“FEAR GOD AND GIVE GLORY TO HIM, FOR THE HOUR OF HIS JUDGMENT IS COME: AND WORSHIP HIM THAT MADE HEAVEN, AND EARTH, AND THE SEA, AND THE FOUNTAINS OF WATERS.” — REVELATION 14:7, KJV

ABSTRACT

In this discourse, the author juxtaposes modern technological advancements like facial recognition with enduring biblical prophecies from Revelation and Daniel, framing the mark of the beast and the seal of God as invisible yet profound symbols of ultimate loyalty in the cosmic conflict between Christ and Satan over worship. Drawing on Ellen G. White’s writings and Scripture, the text identifies the beast as an apostate religious system allied with civil power, specifically the papacy, as recognized by Protestant Reformers, which enforces a counterfeit Sabbath (Sunday) as its mark of authority through mental assent or outward conformity. In contrast, God’s seal, embodied in the seventh-day Sabbath, signifies intellectual and spiritual commitment to the Creator’s law, reflecting His love, grace, and invitation to true rest rather than coercion. The narrative traces the origins of these opposing powers through historical kingdoms, emphasizes the Sabbath as the pivotal test of allegiance amid impending economic and spiritual penalties, and urges readers to fulfill responsibilities toward God through obedient discipleship and toward neighbors by proclaiming the everlasting gospel. Ultimately, it calls for an irrevocable choice: conforming to the beast’s image via human traditions or being transformed into Christ’s image through faith, obedience, and consecration, as the door of probation nears closure.

THE WAR OVER WORSHIP IS NOW

In this very hour, as technology races ahead, bringing with it wonders like facial recognition that can unlock our digital lives with a mere glance, we might be tempted to see the biblical prophecies of “marks” and “seals” as relics of a bygone era. Yet, beloved friends, prophecy has a way of sharpening its focus as we approach the climax of earth’s history. The final conflict will not hinge on the sophistication of biometric scans, but on the deepest allegiance of our hearts. Revelation unveils two profound, though invisible, identifiers: the mark of the beast and the seal of God. These are not abstract theological concepts; they are the ultimate signs of loyalty in the unfolding drama of the war over worship. Sr. White confirms this in her writings: “The issue of receiving the mark of the beast or the seal of God involves eternal interests, and every soul must decide for himself” (The Great Controversy, p. 605, 1888). The urgency of this choice is clear, as it determines our eternal destiny in the great controversy between Christ and Satan. To guide us, Scripture provides clear direction: “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6, KJV). Additionally, we are reminded, “Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters” (Revelation 14:7, KJV). Sr. White further elaborates: “The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especially controverted” (The Great Controversy, p. 605, 1888). Let us delve into their meaning, their origin, and the urgent choice that stands before each one of us before the door of probation closes forever. What are the origins of these opposing powers, and how do they shape the kingdoms of this world?

OF BEASTS AND BLASPHEMY: KINGS OR KINGDOMS?

While the world marvels at software that can identify us through the unique contours of our faces, prophecy directs our gaze towards the rise and fall of earthly empires. In the book of Daniel, chapter 7, verse 17, we find a crucial key: “These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.” But these “kings,” my brothers and sisters, are more than individual rulers; they symbolize successive kingdoms that would dominate the stage of history. The lion, the bear, the leopard, and the indescribable dreadful beast that Daniel saw each represented a powerful political entity—Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and finally, Rome—which in its later form would evolve into a persecuting religious power. Revelation echoes this imagery in chapter 13, verses 1 and 2, depicting a beast rising out of the sea, resembling a leopard, with the feet of a bear, the mouth of a lion, and receiving its power from the dragon. This beast, dear friends, is not some mythical creature, but a system of apostate religion intertwined with civil authority. Sr. White confirms this understanding: “The beast represents a form of apostate religion, allied to civil power” (The Great Controversy, p. 439, 1888). Scripture further illuminates this: “And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition” (Revelation 17:11, KJV). Additionally, “And the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority” (Revelation 13:2, KJV). Sr. White adds, “The papacy is just what prophecy declared that she would be, the apostasy of the latter times” (The Great Controversy, p. 49, 1888). “The beast with two horns is also to cause all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads” (The Great Controversy, p. 441, 1888). Contrast this with the kingdom of our Lord, which is built not on coercion or worldly might, but on the foundation of love, truth, and the free will of humankind. How did the reformers uncover the identity of this beast power?

FROM PROTEST TO PROPHECY: WHO IDENTIFIED THE BEAST?

Just as facial recognition technology identifies individuals, spiritual discernment, guided by history and the Word of God, helps us recognize the forces at play in the prophetic landscape. The great Protestant Reformers, those courageous souls who stood against the tide of tradition and error, did not need sophisticated digital tools to identify the antichrist. Through their diligent study of Scripture, they recognized the characteristics of the power described in 2 Thessalonians chapter 2 and Revelation chapter 13, and they boldly declared that the papacy fulfilled these prophecies. Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox, and Roger Williams, among others, fearlessly pointed to the Roman Catholic Church as the antichrist power. John Wesley unequivocally stated, “He is it that exalts himself above all that is called God” (Works of Wesley, vol. 10, p. 106). These were not words born of malice, but cries from the heart of reformers who yearned for the purity of the gospel. Sr. White reminds us that while the Roman Church may present a more appealing image today, its fundamental nature remains unchanged: “The Roman Church now presents a fair front to the world, covering up her record of cruelties. She has clothed herself in Christlike garments; but she is unchanged” (The Great Controversy, p. 571, 1888). The Scriptures confirm this discernment: “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition” (2 Thessalonians 2:3, KJV). Furthermore, “Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God” (2 Thessalonians 2:4, KJV). Sr. White adds, “The papacy has attempted to change the law of God, setting itself above God” (The Desire of Ages, p. 763, 1898). “Prophecy has declared that the papacy was to exalt itself above all that is called God” (Selected Messages, Book 2, p. 105, 1958). The true antithesis of Christ is not always blatant evil; it often manifests as a subtle substitution of human authority and tradition for the direct commands of God. What distinguishes the mark of the beast from the seal of God in this conflict?

A SEAL OR A BRAND? WORSHIP IN THE FOREHEAD OR THE HAND

The world is increasingly moving towards systems of universal identification and control, but heaven is preparing a people whose loyalty is anchored in eternity. Revelation chapter 14, verses 9 and 10, warns us solemnly about receiving a mark “in the forehead, or in the hand.” This mark, beloved, is not a literal tattoo or implant; it symbolizes either mental acceptance of, or outward conformity to, the dictates of the beast power. In stark contrast, Revelation chapter 7, verse 3, speaks of God’s servants being “sealed…in their foreheads.” This seal, Sr. White explains, is far more than a superficial sign; it signifies “a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 4, p. 243). The beast’s mark represents allegiance to human traditions and commandments, while God’s seal signifies unwavering obedience to His divine law. Just as modern biometric IDs confirm our earthly identity, the Sabbath, instituted by God at creation, confirms whose we are: “Moreover also I gave them my sabbaths, to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them” (Ezekiel 20:12, KJV). Scripture further emphasizes, “And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God” (Ezekiel 20:20, KJV). Additionally, “Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you” (Exodus 31:13, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The Sabbath is a sign of the power of God to recreate the heart” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 336, 1890). “The seal of God’s law is found in the fourth commandment” (Selected Messages, Book 3, p. 423, 1980). This sacred sign in the very heart of God’s law distinguishes those who worship the Creator from those who give homage to a human institution. Why does the Sabbath hold such significance in this cosmic conflict?

SUNDAY VS. SABBATH: THE REAL LINE IN THE SAND

While technological advancements like Amazon’s payment systems might replace physical wallets, the beast power seeks to replace the very commandments of God. The core of the final conflict revolves around the issue of worship, and the seventh-day Sabbath, established by God as a memorial of creation, stands as His appointed sign of authority. Revelation chapter 13, verses 16 and 17, ominously foretell an economic penalty for those who refuse to receive the mark, strongly suggesting a future universal Sunday law, which the beast claims as its sign of power. The Catholic Church itself openly acknowledges this change: “Sunday is our mark of authority… the church is above the Bible, and this transference of Sabbath observance is proof of that fact” (Catholic Record, Sept. 1, 1923). Sr. White powerfully echoes this truth: “The change of the Sabbath is the sign or mark of the authority of the Roman Church. Those who, understanding the claims of the fourth commandment, choose to observe the false sabbath in the place of the true, are thereby paying homage to that power by which alone the change was made” (The Great Controversy, p. 448, 1888). The Bible reinforces this: “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8, KJV). Additionally, “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it” (Exodus 20:11, KJV). Sr. White further states, “The Sabbath is a golden clasp that unites God and His people” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 351, 1901). “Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully” (Early Writings, p. 71, 1882). True worship, dear friends, is not a matter of convenience or popular opinion; it is about heartfelt allegiance to the Creator of the universe and obedience to His holy commandments. How does this conflict reflect the love of God?

HOW DO THESE CONCEPTS REFLECT GOD’S LOVE?

God’s seal is not an act of divine surveillance, but a profound symbol of His saving grace and love. While the beast power seeks to enforce worship through fear, coercion, and deception, our loving God invites us to worship Him freely, based on truth and understanding. “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15, KJV). His seal, the Sabbath, is a testament to His creative power and a standing invitation to enter into a covenant of rest and communion with Him. Sr. White beautifully explains this: “The keeping of the Sabbath is not a mere outward form of obedience; it means eternal life to keep the Sabbath holy unto the Lord. It is a sign of loyalty to God, a sign that we acknowledge His sovereignty and His authority” (Evangelism, p. 236). The Bible affirms, “And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not” (Isaiah 58:11, KJV). Additionally, “If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words” (Isaiah 58:13, KJV). Sr. White adds, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath” (The Desire of Ages, p. 288, 1898). “God’s love is revealed in His law as well as in His gospel” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 364, 1890). The very Creator who intricately fashioned our faces in the womb now calls us to reflect His divine character in our lives through willing obedience. The seal of God is the indelible imprint of divine love upon the heart that chooses to obey Him out of faith and gratitude for His boundless grace. What responsibilities do these truths place upon us toward God?

In the face of such momentous truths, neutrality is not an option. To hesitate in obedience is to risk being swept away by the tide of deception. “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (James 4:17, KJV). If we understand that the seventh-day Sabbath is the seal of God, a sign of our allegiance to Him as Creator and Redeemer, then we have a solemn responsibility to honor it, not as a mere legalistic requirement, but as an expression of our love and loyalty. Sr. White wisely counsels us: “Those who would share the benefits of the Saviour’s mediation should permit nothing to interfere with their duty to perfect holiness in the fear of God. They should prize the heavenly gift above every earthly attraction” (The Great Controversy, p. 488, 1888). The Scriptures further admonish, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22, KJV). Additionally, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “Obedience is the test of discipleship” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 563, 1911). “The Sabbath is a sign of obedience and loyalty to God” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 138, 1882). As the beast power rises with its deceptive claims and alluring promises, we must rise in steadfast faith and unwavering obedience, choosing to honor the Creator above the creature and His eternal law above the traditions of men. How do these truths shape our duties toward our neighbors?

We cannot, in good conscience, remain silent while millions around us are being subtly led into error, unknowingly receiving the mark of the beast. As bearers of the everlasting gospel, we have a sacred duty to lovingly share the truth, even when it is unpopular or met with resistance. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins” (Isaiah 58:1, KJV). Sharing the truth about the mark of the beast and the seal of God is not an act of condemnation, but an act of profound love and compassion for our fellow human beings. Sr. White passionately urges us: “The last message of mercy is to be given to a guilty world. This is the message that is to lighten the earth with its glory. It is to be proclaimed by every follower of Christ. When He ascended to heaven, Christ gave His disciples their work. He told them that they were to be witnesses for Him in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. His disciples were to make known what they had seen and heard of Christ. They were to open the Scriptures to those who were in darkness, and present the truth in its simplicity” (Testimonies to Ministers, p. 231). The Bible supports this mission: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19, KJV). Additionally, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14, KJV). Sr. White further instructs, “We are to give the warning message to the world, that they may be without excuse” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 19, 1909). “The truth must be proclaimed to prepare a people for the coming of the Lord” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 415, 1900). The call to come out of Babylon is not merely a prophetic symbol; it is a heartfelt plea to rescue souls from the impending judgments. If we truly love our neighbors as ourselves, we will earnestly and prayerfully share these vital truths with them, urging them to flee from the coming storm. What ultimate choice do we face in this great controversy?

THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST OR THE IMAGE OF CHRIST?

Whether it manifests as a convenient selfie scan at a checkout counter or a nationally mandated Sunday decree, the ultimate test we face is not technological, but deeply theological. Will we choose to worship the image of human authority, or will we strive to reflect the very image of our Creator? Will we conform to the traditions of a fallen system, or will we be transformed by the eternal truth of heaven? These are not distant possibilities; they are rapidly approaching realities. The mark of the beast is not an arbitrary symbol; it is the outward manifestation of inward rebellion against God’s authority. Conversely, the seal of God is not an invisible badge; it is the tangible evidence of a heart transformed by faith and obedience. The Bible declares, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2, KJV). Additionally, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “Those who receive the seal of God will reflect the character of Christ” (The Desire of Ages, p. 671, 1898). “By beholding we become changed; by looking unto Jesus we are transformed into His image” (Steps to Christ, p. 88, 1892). The contrast is stark, and the call to choose is urgent. Who will we choose to worship in this final hour?

CHOOSE THIS DAY WHOM YOU WILL WORSHIP

As global powers continue to consolidate and religious systems increasingly unite under the banner of a false peace, the powerful, final message of Revelation calls each one of us to make an irrevocable decision. Our loving God does not demand a forced compliance; He asks for a willing surrender of our hearts. The beast power enforces its will through coercion and control, but Christ empowers us through His grace and truth. The seal of God identifies those who faithfully follow the Lamb “whithersoever he goeth” (Revelation 14:4, KJV). The Bible urges, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” (Joshua 24:15, KJV). Additionally, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15, KJV). Sr. White counsels, “Every soul will be tested in regard to the Sabbath” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 533, 1867). “The time is not far distant when every soul will be tested on the Sabbath question” (Selected Messages, Book 3, p. 401, 1980). Therefore, let us each prayerfully consider: will we receive a mark of compromise, or will we embrace the seal of consecration, choosing to worship the Creator in spirit and in truth?

“Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16, KJV).

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