The Beast
Jeff Gordon
Revelation 13:1-18
John describes The Beast, who appears in the next part of his vision. The Beast is given power from the Dragon (who was described in a previous passage to represent Satan). John describes how The Beast will blaspheme God, have a miraculous recovery from an injury, emerge from a Geo-political empire, and gain worldwide dominion during the Great Tribulation. The Beast will persecute God's people and commit The Abomination of Desolation, an act where he will claim to be God. He will deceive many into worshiping him. A second Beast will rise up and support him, initiating the mark of the Beast (which restricts anyone from buying or selling without it). Ultimately, their reign is of complete dominance and control, but as Revelation 11:3-13 shows, God will continue to pursue people and snatch victory from apparent defeat.