The Two Beasts In Revelation 13

Memory Verse: “If anyone has an ear, let him hear” – Revelation 13:9. – (NKJV).

Text: Revelation 13:1-18

Spiritual Emphasis:  Every believer ought to be watchful of global events and occurrences, and also be praying. 

1.      The First Beast

• The first beast comes out of the sea (nations) which depicts a global government – Rev. 13.1-2, Dan. 2:40-45. Dan.7:7.
• The first beast represents a coalition of nations that will promote the agenda and interest of the dragon (satan). Its authority will be directly from satan and it will promote satanic activities, influences and control. Some schools of thought have said it will be a revived roman empire –  Rev.13:2. 
•  This beast (coalition of nations) will be ruled directly by satan and it will use its authority to cause people to worship the dragon and persecute Christians – Rev.13:4, Rev.13:6-8.
• As with all other kingdoms, its authority and rule will be limited to a time and a season – Rev.13:5. 

Question: How easy do you think it is for nations to surrender their sovereignty for a world government? Share your opinion with the class. 

          2. The Second Beast

• The second beast comes out of the earth (people) which depicts the rise of a global   charismatic leader that emerges within a league of ten future leaders- Rev.13:11, Dan.7:8.
• The second beast will brutally enforce the authority and power of the first beast and openly oppose and blaspheme God, demand worship and persecute all believers of the living God – Rev. 13:12.
• This beast is the antichrist. He will oppose the teachings and reference to Jesus Christ through deception, authoritarian rule and by supernatural means –  Rev.13:13-14. 
• The climax of the beast rule is an attempt to have absolute control and rule over all mankind by introducing the “mark of the beast” specifically targeting those who have the mark of God on them – Rev.13:15-18. 

Question: What do you suppose the “mark of the beast” will be? Will it be the mark of the first or second beast? Share your opinion with the class. 

Conclusion     

This study is a concise study of the two beasts of Revelation 13. The main lesson here is to understand that as the end times and last days wind up, there will emerge a world government and a widely accepted world leader who would   persecute and oppose God and people of God. What we should do is to heed the admonition of our Lord; “watch and pray”. We must be aware of the happenings of the last days and get ready for the glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

SHALOM!