Today we are reading Revelation 13. In this chapter we read about the two beasts. “And I saw a beast rising out of the sea, with ten horns and seven heads, with ten diadems on its horns and blasphemous names on its heads. And the beast that I saw was like a leopard; its feet were like a bear’s, and its mouth was like a lion’s mouth. And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority. One of its heads seemed to have a mortal wound, but its mortal wound was healed, and the whole earth marveled as they followed the beast. And they worshiped the dragon, for he had given his authority to the beast, and they worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast, and who can fight against it?”” Revelation 13:1-4 ESV This beast is given the devil’s power and authority. All unbelievers worship this beast and marvel at it. It seems the beast must be a political leader. Who is universally worshipped? Who has authority over everyone? During John’s life Rome was like this. Who could this point to in our time? It can seem scary but we can be very confident that God is the absolute authority. The beast is only temporarily given authority. God’s authority is forever! Pastor Tim
