Introduction

Good morning, everyone! Today, we're diving deep into some intense stuff. We're going to be exploring Revelation 13, where we come face-to-face with the predictions of the coming Antichrist, the infamous Mark of the Beast and the ultimate victor, our Lord Jesus Christ.

As we approach this topic, I'm reminded of a quote from A.W. Tozer. He once said, "A scared world needs a fearless church." And what better way to quell fear than to understand what lies ahead?

Let's read the Scripture passage together;

[Read passage]

This passage has some powerful, intense imagery that can be frightening, but remember what Tozer said -- our world needs us to face these teachings fearlessly.

Let's pray:

Father God, as we embark on this journey through Revelation 13, we ask for your guidance and wisdom. Help us to understand these prophetic words. Remove any fear from our hearts and replace it with faith, knowing that despite the trials and tribulations this world will face, Jesus is our ultimate victor. We ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.

So, buckle up, folks. This is going to be a thought-provoking ride!

The Coming Antichrist

In Revelation 13, we encounter the vivid depiction of the coming Antichrist, described as a beast rising from the sea. This beast is said to have ten horns and seven heads, with each head bearing a blasphemous name. This imagery, while intense and somewhat terrifying, serves to underscore the power and influence this figure will wield in the end times.

The Antichrist: It’s not just a figure of evil, but one that will have significant political and religious influence. The beast is given authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation. This global dominion is a key characteristic of the Antichrist. He will not be a hidden figure, operating in the shadows, but a public figure with worldwide influence and control.

A charismatic leader, capable of deceiving many: Verse 3 tells us that one of the beast's heads seemed to have a mortal wound, but its deadly wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled as they followed the beast. This miraculous recovery serves to further the beast's influence, causing many to follow him in awe and wonder.

Claims to be the savior: This charisma and influence are crucial aspects of the Antichrist's rise to power. He will not seize control through force or coercion, but through deception and manipulation. The Antichrist will present himself as a savior, a leader who can bring peace and prosperity. But this is a false peace, a deceptive prosperity. His true aim is to lead people away from God, to cause them to worship him instead of the one true God.

Marked by blasphemy and persecution: He will speak great words against God, blaspheming His name and His dwelling place. He will also make war on the saints, those who hold fast to their faith in God. This persecution will be a defining characteristic of his rule, a stark contrast to the peace and prosperity he initially promises.

Not without purpose: It serves as a test, a trial for those living in the end times. Will they be deceived by the beast's charisma and false promises? Or will they hold fast to their faith, enduring persecution for the sake of the Gospel? This is the challenge that the coming of the Antichrist presents.

Not ultimate: His authority is given to him, allowed by God for a specific purpose and a specific period. He is not a rogue agent, operating outside of God's control. Even in the midst of this intense tribulation, God's sovereignty remains.

Approach this topic with a balanced perspective: We must not become so consumed with identifying the Antichrist that we lose sight of our primary mission, to share the Gospel and make disciples. Nor should we dismiss this prophecy as irrelevant or too frightening to consider. It's a sobering reminder of the trials to come, but also of God's ultimate victory.

Pastor, here would be a good place to share a personal story about what has best helped you understand this concept of the coming Antichrist better. This could be a piece of scripture, a book, etc.

The Mark of the Beast

The Mark of the Beast is a symbol of allegiance that the false prophet will require people to receive on their right hand or forehead ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO