BIBLE PROPHECY

TRIBULATION Part-3

(Subjects in this Section)

    It appears that, at the time the Antichrist is killed and his deadly wound is healed, a spirit will come up out of the bottomless pit to occupy the body of the Antichrist. This spirit was once alive before this was written, in approximately 96 or 97 A.D. (once WAS), but was dead at the time this was written (now IS NOT), and "shall come up out of the bottomless pit" at some future date (SHALL ASCEND). Nevertheless, the Antichrist will ultimately go into "perdition" (or destruction)-ref Rev 17:8,11 KJV, NIV. The people of the earth, who will ultimately perish, shall be astonished when they see the Antichrist that was in the past (before 96 A.D.) and yet is before them during the Tribulation.
    It is written, THE BEAST (which, in this case, is the Antichrist) THAT THOU SAWEST (once) WAS, AND (now) IS NOT; AND SHALL ASCEND (or come up) OUT OF THE BOTTOMLESS PIT (or Abyss), AND GO INTO PERDITION (or he goes to destruction)-Rev 17:11.
    AND THEY (the inhabitants) THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH SHALL WONDER, WHOSE NAMES WERE NOT WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE FROM THE FOUNDATION (or founding, or creation) OF THE WORLD (or will be astonished), WHEN THEY BEHOLD (or see) THE BEAST THAT (once) WAS, AND (now) IS NOT, AND YET IS (to appear or will come)-Rev 17:8.
    There is much speculation who this person (that appears to have lived either during the time of Christ or before) might be. Some believe it is Nebuchadnezzar. Some believe it could be Judas, because the Antichrist is called the "son of perdition" in 2 Thes 2:3, and Judas was also called the "son of perdition" in Jn 17:12. Some believe it is Satan; others think it may be Antiochus Epiphanes. At this point in time, we do not know who it is.
    AND HERE IS THE MIND WHICH HATH WISDOM (or this calls for a mind with wisdom-NIV). THE SEVEN HEADS (which were mentioned back in Rev 17:3), ARE SEVEN MOUNTAINS (or hills), ON WHICH THE WOMAN (or city) SITTETH-Rev 17:9. Rome sits on seven hills or mountains. It is reported that ancient Babylon sat on a plain, not on mountains.
    AND THERE ARE SEVEN KINGS: FIVE ARE FALLEN, AND ONE IS (living now), AND THE OTHER IS NOT YET COME (the Antichrist); AND WHEN HE COMETH, HE MUST CONTINUE A SHORT SPACE (or a little while)-Rev 17:10. Seven kings are mentioned here. The date that the Revelation was written was around 96 or 97 A.D. This verse speaks of five kings that "are fallen." These represent five kings, or possibly kingdoms, that fell prior to this being written. The one "that is," refers to a king that existed at the time this was written. The other that "is not yet come" is referring to the Antichrist. The Antichrist must continue a short space (or a short time) after he comes. He will reign in Jerusalem for three and a half years.
    The following are the seven kings or kingdoms.
    Five are fallen:
    1. Egypt
    2. Assyria
    3. Babylon
    4. Medo-Persia
    5. Greece

    One is (in existence at the time John was given the Revelation):
    6. Roman Empire

    One is yet to come:
    7. Revived Roman Empire (the EEC)
    8. The Antichrist is the eighth and is of the seven
    Some believe that the seven represent seven emperors of the Roman Empire. Five were dead, one existed at the time this was written, and another was yet to come. Others believe that the seven represent seven forms of government in the Roman Empire.
    AND THE BEAST THAT (once) WAS, AND (now) IS NOT, EVEN HE IS THE EIGHTH (king), AND IS OF (or comes from) THE SEVEN. The Antichrist is the eighth king, but comes from one of the seven AND GOETH INTO PERDITION (or is on its way, or going to his destruction)-Rev 17:11. Dan 9:26 shows that the Antichrist shall be of the people that would come and destroy Jerusalem; this happened approximately 70 A.D. Those that came were of the Roman Empire.
    It might be noted that the first beast (the Antichrist) came out of the sea-ref Rev 13:1. This may denote the nations. He may have been born and raised in a place other than Israel. His rise to power seems to come through the EEC. He comes from the old Roman Empire nations, yet he is probably a Jew. It would seem impossible for the Jews to accept any person as their Messiah, if he were not from the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

    As a result of this supernatural event of the Antichrist rising from the dead, THEY WORSHIPED THE DRAGON (or Satan) WHICH GAVE POWER UNTO THE BEAST (which is the Antichrist) (or because he had given his authority to the beast-JNT⁶²): AND THEY WORSHIPED THE BEAST (which is the Antichrist), SAYING, WHO IS LIKE UNTO THE BEAST? WHO IS ABLE TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH HIM?-Rev 13:4. AND ALL (or everyone, or all inhabitants) THAT DWELL UPON THE EARTH SHALL WORSHIP HIM (the beast), (all) WHOSE NAMES ARE NOT WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE OF THE LAMB SLAIN (or slaughtered) FROM THE FOUNDATION (or creation) OF THE WORLD. IF ANY MAN HAVE AN EAR, LET HIM HEAR-Rev 13:8,9. All the world, except those whose names are in the book of life, will submit to the Antichrist. They will worship him.
    Jesus had said, I AM COME IN MY FATHER'S NAME, AND YE RECEIVE ME NOT: IF ANOTHER (the Antichrist) SHALL COME IN HIS OWN NAME, HIM YE WILL RECEIVE-Jn 5:43.
    Satan craves worship. He said, I WILL BE LIKE THE MOST HIGH-Isa 14:14. The devil told Jesus that he would give Him all the kingdoms of the world, if He would fall down and worship him-ref Mt 4:9. Jesus told the devil, IT IS WRITTEN, THOU SHALT WORSHIP THE LORD THY GOD, AND HIM ONLY SHALT THOU SERVE-Mt 4:10. He refused. However, the Antichrist, which is the great counterfeit, will accept this invitation. Satan will give him ALL the kingdoms of the world; however, his rule will only last 1260 days. Satan seeks to receive the worship that is only reserved for God the Father. 

    The Antichrist moves into the temple in Jerusalem. This may occur within hours of coming back to life. As it is written, THAT MAN OF SIN (the Antichrist)…OPPOSETH AND EXALTETH HIMSELF ABOVE ALL THAT IS CALLED GOD, OR THAT IS WORSHIPED; SO THAT HE AS GOD SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, SHEWING HIMSELF THAT HE IS GOD-2 Thes 2:3,4.
    HE (the Antichrist) SHALL MAGNIFY HIMSELF IN HIS HEART (he will consider himself superior-NIV)-Dan 8:25. AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL EXALT HIMSELF, AND MAGNIFY HIMSELF ABOVE EVERY GOD-Dan 11:36. (He) will not REGARD ANY GOD: FOR HE SHALL MAGNIFY (or exalt) HIMSELF ABOVE ALL (them)-Dan 11:37.
    NEITHER SHALL HE (the Antichrist) REGARD THE GOD OF HIS FATHERS-Dan 11:37. This may indicate he is a Jew from one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The "God of his fathers" may be talking about the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
    As God the Father gave His only begotten Son authority from heaven, so Satan has given the Antichrist HIS POWER, AND HIS SEAT, AND GREAT AUTHORITY-Rev 13:2.

    During the first part of the Tribulation, a temple will be built in Jerusalem. Sacrifices and oblations will begin as in olden times. However, in the midst of the week, the Antichrist shall be killed, but then returns to life. He moves into the temple in Jerusalem and stops the sacrifices and oblations.
    It is written, IN THE MIDST OF THE WEEK (which is the Tribulation) HE (the Antichrist) SHALL CAUSE THE SACRIFICE AND THE OBLATION (or offering) TO CEASE (or end)-Dan 9:27.

    God tells Israel, regarding the covenant with the Antichrist, AND YOUR COVENANT WITH DEATH SHALL BE DISANNULLED (or canceled), AND YOUR AGREEMENT (or pact) WITH HELL (or the grave) SHALL NOT STAND; WHEN THE OVERFLOWING (or overwhelming) SCOURGE SHALL PASS THROUGH (or sweeps by), THEN YE SHALL BE TRODDEN (or beaten) DOWN BY IT (you become its trampling place-NASB). The very agreement that Israel thought would be their protection is now going to be their downfall. FROM THE TIME THAT IT GOETH FORTH (or as often as it passes through-NASB) IT SHALL TAKE (or seize) YOU (or carry you away): FOR MORNING BY MORNING SHALL IT PASS OVER (or sweep through), BY DAY AND BY NIGHT: AND IT SHALL BE A VEXATION (or sheer terror) ONLY TO UNDERSTAND THE REPORT (or message) (to understand what it means-NASB)-Isa 28:18,19. For those that can understand what has happened, for those that can understand the report (or message), it will bring sheer terror. The fulfillment of this prophecy appears to happen at this point.
    FOR THE BED IS SHORTER THAN THAT A MAN CAN STRETCH HIMSELF ON IT (the bed is too short-NASB): AND THE COVERING (or blanket) NARROWER (or too small) THAN THAT HE CAN WRAP HIMSELF IN IT-Isa 28:20. The Antichrist and the covenant represent the bed. The bed is too short. It will not accomplish the purpose that Israel thought it would. It will not save them. It cannot protect them. The covering that is supplied by the Antichrist is too narrow. A person cannot wrap himself in it for protection. The only true protection a person can really have is Jesus. All other beds are too short, and all other coverings are too narrow. All other coverings will pass away.

    AND THROUGH HIS POLICY ALSO (or shrewdness) (or through what he does, or decrees) HE SHALL CAUSE CRAFT (or deceit) TO PROSPER (or succeed) IN HIS HAND (or by his influence). This can also denote the powers of the darkness. Supernatural powers will be manifested and will prosper. AND BY PEACE (or while they are at ease-NASB) (the Antichrist) SHALL DESTROY MANY-Dan 8:25.
    It appears this man of sin will be a diplomat of sorts that will bring forth great wisdom and knowledge. The world will welcome this evil person.
    AND THE KING (which is the Antichrist) SHALL DO ACCORDING TO HIS WILL (or as he pleases)-Dan 11:36.
    AND (the Antichrist) SHALL PROSPER (or be successful). During "his" time (the Tribulation), the Antichrist shall succeed. His success will continue, TILL THE INDIGNATION (or time of wrath, which is the Tribulation) BE ACCOMPLISHED (or completed, or finished)-Dan 11:36.
    Neither does the Antichrist have THE DESIRE OF WOMEN-Dan 11:37. The wording in some other translations appears slightly different. This could indicate he does not desire women. He may be single. We can expect him to try to duplicate many of the scriptures pertaining to Jesus.
    AND HE (the Antichrist) SHALL…THINK (or try) TO CHANGE (the set) TIMES AND (the) LAWS-Dan 7:25.

    The Antichrist, once he moves into the temple, will continue in power a short time. He will continue for forty-two months, until the end that is determined for him to reign. He will continue until the time of wrath is completed. The saints shall be given into his hand for 3 ½ years.
    It is written, AND WHEN HE (the Antichrist) COMETH, HE MUST CONTINUE A SHORT SPACE (or a little while)-Rev 17:10.
    AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM TO CONTINUE (or exercise his authority for) FORTY AND TWO MONTHS-Rev 13:5.
    AND THEY (the saints) SHALL BE GIVEN INTO HIS HAND (or handed over to him) UNTIL A TIME AND TIMES AND THE DIVIDING OF TIME-Dan 7:25.
    EVEN UNTIL THE CONSUMMATION (or end)-Dan 9:27. The Antichrist shall reign for 3 1/2 years, or 42 months, or 1260 days, until the end of the time that is determined for him to reign.
    The Antichrist shall prosper TILL THE INDIGNATION (or time of wrath) BE ACCOMPLISHED (or completed)-Dan 11:36.

It is written, THE GREATNESS OF THE KINGDOM-Dan 7:27.

    The Antichrist originally comes forth as a result of the working of Satan. It is through Satan that he has his power, position, and authority. He has power to work all kinds of false miracles. He is able to do things that are beyond human ingenuity and ability. He is able to do supernatural feats. His power will be mighty. People will be amazed. Through these miracles, people will be fully persuaded that he really is God.
    It is written, EVEN HIM (this man, the lawless one) (which is the Antichrist), WHOSE COMING IS AFTER (or in accordance with) THE WORKING OF SATAN WITH ALL POWER (to work all kinds of false miracles-JNT⁶³) AND SIGNS AND LYING WONDERS-2 Thes 2:9. These are to persuade or deceive people into believing that the Antichrist is really God and is speaking the truth.
    AND HIS (the Antichrist's) POWER SHALL BE MIGHTY (or very strong), BUT NOT BY HIS OWN POWER-Dan 8:24.
    THE DRAGON (which is Satan) GAVE HIM HIS POWER, AND HIS SEAT, AND GREAT AUTHORITY-Rev 13:2.
    God's Word warns us, THERE SHALL ARISE FALSE CHRISTS…AND SHALL SHOW GREAT SIGNS AND WONDERS. These signs and wonders shall be so great, so miraculous, so incredible, that God's Word tells us, INSOMUCH THAT, IF IT WERE POSSIBLE, THEY SHALL DECEIVE THE VERY ELECT-Mt 24:24.

    Satan gives the Antichrist authority over all tribes, languages, and nations of the world.
    It is written, AND POWER (or authority) WAS GIVEN HIM OVER ALL KINDREDS (or every tribe, or people), AND TONGUES (or language), AND NATIONS-Rev 13:7.

    The Antichrist shall speak proud or arrogant words. He can be expected to accuse God of all manner of things. He will blaspheme and speak great things against the God of heaven that have never been heard. He will slander His name, His tabernacle, and those that dwell in heaven.
    It is written, AND THERE WAS GIVEN UNTO HIM A MOUTH SPEAKING GREAT THINGS (or proud words) AND (arrogant) BLASPHEMIES-Rev 13:5.
    AND HE (or it) OPENED HIS MOUTH IN BLASPHEMY AGAINST GOD, TO BLASPHEME (or slander, or insult) HIS NAME, AND HIS TABERNACLE (or dwelling place), AND THEM THAT DWELL (or live) IN HEAVEN-Rev 13:6.
    HE SHALL SPEAK GREAT WORDS AGAINST THE MOST HIGH-Dan 7:25.
    HE SHALL...SPEAK...AGAINST THE GOD OF GODS-Dan 11:36.
    THE KING (or the Antichrist)…SHALL SPEAK MARVELLOUS (or unheard-of) THINGS AGAINST THE GOD OF GODS-Dan 11:36.

    The Antichrist shall honor the god of forces. He will honor Satan with gold, silver, precious stones, and costly gifts. He will glorify the devil.
    It is written, BUT IN HIS ESTATE (or instead of them) SHALL HE HONOR THE GOD OF FORCES (or fortresses): AND A GOD WHOM HIS FATHERS KNEW NOT (which is Satan)-Dan 11:38.
    In Dan 11:37, it reads, "THE GOD OF HIS FATHERS." Here the words appear, a god whom "his fathers" knew not. This could reinforce the possibility that the Antichrist is a Jew. The false god here is the Dragon, which is Satan-ref Rev 13:2,4; 20:2. He is called a "strange god" in Dan 11:39.
    This "strange god" SHALL HE HONOR WITH GOLD, AND SILVER, AND WITH PRECIOUS STONES, AND PLEASANT (or costly) THINGS (or gifts)-Dan 11:38. The Antichrist shall honor Satan; the world will also worship the Dragon, which is Satan-Rev 13:3,4.

    The Antichrist will be given power and authority to make war against the saints of God, to overcome or prevail against them. The saints will have no power to defeat the Antichrist. For 3 ½ years he shall greatly oppress those that have been born-again until Jesus returns. The saints will have to flee for their lives. Many of those that do flee will be betrayed by their closest friends or relatives. Many can expect to be caught, greatly persecuted, humiliated, beaten, tortured, and then beheaded. Many will turn from their faith under this immense pressure. A remnant will escape and repopulate the earth during the Millennium. For those misled people that think there shall be no Rapture before the Tribulation, these verses should have a terrifying effect. The only power the saints will have to overcome the Antichrist will be, THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH-Rev 12:11. Satan shall also destroy the "holy" people.
    It is written, AND IT WAS GIVEN (or allowed) UNTO HIM (the Antichrist) TO MAKE WAR WITH THE SAINTS (or God's holy people), AND TO OVERCOME (or conquer, or defeat) THEM-Rev 13:7.
    I BEHELD (or watched), AND THE SAME HORN (this is the Antichrist) MADE (or was waging) WAR WITH (or against) THE SAINTS. The Antichrist wishes to abolish all Christianity. All that follow Jesus, he wants to kill. AND PREVAILED AGAINST THEM (defeating them)-Dan 7:21. UNTIL THE ANCIENT OF DAYS CAME-Dan 7:22. This is Jesus returning.
    AND (the Antichrist) SHALL WEAR OUT (or oppress) THE SAINTS OF THE MOST HIGH…AND THEY (the saints) SHALL BE GIVEN INTO HIS HAND (or handed over to him) UNTIL A TIME (one year) AND TIMES (two years) AND THE DIVIDING OF TIME (½ year), which equals 3 ½ years-Dan 7:25.
    The Antichrist SHALL DESTROY THE MIGHTY AND THE HOLY PEOPLE-Dan 8:24.

    There was a war in heaven: Satan and his angels, fought against the archangel Michael and his angels. The devil and his angels are defeated. They are cast out of heaven. Satan, which deceiveth the whole world and accused the brethren day and night, has fallen from heaven. There is rejoicing in heaven; however, it is very bad news for the people of the earth. The devil is now among the inhabitants of the earth. He is furious and has great wrath. He is like a wild, raging animal with great power. He understands, at this time, that his days are numbered. He knows that he has only a short time left, which is 3 ½ years. He goes forth to utterly destroy anyone upon the face of the earth that follows Jesus.

    It is written, AND THERE APPEARED ANOTHER WONDER (or sign) IN HEAVEN; AND BEHOLD (there was) A GREAT (or enormous) RED DRAGON (which is Satan). The word "great" denotes something of importance and power. The word "red" may depict that he is a murderer, a shedder of blood. It may signify the incredible amount of the saint’s blood that will be shed during the Tribulation. This term "red dragon" is used only in the Revelation denoting Satan. The word "dragon" denotes "a fabulous winged monster, a fierce person," reference The New Webster’s Dictionary. The word "serpent," as is often applied to Satan, indicates great deceptive powers and can also denote being wise or wisdom-ref Mt 10:16.
    Satan is portrayed as HAVING SEVEN HEADS AND TEN HORNS, AND SEVEN (royal) CROWNS UPON HIS HEADS-Rev 12:3. The number seven often refers to completeness.
    * The seven heads are seven mountains, and there are seven kings. Also see Rev 17:3,9,10; 13:1. There is debate, if the seven kings apply here or not.
    * The ten horns are ten kings (or kingdoms) during the Tribulation. Also see Rev 17:3,12; Dan 7:7,20,24. They are also referred to as the ten toes of Dan 2:40-45. The ten horns can also symbolize power.
    * The seven crowns may represent seven kings, which represent seven empires. Also see Rev 17:10. They may also stand for Satan’s authority during the Tribulation. Note, in Rev 13:1, the description of the beast is nearly identical to the description of Satan in this verse.
    AND HIS TAIL (note the tail of Satan) DREW (or swept) THE THIRD PART OF THE STARS (or angels) (out) OF HEAVEN, AND DID CAST (or threw) THEM (down) TO THE EARTH-Rev 12:4.
    AND THERE WAS WAR (or a battle) IN HEAVEN. When the war began is not stated; however, the culmination of the war should take place at approximately the midst of the Tribulation. MICHAEL AND HIS ANGELS FOUGHT AGAINST THE DRAGON (which is Satan); AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) FOUGHT (back) AND HIS ANGELS-Rev 12:7. It may be noted that Satan has angels that follow him.
    (A note of interest). The angel, Michael, is mentioned as ONE OF THE CHIEF PRINCES. He came to assist Daniel and to help him know certain things-ref Dan 10:13,14. Also note Dan 10:20. Michael is, also, mentioned as THE GREAT PRINCE WHICH STANDETH FOR THE CHILDREN OF THY PEOPLE (Israel)-Dan 12:1. Michael is called THE ARCHANGEL. He contended WITH THE DEVIL HE DISPUTED ABOUT THE BODY OF MOSES, but he did not BRING AGAINST HIM A RAILING ACCUSATION, BUT SAID, THE LORD REBUKE THEE-Jude 9. In the Revelation, Michael is shown to have angels. He fought against Satan and his angels. Michael won, Hallelujah! It appears he will be present at the Rapture-ref 1 Thes 4:16. The name Michael means, "Who is like God?"
    AND (Satan) PREVAILED NOT (he was not strong enough-NIV) (to win); NEITHER WAS THEIR PLACE FOUND ANY MORE IN HEAVEN (they lost their place in heaven-NIV)-Rev 12:8. Satan's access to heaven, from this time, is forever cut off. Up to this time, Satan has had access to heaven; as it is written, NOW THERE WAS A DAY WHEN THE SONS OF GOD CAME TO PRESENT THEMSELVES BEFORE THE LORD, AND SATAN CAME ALSO AMONG THEM. AND THE LORD SAID UNTO SATAN, WHENCE COMEST THOU? THEN SATAN ANSWERED THE LORD, AND SAID, FROM GOING TO AND FRO IN THE EARTH, AND FROM WALKING UP AND DOWN IN IT-Job 1:6,7. THE ACCUSER OF OUR BROTHERS, WHO ACCUSES THEM BEFORE OUR GOD DAY AND NIGHT, HAS BEEN HURLED DOWN-Rev 12:10 NIV.
    Verse 9 is also covering spiritual warfare and deception.
    AND THE GREAT DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS CAST (or thrown) OUT (or down), THAT OLD (or ancient) SERPENT, (also) CALLED THE DEVIL, AND SATAN (the adversary), WHICH DECEIVETH THE WHOLE WORLD (who leads the whole world astray-NIV)-Rev 12:9. At this time, Rev 9:1 may take place: I SAW A STAR FALL FROM HEAVEN. Jesus said, I BEHELD SATAN AS LIGHTNING FALL FROM HEAVEN-Lk 10:18.
    Rev 12:7,8-THE DRAGON...NEITHER WAS THEIR PLACE FOUND ANY MORE IN HEAVEN.
    Rev 12:9-THE...DRAGON WAS CAST OUT.
    Rev 12:9-HE WAS CAST OUT INTO THE EARTH.
    Rev 12:9-HIS ANGELS WERE CAST OUT WITH HIM.
    Rev 12:10-THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN IS CAST DOWN.
    Rev 12:12-WOE TO THE...EARTH. THE DEVIL IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU.
    Rev 12:13-THE DRAGON SAW THAT HE WAS CAST UNTO THE EARTH.
    Isa 14:12-Then a statement is made, HOW ART THOU FALLEN FROM HEAVEN, O LUCIFER, SON OF THE MORNING! HOW ART THOU CUT DOWN TO THE GROUND, WHICH DIDST WEAKEN THE NATIONS!

    AND I HEARD A LOUD VOICE SAYING IN HEAVEN, NOW IS COME SALVATION (or God's victory), AND STRENGTH (or power), AND THE KINGDOM OF OUR GOD (or kingship), AND THE POWER (or authority) OF HIS CHRIST (or Messiah): FOR THE ACCUSER OF OUR BRETHREN (or brothers) IS CAST (or thrown, or hurled) DOWN-Rev 12:10. The saints in heaven are rejoicing. Satan has, once and for all, been cast out of heaven. Verses 10 through 12 are taking place in heaven. The devil has been cast down; this occurs at the approximate time of the midst of the Tribulation. This gives us the timing of these three verses.
    The verse continues, WHICH ACCUSED THEM BEFORE OUR GOD DAY AND NIGHT-Rev 12:10. Satan had accused the brethren before God, day and night. The saints of all ages have undergone the slander and abusive accusations of the devil. However, Jesus our High Priest sits at the right hand of God, making intercession for the saints. Because of their faith in Jesus and through His shed blood, no accusation against the saints can reach God. For Jesus is the propitiation for the sins of the saints. As it is written, AND HE IS THE PROPITIATION FOR OUR SINS: AND NOT FOR OURS ONLY, BUT ALSO FOR THE SINS OF THE WHOLE WORLD-1 Jn 2:2. THERE IS THEREFORE NOW NO CONDEMNATION TO THEM WHICH ARE IN CHRIST JESUS, WHO WALK NOT AFTER THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT. FOR THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS HATH MADE ME FREE FROM THE LAW OF SIN AND DEATH-Ro 8:1,2. The saints are justified by the blood of the Lamb-ref Ro 5:9.
    THEREFORE REJOICE, YE HEAVENS, AND YE THAT DWELL (or live) IN THEM-Rev 12:12. There is rejoicing, because Satan has been cast down.
    Verse 12 now continues with the same thought as v.9. (But) WOE TO THE INHABITERS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE SEA! FOR THE DEVIL (the adversary) IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU, HAVING GREAT WRATH (he is very angry), BECAUSE HE KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME (he knows that his time is short!-JNT⁶⁴). God is giving the inhabitants of the earth and the sea a stern warning. "Woe." This is because the devil has been cast out of heaven. It appears he is now confined to the earth. He is very angry. He might be compared to a raging, wild animal with enormous power. He goes forth in great fury to destroy anyone that follows Jesus and rejects the Antichrist. Once Satan is cast down, he then understands that he has a short time left. That short time is approximately three and a half years. It would appear that he understands, at this point, that his imprisonment in the pit is only about twelve hundred and sixty days away. The demons also appear to know of their allotted time, as they asked Jesus, ART THOU COME HITHER TO TORMENT US BEFORE THE TIME?-Mt 8:29. The greatest slaughter of Christians, in the history of the church, is about to begin.

    The court outside the temple is given to the Gentiles for 42 months.
    It is written, AND THERE WAS GIVEN ME A REED LIKE UNTO A (measuring) ROD: AND THE ANGEL STOOD, SAYING, RISE, AND MEASURE THE TEMPLE OF GOD, AND THE ALTAR, AND (count) THEM THAT WORSHIP THEREIN-Rev 11:1. Israel has not had a temple since approximately 70 A.D. However, sometime during the first part of the Tribulation a temple will be built and sacrifices reinstituted. During the midst of the Tribulation, these sacrifices will be stopped-ref Dan 9:27, as the Antichrist will proclaim himself to be God and will move in. As it is written, HE (the Antichrist)…SITTETH IN THE TEMPLE OF GOD, SHEWING HIMSELF THAT HE IS GOD-2 Thes 2:4. John is given a measuring instrument and told to measure the temple and the altar and to count those that worship therein. "Those that worship therein" may be representing some godly Jews.
    BUT THE COURT WHICH IS WITHOUT (or outside) THE TEMPLE LEAVE OUT, AND MEASURE IT NOT; FOR IT IS GIVEN UNTO THE GENTILES-Rev 11:2. John is told not to measure the court outside the temple, for it has been given to the Gentiles. Since the temple, itself, is measured, this could be yet another indication that the Antichrist will not be a Gentile.

    Jerusalem shall be trodden under the feet of the Gentiles for 42 months.
    It is written, JERUSALEM SHALL BE TRODDEN (or trampled) DOWN OF THE GENTILES, UNTIL THE TIMES (or age) OF THE GENTILES BE FULFILLED (or run its course)-Lk 21:24.
    THE GENTILES (or Goyim, or nations): AND THE HOLY CITY SHALL THEY TREAD (or trample) UNDER FOOT FORTY AND TWO MONTHS-Rev 11:2. John is told that the Gentiles shall trample the holy city (Jerusalem) for 42 months, which represents the second part of the Tribulation. The court without and the city is given to the Gentiles or the ungodly.

    A false prophet comes forth. He is the third person of Satan's trinity. Exactly when he first appears does not seem clear in the Scriptures. He seems to first be mentioned at the midst of the Tribulation. He is portrayed as having horns like a lamb, as being innocent and harmless, but he speaks as the Antichrist does. He has all the power or authority of the Antichrist and causes people to worship the Antichrist, much as the Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus. The false prophet does great miracles or miraculous signs and makes fire to come down from heaven. Through these miracles, he deceives the people of the earth.

    It is written, AND I BEHELD ANOTHER BEAST COMING UP OUT OF THE EARTH (or land)-Rev 13:11. Some believe that "coming out of the earth" means that he comes from the land of Israel. It is possible he may be a Jew. The second beast is called a false prophet in Rev 16:13; 19:20; and 20:10. His spirit is the spirit of a devil in Rev 16:14. There is no mention of this false prophet prior to the Antichrist being killed and having his deadly wound healed. It may be said, he masquerades as light, but he is darkness. During the approximate time of the midst of the Tribulation, the Antichrist moves into the temple. This being the case, it would appear that the entire known ministry of the false prophet will be in Israel.
    The second beast, HE HAD TWO HORNS LIKE A LAMB-Rev 13:11. One would think of a lamb as being harmless. The Scriptures warn of such as this; as it is written, BEWARE OF FALSE PROPHETS, WHICH COME TO YOU IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING, BUT INWARDLY THEY ARE RAVENING WOLVES-Mt 7:15. This false prophet seemingly has the outward appearance of purity and great power, of meekness and humility as a lamb. There are varied opinions of the meaning of the two horns.
    John the Baptist said of Jesus, BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD-Jn 1:29. However, while this beast (or false prophet) may take on the appearance of a lamb, HE SPAKE AS A DRAGON-Rev 13:11. He speaks as the Antichrist. He is a counterfeit of the Holy Spirit. He is an actual person.

119-THE TRINITY OF GOD, THE TRINITY OF SATAN

    AND HE EXERCISETH ALL THE POWER (or authority) OF THE FIRST BEAST (which is the Antichrist) BEFORE HIM (or in its presence, or on his behalf), AND CAUSETH (or makes) THE EARTH AND THEM WHICH DWELL THEREIN (or its inhabitants) TO WORSHIP THE FIRST BEAST, WHOSE DEADLY (or fatal) WOUND WAS HEALED-Rev 13:12. The false prophet brings glory to the Antichrist. He causes the people of the world to worship the Antichrist. He is the third person of Satan's trinity.
    Consider the Holy Spirit. He is the third Person of the Trinity of God. It is written, HOWBEIT WHEN HE, THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH, IS COME, HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL TRUTH: FOR HE SHALL NOT SPEAK OF HIMSELF; BUT WHATSOEVER HE SHALL HEAR, THAT SHALL HE SPEAK: AND HE WILL SHOW YOU THINGS TO COME. HE SHALL GLORIFY ME: FOR HE SHALL RECEIVE OF MINE, AND SHALL SHOW IT UNTO YOU-Jn 16:13,14.
    In verse 12, once again, the deadly wound of the Antichrist is mentioned; this causes the world to be amazed. As a result, people worship the Antichrist and Satan-ref Rev 13:3,4. AND HE (the false prophet) DOETH GREAT WONDERS (or miracles, or miraculous signs), SO THAT HE MAKETH (or causing) FIRE (to) COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN ON THE EARTH IN THE SIGHT OF MEN (or as people watch, in full view of men-NIV)-Rev 13:13.
    Elijah also called down fire from heaven in the Old Testament. He also did many miracles. The Jews look for the coming of Elijah, prior to the coming of the Messiah, as a seat is left vacant for him at the Passover feast. The false prophet may also be some sort of a counterfeit Elijah or John the Baptist. John the Baptist was filled with the Spirit of God from the womb.
    AND (the false prophet) DECEIVETH THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH (or the inhabitants of the earth-NIV) BY THE MEANS OF THOSE MIRACLES (or signs) WHICH HE HAD POWER TO DO IN THE SIGHT (or on behalf) OF THE (first) BEAST (which is the Antichrist)-Rev 13:14.
    Jesus did great miracles. As a result, many believed on Him. The Antichrist will do great wonders as will the false prophet. Because of these miracles, many will be deceived and will believe that the Antichrist is the real Christ.

• Has the spirit of a devil-ref 16:13,14

• To speak as the Antichrist-ref 13:11

• To exercise the power or authority of the Antichrist-ref 13:12

• To cause the earth to worship the Antichrist-ref 13:12

• To do great wonders or miracles-ref 13:13; 19:20

• To make fire come down from heaven-ref 13:13

• To deceive the people on the earth-ref 13:14; 19:20

• To say to the people THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST-13:14

• TO GIVE LIFE UNTO THE IMAGE-13:15

• To cause ALL...TO RECEIVE A MARK-13:16

• To stop anyone from buying or selling, unless they have the mark-ref 13:17

• To go forth to gather the people to the battle of the great day, which is Armageddon-ref 16:14

    It is written, AND I BEHELD ANOTHER BEAST (this is the false prophet-ref Rev 16:13; 19:20; 20:10)…SAYING TO THEM THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH, THAT THEY SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST-Rev 13:11,14.

    The event of the "abomination of desolation," for the Jew that is born-again, can mean life or death. The Antichrist, the son of Satan, moves into the temple. Some form of an abomination is set up on a wing of the temple. It may be that the image to the beast could be placed there. People will be required to worship it or be put to death-ref Rev 13:14,15.
    Daniel mentions the sanctuary and then the ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE-Dan 11:31; 12:11. The ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION is also mentioned in Mt 24:15 and Mk 13:14. The Antichrist moving into the temple is certainly an abomination. However, setting up an image of the beast, which has Satan in it, and causing the people to worship it in the temple, God forbid! This is an abomination!
    This desolation shall continue until the complete destruction occurs. As it is written, Dan 9:27-AND FOR THE OVERSPREADING OF ABOMINATIONS HE SHALL MAKE IT DESOLATE (or on a wing [of the temple] he will set up an abomination that causes desolation-NIV) EVEN UNTIL THE CONSUMMATION (or complete destruction).

    The abomination of desolation is referred to in Dan 9:27. "AND FOR THE OVERSPREADING OF ABOMINATIONS," because of the abominations being spread (or placed) in the temple, "HE (the Antichrist) SHALL MAKE IT (the temple) DESOLATE" (or on a wing [of the temple] he will set up an abomination that causes desolation-NIV)-ref Dan 9:27; ref Mt 24:15 NIV. A different NIV translation states, AND ONE WHO CAUSES DESOLATION WILL PLACE ABOMINATIONS ON A WING OF THE TEMPLE. (Note part 5B, Dan 9:27.) This is also called the "abomination of desolation" in Mt 24:15. The temple is defiled. As it is written, THE DAILY SACRIFICE SHALL BE TAKEN AWAY, AND THE ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE SET UP-Dan 12:11.
    The false prophet shall say TO THEM (he ordered them) THAT DWELL ON THE EARTH, THAT THEY (the people) SHOULD MAKE AN IMAGE TO THE BEAST (honoring the beast). The false prophet orders the people to make some type of an image honoring the Antichrist. No description of the image is given. Some believe it might resemble the image that Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream. However, it is more likely to resemble the Antichrist himself.
    The verse continues, WHICH HAD THE WOUND BY A SWORD, AND (yet) DID LIVE (or that was struck by the sword but came alive again-JNT⁶⁵)-Rev 13:14. This is the third time the wound is mentioned.
    AND HE (the false prophet) HAD POWER TO GIVE LIFE (or breath) UNTO (or into) THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST-Rev 13:15. At this point, it appears, the image of the beast is completed. The false prophet had the power of Satan to actually give "life, breath, or spirit" to the image. The image of the Antichrist comes alive. The power of Satan will be invoked through the false prophet.
    Some believe this image is some form of a computerized robot that can speak. There is no great power or miracle needed, in this generation, to make such an object. Such things already exist.
    Nevertheless, when the Scripture tells us that the false prophet gives the image "life," it means exactly what it says. It is a supernatural event, and supernatural power is involved.
    The Antichrist is killed. People are amazed when he comes back to life. People are amazed at the great wonders and signs that are done by the false prophet. We might anticipate that people will be further terrified, amazed, and even awestruck at the image of the beast receiving life and by the awesome powers they see. Undoubtedly, they will think that this is the great power of God. They will believe that Satan is the true God and the Antichrist is the real Christ.

    The word "life" is from the Greek word "pneuma." This word means "a current of air, such as breath, even spirit; or demon, life, spirit." It is written, the false prophet HAD POWER TO GIVE LIFE UNTO THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST, THAT THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST (that is the image of the Antichrist) SHOULD (or even) BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED (or put to death)-Rev 13:15.
    The image comes alive and is able to speak. Note carefully, the image causes those that would not worship the image to be put to death. The image causes people to worship itself. The image has life. It craves worship. It desires worship so much that anyone who refuses to worship it is put to death.
   Satan craves worship. Satan is a spirit. Remember the trinity of Satan? Satan, the Antichrist, and the false prophet-ref Rev 16:13. The false prophet is directing worship to the Antichrist. The Antichrist honors Satan. The spirit of Satan appears to enter the image of the beast. The image receives life and speaks. Thus, when the verse says the image causes people to be put to death, it seems to be saying that Satan is causing the people to be put to death, because they refuse to worship him. Again, the spirit of Satan appears to occupy the image of the beast. We may say, the image itself is Satan. How it will be possible for the vast number of the world’s population to be able to worship the image, during this time, is not stated.
    By worshiping the beast and his image, the people seem to be attributing the work of God (the creation) to the devil. They appear to be acknowledging that the devil is deity.
    Nevertheless, those that follow Jesus will get the victory over Satan. As it is written, AND THEY OVERCAME (or defeated) HIM BY (or because of) THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB, AND BY (or because of) THE WORD OF THEIR TESTIMONY (or message of their witness); AND THEY LOVED NOT THEIR LIVES UNTO THE DEATH (even when facing death they did not cling to life-JNT⁶⁶). THEY DID NOT LOVE THEIR LIVES SO MUCH AS TO SHRINK FROM DEATH-Rev 12:11 NIV. It is written, Lk 9:24-FOR WHOSOEVER WILL SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT: BUT WHOSOEVER WILL LOSE HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE, THE SAME SHALL SAVE IT.

    The term "Great Tribulation" is used in Mt 24:21; Rev 2:22; and 7:14. The term "affliction" (or worst trouble) is used in Mk 13:19.
    This term seems to be referring to the second part of the Tribulation, that is, the part beginning at the "midst" of the Tribulation, the last 3 ½ years.
    Daniel 9:27 outlines the Tribulation as being seven years long. It is further shown to be divided into parts. The dividing point, evidently, is the sacrifices being stopped at the temple in Jerusalem and the abomination of desolation occurring. From this point on, the Tribulation is also called the "Great" Tribulation. The first part of the Tribulation saw at least one-fourth of the world’s population killed. The second part will see one-third or more of the remaining world’s population killed. In addition, famines or starvation, pestilences or horrible diseases, earthquakes, and many other things will continue to increase as the birth pains of a woman get worse and worse. The world conditions will be so bad that, since the beginning of the creation, there has not been such a horrible time.
    This horrible time of God’s wrath upon the earth and against the unbelievers, coupled with the furious and uncontrollable wrath of Satan against both Jewish and Gentile believers, makes this last 1260 days unparalleled since the creation. Never again, will there be such a time of both natural and supernatural plagues upon the world, terror, brutal beatings, persecutions, and martyrdom. Just how dreadful and how terrifying this time will be may be difficult to comprehend.

    It is written, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION…FLEE…FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION (or great distress), SUCH AS WAS NOT SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WORLD TO THIS TIME, NO, NOR EVER SHALL BE-Mt 24:15,16,21. (For there will be trouble then worse than there has ever been from the beginning of the world until now, and there will be nothing like it again-JNT.⁶⁷)
    FOR IN THOSE DAYS (the Great Tribulation) SHALL BE AFFLICTION (or worse trouble), SUCH AS WAS NOT FROM THE (very) BEGINNING OF THE CREATION (or the world) WHICH GOD CREATED UNTO THIS TIME, NEITHER SHALL BE (there will be nothing like it again-JNT⁶⁸)-Mk 13:19.
    BEHOLD, I WILL CAST HER INTO A BED (of suffering), AND THEM THAT COMMIT ADULTERY WITH HER INTO GREAT TRIBULATION (or suffer intensely), EXCEPT THEY REPENT OF THEIR DEEDS (or ways)-Rev 2:22.
    AND I SAID UNTO HIM, SIR, THOU KNOWEST (or you know). AND HE SAID TO ME, THESE ARE THEY WHICH CAME OUT OF (the) GREAT TRIBULATION (or great persecution), AND (they) HAVE WASHED THEIR ROBES, AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB (Jesus)-Rev 7:14.

    God tells the born-again Jews to pray that their flight be not in the winter, neither on the Sabbath Day.
    The elect of Israel, born-again Jews, are told that when they see the "abomination of desolation" that they are to flee without any hesitation of any kind. They are to flee to the mountains. They are warned not to turn back from the field. They are not to go into their house for anything. It may be cold, but they are not to even go and get a jacket. The message is clear. They are to obey God and not their emotions or desires.
    It may be said that those who are totally obedient in fleeing without hesitation, will be rewarded by being provided some method to quickly flee or fly to the place God has for them in the wilderness. They will escape and, ultimately, be protected by God for the last 42 months of the Tribulation. Those that hesitate can expect to be caught and executed unless they renounce their faith by worshiping the image. Obedience is better than sacrifice. How they shall be able to "see" the "abomination" is not covered in the Scriptures.
    Those that have children will be in a very difficult situation. If they go and get their child, they may be caught and executed. In addition, when they are fleeing, the child may slow them down, which can result in their capture. If they leave their child, they may escape with their life, but what will happen to their child?
    Consider a pregnant woman. Can she "flee" or run? And what of the husband, or wife, or person who attempts to notify someone else before they flee? They may be caught, because they delayed.
    These verses seem to imply that when the "abomination of desolation" occurs, at that very instant, there may already be police and soldiers approaching the houses of the followers of Jesus to arrest them. If a person even stops for a few minutes to consider what to do, they may be captured and destroyed. They need to understand this. They need to obey.
    This event seems to happen at the "midst" of the Tribulation. From this point on, there will be 3 1/2 years, or 42 months, or 1260 days left in the Tribulation. Persecution against the Jews and Gentiles, who follow Jesus, will be beyond anything the world has ever seen. Death lies ahead for many, as Satan will go forth in great fury to utterly destroy all the followers of Jesus.
    Again, it needs to be emphasized that the abomination of desolation seems to come as a surprise, taking place sooner than expected. It may not be possible for a person to count 1260 days from the covenant between the Antichrist and Israel and others (which begins the Tribulation). 

    BUT PRAY YE THAT YOUR FLIGHT (or escape) BE NOT (or will not take place) IN THE WINTER, NEITHER ON THE SABBATH DAY-Mt 24:20. AND PRAY YE THAT YOUR FLIGHT BE NOT IN THE WINTER-Mk 13:18.
    God answers prayer. The converted Jews are to pray that, when the time comes that they are to "flee or escape," it will not be in the winter or on the Sabbath Day. The cold of the winter could make it very difficult for them. It can also be a rainy season; rivers can rise.
    Anyone running for their life on the Sabbath could easily be spotted, because there may be very few people out and very few vehicles moving. Travel on the Sabbath can be restricted.

    It is written, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION (or abomination that causes desolation), SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STAND IN THE HOLY PLACE. The "holy place" is the temple.
    (WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND)-Mt 24:15. Note the word, "readeth." It did not say, "whoso heareth." There will be no true church during the Tribulation. Reading the Bibles that already exist will be one way a person can learn; however, anyone caught having a Bible might be arrested or even killed. It can be surmised that Bibles will be destroyed when found by those following the Antichrist. God is telling the Jew, to "understand."
    THEN LET THEM WHICH BE IN JUDAEA FLEE INTO THE MOUNTAINS (or hills): LET HIM WHICH IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE ANY THING (from) OUT OF HIS HOUSE: NEITHER LET HIM WHICH IS IN THE FIELD RETURN BACK TO TAKE HIS CLOTHES (or coat)-Mt 24:16-18.
    Again, the message is repeated in Mark's Gospel. BUT WHEN YE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION (or that causes desolation), SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STANDING WHERE IT OUGHT NOT, (LET HIM THAT READETH UNDERSTAND)-Mk 13:14. Once more, the words "readeth" and "understand" are used rather than "hearing," signifying that open preaching regarding these things may not exist at this time.
    The Scriptures seem to indicate that when this happens it will come as a surprise to the people. They will not be expecting it to happen when it does, or else they could have left a few days earlier and would not have had to "flee" for their lives. There seems to be no way for them to determine the number of days from the covenant of Dan 9:27, so that they would know when this event was to take place. 
    AND LET HIM THAT IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT GO DOWN INTO THE HOUSE, NEITHER ENTER THEREIN, he must not (go down or enter the house-NIV), TO TAKE ANY THING OUT OF HIS HOUSE: AND LET HIM THAT IS IN THE FIELD NOT TURN BACK AGAIN FOR TO TAKE UP HIS GARMENT (or coat)-Mk 13:15,16.
    IN THAT DAY, HE WHICH SHALL BE UPON THE HOUSETOP, AND HIS STUFF (or belongings) IN THE HOUSE, LET HIM NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE IT AWAY: AND HE THAT IS IN THE FIELD, LET HIM LIKEWISE NOT RETURN BACK (for anything). REMEMBER LOT’S WIFE. Lot’s wife hesitated. She looked back and died. WHOSOEVER SHALL SEEK (or tries) TO SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT. A person may seek to save his own life, but, in doing so, he disobeys God in some way. That hesitation or disobedience to God, by trying to save his own life, may cause him to lose his life. AND WHOSOEVER SHALL LOSE HIS LIFE SHALL PRESERVE IT-Lk 17:31-33. The person that loses his life for Jesus shall keep it for eternity. It may also be said, who ever will "die" to his own desires, or deny himself, shall preserve his life for eternity.
    AND WOE (or how dreadful it will be-NIV) UNTO THEM THAT ARE WITH CHILD (or for pregnant women), AND TO THEM THAT GIVE SUCK (or nursing mothers) IN THOSE DAYS!-Mt 24:19.
    BUT WOE (or what a terrible time, or how dreadful) TO THEM THAT ARE WITH CHILD (or pregnant), AND TO THEM THAT GIVE SUCK (or nursing mothers) IN THOSE DAYS!-Mk 13:17.

    Consider the other group. This is the group that has a thought or hears a voice such as, "Surely, there will be no harm to delay just one minute to grab a coat, or a pair of shoes, or a quick snack. It will only take a few seconds." But that short delay will, undoubtedly, cost them their lives. They grab a shirt and then flee. However, they are just a bit behind the faithful and obedient group. When the special way comes from God that enables the obedient group to fly into the wilderness, this group is just a bit too late—they miss the flight.
    It is like the person that knows their airplane is about to leave, but they run down to the bathroom just for a moment. They then run back to the airplane, only to find that the door has been closed, and it is pulling out. They may have been only a few seconds too late.

    Satan is cast to the earth. He is enraged. The abomination of desolation occurs. Those in Judea are told to flee into the mountains. The elect flee for their lives.
    At the time that the obedient elect flee, a series of events begin to take place. The Bible does not specify where they will ultimately be going. Some speculate that it will be Petra.
    God enables them to flee fast; this appears to be symbolized by the "TWO WINGS OF A GREAT EAGLE"-Rev 12:14. As they flee, Satan evidently speaks, and a flood of water rushes after those fleeing, so that they might be carried away and killed by the flood. However, God opens up the earth, and the flood is swallowed up. The elect escape to the wilderness where God has a place prepared for them. For the next 1260 days, God will feed and sustain them. The length of time God will take care of them seems to correspond with the length of time the Antichrist is allowed to continue.
    Satan is absolutely infuriated that these escaped. He goes forth to destroy those who did not escape, those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

    AND WHEN THE DRAGON (which is Satan) SAW THAT HE WAS CAST (or hurled) UNTO THE EARTH, HE PERSECUTED THE WOMAN (or he pursued the woman-NIV, which is Israel) WHICH BROUGHT FORTH THE MAN CHILD (Jesus)-Rev 12:13. Satan pursues and persecutes Israel.
    It is written, WHEN YE THEREFORE SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, SPOKEN OF BY DANIEL THE PROPHET, STAND IN THE HOLY PLACE, (WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND:) THEN LET THEM WHICH BE IN JUDAEA FLEE INTO THE MOUNTAINS: LET HIM WHICH IS ON THE HOUSETOP NOT COME DOWN TO TAKE ANY THING OUT OF HIS HOUSE: NEITHER LET HIM WHICH IS IN THE FIELD RETURN BACK TO TAKE HIS CLOTHES. FOR THEN SHALL BE GREAT TRIBULATION, SUCH AS WAS NOT SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE WORLD TO THIS TIME, NO, NOR EVER SHALL BE-Mt 24:15-18,21; ref Mk 13:14-19; Ezek 20:35.

    As Israel is fleeing for her life, THE SERPENT (which is Satan) CAST (or spewed) OUT OF HIS MOUTH WATER AS A FLOOD (or river) AFTER (or to overtake) THE WOMAN, THAT HE MIGHT CAUSE HER TO BE CARRIED (or sweep her) AWAY OF THE FLOOD (or torrent)-Rev 12:15. A flood is mentioned, and then the kind of flood is actually specified. It is a flood of water. How it comes forth is also stated. The flood and water, here, are not believed to be symbolic but an actual flood of water. Satan speaks the words that a flood of water should come forth to swallow up and drown those fleeing. This is what it means when it says that Satan should "cast out of his mouth water." It is even as when Elijah called down fire from heaven. The words came out of his mouth, and the fire came down.
    There may be an army also trying to catch the fleeing Jews, which will be close behind them. Those that disobeyed God and went to get some things, first, can expect to be caught.
    AND THE EARTH HELPED THE WOMAN (or the land came to her rescue-JNT⁶⁹), AND THE EARTH OPENED HER MOUTH, AND SWALLOWED UP THE FLOOD (or river) WHICH THE DRAGON (which is Satan) CAST (or spewed) OUT OF HIS MOUTH-Rev 12:16. Satan caused the flood of water to come forth to drown the fleeing Israelis. However, as the water was about to overtake them, the earth opened up, and the flood of water went down into the earth or it was swallowed up. Thus, the remnant of Israel that obeyed God and ran as He had commanded them escape to the place that God had ordained; there they will be under the protection of God for the last 1260 days. Such a miracle as the earth opening up also happened in the days of Moses. It is written, AND THE EARTH OPENED HER MOUTH, AND SWALLOWED THEM UP-Num 16:32; ref Num 16:27-35.
    As already mentioned, some believe the place they will flee to will be Petra. Petra, located in Edom, is a fortress which has buildings built into the rock cliffs. It has a narrow entrance way that opens up into a large canyon. Some believe the flood that will come to carry them away will be from the Jordan River, which is east of Jerusalem. Jordan lies on the other side, and Petra is in Jordan. Scriptures do seem to indicate that this is possible; however, Petra is not specifically mentioned as the place that God will lead them to. Only the Lord knows for sure.

    Israel is commanded to flee fast. AND TO THE WOMAN WERE GIVEN TWO WINGS OF A GREAT EAGLE, THAT SHE MIGHT FLY INTO THE WILDERNESS, INTO "HER PLACE" (to the place prepared for her in the desert-NIV)-Rev 12:14. The wings of a great eagle would be symbolic of something large and would also indicate speed. In some manner, which is not made clear, God is going to enable those of Israel that keep the commandments of God to quickly escape or even fly to the place which God has for her. Through God's divine intervention, those that have the testimony of Jesus Christ will sense, or somehow know, in which direction to go. They have been forewarned by God's Word when to flee. As it is written in Mt 24:15-WHOSO READETH, LET HIM UNDERSTAND.
    THE WOMAN (which is Israel) FLED INTO THE WILDERNESS (or desert), WHERE SHE HATH A PLACE PREPARED OF GOD, THAT THEY SHOULD FEED HER THERE (or where she might be taken care of-NIV) (for) A THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREESCORE DAYS (or 1260 days)-Rev 12:6. Thus, Israel goes to her place, WHERE SHE IS NOURISHED (or taken care of) FOR A TIME, AND TIMES, AND HALF A TIME (or for a season and two seasons and half a season-JNT,⁷⁰ or 3 ½ years), FROM THE FACE OF THE SERPENT (or out of the serpent's reach-NIV)-Rev 12:14. The term "time" means one year. The term "times" means two years. The term "half a time" means one-half of a year. Thus, 1 year + 2 years + 1/2 a year equals 3 1/2 years. Three interchangeable terms are used in the Scriptures denoting the last part of the Tribulation. They are 3 ½ years, 1260 days, or 42 months.
    It is written, THE THIRD SHALL BE LEFT THEREIN-Zech 13:8; ref verse 9. We might expect that the number which will escape could be one-third of Israel.
    AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS WROTH (or infuriated, or enraged, or we might say, insanely mad) WITH THE WOMAN (which is Israel), AND WENT TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH THE REMNANT (or the rest) OF HER SEED (or children, or offspring), WHICH KEEP (or obey) THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE (or hold to) THE TESTIMONY (or bear witness) OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua)-Rev 12:17.
    It is written, THE LORD ALSO WILL BE A REFUGE FOR THE OPPRESSED, A REFUGE IN TIMES OF TROUBLE. AND THEY THAT KNOW THY NAME WILL PUT THEIR TRUST IN THEE: FOR THOU, LORD, HAST NOT FORSAKEN THEM THAT SEEK THEE-Ps 9:9,10.

    The false prophet causes all people to receive a mark, or the name of the Antichrist, or the number of the Antichrist's name, in or on their right hand or forehead. Anyone that refuses to take the mark will not be able to buy or sell. It appears that people will not be able to trade or make any kind of a financial transaction.
    The number of the name of the Antichrist is 666.
    What a temptation it will be as the people come face to face with choosing either death or worshiping the image of the beast. What a temptation it will be to have a newborn baby starving in the mother's arms. The mother cannot buy or sell. Will the mother watch her baby slowly starve to death or give in and take the mark?
    Consider, people will not be able to buy food for themselves or their families, neither gasoline, clothes, or anything. They may not be able to make payments of any kind. This may include their taxes, mortgage or rent on their house, electric, utilities, and auto payments. They will not be able to trade, buy, or sell anything. A person might not be able to receive his wages without the mark.
    It is written, HERE IS WISDOM (this is where wisdom is needed-JNT⁷¹). LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING (or insight) (should) COUNT (or calculate) THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST: FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN (or person); AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX (or 666)-Rev 13:18.
    This number has been calculated by many Bible scholars. Apparently, the Holy Spirit has not yet given us the understanding of who "666" (or 600 60 6) is.
    Many maintain that the number representing man is 6.
    The number of the name of the Antichrist is 666.
    Many maintain that God’s number is 7.
    Those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life will get the victory over HIS MARK, AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME-Rev 15:2.
    The purpose of the mark is THAT NO MAN MIGHT BUY OR SELL (or preventing anyone from buying or selling-JNT⁷²), SAVE (or unless) HE THAT HAD

• THE MARK, OR (that is, or which is)

• THE NAME OF THE BEAST,

• OR THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME-Rev 13:17.

    Three items are mentioned here. However, some translations appear to limit it to two items by saying that the "mark" is the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Rev 15:2 mentions two, as it is written, HIS MARK, AND…THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME. It is possible there could be two or three types of a mark. If so, each could have a particular purpose. Remember, the Scriptures have said that the Antichrist comes in his own name.
    A system that could be used for such a thing is already partially in place in many areas. As of the time this book is written, many stores use scanners to ring up purchases. On most items a person may buy, there is a bar code. This Universal Products Code contains the number 6-6-6. At the time this book is being written, the center bars and two end bars represent the number 6. Even in India and Africa, these bar codes appear on products. It can be expected that even the remote market places in Africa will come under this system during the Tribulation. 
    Some believe that many transactions may, in some way, go through a giant computer. Such computers do exist today. The speed and amount of information that computers are able to process seems to be increasing at an incredible rate. Indeed, technology is advancing rapidly.
    It is possible that the world will come under a global money or credit system and the use of money, as we know it today, may disappear. It may be that all financial transactions will be done by some other method, which is related to the mark. Various forms of computer chips and other types of marks are already being experimented with that can go on top of the skin or even implanted beneath the skin.
    It is possible that when a person goes to buy something, their right hand or forehead will be scanned with a special scanner, then the transaction can take place. The EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) system is operational in many places. Such organizations as the Trilateral Commission are already at work. The number of things leading to this one-world system, which are unknown to most people, is incredible.
    Exactly how this will all come about is not made clear by God's Word. What is clear is, if a person does not take the mark, they cannot buy or sell anything. This system will continue for approximately 3 1/2 years, through the end of the Tribulation.
    HERE IS WISDOM (this is where wisdom is needed-JNT⁷³). LET HIM THAT HATH UNDERSTANDING (or insight) (should) COUNT (or calculate) THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST: FOR IT IS THE NUMBER OF A MAN (or person); AND HIS NUMBER IS SIX HUNDRED THREESCORE AND SIX (or 666)-Rev 13:18.

    There will be a one-world religion.
   There will be a one-world government.
   There will be a one-world economic system. Even while these things are being written, as we watch world events, this is the direction that the world is heading in these latter days.

    The reward for being deceived, and taking the mark, and worshiping the image is as follows. The person can buy and sell during the second part of the Tribulation. The person will not be persecuted, ridiculed, beaten, or put in prison for following Jesus. The person will not have to flee to keep from being beheaded.
    However, even taking the mark and worshiping the image will not keep many of these people from being killed as the end of the Tribulation approaches. This is because one-third of the world's population will be killed. Neither will it protect them when the multitude of plagues come upon the earth. The end result of being deceived, taking the mark, and worshiping the image is the eternal lake of fire.

    AND THE BEAST…AND…THE FALSE PROPHET…DECEIVED THEM THAT HAD RECEIVED THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND THEM THAT WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE-Rev 19:20.
    AND THE FIRST (angel) WENT, AND POURED OUT HIS VIAL UPON THE EARTH; AND THERE FELL A NOISOME AND GRIEVOUS SORE UPON THE MEN WHICH HAD THE MARK OF THE BEAST, AND UPON THEM WHICH WORSHIPED HIS IMAGE-Rev 16:2.

    The 144,000 male, virgin Jews should be warning people, in advance, about taking the mark and worshiping the image during the first part of the Tribulation.
    The two witnesses of God should be warning the people about taking the mark and worshiping the image during the second part of the Tribulation.
    Those that read God's Word should be warned about taking the mark and worshiping the image from the Book of the Revelation. In addition, there will be other ways that people can expect to be warned.
    The warnings are terrifying. For those that receive the mark and worship the image, God's wrath will be upon them. Ultimately, they shall be tormented with fire and brimstone for eternity. They will never have any rest from their suffering. There will never be any hope of escape. There will never be any parole. Their loved ones that are in heaven will not remember them, but it appears they will remember all things. The smoke of their torment will ascend up for ever and ever.

    It is written, AND THE THIRD ANGEL FOLLOWED THEM, SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE. The message is to be proclaimed loudly, so that all can hear. That clear message is, IF ANY MAN WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND RECEIVE HIS MARK IN (or on) HIS FOREHEAD, OR IN (or on) HIS HAND, THE SAME SHALL DRINK OF THE WINE OF THE WRATH (or fury) OF GOD, WHICH IS POURED OUT WITHOUT MIXTURE (or undiluted, or full strength) INTO THE CUP OF HIS INDIGNATION (or rage, or wrath)-Rev 14:9,10.
    Those who choose to ignore God's warning, God is clearly and loudly telling them, His full wrath (or fury) shall be poured into the cup of His rage (or wrath). Then these people will have to drink of the full, undiluted contents of this cup.
    These people SHALL BE TORMENTED WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE (or sulfur)-Rev 14:10. Regarding the degrees or severity of punishment for eternity, these can be expected to receive the most severe punishment possible. These should receive the same punishment as the Antichrist, false prophet, and Satan himself. 
    The verse continues, IN THE PRESENCE OF (or before) THE HOLY ANGELS, AND IN THE PRESENCE OF (or before) THE LAMB-Rev 14:10.
    Consider, the loud voice seems to indicate that every person will know this message, before he worships the beast and his image and receives the mark. The false prophet will deceive the world by his miracles. However, the two prophets of God will prove they are the true ones of God, as no one, including the false prophet and the Antichrist, will be able to stop or overcome them until their ministry is finished (after 1260 days).
    It may be compared to Moses and Aaron in Egypt. AARON CAST DOWN HIS ROD BEFORE PHARAOH...IT BECAME A SERPENT. THE MAGICIANS OF EGYPT, THEY ALSO DID IN LIKE MANNER-Ex 7:10,11. From this, the people might have wondered who was really of God. But then, AARON'S ROD SWALLOWED UP THEIR RODS-Ex 7:12. This left no doubt that Moses and Aaron were of God, and the magicians were not. Yet they still did not believe.
    Thus, verses 9 and 10, serve as both an example and a vital warning. However, during the Tribulation, when the Lord sends forth an unmistakably clear warning, most of the earth will choose to ignore and not believe what He says. Though they choose not to believe, God’s Word does, indeed, come to pass—just as it is written. During the Tribulation, this is the unpardonable sin.
    AND THE SMOKE OF THEIR TORMENT ASCENDETH (or goes, or rises) UP FOR EVER AND EVER: AND THEY HAVE NO REST DAY NOR NIGHT. These are those WHO WORSHIP THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE, AND WHOSOEVER RECEIVETH THE MARK OF HIS NAME-Rev 14:11.

    Those that refuse to take the mark will not be able to buy or sell. It will be almost impossible for them to survive during the second part of the Tribulation.
    Those that refuse to worship the image of the beast will, undoubtedly, have to flee for their lives. If they are caught, they can expect to be persecuted, beaten, and ultimately beheaded. Many will be betrayed by their close friends, their relatives, even their own children or parents. In being killed, however, they will get the victory. They shall have eternal life with Jesus. They shall return with Jesus, at the time of Armageddon, in their new spiritual bodies and shall reign and rule with Jesus for one thousand years. They will forever be with the Lord. They will never have any more tears.
    A few will manage to escape, by the grace of God, and will survive. These will go into the Millennium and will begin to repopulate the earth.

    It is written,
    Rev 15:2-AND I SAW AS IT WERE A SEA OF GLASS MINGLED WITH FIRE: AND THEM THAT HAD GOTTEN THE VICTORY

• OVER THE BEAST,

• AND OVER HIS IMAGE,

• AND OVER HIS MARK,

• AND OVER THE NUMBER OF HIS NAME, STAND ON THE SEA OF GLASS, HAVING THE HARPS OF GOD. Rev 20:4-AND I SAW THRONES, AND THEY SAT UPON THEM, AND JUDGMENT WAS GIVEN UNTO THEM: AND I SAW THE SOULS OF THEM THAT WERE BEHEADED

• FOR THE WITNESS OF JESUS,

• AND FOR THE WORD OF GOD,

• AND WHICH HAD NOT WORSHIPED THE BEAST,

• NEITHER HIS IMAGE,

• NEITHER HAD RECEIVED HIS MARK UPON THEIR FOREHEADS, OR IN (or on) THEIR HANDS; AND THEY LIVED AND REIGNED WITH CHRIST A THOUSAND YEARS. These were killed, but they had gotten the victory.

    Mt 25:32-34-AND BEFORE HIM (Jesus) SHALL BE GATHERED ALL NATIONS: AND HE SHALL SEPARATE THEM ONE FROM ANOTHER, AS A SHEPHERD DIVIDETH HIS SHEEP FROM THE GOATS: AND HE SHALL SET THE SHEEP ON HIS RIGHT HAND, BUT THE GOATS ON THE LEFT. THEN SHALL THE KING SAY UNTO THEM ON HIS RIGHT HAND, COME, YE BLESSED OF MY FATHER, INHERIT THE KINGDOM PREPARED FOR YOU FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD. These followed Jesus and survived the Tribulation. These will go into the Millennium.

    The second part of the Tribulation begins with the temple sacrifices being stopped and the abomination of desolation occurring. 
    Many events will be going on at the same time. Satan is infuriated that he was cast down to the earth and the elect Jews escaped. He, the Antichrist, and the false prophet have one mind. They wish to exterminate every living Christian, both Jew and Gentile, from the face of the earth. Throughout the earth, all that refuse to take the mark can no longer buy or sell. All that will not worship the image of the beast are to be beheaded. Persecutions, beatings, imprisonment, and martyrdom await most, who profess that Jesus is the Christ. A great multitude will be slaughtered for their faith in Jesus. However, many will renounce their faith when persecuted and beaten. Many will turn from their faith when they are starving. Many will renounce their faith when their children are starving or being tortured in order to save them. Many will give in and worship the Antichrist rather than lose their head.
    It may be said, when people are about to be beheaded, they could be facing upward, looking at the guillotine before the blade comes down. Why might this be? Satan and the Antichrist want their worship. They want them to give in and forsake their faith in Jesus. They can be expected to do everything possible to deceive the people or, if necessary, to force them to acknowledge that the Antichrist is really God.
    Brother will betray brother and children will betray their parents, even causing them to be put to death. Parents will betray their children. Relatives and friends will betray each other.
    The Antichrist continues to blaspheme the God of heaven.
    The two witnesses of God go forth to shut off the rain so that it does not rain during the 1260 days of their ministry. They bring all sorts of plagues upon the earth as God's wrath is poured out.
    As the end of the Tribulation approaches, the outpouring of the last seven vials of God's wrath are about to begin.

    The Jews that hesitated in fleeing, when they saw the abomination of desolation, may now be caught. Satan makes war with them. They will be persecuted and beaten; should they refuse to worship the image of the beast, they can expect to be killed by having their head removed. All who profess Jesus as their Lord and Savior shall suffer. The Antichrist sets out to destroy the mighty and the holy people.
    It is written, AND THE DRAGON (which is Satan) WAS WROTH (or infuriated, or enraged, or we might say, insanely mad) WITH THE WOMAN (which is Israel), AND WENT TO MAKE WAR (or fight) WITH THE REMNANT (or the rest) OF HER SEED (or children, or offspring), WHICH KEEP (or obey) THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD, AND HAVE (or hold to) THE TESTIMONY (or bear witness) OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua)-Rev 12:17.
    AND HE (the Antichrist)…SHALL DESTROY THE MIGHTY (men) AND THE HOLY PEOPLE (which is Israel)-Dan 8:24.

    This falling away from the faith, or departing from the faith, continues as birth pains throughout the Tribulation. During the Tribulation, many will come to faith in Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, many will turn away from Jesus because of fear, or offenses, or deception, or the threat of persecutions, beatings, imprisonment, or other such devices that Satan uses—including death.
    It is written, AND THEN SHALL MANY BE OFFENDED (or trapped) (at that time many will turn away from the faith-NIV)-Mt 24:10.
    Those that persevere, resist the temptations to worship the image or the beast, resist the mark or the number of his name, hold firm in the faith, endure to the end, keep the faith, stand steadfast, finish the race, and die in faith, will ultimately be with Jesus.

    Those that choose to follow Jesus will not be able to trust anyone. Betrayal shall become a common occurrence. A person may think they are safe hiding out with a brother or friend, but are not. A parent may think their children will not betray them, but they shall. Hate will abound-ref Mt 24:9,10. These verses apply to the first part of the Tribulation; however, as birth pains, they will progressively get worse into the second part of the Tribulation.
    It is written, AND THE BROTHER SHALL DELIVER UP THE BROTHER TO DEATH, AND THE FATHER THE CHILD: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL RISE UP AGAINST THEIR PARENTS, AND CAUSE THEM TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Mt 10:21.
    NOW THE BROTHER SHALL BETRAY THE BROTHER TO DEATH, AND THE FATHER THE SON; AND CHILDREN SHALL RISE UP AGAINST THEIR PARENTS, AND SHALL CAUSE THEM TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Mk 13:12.
    AND YE SHALL BE BETRAYED BOTH BY PARENTS, AND BRETHREN, AND KINSFOLKS, AND FRIENDS; AND SOME OF YOU SHALL THEY CAUSE TO BE PUT TO DEATH-Lk 21:16.

    It is written, THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BOTH SPEAK, AND CAUSE THAT AS MANY AS WOULD NOT WORSHIP THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST SHOULD BE KILLED-Rev 13:15.

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