(Revelation 13:1-10)
From all John’s descriptions, the Protestants saw the beast in Revelation 13 as none other than the pope.
On its heads were blasphemous names.1Rev 13:1 — The pope took on names like “Christ on Earth” and “Father.”
Who can make war against the beast?2Rev 13:4 — The pope was not the head of a state.
There was given to him a mouth speaking arrogant words and blasphemies.3Rev 13:5 — Satan spoke through the bishop of Rome.
He was given authority to act for forty-two months.4Rev 13:5 — The bishop of Rome held the saints in his hand for a time, times, and half a time.
He opened his mouth in blasphemies against God.5Rev 13:6 — Through his blasphemous teachings
To blaspheme His name and His tabernacle that is those who dwell in heaven.6Rev 13:6 — To blaspheme the saints of New Jerusalem.
To make war with the saints and overcome them.7Rev 13:7 — Just as Daniel also said
He was given authority over every tribe and people and tongue and nation.8Rev 13:7 —He claimed to have the keys of salvation for every person.
All who dwell on the Earth will worship him.9Rev 13:8 — All the false worshipers kissed the feet of the pope.
Everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life.10Rev 13:8 — All those who worship the beast will not be saved.
Finally, the Angel of God said, “If anyone is destined for captivity, to captivity he goes. If anyone kills with the sword, with the sword he must be killed. Here lies the faith and patience of the saints.”11Rev 13:10 — In 1522, Martin Luther wrote: “I will preach, speak, write, but I will force no one, for faith must be voluntary. Take me as an example. I stood up against the pope, indulgences, and all papists, but without violence or uproar.”12Schaff, History of the Christian Church, vol. VII, ch. 4, sec. 68.
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