How should believers respond to global admiration of evil, as in Revelation 13:3? Setting the Scene “...The whole world was astonished and followed the beast.” (Revelation 13:3) The passage pictures a future moment when evil wins worldwide applause. Scripture treats this prophecy as literal, and it foreshadows patterns already visible. Because God has warned us, we are equipped to stand. Recognizing the Danger of Global Fascination • Evil dressed in spectacle draws the human heart. • Satan’s strategy: counterfeit resurrection (“the fatal wound had been healed”) to mimic Christ’s true resurrection and steal worship (Revelation 13:4). • Wide acclaim never equals divine approval. Jesus said, “For what is highly esteemed among men is detestable in the sight of God.” (Luke 16:15) Rooting Our Allegiance in the Lamb • Revelation 13:8 contrasts the beast’s followers with “everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the Book of Life belonging to the Lamb.” • Our identity anchors us: “You are not your own; you were bought at a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) • Refuse spiritual neutrality—adoration is either directed to the beast or to Christ (Matthew 12:30). Practical Responses for Today Stand Apart – “Do not love the world or anything in the world.” (1 John 2:15) – “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) Stay Alert – Test every headline, trend, and platform against Scripture (1 John 4:1). – Expect deceptive signs: “The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the working of Satan, with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder.” (2 Thessalonians 2:9) Stand Firm – “Here is a call for the perseverance and faith of the saints.” (Revelation 13:10) – Suit up daily in the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Speak Truth – Set Christ apart as Lord and “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” (1 Peter 3:15) – Darkness is dispelled by testimony (Revelation 12:11). Suffer Well – Jesus: “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” (Matthew 10:28) – Persecution is not defeat; it is participation in Christ’s victory (Philippians 1:29). Encouragement from the Rest of Revelation • Revelation 14:12: “Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” • Revelation 17:14: “The Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with Him will be His called and chosen and faithful followers.” Living with Hope • Fix eyes “on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.” (Colossians 3:1) • “In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33) • As global admiration for evil rises, believers shine brighter, holding fast to the Word of life until the very day the Lamb publicly triumphs (Philippians 2:15-16, Revelation 19:11-16). |
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