DANIEL'S "70 WEEKS"
In case you've forgotten, we are still focusing on Rev. 13:5 & 6. In verse 6 we see that the
anti-Christ will be allowed to "continue 42 months", which we have already learned is the same as
"1260 days" or "a time, times and half a time", which I view as having both a literal application at
the end of the age and also a certain 1260 year, long-range application. I admit not yet knowing
exactly what 1260-year time span in the Christian age God is referring to here but I'm convinced
about the concept. Perhaps God will someday reveal it to us.
However, as we move toward the end of the Historical aspect of Biblical prophecy, we must look
for the literal 2,520-day age to begin. I prefer to call this the Tribulation-Wrath period rather than
just "Tribulation" as most writers refer to it. (Note that I said a 2,520-day age. That's two,
1,260-day periods. As I see it, the final seven years will be broken down into two segments. In
the first half the anti-Christ builds his forces; the second half will be his ruling heyday. More on
this later.)
Now let's focus our 'microscope' a little finer. We need to learn more about this final seven year
period. You may wonder why prophetic writers always refer so specifically and dogmatically to a
final seven year period of devastating times, which supposedly occurs just before Jesus sets up His
Kingdom on earth. Well, it comes from several places in the Bible, although chiefly found in
Daniel and Revelation. The description is most clearly set forth in Daniel 9: 24 - 27. Let's start
with only the first two of these verses:
24 "Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the
transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to
bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint
the most Holy."
25 "Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to
restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and
threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous
times."
I hope you are fresh and alert as you read this section because every phrase in these four verses is
extremely important. Misunderstanding any aspect of it will distort your whole thinking relative
to Biblical chronology, especially as it relates to our day. I am separated from practically all other
prophetic writers mainly because of the different way we interpret these few, but oh-so-profound,
verses. You will see right here the very foundation of my overall understanding and presentation
as rendered in this entire book, so stay with me.
At the outset, we must understand that this prophecy was given to Israelites, therefore demanding
that we must also keep national Israel in mind as we interpret the time framework. The language
of this passage in the original text says something more akin to "seventy sevens", rather than
"seventy weeks" as our English versions render it. From what I've read, no serious Bible scholar
doubts that the reference means seventy...sevens, or more simply, 70 x 7. With this in mind then,
it is quite easy to see we are talking about 490 YEARS.
Thus, Daniel is saying that within the time span of 490 years in the life of national Israel, certain
things can be expected to happen. Let's look at the specifics:
(1) the "transgression" would be finished, (this is not complete yet for people are still
transgressing against God);
(2) that the "end of sins" would come (obviously not completed yet);
(3) that "reconciliation for iniquity" would prevail (this is fulfulled in that Jesus Himself took the
human sin penalty);
(4) that "everlasting righteousness" would be brought in (true in a spiritual sense --- the
righteousness of Jesus);
(5) that "vision and prophecy" would be sealed (true, assuming the intended reference is to Jesus'
completed work during His first advent; this could also be talking about the total Word of God,
the Bible; and finally,
(6) that the "most Holy" would be anointed. This was fulfilled the day the Holy Spirit descended
upon Jesus right after John baptized Him.
Going on to verse 25, Daniel then tells us how much time will lapse before ALL these things
would come to pass. He said that from the going forth of the commandment to re-build
Jerusalem, 7 weeks plus 62 weeks (49 + 434 years), would pass leading up to the coming of the
Messiah. So, beginning at the commandment, there would transpire 69 weeks of years --- 69 x 7
= 483 years --- concluding with the coming of Christ. Now right here is where I diverge from the
mainstream of most who have written on this subject. Before giving you my interpretation, let me
summarize theirs.
Writers vary somewhat but, in general, it goes something like this: They say the counting
commenced in 445 B.C. when the Persian King Artaxerxes issued a command to the Jews,
instructing them that they could re-build their city and temple, and ends the day Jesus Christ rode
into Jerusalem on a donkey just before His crucifixion. Some have even gone so far as to
calculate the exact number of days (using the 360-day Hebrew year) in order to arrive at Jesus'
Calvary appointment. I've read very-detailed accounts about this in several books but will not
present it here, primarily because of my conviction that their overall,
prophetic-theological-premise suffers so severely. The worst error is their assumption that Jesus
presented Himself as Messiah for the first time on the day of His crucifixion. It isn't even rational,
let alone Scriptural.
First, let's look at this using mere logic. If God is going to send His Son (Israel's Messiah),
doesn't it make more sense to assume it would occur at the moment the "most Holy" one
(mentioned in verse 24) was anointed? And don't you think God would do this publicly in order
to establish an undeniable time of fulfillment? And if these two presumptions are true would God
not in some way confirm it? The Scriptures clearly provide the answers to these questions.
By now you know very well that I also work things out mathematically whenever possible. But
the counting procedure mentioned above is just a little too perfect, even for me! Jesus said we
would not be able to make exact, "day and hour", prophetic determinations. He said even He was
not always aware of exact dates ahead of schedule. These things were in the Hands of the Father
only.
The verses here in Daniel, confirmed by others I'll share momentarily, demand Jesus' Messianic
commencement as being early in His ministry, not at the end. I agree with the others that the
commandment came from Artaxerxes, as given to Ezra (see Ezra 7). But by Reese's reckoning
(whose chronology I have followed throughout my book), the commandment was issued in 458
B.C. Simply counting forward 483 years brings us to 25 A.D.; and adding the necessary 4 years
(due to the present calendar error) we come to 29 A.D. Let's look at some pertinent Scriptures:
Luke 3:21-23.
"Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized,
and praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a
dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, thou art My Beloved Son; in
Thee I am well pleased. And Jesus Himself began to be about thirty years of age,..."
So, right here in one 'package' of Scripture, we have several interesting facts:
(1) This occurred right at the beginning of Jesus' ministry.
(2) He was "about thirty years of age" (the "began to be" indicative that Jesus was still 29).
(3) The Holy Ghost was there descending on Jesus, (this was the "anointing"), and
(4) the Father spoke His declaration from heaven that this was His "Beloved Son" in Whom He
was "well pleased".
It is extremely important to note here the emphasis that all three Persons of the Godhead were
present for that very critical appointment in history. Surely this is the occasion which spelled the
commencement of the Messiah being presented to Israel. Also, Scripture strongly indicates that it
was at the beginning of Jesus' ministry when his forerunner, John the Baptist, introduced Jesus to
the Jews as the "Lamb of God" Who would take away the sins of the world which, of course, is
the whole essence of Messiahship.
As I see it, Jesus' Messianic-ministry commenced on the day of His anointing by the Holy Spirit,
then was confirmed by His 3-1/2 year teaching and miracle-performing power. Also, remember
that the Father was "pleased" with the Son on that first day of Jesus' ministry; He didn't wait until
the crucifixion before making that very important statement.
Timewise, one's whole end-of-the-age prophetic analysis hinges on how this particular issue is
viewed. So, could I urge you to re-read the last five pages if you had any difficulty following
what was said. It is essential to have this foundation in order to comprehend what is yet to be
discussed regarding the "seventy weeks".
26 "And after threescore and two weeks (62 weeks) shall Messiah be cut off, but not for
himself; and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the
sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war
desolations determined.
27 "And He (keep track of this HE) shall confirm the covenant with many for one week;
and in the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for
the overspreading of abominations He shall make it desolate, even until the consumation,
and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate."
Before going on, recall where we left off prior to quoting these verses. Sixty-nine "weeks" (483
years) of this covenant had transpired, ending when Jesus was baptized. The prophet Daniel
repeats the 62-weeks phrase, saying that after that amount of time the Messiah would be "cut
off". Now this is very important. Note: He didn't say how much time after the 62 weeks before
the "cutting off" would occur, only that it would be "after"; he will tell us exactly how much after
a little further on.
I apologize for continually interjecting Futuristic thinking in this commentary, but if I don't,
assuming you have heard these views, you'll be wondering how my thinking is going to fit with
theirs. Only certain parts will. Also, you must understand that their whole approach is different
than mine and therefore, they arrive at different, overall conclusions.
For example, their explanation of the above two verses is something like this: They see the
Messiah being "cut off" (Jesus' crucifixion) at the end of the 7 and 62 "weeks" (483 years),
leaving one week of years not completed. Now, this is where the one week of years comes in,
which will not be completed until the final seven years. In other words, according to them, the
prophetic time-clock went "on hold" at Jesus' crucifixion, not to start again until the beginning of
the "Tribulation". The destruction of the "city and the sanctuary" would be fulfilled by Titus'
invasion of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Next, the "He" of verse 27, according to the Futurists, is a
prediction of the anti-Christ who will make an agreement with national Israel for seven years.
Then, at the half-way point of that seven years (the "midst of the week"), he will break the
agreement, enter the Jewish temple, stop the Jews from sacrificing (which they presume the
anti-Christ will have allowed the Jews to resume) and once again, cast out the Jews (i.e., "make it
desolate").
It may surprise you to hear me say it but I can accept some of these positions, and in the
Futuristic sense, this may be close to what will happen. But, let's go back and review verses 26 &
27 very carefully. There are some very critically-stated phrases in this passage which some seem
to have missed.
First of all, we must not forget who is center-stage here. The Messiah is the main "He" of the
passage, not the anti-Christ! In his heyday, the anti-Christ may pervert this prophecy when he
will present himself as the Jewish messiah. But we don't want to forget that the main inference
here is to Jesus. Now, verse 26 says, after "62 weeks" the Messiah would be "cut off". This was
indeed fulfilled at Jesus' crucifixion; we all agree on that point. Being "cut off", but "not for
himself", refers to the sacrificial nature of His death; i.e., He was "cut off" for the sins of others,
not His own.
The latter part of verse 26, "unto the end of the war desolations determined", means this: The
"war" is the ongoing battle between Godly and satanic forces, referring particularly in this passage
to Israel's "desolations". You will recall that we saw this in Revelation 12 --- Israel described
there as the "woman" in the "wilderness". The inference here is that the land would become
desolate (void) of Jews for many centuries.
WHO HAS THE AUTHORITY TO CONFIRM GOD'S COVENANT WITH ISRAEL?
This is the key question to this whole passage here in Daniel chapter 9. If the identity of the
"covenant-Confirmer" is missed, one's whole analysis of the passage will obviously be in jeapordy.
We must never forget who the primary parties are in this passage. The "deal" is between God and
Israel! The commencement, we learned, started when a certain king was given the authorization
to tell Israel when they could rebuild their city. (This was at the end of the Babylonian captivity.)
The primary intent of verse 27 above is to tell us that one will come at some future date to
"confirm the covenant". This means someone who has the God-given right would someday come
and validate the 490-year agreement between God and Israel.
Now, the Futurists put all their emphasis on the anti-Christ's perversion of this confirmation, to be
done at the beginning of the final seven year period. But this understanding misses altogether the
far more important aspect: the Messianic message. I'm really amazed that God-fearing
"scholars", in their zeal to find all the allusions they can to the anti-Christ, somehow lose sight of
the far more important issue of this passage --- the "He" who has the real authority to confirm
God's dealings with Israel. Question: Would God not first send His true covenant-Confirmer so
that the Jews could hear, and thus have a chance to accept His God-Given proclamation? If God
allowed only Satan's perversion of the real thing, God's nature and ways would be inconsistent.
I'm sure the reader agrees this could never be so.
Before we think on how Satan may twist this passage to his own advantage, let's look at the
primary intent of it. Not until the first and most important part is understood does the second part
have any meaning. Let's look now at some very pertinent Scriptures which plainly reveal the who,
when, where, what and how, of the covenant-confirmation.
THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD
Right after Jesus was baptized, he went to His home town of Nazareth and entered the synagogue
He grew up in. Luke tells about the incident in Luke 4: 16 - 21.
16 "And He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was,
He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read.
17 And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the
book, He found the place where it was written:
18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to
the poor. He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To preach deliverance to the captives
And to recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed,
19 "To preach the ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD."
20 "And He closed the book, and He gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the
eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him.
21. "And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your ears."
WHEN?
Many answers to our present puzzle are right here. First of all, we must note when this occurred.
Clearly, it was right at the beginning of Jesus' ministrynot the end. Jesus said, "Today is this
Scripture fulfilled in your ears." Note also that the "anointing" occurred at the BEGINNING of
Jesus' ministry, not the end.
WHO?
Jesus of Nazareth is the One Who made this great statement. That makes Him the main "He" of
the Daniel 9 passage.
WHERE?
Jesus carefully chose exactly where this proclamation should be made. It was in His own
hometown synagogue. Although elsewhere Jesus said a prophet is not without honor except in
his own country, Nazareth was the most fitting place in all Israel for Him to begin His ministry.
(Other men of God discover this principle continues to hold true as they have experienced
rejection in their own community.)
WHAT?
In my opinion, nothing surpasses "WHAT?" happened in Nazareth on that very special day when
Jesus stood and read from Isaiah. Visualize the setting exactly as it was: As has been shown,
Jesus (the "Who?") is standing in His hometown synagogue (the "where?") right after He had
been anointed (the "when"?) to commence His ministry. [Without clearly seeing the importance
of each of these points, the fourth "what?" will fly right by without recognizing God's 'staging'.
And, if you miss it, you too, like many others, will never be able to see the correct view of
Daniel's "70 weeks". This is no boast. It is the plain, simple truth. Stick with me and you'll see
what I mean.]
Now, imagine yourself sitting in a "pew" on that eventful Sabbath Day in Nazareth's synagogue.
Jesus, Who you know has already been proclaimed by John the Baptist as Israel's Deliverer, rises
and is handed the Old Testament. Every eye is glued on Him. Everyone in town is already
intrigued by this young carpenter, Who --- the most fervent preacher in the region had been
screaming --- was the "Lamb of God". And now they all sit in wonderment as Jesus turned to
Isaiah chapter 61 and began to read.
Note especially these words: "...TODAY is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears." The prophecy
was fulfilled THAT day, which is to say, the day He read it. This means right at the beginning of
His ministry. We can be sure this incident probably occurred within a few hours of His anointing
because Jesus' first words were, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me...".) Thus, since Jesus Christ,
the Savior of the world, the One by Whom the world was made, placed such a major emphasis on
the fact that a prophecy was being fulfilled that day, we had better pay heed to every aspect of the
prophecy He was pointing out to them.
We know Jesus was reading from Isaiah but I wonder how many have actually taken the time to
read the whole chapter from which Jesus was quoting. I admit I never had, until one day while
studying these passages, I felt prompted to read Isaiah 61. Now Jesus merely quoted the first two
verses of the chapter, obviously reading just enough to indicate to everyone what prophecy was
being fulfilled "in their ears" that day. But as I read on I saw the passage contained much more
information of what was surely in Jesus' mind that day than just the part He read out loud to those
in the synagogue. When I got to verse 8 I was stunned as I read these words:
"For I the Lord love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offering: and I will direct their
work in truth, and I will make an EVERLASTING COVENANT with them."
(My emphasis.)
The four "I"s in this verse are the same "I" on whom resides the "Spirit of the Lord" as given in
verse 1, and Jesus was saying that was Him! Now, please note carefully what this "I" said in
verse 8, "...I will make an EVERLASTING COVENANT with them." I am convinced this is the
same covenant spoken of by the prophet Daniel. It has to be. There are just too many facts here
to believe otherwise. Remember, we have already shown that 483 years of that 490 year
time-span Daniel wrote about, transpired between the issuance of the proclamation (458 B.C.)
that Israel could re-build their city, up until the year (25 A. D.) Jesus would have been 29 years
old. Now, as indicated in Luke and Isaiah, we find Jesus, 483 years later, claiming the right to
make an "everlasting covenant" with the Jews present in the synagogue that day. It is also
important to note that there was no doubt among the Jews in the synagogue of what Jesus was
claiming, for a little later in the same chapter we read of their reaction to Jesus' statements:
"And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, and
rose up and thrust Him out of the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill whereon their
city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong."
Luke 4:28&29.
In other words, the Jews tried to kill Jesus for His audacious words. We must also recognize that
another main what is indicated here. Jesus said He was preaching "...the ACCEPTABLE YEAR
of the LORD." What was the year in which Jesus was speaking? It was the first year of His 3
1/2-year ministry! And, what did Jesus mean by the "acceptable year"? Obviously it means
exactly what it says! On the very day He spoke those most-treasured words from Isaiah 61, was
the day --- the "acceptable year".
Thus, beginning with that small group of Jews gathered in Jesus' hometown synagogue, in God's
typical low-key fashion, was given the honor and privilege of receiving the everlasting Covenant
mentioned in Isaiah 61:8 and Daniel 9:27. Jesus was claiming to be God's Covenant-Bondman
and He was, that very day, stating that was the "acceptable year". Jesus was "confirming" the
predictions of Isaiah and Daniel.
(When John the Baptist was in prison awaiting execution, in a moment of bewilderment, he once
sent word to Jesus asking if He was the Messiah of Israel or whether they should look for
another. Interestingly, rather than simply saying "yes", Jesus mentioned the ministry-functions we
find in these very passages of Luke and Isaiah. Jesus knew John would be familiar with those
Scriptures and that he would understand what they meant. I believe Jesus also knew John would
understand Isaiah and Daniel's predictions, for anointed prophets were lovers of God's Word.
Deeper understanding of the prophetic word is a gift to prophets, thus, Jesus knew the kind of
answer He gave would be more persuasive to John than mere assent to the fact that He was the
Messiah.)
HOW?
Jesus did all the above under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, Who knew all about the right timing
and circumstances in which to bring all the prophecies to pass. Remember, Jesus later said that
He did nothing unless He saw the Father do it. This was possible because of His perfect
obedience to the Holy Spirit's promptings. This is how He did it. [Here's a Scriptural summary of
how this all fits together. You might want to lay my book aside now and, in the order given, do
several readings of the following Scriptures: Is.61:1-8; Dan.9:24-27; & Luke 4:1-30.]
THE COVENANT WAS CONFIRMED FOR "ONE WEEK"
Now it may seem as if I've taken us way off-course but actually this is not the case. Everything
I've said is directly related to the "70 weeks" of Daniel. (Our current baseline is still Daniel 9:27,
you remember.)
We have now identified that the "HE" Who confirmed the covenant mentioned in this verse could
be none other than Jesus Christ. Next, we must make careful note of the duration of that
Covenant:
"...He shall confirm the covenant for ONE WEEK."
Again, to remind you, the Futuristic analysis of this 'confirmation' is when the anti-Christ makes
some sort of agreement with today's national Israel (perhaps a promise of national protection, and
maybe even allowing resumption of their Old Testament rites and rituals --- such as animal
sacrifices, temple worship, etc). In the Futuristic sense of the LODR, this is a distinct possibility.
But, we must first deal with the more primary meaning of the prophecy --- the Historical.
Jesus was obviously confirming the covenant predicted by Isaiah and Daniel when He spoke that
day in His own hometown synagogue. I have emphasized the need for recognizing the fact that
Jesus quoted Isaiah 61 at the beginning of His ministry. And I have shown you the Biblical
evidence that some Jews then recognized and understood what Jesus was doing. Now listen to
what Andrew, one of the first disciples, said soon after Jesus' remarkable, confirming
proclamation:
"He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah'..."
(John 1:41)
We have here a clear declaration that Andrew had received the prophetic message of God as
recorded in Isaiah 61 and Daniel 9. This occurred right at the outset of Jesus' 3 & 1/2 year
ministry. Shortly after Andrew, John and James came Peter and the rest of the disciples, all
receiving Jesus as the promised Messiah. Then from their testimonies other believers were added
to the fold. The combination of these groups represent the ones to Whom Jesus confirmed the
Covenant.
Jesus' confirmation of God's Covenant started at the end of 69 weeks (483 years). It is imperative
to understand that the counting of the 70 weeks DID NOT STOP when Jesus selected His
disciples. After the initial declaration in the synagogue, for the next 3 1/2 years Jesus continued
the confirmation through teaching, performing miracles, etc. Now isn't it interesting that this just
happens to be precisely one-half of 7 years? What does this mean in terms of Daniel's expression
of "weeks"? It's very simple: 3 1/2 is one-half of 7 (a week). This conclusion may not seem all
that profound but folks, so many seem to have missed the essence of it. Let me show you why:
THE "MIDST" OF THE WEEK
Daniel was very careful to point out in verse 26 that the Messiah would be "cut off" after the end
of the 69 "weeks". But then in verse 27 he explains exactly How much? after. It's stated this
way: "...in the midst of the week", the Covenant-Confirmer would be "cut off". If a week is
seven years, then the "midst" of the week would be half of it---namely, 3 1/2 years. The midst of
the week (3 1/2 years) coincides precisely with the 3 1/2 years Jesus ministered with His disciples!
So, what does this indicate? You can see that by careful analysis of the plainly-stated Scriptures
(and a little simple arithmetic) we have arrived at the unmistakeable conclusion that 486 1/2 years
of God's 490-year covenant with Israel had transpired at the completion of Jesus' first-advent
ministry. But the Futurists insist only 483 years of the "70 weeks" have been fulfilled. Now at
first, this discrepancy may not seem like any big deal to you. But actually, one's whole
end-of-the-age, theological-base hinges on which of these views is believed to be correct! To me,
the 486 1/2 years far-better fits Daniel and Revelation, as well as all the other prophecies we've
studied. Let me explain:
We've seen in Revelation a certain period described in one place as --- 1,260 days, and in another
--- 42 months, and also as --- a time, times and half a time. We learned that these are all the same
amount of time: three and one half years (on the 360-day, Jewish-year scale). I believe that the 3
1/2 years remaining of the 490 year covenant (i.e., the difference between 486 1/2 and 490), is
that very 3 1/2 years the apostle John constantly refers to in Revelation. It'll require a little time
and determination but if you'll go back and re-read this whole section, I believe you'll see how
perfectly it all works out. It's taken me years to see it. You can do it in a matter of minutes.
(More on this later.)
THE SACRIFICE AND OBLATION CEASED (Dan.9:27)
Before I tell you what I think this means, it is worthwhile to first explain how this is ordinarily
interpreted. After the anti-Christ will make his 7-year pact with national Israel, in the middle of it
(3 1/2 years later) he will break the covenant and stop what he had formerly allowed the Jews to
do --- performing their religious rites and rituals, etc. This could be so. But what could it mean
with regards to the far more relevant "everlasting covenant" Jesus had confirmed with the Jews
2,000 years ago?
When Jesus was crucified, that was what actually put an end to the temple rites and rituals of that
time. No longer would God allow the old order to continue which He Himself had instituted
centuries earlier. When God tore the "veil" in the temple at the moment of Jesus' death (Luke
23:45), He was causing "the sacrifice and the oblation to cease,...". Note that this occurred at the
end of Jesus' 3 1/2 year ministry --- one-half of a "week".
MAKING IT DESOLATE
Some modern versions of the Scriptures have so-modified this portion of the Daniel passage that
if you have one of those Bibles, you will find it very difficult to interpret and/or follow my
explanation. So, I would advise you to use an Authorized Version of the King James Bible and
stick with it for this part.
Although some of the words are archaic by today's standards, thus slowing the reader down at
times, the KJV-translators did a better job where prophecy is concerned than many of the modern
translators. In their zeal to make the obvious side of Scripture even plainer, some modern
versions have masked much of the deeper, double-referenced material which is so vital to
prophetic understanding.
The Futuristic appraisal of the Daniel 9:27 phrase "make it desolate", means the anti-Christ will
drive the Jews out of their key cities in the last part of the Tribulation. But if one reads the verse
carefully, another altogether-different and far more important conclusion can be seen. Note this
especially: The verse itself provides the reason the land is made "desolate". It is "...for the
overspreading of abominations". Now, is it reasonable that the anti-Christ would want to harm
anyone, or run them off, because of their "abominations" --- i.e., evil practices? This notion is
preposterous. The anti-Christ will not be at all interested in Jewish sinfulness.
We must look at this in light of both history and the Scriptures. HISTORY SAYS that the land of
Israel became desolate of Jews after Christ's first advent. The BIBLE SAYS this would happen.
Daniel predicted it. GOD permitted it. God allowed Satan (through Titus, Mohammad, and
others) to do the handiwork, but it was God's Will that the "desolation" was to occur.
God allowed the destruction of Israel's Temple and the city of Jerusalem followed by the
dispersion of the Jews because they rejected Jesus' proclamation that He was THE
EVERLASTING COVENANT-MAKER! From the Cross onward, any practices of the old order
under the old covenant would be an "abomination" to God. Not receiving God's Messiah ---
Jesus, Israel's Deliverer --- was, and is, abominable to God. It was for this reason He made the
land "desolate" of Jews for centuries after Jesus' crucifixion. Israel's rejection of Jesus and their
subsequent dispersion defines the abomination of desolation. This is what Daniel 9:27 is talking
about!
THE "MANY"
"The many" of Daniel 9:27 is a term of Biblical accounting. It refers to the ones with whom the
"Covenant Confirmer" would agree. It is talking about those Jews who would hear, understand
and receive Jesus as being their Messiah --- the very Messiah predicted here in Daniel. Near the
end of his life, the apostle John reflects on this and writes in his gospel:
"He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as "MANY" as received Him,
to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name."
Jn. 1: 11 & 12.
Some of you are probably wondering why the prophetic clock didn't keep ticking off the
remaining 3 & 1/2 years of the 490 year covenant at the end of Jesus' ministry. After all, He was
no longer dead and the calendar didn't really stop! This is one of those great mysteries we find in
the Bible. But God's reckoning, especially when the subject TIME is being considered, is not
always the obvious. However, the understanding is not beyond our ability to discern once we get
hold of God's idea on the matter.
The old covenant was between GOD and NATIONAL JEWS. God still has a plan for His ancient
people. Many folks think God's total plan has already been completed with the Jews and that the
Church is now His final, and only, means of communication with lost people. This is not so. God
will yet have, even in this age, a short time during which He will once again work with national,
believing Israel. It will last for 3 1/2 years at the end of this age.
This is the 3 1/2 years yet remaining of the 490-year covenant Jesus confirmed almost 2,000 years
ago with that certain group John referred to as "the many". Remember, Jesus has already fulfilled
3 1/2 years of the final "week", then He was "cut off". He will fulfill the last portion of that
"week" with another certain group we can appropriately call the "many", after the Church has
been raptured. We'll cover this particular "many" later.
It may seem to the reader that I have steered us way off course. However, all this discussion of
Daniel's "seventy weeks" and on Jesus as being the Covenant-Confirmer of the "70 weeks"
agreement, and the exposition of the anti-Christ description as given in 2 Thessalonians, were all
very pertinent and necessary pieces of the prophetic puzzle. Without clear understanding of these
particular passages, it is absolutely impossible to comprehend the upcoming, end-of-the-age
events. But now, we can come back to Revelation 13 where, you recall, we left off studying the
"ten horned" beast.
ANTI-CHRIST SUBDUES THREE KINGS
Remember that the 11th "little horn" will subdue three of the "ten horns". This is usually
interpreted to mean that the anti-Christ will destroy three nations in his own empire. I agree with
this and even go so far as to suggest their identities: I believe two will be England and Northern
Ireland. I picked these two because of their powerful, historical influence and leadership in the
Church, believing that perhaps they will eventually come out of their present spiritual lethargy.
(I can hardly believe these two are in the Common Market in the first place. But then, that's the
way of apostasy, isn't it? Once an individual --- or entire nation --- starts sinning and rebelling,
stopping becomes a real problem. At some point, usually requiring a major crisis, a nation may
repent. If so, God will once again restore the nation. I hope this happens to England and
Northern Ireland. Pray for this eventuality, fellow Christians!)
It may surprise you but I believe Germany may be one of the three the anti-Christ will
"subdue"surprising because she is given credit for starting the last two world wars. But then why
should we be shocked at this paradox? After all, it is Satan who tries to destroy the work of God.
I do not believe it was any accident that Germany housed so many of the Jews during WW2.
Surely their being there was to some degree beneficial for them, even part of God's overall plan of
the ages, certainly not merely so that 6,000,000 of them could be slaughtered. Also, we must
remember the Godly Germans who hid many of the Jews and gave them protection during Hitler's
nightmare-ish regime. It may surprise you to learn that West Germany is one of the world's
largest supporters of America's Christian radio-mission work. (Ref: Footnote 4.)
We must ask what exactly is meant by the "little horn" (anti-Christ) "subduing" three other
"horns". Now that could mean destruction through warfare, but it could also mean other things.
I say this because of the odd phrase in Daniel 7:8 which tells us the three "horns" will be "plucked
up by the roots". Could "roots" suggest foundational principles? A root is the base of something.
This could mean that deep beliefs and former commitments (the roots) would be destroyed.
England, Northern Ireland and Germany have backgrounds similar to America. They were deeply
grounded in the Christian faith but today are in gross spiritual slumber, nationally speaking.
It may mean both. That is, the anti-Christ may keep banging away at (subduing) the "roots" of
the "three horns" until they repent and return to Godly principles, at which time he would feel the
need to destroy them entirely, militarily. I'm uncertain about this, of course. In any event,
Christian friends, join me in regular prayer for God's people everywhere to repent and return to
the "God of our fathers".
WAR WITH THE SAINTS
7 "And it was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And
authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation."
Many Christians have been martyred defending the faith, refusing to turn away from proclaiming
the Name of Jesus and His Gospel. That takes a special kind of boldness. God-given kind. I'm
all for it. I hope we have many of these types around right up till the end.
Some preachers talk today about us Christians "winning the world for Jesus". Sounds bold but
I'm not sure these have clearly understood end-time prophecy. There's nothing wrong with
Christians having a positive attitude and commitment to send the Gospel into every region of the
world. In fact, this must have been in Jesus' mind when explaining what it would be like at the
time of the end:
"Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing." Matt. 24:46.
The "so-doing" refers to being faithful doing the master's work at the time Jesus returns. The
Church must do everything in its power to reach out and touch a spirtually-dying world.
Nevertheless, we must also face the facts stated in the above Scripture, Rev. 13:7. It clearly says
the anti-Christ will "make war" with the "saints" and that he will "overcome them". Just how
certain groups fit this verse into their prophetic scheme --- that Christianity is going to overcome
the world --- I don't know.
The Futurists handle it like this. First, recall they believe nothing concerns the Church between
Revelation 4:1 and 19:1, their concept being that the Christians will have been raptured. Now
obviously John is referring to saved people in the above verse for he calls them "saints". A
Biblical saint is simply a Christian. (It most assuredly has no reference to "sainthood" as defined
by the Roman Catholic Church, which is someone reaching a certain 'divine statehood', as
determined by heirarchy-approved accomplishments. It's a "works" milestone.)
So, according to the Futurists, the Church can't be on earth when the anti-Christ is "overcoming"
these particular "saints". But then, who are they? They say these are the people who become
saved during the Tribulation. I disagree. My answer to this really is this entire book. But right
here in context is provided a worthy answer to the 'mystery'. Actually, Rev. 13:7 substantiates in
large measure the position I take --- that the Church is very much here on earth when we get to
that point in time. Compare the language of Rev. 13:7 to Rev. 11:7:
"And when they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will
"MAKE WAR" against them, OVERCOME them and kill them."
I believe these two passages address the very same event. The only difference is that Revelation
11 is specifically talking about the "two witnesses", while Revelation 13:7 is more inclusive,
embracing the "two witnesses" as well as all "saints" in the remainder of the world --- i.e., the
total Church. (Note the last part of Rev. 13:7, "...And authority was given him over EVERY
tribe, tongue, and nation.")
The fact is, the Church is in a condition of apostasy, not moving toward some grandiose state of
perfection as some claim. Our perfection is in heaven. His Name is Jesus Christ. If you are "in
Him", that's your perfection. Certainly we want to do everything possible while here, in our
attempt to "perfect" our walk with Christ. Our character needs to be in a constant state of
transformation into the likeness of Christ and we have something to do with that. Neither do I
wish to imply that the Church should allow the anti-Christ to rise unabated. My caution here is
that we not be deluded by the current efforts being made by some to bring the splintered, physical
church organizations together under one ecclesiastical roof in order to achieve some form of unity
calling it The Church.
WHERE HE LEADS, WHO WILL FOLLOW?
8 "And all who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been written in
the Book of Life of the Lamb who was slain from the foundation of the world.
9 If anyone has an ear, let him hear.
10 He who leads into captivity shall go into captivity; he who kills with the sword must be
killed with the sword. Here is patience and the faith of the saints." Revelation 13:8-10.
There's a wonderful old Christian hymn entitled "Where He leads Me, I will Follow", which
speaks of our Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, leading His "lambs" (Christians). All Christians
should have that mindset. However, We saw in 2 Thessalonians that another "shepherd", an
unlovely one, is going to come some day and many will follow him. We also saw God will send
strong delusion that "they should believe THE lie", to those that refuse to receive the love of the
truth. Satan initiated this lie in the garden of Eden. I think it really takes on many forms but
chiefly it means that man, not God, is the center of everything. Those who teach this believe man
is 'one' with the universe and that once he learns to understand and wholeheartedly follow this
philosophy, nothing can stop him from achieving his highest goals, including even godhood.
The "New Age" Movement ascribes to this philosophy; most of the world's political forces are
motivated by it; much of the job force is getting into it, (and I mean right here in the good-ole
USA); all false religions have embraced it (whether they realize it or not); and even many of
today's churches (so-called) are buying "THE LIE".
Looking again at the above verses, we see that most of the world will succumb to the anti-Christ's
power, deceptions and promises; all those except those "written in the Book of Life".
(If your name isn't in that Book yet, my friend, see to it that it is before it's too late. How do you
do this? Believe the Gospel. This basically means seeing yourself as God doesa sinner who is
lost, spiritually dying and on his way to hell. Once you can believe that, you can "repent"turn
around and go in the opposite direction! To do this means to turn from your own selfish way,
towards Jesus, the Messiah. Realize that His death on the cross of Calvary was God's
requirement for the penalty of sin, and that it was done in your behalf to release you from the
bondage of sin, both now and forever! When you really believe this, the Holy Spirit will seal you
as God's possession and your name goes in the Book of Life --- permanently. This is the central
truth of all prophecy.)
Those who are a part of "THE LIE" are the ones John says here lead "into captivity" and
consequently they themselves "shall go into captivity". As each day passes it's becoming easier
and easier to discern who they are. The end is coming. We are getting close. I sense it strongly
and see it with increasing clarity each day as I watch the world buying "THE LIE". But Christians
can avoid the deception by seeking God with their whole heart. That's the requirement to become
an overcomer.
"ANOTHER BEAST". This one is from THE EARTH
11 "And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb
and spoke like a dragon."
Of all the topics discussed in this book, nothing troubles me more than to comment on this beast.
I think I understand how Jesus must have felt when He prayed over His beloved earthly
Jerusalem. (Luke 13:34.) But, I believe there are pertinent insights of this passage which are
essential for those of us living in our day, so, here goes. (Before you read, please do this: stop
right now and pray that God will give you an open mind and that He will truly bear witness
whether my discernment of this passage is accurate.)
The coming of the anti-Christ will follow a perverted pattern of Jesus' first coming. Jesus had a
forerunner in John the Baptist. The second "beast" in the above passage is the anti-Christ's
forerunner, his 'way-paver'. He will be a world-renowned man himself who becomes committed
to the ever-growing, popular and influential secular leader and the regime he heads and the
endeavors he espouses. He will be a noted 'spiritual' leader.
We have learned that the anti-Christ will likely be the leader over today's Common Market nations
of Europe, which will ultimately unite in a tighter relationship than it has today, representing at
that time a revival of the ancient Roman Empire. Now let's identify his cohort.
Verse 11 says beast #2 comes out of the "earth". Recalling that the first beast came from the
"sea" (the general populace of mankind), it follows that one who comes out of the "earth" would
represent a more specific region of humanity. Since he will be involved with establishing worship
of the "beast from the sea", we can logically presume the "earth" beast is from the religious
community.
Remember, the anti-Christ is Satan-personifieda perverted "incarnate-god", if you will. As such,
he must have a religious organizer, someone who can bring the world's people together in one
accord, making them ready to receive the man described throughout this chapter. Just as John the
Baptist came on the scene before Jesusmaking ready a people to receive the true Lamb of God,
Israel's Messiahin like manner the beast from the earth will come in advance of the first beast,
anti-Christ. Note that the "earth beast" had "two horns like a lamb". What could this mean?
For one thing, the dual horns imply double-mindedness. It convinces me that the "earth beast"
speaks of God and Christ but underneath is serving quite a different master. He comes usurping
the name and authority of the Lord Jesus Christ but following rules and guidelines totally contrary
to clear Scriptural teaching. Jesus was THE LAMB of God. The double-horned "earth beast"
comes "like a lamb". He will be outwardly meek. Lamb-like, but inwardly serving a "spirit" other
than the God of the Bible. So, we must look for a person and an earthly system which meets
these criteria:
(1) The organization will have a semblance of respectability. Otherwise, no one could be
deceived.
(2) It must also have been around for a long time. Otherwise, how could it possibly fool people?
Historically-sound roots are a necessity.
(3) It must be very widespread. Otherwise, how is it possible to prepare "all who dwell on the
earth" to receive the anti-Christ?
The question is, is there such an organization present today which fits the requirements? Surely
there is and I'm persuaded it is none other than the Holy Roman Catholic Church, which has been
headed for centuries by a string of institutionally-proclaimed 'vicars* of Christ' --- the popes.
(Interestingly, today's EEC was formulated under what was originally called, "The Treaty of
Rome". As far as I know, there is not yet any formal link between the EEC and the Vatican. But,
if my presumption is right, the union will eventually occur.)
WHY THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH?
I'm convinced there are many, true Christians in the Catholic Church. It is for that reason I
regretfully and reluctantly state my convictions about their parent-organization. But we cannot
overlook the atrocities which occurred under Constantine and others in the Catholic Church. For
example, how does one look at endorsed murdering, as occurred in the Spanish Inquisitions, and
remain convinced that the leaders who stood behind it speak for God?
* ("Vicara papal" title refers to one who supposedly speaks in Jesus Christ's stead with absolute
perfection.)
But even more important than the historical abuses this 'church' is guilty of, is the perverted
'gospel' it embraces and teaches. I certainly don't know all about Catholic beliefs and doctrines
but born-again Christians ought to be aware of at least a few of the primary ones:
1. The Worship of Mary.
Catholics are taught to believe that Mary is a mediator between Christ and them. They pray to
her for her divine protection and plead to her because of her supposed intercessory-accessibility to
Jesus. This they do in spite of the fact that the Scriptures plainly teach that there is but ONE
Mediator between God and Man, the Man Christ Jesus. (See I Tim. 2:5.) I'm sure you have
heard of the many supernatural "appearances" Mary has made to Catholics throughout the ages --- and are supposedly occurring right up to the present hour. I've recently heard Catholic priests
discuss these things quite openly on television. No doubt about it, they believe in her divinity and
visitations.
Even the "Beatles" sang about these phenomena in a song which said, "Mother Mary comes to
me, whispering words of wisdom, let it be...". Don't be deluded. Mary's appearances are nothing
more than demonic apparitions. They are 'angels of light', designed to insidiously steer believers
off course and into Satan's trap.
2. The Infallibility of the Pope.
Catholics believe in this. I have heard the present pope, John Paul II, positively affirm his position
about it. He has said he doesn't deserve spiritual perfection but that it is a gift to him because of
the the office he holds. This "Holy Father" has also made it very clear he plans to see to it that
this belief is reinstituted, along with other traditions, throughout the world's entire Parish system.
3. Purgatory.
Apparently, the Roman Church has determined the relative 'weights' of sins, and categorized them
on some kind of graduated scale that only they know the answers to! Catholics believe in a place
called purgatory. It is a place 'saints' go after physical death to sort of work out the 'debit' sheet.
That is, if you still have sins remaining on your 'account' when you die, you must go to purgatory
and, somehow, make restitution. The bottom line here is they do not believe the shed blood of
Christ cleanses a believer of all his sins. In short, they do not really believe the Gospel!
4. Prayers for the dead.
Catholic tradition teaches Catholic believers to pray for unbelievers who have died, (particularly
while the dead are in purgatory.)
5. The Holy Eucharist.
Communion, according to Catholic teaching and practice, means the priest-blessed wafer and
wine actually (not figuratively) become the real body and blood of Jesus. So, when ingested, the
partaker is quite literally eating and drinking the body and blood of Christ. That is how one gets
Christ in himself! This practice and phenomenon is called transubstantiation. What a gross
perversion of what Jesus said in John 6:53-58.
6. Baptism.
When a Catholic priest baptizes someone, he is transferring his divinely-given grace to them. The
priest is actually "saving" the person! This would explain why babies are baptized in the Catholic
Church.
Some of you may have trouble believing that these six points are Vatican doctrines and beliefs.
The descriptions and conclusions were determined from their own literature and television
discussions (I personally saw) among Catholic "Fathers" who defend these practices. These
perverted beliefs and practices are convincing-proofs that Roman Catholicism is a works-religion,
not faith-Christianity. In fact, when you get right down to it, the beliefs are not greatly unlike
other religions outside Christianity. They have defined "another Jesus" than the One Holy
Scripture reveals.
Now as I said before, I believe there are individual Catholics (and priests) who really love God
and have trusted Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. In spite of their blindness to the maze
of gross errors within this institution, by God's grace some have seen and experienced enough of
the true Gospel that God has wonderfully and miraculously saved them.
I am certainly in no position to judge these people for Jesus loves all who come to Him in true
repentance. I believe I shall go into eternity with many Catholics. However, and that's a big,
capital-letter --- HOWEVER --- I'm thoroughly persuaded the organization itself, along with
many of its leaders and adherents, has been, and is, the very seat of the "beast from the earth" as
described here in Revelation 13:11. I also believe this is the earthly 'house' upon which Satan has
for centuries attempted to superimpose his spiritual kingdom.
Please don't get the idea that I think Protestantism is completely devoid of being part of the
ecclesiastical 'beast'. The watered-down 'gospel' taught in many Protestant churches today is little
better, if any, than the above-described Catholic doctrines. I have singled out and discussed the
perversions of the Roman Catholic Church because I believe Scripture presents her portrait. The
history, beliefs and practices of the Roman Catholic Church are the convincing-proofs that this is
the only organization on earth which matches the Biblical picture of the second beast.
THE FALSE PROPHET
In Revelation 19:20, the "beast from the earth" is named the False Prophet. Therefore, when we
see this term we must realize that the inference is to the '2nd beast' here in the latter part of
Revelation 13.
False Prophet is an appropriate title for anyone, or any organization, who is preparing the way for
the anti-Christ. Obviously Satan will be the spiritual force who lies in the background
empowering the False Prophet. That being the case, deception will be the key sign to look for as
we contemplate who the False Prophet is.
Satan has always used the Scriptures in his scheming. He did in the garden of Eden. He even had
the audacity to quote Scripture to Jesus! But we know that in doing so, Satan always has an evil,
ulterior motive. We must be sensitive to these patterned-truths if we are to be discerners of who
is and who isn't a true follower of Christ.
Carrying a Bible around doesn't automatically prove one's godliness or insure that he is Christ's
representative. Using the Scriptures and claiming to be 'christian' can be a mere cloak of decency
--- just as Satan attempted against Jesus. I'm convinced this tendency has prevailed in the upper
echelons of Roman Catholicism from its beginning. (If the truth were fully known, I suspect
reams could be written about what is currently going on in the Vatican to prepare and pave the
way for the coming restored Roman Empire. It's mostly hidden but I am aware of a few things
which should help the reader understand why I'm rather firm in my convictions about this issue.)
THE VISITS --- THE INVITATIONS --- THE PREP WORK
Today in Roman Catholicism, three things stand out rather distinctly which, to me, loudly
proclaim "FALSE PROPHET". Let's look at them one at a time.
THE VISITS
Pope John Paul II has probably done more visiting throughout the world than all previous popes
combined. What's his motivation? Is it because he is such a wonderful man of God? Is it because
of his compassion for a world in chaos, filled with sick and sin-laden people? Does he take the
true Gospel message to them? I can't accept these premises, because I can't ignore that this pope
BELIEVES all those previously-stated church doctrines. Believing what he believes makes the
Pope wide open to deception. After all, that's how more deception comes --- having a false base
to begin with. False beliefs lay the groundwork for being a false teacher --- a 'false prophet'.
Deception builds on deception.
The Vatican's present Pope is warmly received by nearly everyone, including, you must have
noticed, much of the Protestant world. But then, isn't this exactly what verse 11 predicted? It
says he would come "like a lamb". This implies he will be gentle, warm and kind. A 'grandfather'
type.
But also note that the apostle John indicated this 'lamb' would have "two horns". I think this
(partly) means he has two sides for us to look at. There is what he wants the world to see and
there is also that other person inside. Pope John Paul II is trying to draw the masses to himself,
not Christ. Don't ever forget that he believes that he is literally the mouthpiece of God on this
earth right now.
Did you know that Pope John Paul is also sitting down at the bargaining table with the leaders of
other religions, too? Oh yes, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, you name it. He obviously feels all
mankind must come together in order to have "peace on earth and good will toward all men".
(However, Christians know that this will only happen when Jesus physically reigns as Lord and
King of planet earth. But this particular pope believes it is his duty to accomplish this feat.)
The visitations are not aimed merely at seeing the masses though. John Paul is meeting with the
cardinals, bishops and other great political leaders as he makes his rounds. I believe the purpose
is to draw attention to the Vatican and Rome, seeing himself as the ultimate spiritual head over all
the lands he visits. In fact, even Gorbachev said to the Pope that he recognized him as the earth's
greatest religious leader.
It is reported that when the Pope kneels and kisses the earth, as he has in some places, it is not so
much an act of papal condescension but rather that he is claiming that land for the kingdom he
envisions himself building. Thus, it appears the VISITS are working.
THE INVITATIONS
The Church of England, The Episcopal Church in America and Canada, The Lutheran Church in
West Germany, and others, are receiving 'honored' invitations from the Vatican to consider
compromising their differences and to rejoin their "mother" --- the Roman Catholic Church. This
ecumenical movement is widespread and many leaders in these institutions are definitely trying to
get the people in their churches ready for reattachment to Rome.
Friends, I don't know of a shred of Biblical evidence to substantiate that Jesus wanted all
Christians under one, earthly, ecclesiastical roof; certainly not one which embraces the
unscriptural tenets of Roman Catholicism. It's right and good to be in a local congregation with
people who are trying to develop Christ-like character and who embrace the clearly-spoken
doctrines as recorded in the Bible. But this ever-increasing, international "beast" eminating from
Rome has nothing to do with the real body of Christ --- that body which comprises the priesthood
of all born-again believers.
But, in spite of what seems very plain to ordinary Christian believers, many of the
mainline-denominations are giving strong consideration to the ecumenical movement towards
Roman Catholic rule. Thus, I conclude, the INVITATIONS are working.
THE PREP WORK
In order to comment on the PREPARATION WORK going on in the Roman Church, we need to
look at the remainder of chapter thirteen.
12 "And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth
and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.
13 And he performs great signs, so that he makes fire come down from heaven on the earth
in the sight of men.
14 And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he had power to do
in the sight of the beast, saying to those who dwell on the earth that they should make an
image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and lived.
15 And he had power to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast
should both speak and cause as many as would not worship the image of the beast to be
killed.
16 And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark
on their right hand or on their foreheads,
17 and that no one may buy or sell except the one who has the mark or the name of the
beast, or the number of his name.
18 Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for
it is the number of man: And his number is six hundred and sixty-six.
This is another one of those large segments which is rather difficult to digest all at once. For most
of us, symbolic language isn't easy to keep in mind with only one reading. So, in order to follow
what I'm saying, it will be helpful to read this passage several times.
I won't be taking the time to go through each phrase here. But, I draw your attention to one key
word in each of several of these verses: In verse 12 we see the False Prophet "exercises"; verse
13, he "performs"; verse 14, he "deceives"; verse 15, he has "power", and finally in verse 16, he
"causes". In other words, the second "beast" is the one who effectualizes things. He's the
'up-front man', a person of action, one who makes things happen. The False Prophet is obviously
going to be very visible in order to do all the things which are outlined here.
It is also plain to see that he holds a position of high authority because he directs the worship of
his people towards the first "beast" whose "wound was healed". Therefore, it's significant to note
he does everything in favor of the first "beast", the anti-Christ. He does the great "signs". He
causes the "mark" to be placed on everyone, which will eventually become necessary in order to
"sell" or "buy". In short, the False Prophet ultimately becomes the practical head of all that entails
the final, 666 system. This may not sound like the kind of activities you'd expect to find in a
Church, does it? But...,
THE "OPUS DEI"
Just as the true prophet, John the Baptist, was quite visible and outspoken before the coming of
the real Messiah, Jesus Christ, so also is the False Prophet who comes before the anti-Christ.
Actually, the PREP work has been going on since the days of Constantine (the white horse rider
of Seal # 1, you recall). Constantine wanted to 'christianize' the Roman Empire and that
philosophy hasn't stopped till this day. The restored Roman Empire will likewise show a form of
'christianity', having been prepared long in advance of the coming of the final anti-Christ. This is
its cloak of decency.
Therefore, the world-wide network of Roman Catholic parishes, with their leaders, is already in
place. We don't have to speculate on how the office of the False Prophet shall come; the ground
work has already been laid and presently stands right before our eyes. But there is one fairly new
organization within the old system that needs to be discussed. It's called the Opus Dei, which
means, "Work of God."
I first became aware of Opus Dei on June 11, 1984 through an article in TIME magazine(1)
entitled, "Building God's Global Castle". More recently, INSIGHT magazine(2) also published an
article on the same organization called, "An Elect Few Assume God's Work".
The articles agreed there are approximately 74,000 of these new "priests" who have been spread
across 40 nations. TIME says, "Since its founding in 1928, Opus Dei has become one of the most
influential, controversial and mysterious movements in Roman Catholicism. John Paul's presence
at Opus ordinations is only one of many signs of his approval..." Opus is "a corps of
well-educated, disciplined, profoundly committed Catholics who, as laity in ordinary jobs, can
penetrate society in ways that priests cannot. In the Opus concept, each lay Catholic is to
SANCTIFY the secular world and his own career..." They reportedly work "at 487 universities
and schools, 694 newspapers or periodicals, 52 TV or radio stations, 38 publicity agencies and
twelve film companies." Some who have dropped out of the Opus refer to the secretive
organization as "the Holy Mafia," or "Octopus Dei". One "drop-out" said, "leaving becomes
difficult for members, because 'their spirits are broken, and they have lost all touch with everyday
life'".
Some Catholic leaders are not in favor of Opus Dei but two events have enhanced the Opus
stature. "In 1981, the Vatican took the first steps toward the canonization of Opus' founder,
Spanish Monsignor Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer, who died in 1975. Sainthood would vindicate
the movement's creation under 'divine inspiration,' as the pope described it." The other
"momentous mark of papal favor occurred in 1982, when John Paul granted Opus a new status
known as personal prelature." This gave the organization "autonomy as a worldwide,
nonterritorial jurisdiction with its priests and laity subject to Opus' prelate." The TIME's article
also said, "A senior Vatican official says that the Pope has asked for private commitments from
Opus that it will seek out all levels of society and will cooperate with local bishops and other lay
movements."
The author also had this to say: "...The members of Opus Dei now seem to represent, for John
Paul, an ideal for today's lay church member. There is speculation that the organization will
gradually fill the traditional role of the Jesuits as an elite vanguard ready to DO THE BIDDING
of Pope and church, and that John Paul has important evangelizing duties in mind for the
organization...".
That the leaders in Opus Dei are strongly committed to the pope is suggested by this quote by an
Opus' member of the men's General Council: "We are among the most committed defenders of
the notion that undebatable truth exists. Doctrine is not debatable, and when doubts arise over
what is binding truth, the final word is the Pope's and not some theologian's."
(Reader, does this not tell us where the authority really lies within the Roman Church? To Opus
members, the Scriptures are not the final word of authority. The Pope is. This is not a Christian
concept.)
The article in INSIGHT magazine confirms nearly every detail mentioned above which also
reported that there are, in addition to the 74,000 bonafide Opus members, 700,000 "cooperators"
around the world who may not necessarily be "christians". According to the INSIGHT article,
"..'.Opus Dei focuses on where political, economic and social power lies,' says an English prelate
at the Vatican, 'this carries with it a danger that the movement could lose its freedom to challenge
the existing order by becoming part of it."
This last comment by the Englishman expresses tremendous sensitivity and insight. What he is
saying is that one of the main objectives of Opus Dei is to challenge things the way they presently
are in the world, on every level of existence. I understand where the prelate is coming from when
he says Opus will "become part of it" (i.e., the politico-economic-socio scene). He's close to the
truth but not quite 'on the beam'. It isn't as though Opus is unwittingly endangering themselves
through ignorance as they move into the whole world's marketplace; indeed, this is their very
objective! I believe their aim is to eventually supplant what is in existence today. It appears that
not only the leaders but also that all Opus' members are fervent in their belief and commitment
that they are the element which will ultimately solve all the political, economic and social woes in
today's world.
OPUS DEI'S FOUNDER: Jose Maria Escriva de Balaguer y Albas
Escriva, a priest of Spain, created the Opus Dei society in 1928. The story goes that when he was
on a retreat in Madrid in 1928 at age 26, he was pondering what God wanted of him. Suddenly
nearby church bells began to ring and Escriva "saw" the answer. It was to set up an institution
that would "tell men and women of every country and of every condition, race, language, milieu
and state of life that they can love and serve God without giving up their ordinary work, their
family life and their normal social relations." This is a remarkable conviction Escriva had. But
how does this fit in with "numeraries who perform periodic, brief sessions of mortification of the
flesh, using braided thong 'disciplines' for self-flagellation. Some wear a wire with prongs, which
members call a cilice, tied around the leg above the knee." Such mortification is supposed to
remind the Opus member of the suffering of Jesus. One of their leaders, Monsignor Cormac
Burke, said this "is something which cannot be omitted from a fully religious life,..."
INSIGHT also reported "the group is said to exert great political influence in Spain and to be
vastly wealthy."..."In part, the criticism Opus Dei inspires stems from its being the product of
traditional, Catholic Spain and its Spanish leadership, which infused it with values that have
become alien in countries of liberal civilization." The article goes on to say, "...an Irish priest
working in America who has observed Opus Dei in Spain, Mexico and the United States, says the
society's practices are much milder here (USA) than in the two Hispanic countries." ("The
organization came to the United States in 1949 when three Spaniards arrived in Chicago from
Rome. One was a nuclear physicist taking up a university position. From among their new
friends and acquaintances, they won adherents to Escriva's teachings. But the movement's growth
in the U.S. has not been as great as elsewhere in the world.")
Escriva died in 1975. His replacement today, another Spaniard by the name of Monsignor Alvaro
del Portillo, worked directly with Escriva for forty years. Pope John Paul II is obviously very
close to Opus Dei as he established the society as the first "personal prelature" set up in the
Roman Catholic Church. "A prelature is similar to a diocese, but instead of having a territorial
jurisdiction, a personal jurisdiction is exercised by the prelate over the spiritual formation and
work of members WHEREEVER THEY ARE." According to a historian named Johnson, John
Paul II has said, "Escriva had the right combination; a robust adherence to the traditional dogmas
and moral standards of Catholicism together with the missionary zeal to apply them in the modern
world."
Now, compare the above facts about Opus Dei to the "AIMS" of the EEC as stated in an
encyclopedia in the library of the University of California at Davis, California. It said:
"To promote throughout the Community a harmonious development of economic activities, a
continuous and balanced expansion, an increase in stability, an acceleration in the rise of the
standard of living and closer relations between Member States, by establishing a common market
and by progressive rapprochement of the economic policies of Member states."
Interesting parrallels, aren't they? They are, I'm convinced, the same concepts because they come
from the same "author".
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
Revelation, chapter 13, describes two "beasts", one from the "sea" (representing all humanity) and
one from the "earth" (the religious community within). The first "beast" we have seen is a
politico-economic-social system, which has been identified as the Common Market of Europe.
The second "beast" is identified as the Roman Catholic Church as headed by the Vatican under
the leadership of its Pope.
The prophet Daniel said the eleventh member of an already-existing ten nation confederacy would
produce a leader, the likes of which the world has never known, which we have called the
anti-Christ. As of January 1, 1981, The EEC had ten members and on January 1, 1986 the
eleventh joined --- SPAIN. (You recall the explanation of how Portugal was included along with
Spain. Now let me share a new insight with you.)
MORE ON THE TWO HORNS
Remember the picture of the white shaggy goat which I saw in the San Francisco newspaper the
year Greece became the tenth member of the EEC, and that it had one long single horn? It was
reported the way this is achieved is by some kind of manipulative fusion of two normal horns into
one! It may be a wild thought but one day it occurred to me this parallels Spain and Portugal's
entry into the EEC: two nations voted in together --- 'fused', if you will, by the others. Is it
possible that this is God's way of resolving for us the mystery that there are now 12 EEC
members instead of the expected 11?
Carrying this thought further, recently I learned that in the 15th century the Pope authorized two
nations to "claim" the remainder of the undiscovered world for the Vatican. Those two nations
were Spain and Portugal!
It just may be that Daniel's single horn ("fused-from-two"), which arose after the "ten horns", was
the very same as the two horns the apostle John saw on the head of the False Prophet. In Daniel's
case it appeared as one to indicate the single source of power from which the fusion came; in
John's case the horns appeared as two to indicate that there were in fact two separate nations set
up to accomplish the False Prophet's desires. Can you accept this possibility, my friends?
NOW BACK TO THE TWO BEASTS
This whole chapter of Revelation makes clear that these two "beasts" (not to be confused with the
"two horns" of the False Prophet) will join forces in the end. We learned the second "beast" is
preparing the way for the first. This second one is called the False Prophet and it is his duty to
link the religious community to the world's work force into one structure. We also learned that a
Spanish man named Escriva produced the idea of how to accomplish this very feat and that
Rome's present Pope, John Paul II, is not only in agreement with Escriva, but is trying to promote
his "sainthood" in order to "sanctify" his ideas. The Pope is also "anointing" his secret emisaries
and sending them all over the world to "DO HIS BIDDING". He is living out the very words of
the text as the apostle John described himhe "exercises", "performs", "deceives", has the "power"
and "causes" it all to happen. Admittedly, there are some things described in this chapter which
haven't yet happened. However, much of what John said is unquestionably already in place.
The identifications I've made in this chapter will make many uncomfortable. I will probably be
accused of discriminations and prejudices. That is neither my nature nor my intent. I would
merely admonish the Roman Church to repent of their sins and turn from their wicked ways
--- unbelief of the simple Gospel truths and usurpation of the authority that only Jesus Christ
Himself holds.
It is not my intention to stir up Christians to the point of anger. God Forbid! This kind of
information must always be handled with extreme delicacy. Unsaved people, who may have good
morals, and demonstrate high patriotism, etc., can do great harm with knowledge such as this.
'Good' people (though unsaved) who have virtually no understanding of the things of God, often
think it's alright to take up an offense and attempt to destroy those they believe to be 'tools of the
devil'. That, of course, is not our responsibility. Look at Jesus! He did not try to get rid of
Herod nor did He try to stop Judas. Christians must keep in mind that all the prophecies will be
fulllfilled.
In the process of what lies ahead, Christians are to be salt and light in the world. For this reason,
I have even hesitated to share these convictions. Many times I ask, "Why God?" That is, "Even if
these things are true, why have You shown them to me?" And as I try to hear His answer, all I
can tell you is that I seem to be driven on in my search to understand prophetic truth as contained
in the Holy Scriptures. Obviously I take this to mean someone needs to know. However, if you
believe and accept the thoughts, ideas and identifications I've suggested here concerning the
Roman Catholic Church and its heirarchy, please use great discretion as you share the insights
with others. There are innocent, honest, Godly Christians caught up in this web. We'll see more
about this in Revelation 18.
1. 2.