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Expanded Comments | Additional Comments |
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| 1 And I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having ten horns and seven heads, and on its horns ten diadems, and upon its heads a name of blasphemy. |
The sea – The general masses of mankind, not under religious restraint. R318:3, 63:3
A beast – Papacy. It corresponds to the "man child" of the preceding chapter. R318:3
In some respects, Papacy was a new government, or beast, distinct from the old Roman Empire; and in others, it was a horn or power among others out of that empire. B305
A beast represents a government. The ten-horned beast represents the Papal government, which for a time ruled over all Europe, then the Roman Empire. R5349:1, 1409:4, 497:5
Its character is described as "That Wicked One," "The Man of Sin," "The Mystery of Iniquity," "The Antichrist," "The Son of Perdition" and "The Abomination of Desolation." B271, B276; R2174:5
God has measurably confined his prophetic utterances to the system which was the seat of the beast--the Church of Rome and her daughters; omitting others such as: Confucianism, Buddhism, Mohammedanism and the Greek Church. R366:2
Out of the sea – A government which came up from among the irreligious masses. In other words, the Roman Empire passed under a new rulership-- the leopard beast. R318:3, 63:3
Seven heads – Governments. HG21:4
(1) Consular Rome--BC 30; (2) Imperial Rome--BC 17; (3) Gothic--AD 476; (4) Papacy--AD 538; (5) Republic--AD 1798; (6) Restored Papacy--AD 1800; (7) Victor Emmanuel--AD 1870. HG20:6
Ten horns – The great "city," Babylon, is divided into ten different wards, each of which represents one of the kingdoms of Christendom. (Compare Rev. 11:13; Dan. 2:41; 7:7) SM405:4
Ten powers which gave to the beast their support, strength, and protection. R63:5
Kingdoms. R318:5
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I – The John class, the church in the flesh during the time of our Lord's second advent.
Stood upon the sand of the sea – This is not exactly the same picture as Rev. 15:2. There the saints are described as standing on the sea, not on the sand of the sea. What could be the indication here? How does the sand of the sea differ from the sea or from the earth? This would seem to change (to some degree) the aspect from which the saints are viewing the events here described.
This, perhaps, could indicate this view is not taken from the aspect of the restless masses (sea) mingled with the spirit of anarchy (fire), but rather from the standpoint of the more stable elements of society (symbolic earth) that has been more strongly influenced by the sea class (thus the sand on the sea).
John is standing on the seashore because this is the best place to watch this event of the beast rising up out of the sea.
This class can look back through the history of the Gospel Age and trace the events that are here described.
Saw a beast – Government (from God's standpoint the governments of fallen man are indeed beastly. Dan. 7)
Rise up out of the sea – The restless masses. This is not a God-ordained government. R498
Note that in Dan. 7:3 the four beasts (universal empires) "came up from the sea."
???Historically these beastly governments came up out of the sea class, those who did not have the stabilizing influence of organized religion. These governments were not formed by believers in the one true God.???
Having seven heads and ten horns – The fact that the seven heads are mentioned indicates this is the Roman Empire which had seven heads or types of government throughout its history. see Additional Comments Rev. 12:3.
While this beast is Rome, it is also Papacy because at this time it was Rome under the control of the Papacy. This is seen by the reference to the name of blasphemy later in this verse.
"The ten-horned beast represented the Papal government, which for a time ruled over all Europe, then the Roman Empire." – R5349
see SM406:3
And upon his horns ten crowns – A crown is given to royalty and indicates rulership over a kingdom. Horns have always been a symbol for power. Here we have ten powers, or rather ten divisions of power in the beast (Papal Roman government.)
And upon his heads the name of blasphemy. – Papal Rome (the Mother), as well as her daughters (Protestant churches) were united to the state and fostered the idea that God had appointed these kings to rule, thus the "Divine Right of Kings." While they were indeed permitted by God to rule, they did not have the right to rule. That right belongs to our Lord. see Eze. 21:27. This would seem to be "the name of blasphemy," the taking of something which belongs to our Lord and applying it to fallen men. |
| 2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and its feet were as the feet of a bear, and its mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave it its power, and its throne, and great authority. |
And the beast – Ecclesiastical empire. R318:5
The Papal system. R2495:6; OV270:8; SM234:2
It has certain qualities which resemble the first three beasts of Dan. 7--the lion, bear and leopard--described as representing Babylon, Persia and Greece. R318:3
This new beast would combine certain leading characteristics of the preceding empires and unite them in the power of the last--the Roman. R318:3
The same as that mentioned in Rev. 16:13. OV270:8; SM234:2
Like unto a leopard – The leopard, the third beast of Daniel--Grecia--was the center of learning, piety and wisdom. So Papacy based its claim on being the center of learning, piety and wisdom. R318:5
Other peculiarities of the leopard are its activity, vigilance and secretiveness. So with Papacy. R318:5
A leopard is spotted irregularly, so too Papacy's policy varies in various parts of the earth. R318:5
Illustrating its spotted, or varied character. R994:3
Or, mottled government. In one place it is liberal, almost white in its professions; in another quarter it is black, corrupt, degrading, brutal; and in still other places it has various neutral and tawny shades. R2538:6
Papacy is the most crafty and guileful institution on earth. Chameleon-like it adapts itself to its surroundings, flourishing on ignorance and superstition in some countries or posing as the friends of education in the U.S. R2308:4
Roman Catholicism seems to adapt itself to every circumstance. It is black in one place, white in another, and grey in another, just as the civilization of the people will permit. R994:1
Its spots showing mixture, or church and empire combined. R63:3
The full liberty of the church of Rome would mean the liberty of the leopard beast, and as of yore would mean no personal liberty, but a great destruction amongst the true sheep and lambs of the true Shepherd. R2047:4
The church of Rome consists only of the clergy--the Pope, the "father" and all bishops, priests, monks, etc.--"brothers." R318:6
Feet of a bear – The bear's feet suggest persistency. Like the bear empire, Medo-Persia, besieging for years; so Papacy moves cautiously and gets possession of kingdoms by strategy rather than by battle. R318:4
A bear hugs its prey to death with its paws. R318:4
Mouth of a lion – Babylon, celebrated for its splendor and pride--the lion, the king or ruler of all beasts--so Papacy had a mouth claiming to be the kingdom over all kingdoms by divine right. R318:3
The dragon – The Roman empire. R44:3
Civil power, pagan Rome. The same which Daniel saw in vision called the "fourth beast dreadful and terrible." (Dan. 7:7) R318:3, 63:3
Purely civil power. OV270:7
Gave him his power – For a time it became the only representative of that dominion. R318:5
And his seat – Pontifex Maximus--Chief Priest or Greatest Religious Ruler--is the title claimed by and given to the pontiffs or popes of the Roman empire from this time. B288
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The beast – Papal government.
Which I saw – Recognized (seen) by the John class (church at the end of the age.)
Was like unto a leopard..bear..lion – See Dan. 7:4-6, also Expanded Bible Comments for this verse.
see R318
Leopard - see R2538, R2308.
And the dragon gave him his power – The civil power of Pagan Rome gave his power to Papal Rome.
And his seat – Throne. Strong's 2362. This word occurs 61 times. 46 times it is translated as 'throne' or 'thrones' and 15 times as 'seat' or 'seats.' The only exceptions to 'throne' are when it is speaking of other than God, Christ, or saints. Then it is translated as 'seat.'
And great authority – The Roman Emperors were styled "pontifex maximus" or chief religious ruler. This 'great authority' they gave over to the pope. - Note. It does not say they gave this over willingly. |
| 3 And I saw one of its heads as though it had been smitten unto death; and its death-stroke was healed: and the whole earth wondered after the beast; |
Wounded to death – In the Reformation work when Luther, Zwingli and others opposed the teachings of Papacy, Scripturally identifying them as the "Mystery of Iniquity," "Anti-Christ" and "The Man of Sin." R319:5, 63:5
By the "Sword of the Spirit" in the hands of the early Protestants. R994:6
Various small German princedoms were found on the side of the Reformers. Soon Belgium, Holland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and others withdrew all allegiance to the Pope. R319:5
Deadly wound – Since the Reformation Papacy has been slain with the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. R3082:2
Was healed – By the after course of the Reformation. C50
Papacy's wound began to heal from the time the Reformation church united to worldly empires, for how could the Reformers any longer use the Sword of the Spirit against Papacy as a church-state organization when they themselves were the same? R64:1, 319:6; C112
Wondered – The various kingdoms (horns) soon learned that their hold of power was strengthened, rather than weakened, by allegiance to Papacy. R318:5
After the beast – The people respected the beast because of its peculiarities--leopard body and lion mouth. R318:5
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I saw one of his heads – The Papacy. Remember here that this beast had seven heads (Rev. 12:3), one of which was the Papacy and that is the head here being referenced.
As it were wounded to death – Not actually a fatal wound, although it at first appeared it might be so. This 'deadly wound' was the Protestant Reformation.
And his deadly wound was healed – The Papacy recovered from this wound. Not only did it continue, but the various Protestant churches became her daughters when they followed in her footsteps by playing the harlot and 'marrying' or uniting with the kings of the earth – church-state unions.
R318
And all the world wondered after the beast – The people were amazed that the papal beast recovered in such fashion. |
| 4 and they worshipped the dragon, because he gave his authority unto the beast; and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? and who is able to war with it? |
They worshipped the dragon – They respected the civil power all the more, because it had so honored ecclesiastical authority. R318:5
The people honored both the empire and the ecclesiastical or church power, finally concluding that the beast, ecclesiastical power, was stronger. R63:3
Paganism. R63:3; B288
Which – Because. R63:3
Who is able – Who would be able to withstand the withering curse of Papacy, the spiritual empire? R319:1
To make war – To contend. R63:3
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They worshipped the dragon – The civil power exercised at the behest of papacy.
"They respected the civil power all the more, because it had so honored ecclesiastical authority." R318:17
Which gave power unto the beast – "Because he gave his authority to the beast." NASB
And they worshipped the beast – Papacy.
Saying, Who is like unto the beast – There never had been anything that could be compared to how thoroughly the Papacy ruled the civilized world. The pope had an army of his own and yet he was able to make the various kingdoms under his control fight his battles for him.
Who is able to make war with him – After all, even though it at first seemed the Protestant reformation was going to be the 'death nail' in papacy's coffin, it had recovered and it still maintained its control over the various kingdoms. Who then could even think of making war against this 'God on earth?' |
| 5 and there was given to it a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and there was given to it authority to continue forty-two months. |
A mouth – Lion-like, strong--terrible utterances. R319:1
The mouth of Antichrist is one of its leading characteristics. B305
Speaking great things – Every title which the Scriptures apply to the true Christ, and every prophecy describing his future Kingdom and its glory has been applied by the popes to themselves and their kingdom. R1093:6
A detailed list of titles claimed by the Papacy. B307
Making boastful claims. Therefore it should not surprise us that God should ordain as part of its reward that it should eat its own words--"bite their tongues." (Rev. 16:10, 11) R509:6
Power was given – Authority. R319:1
Permission to execute and put to death saints of God, whom it called "heretics." R319:1, 63:3
Forty and two months – AD 538 to 1798. R63:3
Forty-two months--1260 days--3-½ times, or years. (Rev. 11:1, 3; 12:6, 14; 13:5) B91; C64; R5751:3, 5741:6, 4741:2, 319:2; HG50:2; Q846:2
AD 1799, marked by Napoleon's Egyptian campaign, sealed and defined the limits of Papal dominion over the nations. C50
Its time for speaking is not limited; it still speaks. But not so its time for acting; it had power to act forty and two months. R63:3
Some scholars have applied this period as beginning in 539 AD and ending in 1798 AD when Napoleon Bonaparte took the Pope of Rome prisoner to Paris. R5751:3, 4741:2, 63:3; PD46/56
1798--there the delusion that none could successfully war or contend with Papacy was shown. R319:2
The dread of the Beast has not been so great since, and the various horns (kingdoms) which once defended, have made war with the woman. The dominion has been taken away. R319:2
That long period of time when the true Church was eclipsed by the success of Babylon marked the time of great spiritual drouth. R5741:6, 4741:2
Pictured by the time of Jezebel's persecution, when Elijah hid in the wilderness and there was no rain for 1260 days. PD46/56
See comments on Rev. 12:6, 14.
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R319
There was given unto him – Unto Papacy.
A mouth speaking great things and blasphemies – Compare Dan. 7:8.
And power was given unto him to continue forty and two months – 1260 symbolic days or 1260 literal years, from 539 to 1799 A.D. |
| 6 And it opened its mouth in blasphemies against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, even them that dwell in the heaven. |
In blasphemy – Blasphemy is applicable to any indignity offered to God. Bouwier defines it thus: "Blasphemy is to attribute to God that which is contrary to his nature, and does not belong to him--and to deny what does." B306
Among the blasphemous pretensions of Antichrist should be remembered several of its doctrines, particularly the doctrine of the Mass. B318
Against God – The beast power was a slur upon God and upon the true coming Kingdom. R319:2
Blaspheme his name – In the thousand numerous edicts, bulls and decretals issued in his name, by the long line of those who claimed, as vicegerents, to represent his Son. B306
And his tabernacle – The true Church, blasphemed by the false system which claimed to take its place, claiming its faithful were the true and only tabernacle or church of God. B306
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He – Papacy.
Opened his mouth in blasphemy against God – Teaching (speaking) horrible doctrines (trinity, hell-fire, etc.) which blaspheme the true character of God.
To blaspheme his name – By claiming false titles, many of which belong to God. B307
And his tabernacle – The True Church.
Rev. 13:6
And them that dwell in heaven – Since the Papacy has already been described as blaspheming against God AND against the True Church (his tabernacle), this phrase seems to require us to look for a different group. We see two possibilities here.
1) The holy angels.
2) The Protestent churches during the time of the Reformation. |
| 7 And there was given to it authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation. |
Make war with the saints – A detailed historical documentation of the persecutions of true Christians by the Papacy. B328-353
Power was given him – Four stages in the increase of power, and four corresponding stages in the fall from power outlined. B355, B356
Over all kindreds – Papacy's authority as a spiritual empire or "kingdom of God" was generally acknowledged. R319:2
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It was given unto him – Papacy.
To make war with the saints – Dan. 7:25.
To overcome them – Dan. 7:25
And power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations – see Rev. 12:5. This reference to the papacy as the man of sin ruling over all these fits well because it was the papacy that grew out of and eventually took over rulership of the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire was the fourth "Universal Empire" as shown in Daniel chapters 2 and 7. |
| 8 And all that dwell on the earth shall worship him, every one whose name hath not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb that hath been slain. |
Are not – Some names are to be blotted out. Unfaithfulness on our part would cause our names to be blotted out of this book. NS69:2
All except the overcomers hasted to unite themselves with and to worship the beast and have it enroll their names on its books. R319:2
Written – Our names are figuratively written in the book of life from the moment we exercise the proper obedient faith in Christ and make our consecration. NS69:2
It does not say when the names would be written in the Lamb's book of life. R2540:4
Book of life – The church of Christ is not an earthly organization with names upon sectarian rolls of membership, but instead is a heavenly union and communion "whose names are written in heaven." R2547:4, 2545:3, 1309:2, 319:2
The book of life now open is merely for the overcomers of this present time. With the end of this age this book of life will be permanently closed. NS69:4
The "book of remembrance." (Mal. 3:16, 17) NS69:2
Of the Lamb – This book of life record is one of the consequences of our Lord's death. R2540:4
Slain – As the redemption price. Q781:2, 801:2
Taking the place in death of the condemned race. HG120:4
Christ dying for us was Jehovah's original plan, and that before sin entered. His wisdom and love provided, and beheld in the distance "the Lamb of God." R788:3
In the counsel of God. R875:3*
In the divine purpose and arrangement--though only now being made manifest to the Church, and shortly to the world. NS437:1
From the foundation – The whole matter had been divinely arranged from before the creation of man. Everything pertaining to that slain Lamb was foreknown by the Father. R5421:6, 5150:1, 875:3
In the divine purpose, the ransom-price was provided from before the foundation of the world. In another sense, when the contract was made between Jehovah and the Logos; and in another sense, when Jesus reached full human perfection at age 30. Q568:4; R5880:2, 5641:4, 4463:5
The entire transaction was aside from humanity. Our heavenly Father planned it all from before the creation of the world. NS623:4
God's plans from the very first recognized the corrupting and degrading tendency of sin, and provided (in purpose of mind) the Lamb of God. Q781:2, 801:2
God perceived all of our distressed conditions before he created us, and even then planned a remedy. NS650:6
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All that dwell upon the earth – Organized society under religious restraint. See Earth Dwellers.
Shall worship him – Worship the Papacy.
Whose names are not written in the book of life – The saints do not worship the Papacy. Instead they get the victory over it. compare Rev. 15:2.
Of the Lamb – Jesus, the lamb of God. John 1:29,36
Slain from the foundation of the world – The Ransom was the center-piece of the plan of God even before He created man. Christ our Passover (lamb) is slain for us. 1 Cor. 5:7 |
| 9 If any man hath an ear, let him hear. |
Let him hear – Only those whose ears had been circumcised, who had the hearing of faith--to respect God and his Word--would be able to receive the foregoing statements concerning those who were deceived by Papacy. R319:3
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If any man have an ear, let him hear – This is what is said to every stage of the church. The fact that it is here seems to say that, in spite of this great persecution and blasphemy against the true church, there are still saints during this period who do indeed have an ear to hear the Truth. see Rev. 2:7,11,17,29; 3:6,13,22 |
| 10 If any man is for captivity, he goeth into captivity: if any man shall kill with the sword, so with the sword must he be killed. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints. |
Leadeth into captivity – "If any one is for captivity." R319:3
The Papal system was one of bondage. R319:3
Go into captivity – By consenting to Papacy's dominion. R319:3
All who acknowledge Papacy's claims must of necessity render implicit obedience, as unto God. R319:3
With the sword – Some asserted that Papacy was a usurpation. Such used the "Sword of the Spirit." (Eph. 3:19) R319:3
Killed with the sword – Such were put to death by Papacy. R319:4
The patience – Patient endurance. R319:3
This was a severe test of true saintship. Would they join the usurper's ranks or remain to the true King and wait for the Kingdom which he promised to establish? R319:4
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In the following article Pastor Russell uses a different translation of this verse. Upon close examination of the Greek we must agree that the KJV is close but not quite correct. The RVIC seems to capture the correct thought. Therefore we will follow the RVIC for this verse.
R319
If any man is for captivity – The captivity here referred to is the captivity of Papacy. There are those who need a structure that tells them what to do and how to think. Many prisoners get so accustomed to prison life with its rigid structure that they no longer know how to function without that structure. That is exactly what the Papacy offered.
He goeth into captivity – In other words all such who prefer the structure (captivity) of the false system of Papacy to the liberty wherewith Christ makes free, will be allowed to go that way. The Lord is not forcing any to go against their own will.
If any man shall kill with the sword – The sword (of the spirit) is the word of God (Eph. 6:17). To kill, or slay, in symbolic language means to destroy one's belief or one's standing. Those who destroy false beliefs with the Word of God (sword) would be the saints.
With the sword must he be killed – The symbol of the sword as being the Word of God retains its consistency. It still represents God's Word, the bible. In this case it is speaking of the misuse of the Lord's word, i.e., its corruption by the Papacy. The pope declared that those called heretics (in reality, those who are speaking the Truth) are not to be allowed to continue, i.e., they are to be symbolically killed.
Here it is described as being killed with the sword. The fact thousands were literally put to death does not mitigate against this symbolic killing. That it does not refer to literal killing with the sword seems evident in that relatively few of those who were literally killed were killed by the sword. Many were burned, buried alive and killed by all sorts of despicable methods.
The primary thought is that the faithful were killed in the eyes of those who dwelt in the symbolic earth. The saints did not find favor with the religious authority in the earth at that time, i.e., with the Papacy. Therefore they are described as being 'killed' with the sword (the corrupted teachings of anti-Christ, claiming to be the teachings of God.)
Here is the patience and the faith of the saints – This continued for 1260 years. No wonder it is described as being the patience of the saints! This tested their faith as nothing else could do. |
| 11 And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and it had two horns like unto a lamb, and it spake as a dragon. |
Another beast – A similar ecclesiastical or church power to the preceding one. R319:4, 63:4
The church-nation of Great Britain and Ireland. It also is a government which combines Christianity and civil power. R5349:1
It is not a beast until it unites with the empires. R63:5, 320:2
The church of England. R4196:3; OV272:7
About 1531 the church in England threw off her allegiance to Rome and became a separate ecclesiastical government. R319:6
In the year 1200 England became subject to the Pope. In 1531, owing to a dispute between her king, Henry VIII, and the Pope, England withdrew from allegiance to Papacy. R320:2
In 1534 all payments made to the apostolic chamber, and dispensations were abolished; and monasteries were subjected to royal government. R320:3
A histor; says: "Convocation declared that the Pope had no more authority in England than any other bishop." R320:3
Henceforth "the civil magistrate was supreme within the English dominions over church as well as state." R320:3
Not Mohammedanism, R319:5
Coming up – "Ascending," coming gradually. R319:5
Out of the earth – Springing up among a professedly religious people. R319:5
The people who had been obedient to Papacy. R63:5, 319:5
Two horns – The church of England and Ireland. R3531:3, 5349:1, 320:2
In 1537 the Irish Parliament in Dublin passed "the act of supremacy" declaring Henry VIII as supreme head of the church and prohibiting intercourse with the court of Rome. R320:5
From 1538 to 1871--333 years--the title of the church was "The Church of England and Ireland." R320:6
On Jan. 1, 1871, by action of parliament and the consent of the Queen, the Irish church was disestablished, or that horn cast off. R320:6
It would be not at all remarkable if the second horn, England, would be separated from this beast--if the church were to be separated from the state in England. R320:6
The powers of England and Germany. R63:5
The two Napoleonic dynasties. HG93:2
Like a lamb – Not intended to do injury. R5349:1
Not the fierce, aggressive character of the leopard. R63:5, 320:6
It used its horns only as means of defense and protection. R63:5
The two Napoleonic dynasties came up in each case as republics, and soon changed into imperial governments. HG94:4
Spake as a dragon – It does not say "the," but "a" dragon, meaning simply that its utterances resembled those of a purely civil (dragon) power; in its words there would be little to denote it as an ecclesiastical government. R320:6, 63:6
The dragon represents purely civil power and the government of Great Britain, though nominally religious, speaks, or governs as a dragon, or purely civil power. R5349:1
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Another beast – Since the current 'beast' (Papal Rome) is a civil and religious combination it seems logical that this 'other beast' also consists of a civil and religious combination.
Coming up out of the earth – The others came from the sea but this from the symbolic earth. This beast comes from organized society under religious restraint. R498
This is an important consideration and one which helps to lock down where to look for this beast. It must be after the time of pagan Rome. Therefore we should be looking for the fulfillment of this beast after Papal Rome has become well established.
And he had two horns – Two powers or two divisions of power (horns are a symbol for power), just as we saw with the ten horns of the beast.
This one beast with its two divisions of power was "The Church of England and Ireland" which was established in 1538 and continued until January 1, 1871 when it dropped the church of Ireland and reverted back to being "The Church of England." At that point it ceased to be a two-horned beast.
From 1538 to 1871 – 333 years – the title of the church was "The Church of England and Ireland," thus recognizing both horns."
On January 1, 1871 (by action of parliament and the consent of the Queen, the head of the church) the Irish Church was disestablished, or that horn cast off. R320
Like a lamb – This beast has lamb-like qualities. This is a union of church and state but is not nearly so vicious as the first beast.
The "two horns like a lamb," would seem to indicate that this BEAST would be peaceably inclined – not inclined to be aggressive, but merely using the horns for defense. R320
And he spake as a dragon – Not as the dragon (the devil) but as a dragon, the civil power.
But notice that it does not say the, but a dragon. We understand this to mean simply that its utterances resembled those of a purely civil (dragon) power, and in its words there would be little, to denote that it is an ecclesiastical government. All know how true this is. R320 |
| 12 And it exerciseth all the authority of the first beast in its sight. And it maketh the earth and them that dwell therein to worship the first beast, of which the death-stroke was healed. |
Exerciseth all the power – The church of England claimed all the powers and authority which Papacy claimed. R321:1
The King James Version was authorized to be read by "the mighty King James, the head of the church of England and Ireland." R321:3
Although the two-horned beast claimed less, its greater humility did not operate against it. R63:6
Of the first beast – Papacy. R320:6, 3531:3
Following exactly the example of Papacy in blending civil with ecclesiastical powers, and also making the same person, Henry VIII, and his successors, head of all power. R319:6
The "Great Seal of England" depicts the Queen holding in her hand a globe surmounted by a cross, declaring her as head of the church universal. The exact image you see in the hands of the Pope in many pictures. R320:4
Before him – Or, "in his presence;" showing that the second does not take the place of the first beast, but that they exist contemporaneously. R320:6, 63:6
Worship – Respect. R321:1
By putting down the infidel reign of terror, and restoring the Papal religion. HG94:5
The first beast – Protestant denominations will be unified and, though separate, yet be brought into cooperation with Papacy. D581
When Protestants justified their own church and empire organization they virtually caused all, Papists and Protestants, to worship, respect and honor the Papal church. R64:1
By establishing a similar system, devoid of some of the grosser Papal errors, it attracted the attention of all to those errors as being the only possible fault of Papacy. R321:1
Was healed – Instead of progressing with the cleansing, the reformers gave attention to organizing themselves, and to revamping many of the old Papal dogmas, at first so loudly condemned. C111
Papacy's wound began to heal from the time the Reformation church united to worldly empires, for how could the Reformers any longer use the Sword of the Spirit against Papacy as a church-state organization when they themselves were the same? R64:1, 319:6; C112
By the after course of the Reformation. C50
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He – The two-horned beast, the Church of England and Ireland.
Note: It takes both horns to be the two-horned beast.
Exerciseth all the power – Authority.
Of the first beast – Of the Papacy.
Before him – In the presence of the papal beast.
And causeth the earth – Organized society under religious restraint.
"And all the authority of the first beast [Papacy] he executes in his presence [this shows that the second does not take the place of the first beast, but that they exist contemporaneously], and makes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship [respect] the first beast whose mortal wound was healed." R320
And them which dwell therein – Those who seem to prefer this arrangement.
To worship the first beast – To respect the Papacy.
Whose deadly wound was healed – The Papacy recovered from the Protestant Reformation. |
| 13 And it doeth great signs, that it should even make fire to come down out of heaven upon the earth in the sight of men. |
Doeth great wonders – Miracles to deceive, yet professing a pious intention, are plainly spoken of as being done in the last days. (Matt. 24:24; 2 Thes. 2:9) R617:6*
Satan is now operating to produce a Protestant "image of the beast" with life, which will cooperate with the chief anti-Christ, Papacy. In combination with these will be the powers of darkness--Spiritism, Christian Science, Theosophy, Hypnotism, etc. R2174:5
Maketh fire – Judgments and punishments. R64:1, 321:2
That is, to punish in the name of the Lord, those who in any sense of the word it shall consider to be its opponents. R5349:4
From heaven – Both beasts are now in "heaven," or in authority. R64:1, 321:2
This government, like Papacy, claimed heavenly power. Its denunciations were regarded as being from heaven, judgments or fire being called down upon offenders. R321:2
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He doeth great wonders – What wonders? Chiefly the miracle of establishing a group that would become a recognized authority by most (if not all) Protestant churches. Previously to do something like this "in the sight of the beast" would have been impossible. The Papacy had such power they would have swiftly (and no doubt successfully) moved to crush such an organization.
So that he maketh fire come down from heaven – R5349As, we understand this Chapter of Revelation, the Image, as soon as vitalized, will very promptly use its influence, prestige, power, in every way to "make fire come down from heaven" (Rev. 13:13); that is, to punish in the name of the Lord those who in any sense of the word it shall consider to be its opponents.
On the earth – Organized society under religious restraint. R498
In the sight of men – For mankind to view, much like he lifted up Babylon for the whole world to see it for what it really was. Consider Volume IV esp. Study IV, Study V and Study VI. |
| 14 And it deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by reason of the signs which it was given to it to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast who hath the stroke of the sword and lived. |
And deceiveth – Into supposing that the new combination will be God's instrumentality for doing the work predicted of Messiah--and that it is thus his representative. D581
By the pretentious claims of divine right and appointment. R64:2
Them that dwell on the earth – Not "the earth" itself. R64:1
We make a distinction between the earth and those who dwell on it. The earth symbolizes those supporting the beast. "Those dwelling on it" are independent Christians who do not support either of these systems. R321:2, 64:2
Saying to them – By example. R321:3, 64:3
A detailed explanation of how "Apostolic Succession," by example, encouraged others to protect the "authority" of those who would preach from the pulpits. R321:4, 64:2
They required an organized government of the clergy over the common people, like to Papacy in form, in fact, an "image of that beast." R64:3
Its design is to increase the power and authority of Protestantism, just as the formation of the leopard beast was the result of a desire to increase the power and authority of Papacy. R64:4
One of the stated objects of the Evangelical Alliance, we believe the principal one, was to "Promote between the different Evangelical denominations an effective cooperation in the efforts to repel common enemies and dangers." R321:5
That they should – The Sinaitic manuscript adds the word "also" in this verse--"That they also should make an image." R64:4
Make an image – A very exact representation of the beast. R4689:6, 64:5; OV271:5
Organized sectarian Protestantism. R497:2; OV234:2
Church Federation. R3873:4
The Protestant Federation of Churches. R4689:6; OV271:5
Another name for the "false prophet." ; OV271:5; SM234:2
A federation on the plan of the union of the several states in the United States of America. This is really a revival of "The Evangelical Alliance," but it will include the Episcopal church and thus get "life." R3601:3, 4523:2
Church Federation sessions open Nov. 15, 1905. All the large Christian denominations are to participate. The object will be to find a basis of cooperation. R3672:4
The image was formed in 1846 AD In that year, the Protestant denominations, especially in the United States, allied themselves as the "Evangelical Alliance." R5349:2, 4523:2, 3873:4, 3390:1, 2092:6, 1845:6, 1474:2, 1409:4, 321:5;
In London, Aug. 19, 1846, there assembled representatives of all the leading protestant denominations of Europe and America, who there organized under the name "Evangelical Alliance." R64:4
The U.S. branch came later. R1845:2
Perceiving that individual Bible study would lead to individual creeds, and to prevent what seemed to them a loss of power, they planned a union of Protestants in a system call the Evangelical Alliance. OV272:5
The alliance endeavored to establish a standard of orthodoxy. This attempted authority, or power, constituted it an image of the Papal beast, or government. R5349:2
The Evangelical Alliance, while claiming to have unified the sects, is really a truce between them by which they agree not to war against each other, but to unite in opposing any views which conflict with their main points of agreement. R693:6
It was at a convention of the Protestant Episcopal church of the United States that the proposition for a Protestant Union or Confederacy was first extended to other Protestant denominations. R1870:2
Recognition of the church of England as a sister church of Rome must fail because Revelation points out a federation of Protestants as the "image," clearly distinguishing between the "image" and the original "beast"--Papacy--while showing they will be considerably in fellowship. R2046:3
Baptists have as little error as any of the sects. In the days of Bunyan they were very near the apostolic arrangement for the Church. But it has drifted into the popular sectarian channel, and is now as much a member of the "image" as any other sect. R607:5
The "image of the beast" is yet to hold a very prominent place in the coming "time of trouble." HG94:4
From 1800 to 1870 Papacy was again a head of Rome. This restored Papacy, however, was but an image of its former self; and in the prophecy, is called "the image of the beast." HG20:6
The first Napoleon did say to the thirty-five cardinals met in Venice in 1800 to restore the Papacy. They elected a new Pope, under whom they reorganized. HG93:5
Papal dominion was taken away in 1798. Shortly afterward, Papacy was restored, but in a new character. HG93:2
The second horn, or second Napoleonic dynasty, supported the image and gave it life by keeping its troops in Rome until September 1870. HG93:5
The consolidation of Protestant systems, as an institution. R2495:6
To the beast – Papacy. R321:3; 4523:3
By their action they were following Papacy's tactics, and in that alliance they did make the image of the beast. R321:5
They saw the power of the Papal argument, that it is the church, and that all others are heretical. In this sense it was a copy, or image, of the Papal institution. R5349:2
It would prove its likeness to the original Papal system, which is imaged by violent suppressions of the truth and persecution of its defenders. R3873:4, 1474:2
The image or likeness of this organization to the "beast" consists in its doctrines, and in its general policy. R1409:4
As Papacy established the priesthood over the church, so Protestantism has established almost the same. R322:1, 65:1
Doctrinally and practically, Protestantism has been drawing closer and closer every year to the parent system. They so closely resemble the original that few points of difference are discernible, either by themselves or by the world. R595:6
They achieved and obtained the same result sought and obtained by Papacy at the inception of its organization, though brought about in a different manner. R694:1
How much the image resembles the Papal beast may be judged from the fact that the Papacy acknowledged the Image by the Pope sending "greetings" to the 1879 meeting of the Evangelical Alliance. R321:5
The proposal to have the chief executive of the United States preside at the meeting for proposed federation is significant of the close political alliance which will result. R3601:5
Parallels to King Nebuchadnezzar and his image are presented in Revelation as "the beast and his image." R2495:5
By a sword – The sword is the Word of God, and Papacy received such a wound during the Reformation. R63:5
The "Sword of the Spirit." R319:6
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Deceiveth them that dwell on the earth – See last additional comment on Rev. 11:10.
By the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast – The word here used as 'miracles' is the same as 'wonders' in vs. 13. See additional comments vs. 13.
Saying to them that dwell on the earth – See last additional comment on Rev. 11:10.
Note. Br. Russell's thought is different. He agrees that there is a difference between "the earth" and "them that dwell on the earth." His explanation for those that dwell on the earth is "independent Christians who do not support either of these systems" - the systems being Papal Rome and The Church of England and Ireland. R321
See list of Revelation texts that refer to these "earth dwellers."
That they – Those who dwell on the earth.
Should make an image – A likeness. The Evangelical Alliance – formed in 1846 in England. C119:1-2
To the beast – To (or like) Papal Rome.
Which had the wound by a sword, and did live – see vs. 3.
It would appear this phrase is inserted here to make it clear that this does not refer to the two-horned beast but to the first beast. |
| 15 And it was given unto it to give breath to it, even to the image of the beast, that even the image of the beast should speak; and it shall cause that as many as should not worship the image of the beast should be killed. |
He had power – The two-horned beast. R322:2, 3698:1, 2495:6;
The vitality of the image is to come from the church of England. R5349:3
Which is not a party to the Evangelical Alliance. OV272:7
Give life – Before the image could do any particular harm it must receive life from the two-horned beast. OV272:7
Energy--the effect of apostolic succession. R3698:1, 3390:1, 322:3; SM239:2
The Image could not accomplish its purpose because it did not know how to operate. The denominations were united only in name, but worked against each other. Outside denominations claimed them unauthorized.
As a result the image had no power to act; it was trodden upon; and to get vitality--life--it would need apostolic succession as a basis for operation. OV273:1
The Scriptures intimate that the church of England will become intimate and will give it apostolic authority to preach. OV273:2
"Apostolic succession" was vested in the Roman church and also in the English church on account of its being at first a secession from Papacy, rather than a reformation. R322:2
The Evangelic Alliance of 1842 was the start of it. It would be in full bloom when the Episcopal body should associate and lend the dignity of its claimed "apostolic ordination." R3697:2
The "Evangelical Alliance" took its start in the union movement and the formation of the image. It is probable that it will also play an important role in connection with its receiving life. R2092:6
It has been merely an image without life or power for now more than sixty years. R5349:2
The False Prophet is another name of the vitalized product of the Evangelical Alliance, which has taken the form of Church Federation. OV273:3
The giving of life and authority to the image of the beast or "False Prophet" is not far distant [1892]. R1467:5, 1356:1
It will become as active as the beast. R5349:2
By apostolic succession and supposed "authority." R1870:3, 2495:6; SM239:2
John Wesley would not sanction the giving of the "sacrament" by any except those ordained by the holy hands of an Episcopal bishop. Up to 1784 Methodists could only partake of the sacraments from Episcopal ministers. R322:2
Quite probably the clergy of other Protestant denominations will be recognized by the Episcopal system, probably by the Episcopal clergy in some manner imparting the apostolic succession. R4109:2
A proposal suggested that the blessing of apostolic succession could be imparted without any acknowledgement of receiving the boon, opening the way for a reuniting of Protestants of all denominations with the Episcopal system. R4285:6
A few years ago [1913] the Episcopal church took an important step toward vitalizing the Church Federation by giving recognition to the ministers of the denominations represented in the Evangelical Alliance. R5349:3
By opening Episcopal pulpits to other Orthodox Protestant ministers it tacitly acknowledged their ordination, and thus gave them sanction, acknowledgment, validity, life. R4196:6
This may be all, but we are inclined to expect more. We anticipate a reordination of the Federation ministers by the Episcopal church, or some other way for the Episcopal church to recognize these ministers without reordination. R5349:3
We are looking yearly for its final knot to be tied in some manner that will include other Protestant denominations, the Episcopal church, and a working agreement with the Papacy. R2554:2
By some pact or union amongst so-called Protestant denominations, with a sympathetic alliance and cooperation with the Church of Rome. R3390:1
The spark of life to the organic union begun in the Evangelical Alliance will come from the Episcopal church, which claims divine authority through apostolic succession. R3390:1
The Episcopal church is quite ready to confer this spark of authority and vitality, and we expect in a few years that Protestants will be willing in some form to accept the so-called apostolic ordination. R3390:1
The English and German churches each claim, as the Papal has always done, that theirs is the church founded by the apostles and that their ministers have apostolic succession. R64:5
Undoubtedly Church Federation is already a force, but we are to expect a still more for formal organization, and the vitalizing of the same through affiliation with the Episcopal system. R4540:2
Quite probably there will be a change of name of the Alliance about the time that the church of England joins it and gives it "life," power, vitality; so that thereafter Protestants will act with Papacy and assume a general supervision of the government and morals of the world. R1845:4
The prestige of Protestantism as a whole will be greatly augmented, though we think the term Protestantism will probably be dropped entirely as a concession to the church of Rome, to secure its favor. R1355:6
Various denominations were urging that it was far better for the different denominations to exist. Now that sentiment has all gradually given way, and they are unifying. R5329:2
Not until vitalized will the image of the beast have power to speak, to command, to enforce its edicts. R4540:2, 1356:1;
We may expect that the Federation of Churches will exercise a power in the world such as has not been since the days of Papal supremacy. R5601:3
The fact that the "two-horned beast" is not mentioned in the final struggle signifies that that system (the state church of England and Ireland) would pass out of existence as a "beast," or church and state combination. R834:2
The two-horned beast apparently loses its personality when it gives life to the image by becoming a member of the federation. R5349:5
If this be not accomplished by 1910, or evidently be very near to accomplishment at that time, we shall feel a measure of disappointment. R3390:1
The Napoleonic dynasty gave that image life; restored the Papacy to Rome and maintained it there, a mere image, as a stroke of policy, to appease the Catholic world. HG93:5
When the two-horned beast could no longer give it life, the image fell and ceased to be a head or government of Rome. HG93:5
Greek, pneuma. E174
Unto the image – The united sects--Evangelical Alliance. R64:5
Speak – To speak with authority to the civil powers, which authority will be used for the oppression and suppression of all that is opposed to them. R1356:1
And cause – The result of the mechanical union will be antagonistic to the Lord's plan--unfavorable to the development of the Little Flock of saints. R1818:1
Actively suppressing liberty, and exerted powerfully against the spread of truths now being published by us. This will be but the final lifting up of the great millstone, preparatory to its being violently and quickly destroyed. R2554:2
What the Sanhedrin did in determining to oppose Jesus, the federation of churches will probably do in the way of opposing "Present Truth"--after the federation shall have become thoroughly organized and vitalized. R4162:3
Their mistake was in too much self-confidence. The mistake which will be made by the Sanhedrin of our day will be along similar lines. R4162:3
No doubt the motives are excellent; but experience, as well as Scripture, teaches us that such power will be used dictatorially when once obtained. R1845:5
As would not – As in the time of Elijah, now there are doubtless 7000 or more who neither worship the Papal "beast" nor the Protestant "image." R290:6
The fall of Babylon from steadfastness on even the first principles of the doctrines of Christ is awakening the Lord's people and calling them to come out of her. R2513:4
Worship – Reverence. R1409:4, 1474:2
Image worship is hindering hundreds from seeing the beauties of the Word of God. R65:5
This is to be the great test or trial upon professing Christians in the end of this age, and is even now in progress. R2495:6
Shown in type in Dan. 3:18. R323:5
Image – The Protestant Church Federation will be the outcome as soon as it receives the vitalizing breath. R5349:3
Of the beast – Or, "or the beast." R1409:4
Should be killed – Not necessarily physically; it may be killing in a social sense--cutting off their influence, etc. R1409:4
There are two kinds of symbolic death--political and ecclesiastical. HG94:1
Cut off as a heretic, no longer recognized as a Christian. R64:6, 322:3
The church creed is the rule, not the Word of God. If this is not sufficient, they must have a sort of church trial and excommunicate him ["kill him"]. R322:2
All who will not bow to the decrees of the Evangelical Alliance shall be exposed as heretics, shunned and cast out by all who are orthodox. R322:3
A cartoon in the Ram's Horn, entitled "The Modern Stephen," represents a faithful minister fallen in the street, surrounded by stones labeled, Hate, Revenge, Persecution, Malice, Scandal and Ridicule. R2282:4
We expect this trouble before 1914. But it will not be the world's trouble. It will be a trouble peculiar to the Lord's consecrated ones. R3437:1
Typified by the fiery furnace of Dan. 3:20-25. R323:6, 2495:5
Like Demetrius the silversmith (Acts 19:21-34), these oppose the truth, and go so far as public sentiment and civil government will permit in opposing the truth and those who serve it, and in inciting opposition among the masses. R2207:6
The prosperity of the Federated Protestant "image" will for a little time be so pronounced and its arrogance become so great that the sympathy of the masses will be entirely alienated and turned into bitterness. R4690:3
The Scriptures, in portraying the success of the Evangelical Alliance, show that the results will be a religious oppression and tryanny similar to that of Papacy. R1948:1
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He – The two-horned beast, the Church of England (horn #1) and Ireland (horn #2).
Had power to give life – This sounds a lot like begettal, the beginning of life. It does not say "Had ability to give power..," but to give life, which fits since the Church of England was at the Evangelical Alliance formation meetings in 1846, at which time it was still a "two-horned beast."
Unto the image of the beast – To the Evangelical Alliance. See Dx
That the image of the beast – The Evangelical Alliance.
Should both speak – Give authoritative utterances (like the Papacy.)
And cause that as many as would not worship the image – Those who do not bow down to the false creed [primarily the saints.]
Of the beast – Of Papal Rome.
Should be killed – Symbolically slain, i.e., their beliefs and/or standing (position in the eyes of men) would be destroyed. - In other words those who do not go along with the teachings of this Image of the Beast will be ostracized from the nominal religious world. R322 |
| 16 And it causeth all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free and the bond, that there be given them a mark on their right hand, or upon their forehead; |
He causeth all – Causing the masses of the church to mark or name themselves so as to indicate a support of their claims and systems. R513:5
Commanding the people in the name of God to obey its behests, and threatening them with both temporal and spiritual punishments for any resistance. R1474:2
When the image will get life, and with it power, and when its power, like that of the Papacy when in power, it will be used against the liberties of God's truth and of the people. R1948:1
Threatening, commanding, in the name of heaven. R5601:3
The Federation is not yet so well organized that it can do very much persecuting. R5329:4
Small – Humble. R322:4
A mark – The Reformers were not known as Rev. or D.D., but as John Knox, Martin Luther, etc. These had their marks of God's approval, and as a result their ministry was wonderfully blest. R321:6, 65:2
The daughters have adhered so closely to the general plans, precepts and methods of the "mother" in their housekeeping that you can readily distinguish her "marks" throughout. R595:5
Another mark is the ordination of apostolic succession. R65:1
Another mark received by nearly all is sprinkling instead of baptism. R65:4
Its stamp of approval, or orthodox or evangelical "marks." R1845:5
A mark is a seal or sign of allegiance. R64:6
In their right hand – The right hand of cooperation. R5349:4
A giving of some assistance and influence to the principles of image organization. R322:5
Giving able support with their might, power and means. R64:6, 322:5
In their foreheads – The forehead of public confession. R5349:4, 322:5, 64:6
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He causeth all – All who are a part of the symbolic earth class.
Both small and great – The humble and unknown as well as those who are proud and exalted (in the eyes of men).
Rich and poor – In worldly things. Also those who consider themselves to be rich (Rev. 3:17) and those who do not.
Free and bond – In the world. This does not refer to those who are free in the Lord, the little flock, for these overcome the beast and his image. Rev. 15:2.
The Bond here describes those who are in bondage to the errors of Christendom.
The Free here, we suggest, refers to a worldly class who, while not in bondage to Christendom's errors, nevertheless are impressed with Christendom and respect its usurped authority.
To receive a mark in their right hand – The right hand signifies strength. This would indicate that those who have this mark are active in the service of either the Beast or its Image.
Or in their foreheads – Intellects. Those who have this mark have bought in to the false doctrines of the nominal church systems, the various creeds of Christendom. These false doctrines have become a part of their (incorrect) understanding. |
| 17 and that no man should be able to buy or to sell, save he that hath the mark, even the name of the beast or the number of its name. |
No man might – Fulfilled when, because of union, the Alliance will be able to say: "We have apostolic authority to preach. Let no one speak unless he has our sanction." Dx; OV273:2
The time is hastening on when a religious, social, political and financial "boycott" will be waged against all who will refuse to worship either the "beast" or his Protestant "image." R1766:4
Prohibiting or forbidding the free exchange of truth to those who do not recognize these systems. R513:5
May not this statement mean still more and imply that a time will come in the last days in which sound doctrine will not be endured at all. B259; R968:3
It would not be surprising if a "strong government" would some day replace this Republic and one common standard of religious belief be deemed expedient, to teach outside of which will be treated and punished as a political offense. B263
Laws may be expected gradually curtailing personal liberty under the plea of necessity, eventuating in the formulation of some "simple law of religion" thus implementing church and state in governing the United States of America. B361
Though those who say a "confederacy," a union, will succeed and cause a night to come, wherein no man can work (John 9:4) except those who worship the beast or his image, yet the truth will eventually triumph. R1002:6
Buy or sell – Trade in the truth. B259; R968:3, 513:5, 65:5
In the spiritual marts. R5349:4, 1845:5, 322:5; OV273:2
In the common marts or synagogues. R968:3
None may have the right to teach or preach or baptize or administer the emblems of our Lord's death. R322:5
Yet we manage to do considerable trading outside--among the people. R968:3
The fully consecrated have learned that magnificent temples are no more necessary to the preaching of the gospel now than they were in the days of the apostles. B259
One common standard of religious belief may be promulgated, to teach outside of which will be punished as a political offence. B263
As shown in the final experiences of Elijah and John the Baptist. B264; R968:4
Had the mark – He must have a theological examination to see whether he bears all the marks and reverences the authority of the image. R65:6
Of the beast – The declaration that all must worship either the beast or his image implies an agreement between the original Papal beast and the Protestant image. R1474:2
The image will not be antagonistic to the beast, but sympathetic and cause that all shall be in harmony either with Catholicism, or with the Protestant system. R5349:3
Or the number – Many denominations. R65:6
All who bear the characteristics of the number--that is, free to the extent that these have no influence over their actions, professions or thoughts. R497:2
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That no man might buy or sell – Trade, do business in the spiritual market-place. Remember, this is a symbolic book. It would be illogical to expect that this one thing would have a literal fulfillment when all others have a spiritual fulfillment.
For an example of this please see Aiii:2.
Save he that had the mark – see Additional comments on vs. 18.
Or the name of the beast – The name of Papacy, i.e., Catholic church or Roman Catholic, Church of Rome, etc.
Or the number of his name – 666, see vs. 18.
Note here that whatever this mark or number is, it will be something that is held in common with both the beast (Papacy) and its image (Organized Protestants). |
| 18 Here is wisdom. He that hath understanding, let him count the number of the beast; for it is the number of a man: and its number is Six hundred sixty-six. |
Here is wisdom – Though I thought I had a correct analysis of the symbols of the chapter, yet I could not claim it to be wisdom, since I could not interpret the number. R322:6
Him that hath understanding – Of the foregoing symbol, let him prove it by a proper application of the following number. R322:6
Number of the beast – Representing the title of Papacy. There are three Latin words inscribed on the Pope's crown, Vicarius Felii Dei, the Vicarious Son of God, an illegitimate title. Q37:2
Number of a man – Or, reckoned after a human manner. R322:6
Six hundred threescore and six – Several of the names of the beast and image contain exactly 18 letters, or three sixes, which written numerically, form the number 666. R355:2, 323:2
A detailed reasoning for interpreting the number in the English language, along with a number of names of the Romish and English churches containing 18 letters. R323:1
Since Greek numerals for six hundred, sixty and six are used in the oldest manuscripts it would not be proper to set forth six plus six plus six. R323:6*
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Here is wisdom – Noting the "law of first mention" see Exo. 28:2,3. In order to make the garments of glory and beauty of the high priest (picturing the garments of the Christ, head and body) the artisan must be filled with the spirit.
Let him that hath understanding – The correct understanding of this can only come from the spirit-begotten, i.e., those who have the wisdom just mentioned.
Count the number of the beast – Count the number here given.
For it is the number of a man – Literally "It is the number of man [the a is added]."
And his number is Six hundred threescore and six – In other words we have the number 6 appearing three times in one number. In bible symbology we understand the number six to refers to fallen man. Here we have what is described as "the number of man" and it is repeated three times, yet it is but one number. So what is it? Is it one number [666] or is it three numbers [6,6,6]? – The answer comes to us when we remember the characteristics being described here. Those who have this number in their forehead (intellectual understanding) are able to buy and sell in the (spiritual) marketplace. Without this mark they are considered to be heretics. This refers to the doctrine of the Trinity! Are there three gods (Father, Son, Holy Spirit as separate beings) or is there one God (Father+Son+Holy Spirit)? If you do not believe in the trinity you are most definitely considered to be a heretic and are unable to buy and sell in the spiritual marketplace. As an example of not being able to buy or sell please see Aiii:2
Concerning the mark of the beast, please note the following quote [the brackets are ours] from "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire" – Gibbon:
"The victorious faction [Trinitarians] received all their [Arians] proposals with haughty suspicion, and anxiously sought for some irreconcilable mark of distinction, the rejection of which might involve the Arians in the guilt and consequences of heresy." – Chapter 21
This "Mark of distinction" was the doctrine of the Trinity.
Further evidence that this mark of the beast is the Trinity is furnished us in the Catholic Encyclopedia under "The Blessed Trinity"
"The dogma of the Trinity "The Trinity is the term employed to signify the central doctrine of the Christian religion – the truth that in the unity of the Godhead there are Three Persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, these Three Persons being truly distinct one from another. "Thus, in the words of the Athanasian Creed: "the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God, and yet there are not three Gods but one God." In this Trinity of Persons the Son is begotten of the Father by an eternal generation, and the Holy Spirit proceeds by an eternal procession from the Father and the Son. Yet, notwithstanding this difference as to origin, the Persons are co-eternal and co-equal: all alike are uncreated and omnipotent. This, the Church teaches, is the revelation regarding God's nature which Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came upon earth to deliver to the world: and which she proposes to man as the foundation of her whole dogmatic system."
The Catholic Church (the "beast") considers the Trinity as "the central doctrine of the Christian religion" and "the foundation of her whole dogmatic system."
There is no other doctrine we can oppose that gets nominal church members in a greater "huff" than this one. |