REVELATION 13

THE TWO BEASTS + THE MARK OF 666 

In the next vision, John sees two beasts battling one another. The first beast rises from the sea, with seven heads and ten horns adorned with crowns. The beast appears like a leopard, with the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion. The beast is given power by the enemy and has great authority over the earth. One of his seven heads appears to be fatally wounded but is miraculously healed. Everyone marvels at the beast and worships both the beast and the enemy.

The beast slurs blasphemous and prideful words, speaking against God and His people. The beast is given authority to wage war on those who have not repented and turned to God. John calls for believers to endure in their faith and follow Jesus.

Then John sees the second beast, which has two horns and the voice of a dragon. This beast has the same authority as the first beast and convinces people that the first beast is worth worshipping.

Those who do not worship the first beast are killed. For those who compile and worship the beast, they are marked on their hands and forehead with the number 666, known as the mark of the beast. These beasts are often interpreted as military and economic power, which often lead to the abuse of influence and admiration. Those who value temporary, earthly victory over God’s ultimate spiritual victory deny God’s sovereignty and authority. Although there are many theories, the meaning of the number 666 will likely remain unknown until the prophecy of John’s vision is fulfilled.