The Lamb and The Beast

In the book of Revelation, the term “dragon” is always used in reference to Satan. In chapter 13, the dragon stands on the shore of the sea as a beast rises from the waves. The last part of verse 2 states that “the dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and his authority.” The beast is a tool that Satan employs to have domain over the earth.

Verse 3 says that the beast seemed to have a “fatal wound,” but that the wound had been healed. The whole world was astonished and followed the beast, worshiping the dragon because he had given authority to the beast. The believed that there was no one that could conquer the beast and the world worshiped him.

Verse 5 says that the beast was given a mouth to utter “proud words and blasphemies” for forty-two months. He slandered the name of God and Heaven and those who followed God and now live in Heaven. The beast creates a war against the saints of God and destroys all who oppose him. Verse 8 states that “all the inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast — all whose names have not been written in the book of life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world.”

In Luke 1, the gospel writer tells of the birth of Christ. An angel appears to Mary and announces that she has found favor with God and that she will bear a Son that will be called the Son of God. Verse 32 of the same chapter describes the Son as “great” and worthy to be called the Son of the Most High. God gave the Son the throne and the authority and the power to rule forever. His kingdom will never end (v.33). The Son of God is God’s gift to the world. A gift that was sent to save the world from damnation and to return God’s children to Him. Luke 23 talks about the crucifixion of Jesus and His death and burial. Luke 24 tells of His resurrection on the third day.

The beast received full authority from Satan. Jesus Christ received full authority from God, the Father. The beast died and Satan healed him, raising him from the dead. Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose on the third day. The beast is all about hatred and revenge and murder and lies. Jesus Christ is all about grace and forgiveness and unconditional love. The beast uses his mouth to blaspheme God and His followers. Jesus Christ uses His mouth to speak words of love and encouragement.

My question is, how can people decide to follow the beast when Jesus Christ is waiting with open arms to accept anyone – just as they are? Satan works with his demons to try and cultivate our minds toward his way of thinking. Christ works with the Holy Spirit to break through our sin and offer us a life of freedom.