How can believers discern false authority as depicted in Revelation 13:2? Setting the Scene in Revelation 13:2 “The beast I saw resembled a leopard, with feet like those of a bear, and a mouth like that of a lion. And the dragon gave the beast his power and his throne and great authority.” Immediate Observations • A single creature blends the traits of three predatory animals—speed (leopard), strength (bear), and ferocity (lion). • Its authority is delegated, not earned: “the dragon gave the beast his power.” • The dragon has already been identified as “that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan” (Revelation 12:9). Core Marks of False Authority • Ungodly Origin – Any power sourced from Satan rather than God (cf. Luke 4:6-7). • Composite Confusion – A mix of attractive and terrifying traits designed to captivate and intimidate. • Counterfeit Dominion – Throne and authority mimic Christ’s true reign (cf. Revelation 5:12-13), yet oppose Him. • Blasphemous Speech – The beast’s “mouth” later utters proud words and slander (Revelation 13:5-6). Practical Tests for Discernment 1. Trace the Source • Does the authority submit to Christ’s lordship? (Colossians 1:18) • Does it glorify God or demand allegiance for itself? (Revelation 14:7) 2. Compare with Scripture • The Word exposes counterfeits (Hebrews 4:12). • If teaching clashes with clear biblical doctrine, reject it (Galatians 1:8). 3. Examine the Fruit • “You will know them by their fruit” (Matthew 7:16-20). • Look for holiness, humility, and love—or for coercion, pride, and impurity (James 3:13-16). 4. Test the Spirits • “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1-3). • Genuine confession: Jesus Christ has come in the flesh and is Lord. 5. Watch for Persecution and Control • The beast “makes war against the saints” (Revelation 13:7). • True shepherds lay down their lives for the flock (John 10:11); false authorities sacrifice the flock for themselves. Scripture Cross-References • 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 – Satan’s servants disguise themselves as “servants of righteousness.” • 1 Peter 5:8-9 – Stay alert; resist the devil, firm in the faith. • 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10 – Lawless one comes “by the working of Satan, with all power and false signs.” Encouragement for Ongoing Vigilance • Keep hearts anchored in the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). • Stay in fellowship with biblically grounded believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rely on the Spirit’s guidance: “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). By testing origins, doctrines, fruit, and methods against Scripture, believers can spot the dragon’s delegated power and remain loyal to the true King. |
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