What is the meaning of Revelation 13:11? Then I saw another beast - John’s wording, “another,” marks this figure as separate from the first beast of Revelation 13:1–10, yet of the same evil family (Revelation 12:9; 13:4). - Scripture later names him “the false prophet” who performs signs on behalf of the first beast (Revelation 16:13; 19:20; 20:10). - Together, the dragon (Satan), the first beast (Antichrist), and this second beast form a counterfeit trinity, imitating the Father, Son, and Spirit to deceive the world (2 Corinthians 11:14). rising out of the earth - The first beast came “out of the sea” (Revelation 13:1); this one comes “out of the earth,” showing a distinct sphere of origin yet the same ultimate allegiance to the dragon. - “Earth” highlights his humanity—he will be a real person who appears from within society, not a mere symbol. - The contrast between sea and earth may hint at complementary roles: political/military power from the sea, religious/spiritual deception from the land (Daniel 7:17; 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4). This beast had two horns like a lamb - Horns in Scripture picture authority (Daniel 7:24; Revelation 5:6). Two horns suggest limited but real power, enough to influence worship worldwide (Revelation 13:12). - “Like a lamb” signals imitation of Christ, “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29). He will appear gentle, winsome, and religiously credible. - Jesus warned, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing” (Matthew 7:15). This beast is the final and ultimate fulfillment of such deception. but spoke like a dragon - Despite lamb-like appearance, his voice betrays him: the dragon empowers his message (Revelation 13:4). - He will use persuasive speech and miraculous signs to compel worship of the Antichrist, even breathing life into the image of the beast (Revelation 13:13–15). - “He was a murderer from the beginning… for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). The beast’s speech will echo that same satanic deceit. - His words will seem spiritual yet will oppose God’s truth, preparing the world for the mark of the beast (Revelation 13:16–17). summary Revelation 13:11 introduces the second beast, later called the false prophet. He emerges from the earth as a real, end-time individual who looks harmless—two horns like a lamb—yet speaks with the deadly authority of Satan. His gentle façade will mask a dragon’s voice, enabling him to deceive the world into worshiping the Antichrist and ultimately the dragon himself. Believers are called to discernment, clinging to the unchanging truth of God’s Word as the final authority. |
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