LESSON #5

THE MARK OF THE BEAST
Revelation 13: 16,17

Introduction:  Prophecy Unfold Progressively.  Paul's writings define – John's writings unveil "apokalupsis".  A great part of the book of Revelation is transition from grace to kingdom.  Revelation 13 stands at mid-point of that transition.  I must focus on pointed questions to clarify the issues involved.

      I.	     Who is this beast?
A.	Part of the Satanic, "unholy" Trinity (Rev. 12:9 – Satan, Rev. 13:1 – Anti-Christ, Rev. 13:11 – False Prophet)
B.	Same ruler as in Daniel 7, 9, & 11
C.	Final product of world's desire

II.	What is the mark?
A.	The technology of today greatly increases possibility.
B.	Separate from number or name, but representing both
C.	It is a dooming, damning mark – Revelation 14:9-11

III.	How is this mark given?
A.	"Causeth" – In Greek an action of doing by reason of power.  (Those who refuse to bow are killed; All others are marked)
B.	A forgery of faith – We are marked by our devotion and actions.

IV.	When will they be marked?  Of utmost interpretive importance
A.	Part of the "Promise Breaking" of this world ruler.
B.	Passages to be considered together – keywords
Daniel 7:22-25 – Revelation 13:5 – "until" "Time, Times, ½ Time"
Daniel 9:27 "The midst" of 7 years
Daniel 11:45 2 Thessalonians 2:3&4 and Revelation 13:5&6
C.	Forty-two months of construction, Forty-two months of destruction.

V.	Can the mark be seen?
A.	It appears obvious – Revelation 13:16 & 14:9

VI.	How do you avoid the mark?
A.	Easy (You do not have to know the other answers)
B.	Be absent when the event occurs – 2 Thessalonians 2

Conclusion – Paul defines what John describes – I Thessalonians 4:13-18, 5: 1-11