OR (that is, or which is)
THE NAME OF THE BEAST, OR THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME. Three items are mentioned here.
1. THE MARK,
2. THE NAME OF THE BEAST,
3. THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME. Some translations, however, appear to limit it to two, in that the "mark" is the name of the beast or the number of his name. Rev 15:2 mentions two, as it is written, HIS MARK, AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME. There could possibly be two or three types of marks. If so, each could have a particular purpose. Remember, the Scriptures have said that the Antichrist comes in his own name.
Some may have the mark, 666, which is the number of the name of the Antichrist.
Others may have the mark, which is the actual name of the Antichrist.
Consider, a person will not be able to buy food, gasoline, clothes, or anything. They may not be able to make payments of any kind to anyone. They may not be able to pay their taxes, house payment, or rent on their home. They will not be able to sell anything. People might not be permitted to receive their wages without the mark.
At this time, a system that could be utilized for this is already partially in place in many areas. Many stores already use scanners to add up purchases.
There is a bar code on most items available for purchase throughout the world. This universal products code (UPC) contains the numbers 6-6-6 in it. Presently, the two end bars and the center bar represent the number six. It can be expected that even the remote marketplaces in Africa will come under this system during the Tribulation.
Some believe that many transactions may, in some way, go through a giant computer. Such computers do exist today. The speed and amount of information that computers can process seems to be increasing at an incredible rate. Indeed, technology is advancing rapidly. It is possible that the world will come under a global money or credit system. Such a system could be initiated within the European Community (EC) and then spread to other countries. The use of money, as we know it today, may disappear. It may be that all financial transactions will be done by some other method related to the mark.
Computer chips and various forms of bio-technology are already being experimented with, which can place a mark on or beneath the skin. By the time the midst of the Tribulation arrives, many new scientific methods should exist that we have no knowledge of now.
It is possible that, when a person goes to buy something, their right hand or forehead will be scanned, then the transaction can take place. The EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) system is operational in many places. Such organizations as the Trilateral Commission are already at work. The number of things leading to this one-world system, unknown to most people, is astonishing.
Exactly how this will all come about is not made clear by God's Word. What is made clear is, if a person does not take the mark, they cannot buy or sell anything. This system will continue for approximately 3 1/2 years, through the end of the Tribulation.
13:18. HERE IS WISDOM (or this is where wisdom is needed-JNT158). LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING (or insight) (should) COUNT (or calculate) THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST: FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN (or person); AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX (or 666).
TM, T2.
THE LAMB AND THE HUNDRED FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND
13:18. HERE IS WISDOM (or this is where wisdom is needed-JNT158).
LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING (or insight) (should)
COUNT (or calculate)
THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST: FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN (or person);
AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX (or 666).
This number has been calculated by many Bible scholars. It appears, the Holy Spirit has not yet given the understanding of who "666" is (600 60 6).
Many maintain that the number representing man is 6.
The number of the name of the Antichrist is 666.
The number representing God is believed to be 7. His number for perfection and completion is 7.
Those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life will get the victory over HIS MARK, AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME-Rev 15:2.
Through this, we see there will be a one-world religion.
There will be a one-world government.
There will be a one-world economic system. Even as these things are being written, as we watch world events, this is the direction it is heading in these latter days.
WARNINGS ABOUT TAKING THE MARK
AND WORSHIPING THE IMAGE
The rewards for taking the mark and worshiping the image are as follows. A person can buy and sell for the second part of the Tribulation. He will not have to flee to keep from being killed by decapitation. However, even taking the mark and worshiping the image will not prevent many of these people from being killed; as the end of the Tribulation approaches, one-third of the world's population will die. Neither will it protect them when the sores fall upon men. Neither will it protect them from the multitude of plagues that will come upon the world. The end result of being deceived is the eternal lake of fire.
AND THE THIRD ANGEL FOLLOWED THEM, SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE, IF ANY MAN WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND RECEIVE HIS MARK IN HIS FOREHEAD, OR IN HIS HAND, THE SAME SHALL DRINK OF THE WINE OF THE WRATH OF GOD, WHICH IS POURED OUT WITHOUT MIXTURE INTO THE CUP OF HIS INDIGNATION; AND HE SHALL BE TORMENTED WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE IN THE PRESENCE OF THE HOLY ANGELS, AND IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LAMB: AND THE SMOKE OF THEIR TORMENT ASCENDETH UP FOR EVER AND EVER: AND THEY HAVE NO REST DAY NOR NIGHT, WHO WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND WHOSOEVER RECEIVETH THE MARK OF HIS NAME-Rev 14:9-11.
AND THE FIRST WENT, AND POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE EARTH; AND THERE FELL A NOISOME AND GRIEVOUS SORE UPON THE MEN WHICH HAD THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND UPON THEM WHICH WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE-Rev 16:2.
AND THE BEAST WAS TAKEN, AND WITH HIM THE FALSE PROPHET THAT WROUGHT MIRACLES BEFORE HIM, WITH WHICH HE DECEIVED THEM THAT HAD RECEIVED THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND THEM THAT WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE. THESE BOTH WERE CAST ALIVE INTO A LAKE OF FIRE BURNING WITH BRIMSTONE-Rev 19:20. This is the end result of those that are deceived, who take the mark and worship the image. This is the due reward of the Antichrist and false prophet, which deceived the world.
THE REWARDS OF NOT TAKING THE MARK
AND WORSHIPING THE IMAGE
Those that refuse to take the mark will not be able to buy or sell. It will be almost impossible for them to survive during the second part of the Tribulation.
Those that refuse to worship the image of the beast will, undoubtedly, have to flee for their lives. If they are caught, they will be beheaded unless they worship the image. Many will be beheaded. Many will be betrayed by their close friends and relatives, including their own children or parents. By being killed and dying in faith, however, they get the victory—eternal life with Jesus. They shall return in their new spiritual bodies with Jesus at the time of Armageddon and shall reign and rule with Him for one thousand years.
By the grace of God, a few will manage to escape and survive. These will go into the Millennium and will begin to repopulate the earth.
AND I SAW AS IT WERE A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED WITH FIRE: AND THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY OVER THE BEAST, AND OVER HIS IMAGE, AND OVER HIS MARK, AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD-Rev 15:2.
AND I SAW THRONES, AND THEY SAT UPON THEM, AND JUDGMENT WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM: AND I SAW THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE BEHEADED FOR THE WITNESS OF JESUS, AND FOR THE WORD OF GOD, AND WHICH HAD NOT WORSHIPED THE BEAST, NEITHER HIS IMAGE, NEITHER HAD RECEIVED HIS MARK UPON THEIR FOREHEADS, OR IN THEIR HANDS; AND THEY LIVED AND REIGNED WITH CHRIST A THOUSAND YEARS-Rev 20:4. These were killed, but they had gotten the victory.
AND BEFORE HIM SHALL BE GATHERED ALL NATIONS: AND HE SHALL SEPARATE THEM ONE FROM ANOTHER, AS A SHEPHERD DIVIDETH HIS SHEEP FROM THE GOATS: AND HE SHALL SET THE SHEEP ON HIS RIGHT HAND, BUT THE GOATS ON THE LEFT. THEN SHALL THE KING SAY UNTO THEM ON HIS RIGHT HAND, COME, YE BLESSED OF MY FATHER, INHERIT THE KINGDOM PREPARED FOR YOU FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD-Mt 25:32-34. These survived the Tribulation and go into the Millennium.
14:1. AND I LOOKED, AND, LO, A LAMB STOOD ON THE MOUNT ZION, AND WITH HIM AN HUNDRED FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND (144,000), HAVING HIS FATHER'S NAME (or who had His name and His Father's name-JNT159) WRITTEN IN (or on) THEIR FOREHEADS. Ref Rev 7:1-9. H, T2.
14:1. AND I LOOKED, AND, LO, A LAMB (which is Jesus)
STOOD ON THE MOUNT ZION. Note the following, "a voice from heaven, harpers, before the throne, the four beasts, the elders, and redeemed from the earth." Collectively, these indicate a heavenly Mount Zion. There is also an earthly Mount Zion, the temple site. It is a hill in Jerusalem. It is mentioned in the Bible approximately 153 times. There are also times when "Zion" seems to represent Jerusalem, such as Isa 1:26,27 and Ps 126:1. The verse continues,
AND WITH HIM (with Jesus)
AN HUNDRED FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND (144,000). The 144,000 are now pictured with Jesus on Mount Zion. They
HAVING HIS FATHER’S NAME (or who had His name and His Father's name-JNT159)
WRITTEN IN (or on)
THEIR FOREHEADS. Note, 144,000 (12,000 from each of the twelve tribes of Israel) are also mentioned in Rev 7:1-8. The one exception is the tribe of Dan. It was left out. In Rev 7:3, the 144,000 are called THE SERVANTS OF OUR GOD. They are SEALED...IN THEIR FOREHEADS. We are told that they have the name of the Father in their forehead. It appears the 144,000 are pictured before the heavenly Mount Zion.
The Scriptures do not seem to indicate how they got there. Were they beheaded? Were they raptured or translated in some way? We can only speculate.
Some consider that v.1 is the earthly Mount Zion after the return of Jesus, and then v.2 switches to a heavenly scene. This, however, may be inconsistent, in that v.3 seems to depict the 144,000 in heaven, singing. Others consider that the 144,000 did not die yet, but are upon the earthly Mount Zion, singing.
14:2. AND I HEARD A VOICE FROM HEAVEN, AS THE VOICE OF MANY (rushing) WATERS, AND AS THE VOICE OF A GREAT (or pealing) THUNDER: AND I HEARD THE VOICE (or sound) OF HARPERS HARPING (or playing) WITH (or on) THEIR HARPS. H, T2.
14:2. AND I HEARD A VOICE FROM HEAVEN, AS THE VOICE OF MANY (rushing)
WATERS, AND AS THE VOICE OF A GREAT (or pealing)
THUNDER: AND I HEARD THE VOICE (or sound)
OF HARPERS HARPING (or playing)
WITH (or on)
THEIR HARPS. Again, note the use of harps in heaven. The harpers are not identified. These may be some of the saints that were martyred during the Tribulation. Harps are also mentioned in Rev 15:2.
14:3. AND THEY SUNG AS IT WERE A NEW SONG BEFORE THE THRONE, AND BEFORE THE FOUR BEASTS (or living creatures), AND THE ELDERS: AND NO MAN (or no one) COULD LEARN THAT SONG BUT THE HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND, WHICH WERE RE-DEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased) FROM THE EARTH (or world). H, T2.
14:3. AND THEY (the 144,000)
SUNG AS IT WERE A NEW SONG BEFORE THE THRONE. Here they appear to be before the throne of God in heaven.
AND BEFORE THE FOUR BEASTS (or living creatures),
AND THE ELDERS: AND NO MAN (or no one)
COULD LEARN THAT SONG BUT THE HUNDRED AND FORTY AND FOUR THOUSAND, WHICH WERE REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased) (or, we might say, were paid for and taken)
FROM THE EARTH (or world). The precise timing of verses 1-5 is very difficult to determine. It appears to be sometime during the second part of the Tribulation. Jesus is still in heaven. The 144,000 have fulfilled their mission upon the earth during the first part of the Tribulation.
14:4. THESE ARE THEY (or the ones) WHICH WERE NOT DEFILED WITH WOMEN; FOR THEY ARE VIRGINS (or they keep themselves pure). THESE ARE THEY WHICH FOLLOW THE LAMB WHITHERSOEVER HE GOETH. THESE WERE REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased) FROM AMONG MEN (or humanity), BEING (offered as) THE FIRSTFRUITS UNTO GOD (or as firstfruits for God) AND TO THE LAMB. H, T2.
14:4. THESE ARE THEY (or the ones)
WHICH WERE NOT DEFILED WITH WOMEN; FOR THEY ARE VIRGINS (or they keep themselves pure). These appear to have never married or been intimate with a woman. Some consider the virginity mentioned here is not of a sexual nature, but rather is talking about spiritual purity. However, the fact that women are mentioned would indicate it means exactly what it says.
THESE ARE THEY WHICH FOLLOW THE LAMB (which is Jesus)
WHITHERSOEVER HE GOETH. THESE WERE REDEEMED (or ransomed, or purchased)
FROM AMONG MEN (or humanity),
BEING (offered as)
THE FIRSTFRUITS UNTO GOD (or as firstfruits for God)
AND TO THE LAMB (or Jesus). This could signify that they were the first to be saved after the Rapture.
SINGLENESS, MARRIAGE, FORNICATION, AND ADULTERY
The previous verse does not imply that being single is better than being married; for it is written, IT IS NOT GOOD THAT THE MAN SHOULD BE ALONE-Gen 2:18.
However, the Bible does speak of those that have the calling to remain single or gift of singleness. The disciples of Jesus said, IF THE CASE OF THE MAN BE SO WITH HIS WIFE, IT IS NOT GOOD TO MARRY. BUT HE (Jesus) SAID UNTO THEM, ALL MEN CANNOT RECEIVE THIS SAYING, SAVE THEY TO WHOM IT IS GIVEN. FOR THERE ARE SOME EUNUCHS, WHICH WERE SO BORN FROM THEIR MOTHER’S WOMB: AND THERE ARE SOME EUNUCHS, WHICH WERE MADE EUNUCHS OF MEN: AND THERE BE EUNUCHS, WHICH HAVE MADE THEMSELVES EUNUCHS FOR THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN’S SAKE. HE THAT IS ABLE TO RECEIVE IT, LET HIM RECEIVE IT-Mt 19:10-12.
FOR I WOULD THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN AS I MYSELF. BUT EVERY MAN HATH HIS PROPER GIFT OF GOD, ONE AFTER THIS MANNER, AND ANOTHER AFTER THAT. I SAY THEREFORE TO THE UNMARRIED AND WIDOWS, IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY ABIDE EVEN AS I-1 Cor 7:7,8.
ART THOU BOUND UNTO A WIFE? SEEK NOT TO BE LOOSED. ART THOU LOOSED FROM A WIFE (or unmarried)? SEEK NOT A WIFE (or do not look for a wife-NIV). BUT AND IF THOU MARRY, THOU HAST NOT SINNED; AND IF A VIRGIN (or a girl) MARRY, SHE HATH NOT SINNED. NEVERTHELESS SUCH SHALL HAVE TROUBLE IN THE FLESH (or problems of married life): BUT I SPARE YOU. BUT THIS I SAY, BRETHREN, THE TIME IS SHORT (or there is not much time left-JNT160): IT REMAINETH, THAT BOTH THEY THAT HAVE WIVES BE AS THOUGH THEY HAD NONE (or from now on a man with a wife should live as if he had none-JNT161). BUT I WOULD HAVE YOU WITHOUT CAREFULNESS (or what I want is for you to be free of concern-JNT162). HE THAT IS UNMARRIED CARETH (or concerns himself) FOR THE THINGS THAT BELONG TO THE LORD, HOW HE MAY PLEASE THE LORD: BUT HE THAT IS MARRIED CARETH (or concerns himself) FOR THE THINGS THAT ARE OF THE WORLD (or the world's affairs), HOW HE MAY PLEASE HIS WIFE-1 Cor 7:27-29,32,33; AND HE FINDS HIMSELF SPLIT-1 Cor 7:34 JNT163 (or his interests are divided-NIV).
THERE IS DIFFERENCE ALSO BETWEEN A WIFE AND A VIRGIN. THE UNMARRIED WOMAN (or girl who has never been married-NIV) CARETH (or concerns herself) FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD, THAT SHE MAY BE HOLY BOTH IN BODY AND IN SPIRIT (or both physically and spiritually-JNT164): BUT SHE THAT IS MARRIED (or the married woman) CARETH (or concerns herself) FOR THE THINGS OF THE WORLD, HOW SHE MAY PLEASE HER HUSBAND. AND THIS I SPEAK FOR YOUR OWN PROFIT; NOT THAT I MAY CAST A SNARE (or put restrictions) UPON YOU, BUT FOR THAT WHICH IS COMELY (or for your own benefit), AND THAT YE MAY (in a proper manner) ATTEND UPON (or serve) THE LORD WITHOUT DISTRACTION (or with undivided devotion)-1 Cor 7:34,35.
But know this, if a born-again Christian still chooses to get married, it must be to someone in the Lord. As it is written, IF HER HUSBAND BE DEAD, SHE IS AT LIBERTY TO BE MARRIED TO WHOM SHE WILL; ONLY IN THE LORD-1 Cor 7:39. BE YE NOT UNEQUALLY YOKED TOGETHER WITH UNBELIEVERS: FOR WHAT FELLOWSHIP HATH RIGHTEOUSNESS WITH UNRIGHTEOUSNESS? AND WHAT COMMUNION HATH LIGHT WITH DARKNESS?-2 Cor 6:14.
Beware of fornication: no unrepentant fornicator shall be in heaven. It is written, FORNICATORS...shall not INHERIT THE KINGDOM OF GOD-1 Cor 6:9,10. Fornication is sex outside of a marriage that is recognized by God. A marriage recognized by God will be in accordance with God's Word, not ungodly traditions of men.
NOW CONCERNING THE THINGS WHEREOF YE WROTE UNTO ME: IT IS GOOD FOR A MAN NOT TO TOUCH A WOMAN. NEVERTHELESS, TO AVOID FORNICATION, LET EVERY MAN HAVE HIS OWN WIFE, AND LET EVERY WOMAN HAVE HER OWN HUSBAND. BUT IF THEY CANNOT CONTAIN, LET THEM MARRY: FOR IT IS BETTER TO MARRY THAN TO BURN-1 Cor
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