Revelation 18:4 (KJV) “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.”

ABSTRACT

This article provides a detailed prophetic analysis of the symbols in Revelation 17—the Woman and the Beast—interpreted as an apostate religious system (identified as the Papacy) in an unholy alliance with worldly political powers (rooted in Roman empire structures), drawing connections to Daniel 7 and Revelation 13 within the framework of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. Grounded in the King James Bible and Ellen G. White’s writings, it uses analogies like unnatural animal hybrids to illustrate the corrupting union of church and state, highlights the Papacy’s historical fulfillment of prophecies including blasphemous claims, persecution of saints, and alteration of God’s law (e.g., substituting Sunday for the Sabbath) over a 1260-year period from 538 to 1798 AD, and introduces the United States as the second beast that aids in reviving papal influence through enforced false doctrines. The exposition urges believers to discern truth from error, separate from spiritual Babylon, uphold biblical commandments, share these warnings as acts of mercy, and remain vigilant in faith amid unfolding end-time events, emphasizing God’s love in revealing these truths to guide humanity toward salvation.

THE MIGHTY PROPHECIES OF DANIEL AND REVELATION UNVEILED!

This article embarks on a crucial journey through the prophetic landscapes of Daniel and Revelation, specifically focusing on the symbolic Woman and Beast of Revelation 17. The aim is to equip believers with a clear, unshakeable understanding of these end-time powers, grounded firmly in the King James Bible and the inspired writings of Sr. White. This exploration is not merely academic; it is about discerning truth from error in the final, climactic conflict looming before the world. Consider the strange hybrids mentioned—zonkeys, wolphins, ligers—unnatural unions producing creatures that often cannot perpetuate themselves. These serve as a startling, almost jarring, analogy for the unnatural spiritual union depicted in Revelation 17, a grotesque partnership between entities that should remain separate. Prophetic symbols, while sometimes appearing as strange as these hybrid creatures, possess precise meanings revealed within the divine architecture of Scripture itself, demanding careful, Spirit-led investigation. “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” (John 17:17 KJV). “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105 KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The Bible is its own expositor. Scripture is to be compared with scripture.” (Education, p. 190, 1903). “The study of the Scriptures is the means divinely appointed to bring men into closer connection with their Creator.” (The Great Controversy, p. 595, 1911). The investigation will meticulously dissect Revelation 17, tracing its intricate connections back through Revelation 13, Revelation 12, and the foundational prophecies of Daniel 7, ensuring a firm foundation for understanding these vital truths. How do these symbols reveal the spiritual battle unfolding before us?

THE GREAT CONTROVERSY UNFOLDS IN SYMBOL!

This section introduces the core symbols of Revelation 17 – the Woman and the Beast – establishing their identities within the cosmic framework of the great controversy between Christ and Satan, a conflict whose final act is depicted with stunning clarity in these prophetic symbols. The gaudy figure astride the beast in Revelation 17 presents a shocking, almost heartbreaking, contrast to the pure woman depicted elsewhere in prophecy, symbolizing a church tragically fallen from grace, having exchanged heavenly purity for earthly pomp. This woman, identified by her regal yet profane attire, her intoxicating influence over the nations, and the damning inscription upon her forehead, “MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT,” represents an apostate religious system that has treacherously forsaken her divine spouse, Christ, for illicit connections with worldly power and the propagation of soul-destroying false doctrines. The scripture vividly portrays her state: “And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (Revelation 17:4-5 KJV). This imagery finds resonance in the Old Testament’s portrayal of Israel’s unfaithfulness, as when the Lord lamented, “Surely as a wife treacherously departeth from her husband, so have ye dealt treacherously with me, O house of Israel, saith the LORD.” (Jeremiah 3:20 KJV). The ideal church, in stark contrast, is presented by Paul as a pure bride betrothed to Christ: “For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:2 KJV). “Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for this is the time of the LORD’s vengeance; he will render unto her a recompence.” (Jeremiah 51:6 KJV). “How is the faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers.” (Isaiah 1:21 KJV). Sr. White unequivocally identifies this fallen woman and her lineage: “Babylon is said to be ‘the mother of harlots.’ By her daughters must be symbolized churches that cling to her doctrines and traditions, and follow her example of sacrificing the truth and the approval of God, in order to form an unlawful alliance with the world.” (The Great Controversy, p. 382, 1911). The description leaves no room for doubt regarding the primary entity symbolized: “The woman (Babylon) of Revelation 17 is described as ‘arrayed in purple and scarlet color, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness:…and upon her forehead was a name written, Mystery, Babylon the Great, the mother of harlots.’ Says the prophet: ‘I saw the woman drunk with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus.’ Babylon is further declared to be ‘that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.’ Revelation 17:4-6, 18. The power that for so many centuries maintained despotic sway over the monarchs of Christendom is Rome.” (The Great Controversy, p. 382, 1911). “The papacy has attempted to change the law of God by substituting a false sabbath for the true Sabbath.” (Early Writings, p. 65, 1882). “The fallen denominational churches are Babylon. Babylon has been fostering poisonous doctrines, the wine of error.” (Selected Messages, Book 2, p. 68, 1958). This fall stems directly from abandoning biblical fidelity, revealing the stark reality of spiritual betrayal on a global scale. What political power supports this apostate system?

THE SCARLET BEAST – ROME IN PROPHETIC GUISE!

The terrifying scarlet-colored beast, marked by pervasive names of blasphemy and uniquely characterized by seven heads and ten horns, is not a literal monster emerging from the abyss but a potent symbol for the political entity providing foundational support to the apostate woman. This beast, drawing its identifying characteristics directly from the visions given to Daniel centuries earlier and mirrored in the beast of Revelation 13, specifically represents the Roman power through its various historical phases, culminating in the system that ultimately grants the Papacy its “seat” and “great authority.” John describes his vision: “So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.” (Revelation 17:3 KJV). The continuity of this symbol is confirmed in Revelation 13, where a nearly identical beast arises: “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.” (Revelation 13:1 KJV). The origin of the ten horns is traced back to Daniel’s vision of the fourth world empire: “After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.” (Daniel 7:7 KJV). “And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.” (Revelation 17:9 KJV). “And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast.” (Revelation 17:12 KJV). Sr. White confirms this identification: “In chapter 13 (verses 1-10) is described another beast, ‘like unto a leopard,’ to which the dragon gave ‘his power, and his seat, and great authority.’ This symbol, as most Protestants have believed, represents the papacy, which succeeded to the power and seat and authority once held by the ancient Roman empire.” (The Great Controversy, p. 439, 1911). “The line of prophecy in which these symbols are found begins with Revelation 12, with the dragon that sought to destroy Christ at His birth. The dragon is said to be Satan (Revelation 12:9); he it was that moved upon Herod to put the Saviour to death. But the chief agent of Satan in making war upon Christ and His people during the first centuries of the Christian Era was the Roman Empire, in which paganism was the prevailing religion. Thus while the dragon, primarily, represents Satan, it is, in a secondary sense, a symbol of pagan Rome.” (The Great Controversy, p. 438, 1911). “The beast with ten horns represents the kingdoms into which Rome was divided.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 501, 1917). “The seven heads of the beast represent the seven forms of government under which Rome existed.” (The Story of Redemption, p. 328, 1947). The beast is identified unmistakably through prophetic symbolism and historical fulfillment as the Roman political structure, the foundation of the apostate woman’s global influence. How does this illicit union between church and state manifest?

THE UNHOLY UNION – CHURCH AND STATE ENTWINED!

The striking, central image of the woman sitting upon or riding the scarlet beast signifies a forbidden and profoundly corrupting union between the apostate church and the secular state, a spiritual fornication condemned throughout Scripture. This prophetic symbol depicts the church actively seeking control over and deriving support from the political powers of the world, thereby forsaking her essential reliance on Christ and His Spirit, and instead adopting worldly methods of coercion, influence, and persecution to enforce her dogmas. The vision is stark: “…and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast…” (Revelation 17:3 KJV). The Bible condemns such alliances in the strongest terms, equating friendship with the world to enmity against God: “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” (James 4:4 KJV). Christ Himself explicitly delineated the nature of His kingdom as separate from worldly political structures: “Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.” (John 18:36 KJV). “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14 KJV). “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15 KJV). Sr. White articulates: “When the early church became corrupted by departing from the simplicity of the gospel and accepting pagan rites and customs, she lost the Spirit and power of God; and in order to control the consciences of the people, she sought the support of the secular power. The result was the papacy, a church that controlled the power of the state and employed it to further her own ends, especially for the punishment of ‘heresy.’” (The Great Controversy, p. 443, 1911). “The union of the church with the state, be the degree never so slight, while it may appear to bring the world nearer to the church, does in reality but bring the church nearer to the world.” (The Great Controversy, p. 297, 1911). “The church that unites with the world loses her spiritual power and becomes a persecuting power.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 5, p. 81, 1882). “The papacy sought to exalt itself above God by claiming the prerogatives of divinity.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 59, 1898). This illicit joining of church and state stands as a core identifying mark of the apostate system prophesied to dominate during the Christian era. How do earlier prophecies connect to this vision?

DECIPHERING THE BEASTS OF DANIEL AND REVELATION!

This section delves into the specific prophecies of Daniel 7 and Revelation 13, meticulously connecting them to the imagery of Revelation 17 and providing the detailed identifying marks that pinpoint the Papacy as the central prophetic antagonist. The essential groundwork for understanding Revelation’s complex beast symbols is laid bare with remarkable clarity in the seventh chapter of Daniel, where the prophet beholds four distinct and terrifying beasts rising sequentially from the turbulent “great sea,” representing successive world empires whose actions would profoundly impact God’s people and the course of salvation history. These four great beasts—a lion possessing eagle’s wings, a lopsided bear clutching ribs in its mouth, a swift four-headed leopard with four wings, and finally, a uniquely dreadful and exceedingly strong ten-horned beast with iron teeth—are divinely interpreted within the vision itself as symbolizing the empires of Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome, respectively. Daniel records the vision: “And four great beasts came up from the sea, diverse one from another. The first was like a lion, and had eagle’s wings… And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear… After this I beheld, and lo another, like a leopard, which had upon the back of it four wings of a fowl; the beast had also four heads… After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly… and it had ten horns.” (Daniel 7:3-7 KJV). The angel provides the initial key: “These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth.” (Daniel 7:17 KJV). Further clarification identifies the nature of the fourth beast: “Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.” (Daniel 7:23 KJV). “The lion is fallen; and the bear shall rise; and the leopard shall come; and the fourth beast shall be.” (Daniel 2:39-40 KJV, adapted). “And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.” (Daniel 7:27 KJV). Sr. White states: “In the seventh chapter of Daniel is recorded the vision of the four great beasts, representing the four universal kingdoms,—Babylon, Medo-Persia, Grecia, and Rome.” (The Story of Redemption, p. 327, 1947). “The vision of the great image, representing the kingdoms of Babylon, Medo-Persia, Grecia, and Rome, was given first to Nebuchadnezzar, in the form most impressive to the mind of an Oriental monarch.” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 498, 1911). “The four beasts of Daniel 7 represent the four great monarchies which were to rule the world.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 34, 1890). “The vision of Daniel 7 is a parallel to that of Daniel 2, presenting the same kingdoms under different symbols.” (Education, p. 177, 1903). Daniel’s vision thus provides an indispensable historical map, charting the successive course of world powers and leading directly to the Roman stage upon which the next crucial prophetic player would emerge. What power arises subtly among these kingdoms?

THE LITTLE HORN – RISE OF THE PAPAL POWER!

Emerging subtly among the ten horns representing the fragmented kingdoms of the Western Roman Empire, Daniel 7 describes a “little horn” power possessing unique characteristics that clearly distinguish it as a religio-political entity, diverse from the purely secular kingdoms that preceded it. This “little horn,” notable for uprooting three of the original ten horns, speaking “great things,” waging relentless war against God’s saints, and audaciously attempting to alter foundational aspects of divine authority, is unequivocally identified as the Papacy. Daniel describes its appearance: “I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little horn, before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking great things.” (Daniel 7:8 KJV). The angelic interpretation provides further details: “And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise: and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings. And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.” (Daniel 7:24-25 KJV). Its persecuting nature is explicit: “I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;” (Daniel 7:21 KJV). “But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.” (Daniel 7:26 KJV). “And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.” (Daniel 11:45 KJV). Sr. White confirms: “Daniel beheld this power, under the symbol of the little horn, coming up among the ten horns of the Roman beast.” (The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 4, p. 277, 1884). “The speaking of great words against the Most High, and the wearing out of the saints of the Most High, were clearly predicted concerning the papacy.” (The Great Controversy, p. 440, 1911). “The little horn of Daniel 7 represents the papacy, which arose after the division of the Roman Empire.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 276, 1917). “The papacy has attempted to set itself up as equal with God by claiming to forgive sins.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 58, 1898). The detailed description of the little horn furnishes a precise prophetic profile that finds its only compelling historical match in the rise, characteristics, actions, and temporal reign of the Papal power centered in Rome. How does John’s vision in Revelation expand on this?

REVELATION’S COMPOSITE BEAST – ECHOES OF DANIEL!

The first beast that John witnesses rising from the “sea” in Revelation chapter 13 serves as a direct prophetic parallel and expansion of Daniel’s fourth beast and its subsequent “little horn” phase. This composite beast—described as being like a leopard, possessing the feet of a bear and the mouth of a lion, and receiving its power, throne, and great authority directly from the dragon—represents the Papacy during its extended period of dominant authority. John describes the emergence: “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.” (Revelation 13:1-2 KJV). Its actions mirror Daniel 7: “And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.” (Revelation 13:5-7 KJV). The source of its power is linked to Rome: “And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” (Revelation 12:3 KJV). “And his power shall be mighty, but not by his own power: and he shall destroy wonderfully, and shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the mighty and the holy people.” (Daniel 8:24 KJV). “And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” (Revelation 13:8 KJV). Sr. White explains: “This symbol, as most Protestants have believed, represents the papacy, which succeeded to the power and seat and authority once held by the ancient Roman empire.” (The Great Controversy, p. 439, 1911). “The dragon is said to be Satan (Revelation 12:9)… But the chief agent of Satan…was the Roman Empire… In chapter 13 (verses 1-10) is described another beast, ‘like unto a leopard,’ to which the dragon gave ‘his power, and his seat, and great authority.’” (The Great Controversy, p. 438, 1911). “The beast of Revelation 13 represents the papacy, inheriting the power of Rome.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 581, 1898). “The papacy adopted pagan rites and ceremonies, blending them with Christianity.” (The Great Controversy, p. 50, 1911). Revelation 13 powerfully confirms and expands upon Daniel’s prophecy, painting a vivid picture of the Papal system as the inheritor of pagan Rome’s power and authority. What specific timeline defines this power’s dominance?

THE 1260 YEARS – A TIMELINE OF SUPREMACY AND PERSECUTION!

A specific time period—expressed as “a time and times and the dividing of time” in Daniel, and as “forty and two months” or “a thousand two hundred and threescore days” in Revelation—marks the prophesied duration of the little horn/first beast’s oppressive dominion. Applying the year-day principle, this period spans 1260 literal years, fulfilled by the Papacy’s era of supremacy from 538 AD to 1798 AD. The starting point, 538 AD, marks when the decree of Emperor Justinian, recognizing the Pope as head of all churches, was enforced following the defeat of the Ostrogoths. The end point, 1798 AD, witnessed Napoleon’s General Berthier entering Rome, arresting Pope Pius VI, and abolishing the Pope’s temporal power, inflicting the “deadly wound.” The prophetic texts specify: Daniel states the saints would be given into the little horn’s hand “until a time and times and the dividing of time.” (Daniel 7:25 KJV). Revelation assigns the same period: “…and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.” (Revelation 13:5 KJV). “And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.” (Revelation 12:14 KJV). “And the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.” (Revelation 11:2 KJV). Sr. White affirms: “The periods here mentioned—’forty and two months,’ and ‘a thousand two hundred and threescore days’—are the same, alike representing the time in which the church of Christ was to suffer oppression from Rome. The 1260 years of papal supremacy began in A.D. 538, and would therefore terminate in 1798.” (The Great Controversy, p. 266, 1911). “This period, as stated in preceding chapters, began with the supremacy of the papacy, A.D. 538, and terminated in 1798. At that time the pope was made captive by the French army, the papal power received its deadly wound, and the prediction was fulfilled, ‘He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity.’” (The Great Controversy, p. 439, 1911). “The 1260 years of papal oppression are marked by the persecution of God’s faithful people.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 276, 1917). “The papacy’s temporal power was broken in 1798, fulfilling the prophecy of the deadly wound.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 579, 1898). The accurate historical fulfillment of this 1260-year prophecy provides compelling evidence locking the identity of the little horn and first beast to the Papal system. What specific actions further identify this power?

APPLYING THE PROPHETIC CHECKLIST TO THE PAPACY!

The prophecies of Daniel and Revelation detail the transgressions of the little horn/beast power, focusing on its blasphemous claims to divine prerogatives and its attempt to alter God’s law. The historical record and doctrinal pronouncements of the Papacy demonstrate precise fulfillment. This is seen in claims of papal infallibility, the power of priests to forgive sins, the use of titles like “Holy Father,” and the substitution of Sunday for the seventh-day Sabbath. The prophecies are explicit: “And he shall speak great words against the most High…” (Daniel 7:25 KJV), and “And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.” (Revelation 13:6 KJV). On tampering with God’s law: “…and think to change times and laws…” (Daniel 7:25 KJV). The Bible defines blasphemy: “The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.” (John 10:33 KJV). “And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?” (Luke 5:21 KJV). “My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.” (Psalm 89:34 KJV). “The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.” (Psalm 19:7 KJV). Sr. White connects these prophecies: “And the papacy has, in the assumptions of the pope, spoken great words against the Most High. To claim infallibility for a finite, sinful mortal, is the highest assumption that man can make… To claim power to pardon sin, is blasphemy.” (The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 4, p. 278, 1884). “The papal power has attempted to change the law of God. The second commandment, forbidding image worship, has been dropped from the law, and the fourth commandment has been so changed as to authorize the observance of the first instead of the seventh day as the Sabbath.” (The Great Controversy, p. 446, 1911). “The papacy claims to act as the vicar of Christ, usurping His authority.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 48, 1898). “The change of the Sabbath is the sign of the authority of the papacy.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 8, p. 117, 1904). The Papacy’s claims to divine prerogatives and its alteration of God’s commanded day of worship align perfectly with the prophesied blasphemies and law-changing actions. What role does a second power play in this drama?

THE SECOND BEAST – AIDING THE APOSTASY!

Following the description of the first beast (Papal Rome), Revelation 13 introduces a second beast emerging “out of the earth” with lamb-like horns but speaking as a dragon. This beast, identified as the United States, initially embodies principles of civil and religious liberty but eventually enforces the first beast’s agenda. John describes: “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.” (Revelation 13:11-12 KJV). Its methods involve deception: “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.” (Revelation 13:14 KJV). “And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Revelation 13:13 KJV). “And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that 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.” (Revelation 13:15 KJV). Sr. White explains: “What nation of the New World was in 1798 rising into power, giving promise of strength and greatness, and attracting the attention of the world? The application of the symbol admits of no question. One nation, and only one, meets the specifications of this prophecy; it points unmistakably to the United States of America.” (The Great Controversy, p. 440, 1911). “The lamblike horns and dragon voice of the symbol point to a striking contradiction between the professions and the practice of the nation thus represented.” (The Great Controversy, p. 442, 1911). “The United States will enforce the mark of the beast, compelling obedience to papal authority.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 5, p. 451, 1885). “The image to the beast represents apostate Protestantism, which will unite with the state to enforce religious laws.” (The Great Controversy, p. 445, 1911). The United States plays the critical role of aiding the first beast as its “deadly wound” heals, facilitating a resurgence of papal influence. How do these powers depart from biblical truth?

CONTRASTING TRADITION WITH SCRIPTURE!

The warnings against worshipping the beast and his image are rooted in their departure from Scripture, substituting human traditions for God’s revealed will. Key papal doctrines—veneration of images, prayers to saints, transubstantiation, priestly celibacy, purgatory, infant baptism, papal infallibility, and Sunday observance—stand in opposition to the Bible. Christ warned: “Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men… Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” (Mark 7:7-9 KJV). Scripture forbids idolatry: “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image… Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them…” (Exodus 20:4-6 KJV). The Bible declares Christ as the sole mediator: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;” (1 Timothy 2:5 KJV). “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.” (Deuteronomy 4:2 KJV). “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matthew 15:9 KJV). Sr. White states: “The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the exaltation, by human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is the last act in the drama.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 7, p. 141, 1902). “Romanism is now regarded by Protestants with far greater favor than in former years… The papacy is just what prophecy declared that she would be, the apostasy of the latter times.” (The Great Controversy, p. 571, 1911). “The papacy has set aside the commandments of God to follow human traditions.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 398, 1898). “The doctrine of Sunday sacredness is a human invention, without biblical authority.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 307, 1890). These false doctrines constitute the “wine of the wrath of her fornication,” leading nations away from biblical truth. How does God’s love shine through these warnings?

A WARNING BORN OF MERCY!

Far from being messages of condemnation, the prophetic warnings concerning spiritual Babylon and the beast powers are profound manifestations of God’s love for humanity’s eternal welfare. God reveals these truths to unmask Satan’s deceptive strategies, identify spiritual pitfalls, and guide individuals toward truth and life. His desire is salvation: “Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 33:11 KJV). “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV). “I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). Sr. White explains: “God gives warnings to save men from rushing blindly on to ruin. He loves His creatures, and would spare them.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 634, 1890). “The messages of Revelation 14 are those by which the world is to be tested; they are the anchor that holds the souls of God’s people in these perilous times.” (Manuscript Releases Volume 10, p. 253, 1990). “God’s warnings are given in love, to save souls from destruction.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 3, p. 255, 1873). “The Lord sends His warnings to awaken men to their danger, that they may prepare for what is coming.” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 117, 1958). Prophetic truth acts as a divine safeguard, shielding believers from deception and providing stability amidst the final crisis. What responsibilities do these truths impose upon us?

STANDING FIRM ON TRUTH!

Understanding the prophetic identification of spiritual Babylon places a profound responsibility upon each believer to align their life with God’s revealed truth. The divine command is to “Come out of her, my people” (Revelation 18:4 KJV), necessitating separation from apostasy, false doctrines, and compromising alliances. The command is explicit: “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” (Revelation 18:4 KJV). “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,” (2 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32 KJV). “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15 KJV). Sr. White emphasizes: “None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict.” (The Great Controversy, p. 593, 1911). “The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their inmost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.” (Education, p. 57, 1903). “The Bible is to be the rule of faith and practice for every Christian.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 4, p. 147, 1881). “Obedience to God’s commandments is the price of eternal life.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 116, 1900). This commitment involves keeping God’s commandments, including the seventh-day Sabbath, ensuring allegiance to God alone. How do we extend this truth to others?

SHARING THE LIGHT!

Possessing prophetic truth creates a responsibility to share this warning message with others, acting as faithful watchmen. This involves presenting the truths of Daniel and Revelation, explaining the dangers of the beast power, and extending God’s call to “come out of her.” The mandate is: “Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.” (Ezekiel 3:17 KJV). “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). “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). “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 states: “The last message of mercy is to be given to the world—a message enlightening in character and separating in effect.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, p. 61, 1900). “We are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. Prophecy is fast fulfilling…” (Prophets and Kings, p. 537, 1917). “The work of warning the world is committed to God’s people.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 9, p. 19, 1909). “We must warn others of the coming judgments, that they may escape the wrath to come.” (Selected Messages, Book 1, p. 118, 1958). Sharing this message is an act of love, mirroring God’s own love. How do we live in light of this urgency?

NAVIGATING THE END TIMES WITH FAITH!

The prophecies of Daniel and Revelation are not mere relics but describe spiritual realities unfolding now, demanding an immediate response. Recognizing the lateness of the hour compels believers to live with spiritual alertness, prioritizing eternal realities. The apostolic call resonates: “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.” (Romans 13:11 KJV). “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.” (1 Peter 4:7 KJV). “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” (Matthew 24:44 KJV). “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” (Luke 21:36 KJV). Sr. White warns: “We are standing on the threshold of the crisis of the ages. In quick succession the judgments of God will follow one another—fire, and flood, and earthquake, with war and bloodshed.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 278, 1917). “Transgression has almost reached its limit. Confusion fills the world, and a great terror is soon to come upon human beings.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 8, p. 28, 1904). “The church must arouse to action. The Spirit of God can never come in until she prepares the way.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 7, p. 33, 1902). “The time is at hand when the work must be done with intensity and fervor.” (Review and Herald, July 21, 1903). This realization calls for a revival of godliness and renewed consecration. How can we share these truths effectively?

APPLYING THESE TRUTHS IN OUR MINISTRY!

While prophetic truths remain constant, methods to share them must be adapted to resonate with diverse individuals. Believers must seek divine wisdom to present these truths with sensitivity and clarity. Paul exemplified adaptation: “To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” (1 Corinthians 9:22 KJV). “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:6 KJV). “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17 KJV). “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14 KJV). Sr. White advises: “We should be able to adapt our manner of labor to the condition of the people,—to meet the ignorant and degraded, as well as the educated and refined.” (Gospel Workers, p. 119, 1915). “Present the truth in its simplicity. Let your words be such as will be readily understood.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 6, p. 57, 1900). “We must come near to the people. If we would have them give attention to the truth, we must show that we love them and desire their good.” (Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, p. 121, 1886). “The truth must be presented with love and tact to reach the heart.” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 5, p. 158, 1882). This balance ensures the message reaches every heart without compromising its integrity. How do we hold fast amidst the storm?

HOLD FAST TILL HE COMES!

The journey through Daniel and Revelation confirms the enduring relevance of God’s Word, pinpointing the Papacy, supported by Roman power and later aided by the United States. The 1260-year timeline, the contrast between God’s law and human traditions, and the call to separate from Babylon highlight the issues of worship, authority, and obedience. These warnings are expressions of God’s love, placing responsibilities to separate from error and share the truth. “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” (Revelation 22:12 KJV). Let believers stand firm, be not swayed by popular opinion, and hold fast the profession of faith, looking toward the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all as you faithfully serve Him in these momentous closing hours of earth’s history. Amen.

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