“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 7:25, KJV)  

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the biblical identity of the Antichrist, drawing from Daniel 7’s prophetic vision of four beasts symbolizing successive empires—Babylon (lion), Medo-Persia (bear), Greece (leopard), and Rome (dreadful beast)—from which emerges a “little horn” representing a deceptive religious power. Identifying this horn as the papacy, a system rather than an individual, the piece outlines nine scriptural marks fulfilled historically, including rising among Rome’s divisions, uprooting three kingdoms, persecuting saints, blaspheming God, and attempting to alter times and laws during a 1,260-year reign. Rooted in Scripture and supported by quotes from Ellen G. White, the discussion emphasizes God’s merciful exposure of this error to guide believers toward truth, urging faithfulness to divine commandments amid unfolding end-time events, while calling for compassionate sharing of these insights and assurance in Christ’s ultimate victory over deceptive powers.

Decoding the Mystery of the Antichrist

Who… or what… is the antichrist? Is he a diabolical world ruler rising from the ashes of Rome—or an ancient figure clothed in papal robes, silently influencing the affairs of empires? Is the antichrist a beast? A horn? A man? Many wonder, and many more assume—but Scripture reveals what speculation cannot: the identity, origin, and fate of this ominous power. Anchored in Daniel 7, this article explores the prophetic evidence, not to shame or attack individuals, but to expose systems of error and call all people to the unchanging truth of God’s Word. Have you ever felt a knot of curiosity tighten in your stomach when confronted with such profound questions? Contrastingly, many dismiss these prophecies as irrelevant to modern life, yet their unfolding is more pertinent than ever.

Daniel’s vision is no myth. It’s a mirror reflecting earth’s closing drama—and the antichrist is not merely a future enemy. He’s been working among us for over a thousand years. And if we’re to understand last-day events, we must identify him with certainty. Can you imagine navigating the complexities of the present without understanding the forces shaping our future? Conversely, some believe the antichrist is a purely spiritual force, lacking a concrete historical manifestation. The Bible counters this in 1 John 4:3, “And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.” Additionally, Revelation 16:13 underscores the tangible nature of this power, “And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.” These verses affirm the antichrist’s real presence in history, not as a mere concept. As Ellen G. White wrote, “The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are to be understood, that we may know what is coming upon the earth” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 159, 1904). Furthermore, she noted, “The truths contained in these prophecies are of vital importance to the people of God” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, p. 394, 1990). These quotes emphasize the urgency of understanding prophecy to prepare for future events. So buckle your armor and ready your minds—because we’re stepping into one of Scripture’s most controversial but vital investigations! Are you ready to embark on this intriguing journey through the corridors of prophecy?

KINGDOMS FROM THE DEEP: BEASTS AND THE WATERS OF HUMANITY

From the depths of the “great sea,” Daniel saw four beasts rise in succession—each unlike the other (Daniel 7:3). A beast, according to Daniel 7:23, “shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth.” The sea, as Revelation 17:15 declares, “are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.” Isn’t it fascinating how God uses symbolic language to unveil profound truths? While literal interpretations might focus on physical creatures, prophecy often employs symbols to represent larger realities. Here Scripture unpacks its own symbolism: beasts represent political powers or empires, and the sea represents populated regions of the earth. This prophetic imagery illustrates the world’s political rise and fall in a symbolic drama of conquest, pride, and resistance against God. Consider the tumultuous history of our world – empires rising and falling like waves crashing on the shore. In contrast to the stability God offers, earthly kingdoms are inherently transient. Ezekiel 26:3 supports this, stating, “Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, O Tyrus, and will cause many nations to come up against thee, as the sea causeth his waves to come up.” Likewise, Isaiah 17:12 reinforces the imagery, “Woe to the multitude of many people, which make a noise like the noise of the seas; and to the rushing of nations, that make a rushing like the rushing of mighty waters!” Ellen G. White affirms this method of prophetic understanding: “The line of prophecy in which these symbols are found begins with Babylon, the kingdom then in existence… All these symbols represent the same powers of the world” (The Great Controversy, p. 439, 1888). She further clarifies, “Prophecy must be studied in connection with history” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 118, 1923). Additionally, she wrote, “The symbols employed in prophecy are to be understood in their relation to the events they represent” (Education, p. 178, 1903). Moreover, she stated, “The history of nations speaks to us today, showing the fulfillment of prophecy” (Prophets and Kings, p. 536, 1917). These insights ground our understanding in the historical context of prophecy’s fulfillment. What are these beasts, and how do they shape the narrative of human history? Let’s explore their identities next.

THE FOUR EMPIRES: BABYLON, MEDO-PERSIA, GREECE, AND ROME

Each beast in Daniel 7 corresponds with the metals of the statue in Daniel 2. The lion with eagle’s wings is Babylon—bold, majestic, swift. What images come to mind when you think of the might and splendor of ancient Babylon? While Babylon exhibited outward grandeur, its spiritual foundation was flawed. The bear, raised up on one side with three ribs, is Medo-Persia—two-parted and conquest-driven. Can you picture the Medes and Persians, initially separate but eventually united in their ambition? Unlike Babylon’s singular dominance, Medo-Persia represented a dual power structure. The leopard with four wings and four heads is Greece—symbolizing Alexander’s rapid conquest and his empire’s eventual division into four. Imagine the lightning speed of Alexander’s military campaigns that reshaped the ancient world. In contrast to the slower pace of previous empires, Greece rose and fell with remarkable speed. Rome—the dreadful, iron-toothed beast—is unlike all before it. It crushes, devours, and breaks. Pagan Rome, the empire of the Caesars, held the world in an iron grip. But this is not the end of the story. From this beast emerges something smaller… and far more sinister. Have you ever considered the sheer dominance and longevity of the Roman Empire? Despite its strength, even Rome could not withstand the forces of change prophesied in Scripture. Daniel 2:40 confirms Rome’s might, “And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise.” Ezekiel 28:7 further illustrates this destructive power, “Behold, therefore I will bring strangers upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy brightness.” Stephen N. Haskell confirms: “The four wings… represent the rapidity with which Alexander the Great conquered the world, and the four heads, the division of the kingdom after his death” (The Story of Daniel the Prophet, p. 120, 1908). Ellen G. White adds, “Each of these empires, as represented in the vision, possessed certain characteristics by which it could be distinguished” (Prophets and Kings, p. 495, 1917). She also notes, “The Lord permitted nations to rise and to fall according as they fulfilled His purpose” (Prophets and Kings, p. 502, 1917). Additionally, she wrote, “God’s hand is in the rise and fall of nations” (The Desire of Ages, p. 32, 1898). Furthermore, she stated, “The history of nations is under the control of God” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 535, 1890). These quotes underscore God’s sovereignty over earthly powers. What power could rise from Rome’s ruins with such deceptive influence? Let’s uncover the little horn’s identity.

THE LITTLE HORN EMERGES: POWER CLOAKED IN PIETY

As Daniel fixated on the ten horns—representing the divisions of the Roman Empire (Daniel 7:24)—he noticed another horn, “a little one,” emerging among them, “before whom three of the first horns were plucked up by the roots” (Daniel 7:8). What could this seemingly insignificant horn signify amidst the powerful kingdoms of Europe? While the initial horns represented secular powers, this new horn possesses a distinct religious character. This little horn is no mere political entity—it speaks “great words against the Most High,” persecutes the saints, and dares to change “times and laws.” With eyes like a man and a mouth speaking pompously, this horn is cunning, calculating, and charismatic. Doesn’t the description of “eyes like a man” suggest a human leader with great influence? In contrast to the straightforward power of the previous beasts, the little horn operates with subtlety and religious pretense. Revelation 13:11 supports this, stating, “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.” Psalm 55:21 further describes such deceptive speech, “The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.” Ellen G. White warns: “In the sixth century the papacy had become firmly established. Its seat of power was fixed in the imperial city… and the pope was declared to be the head over the entire church. Paganism had given place to the papacy” (The Great Controversy, p. 54, 1888). She further elaborates, “Little by little, at first stealthily and silently, and then more openly as it increased in strength and gained control of the minds of men, the mystery of iniquity carried forward its deceptive work” (The Great Controversy, p. 50, 1888). Additionally, she wrote, “The church had departed from the humility and simplicity of Christ, and had conformed more and more to the customs and ceremonies of paganism” (The Great Controversy, p. 49, 1888). Moreover, she stated, “The papacy assumed the place of Christ, claiming His titles and prerogatives” (The Desire of Ages, p. 763, 1898). These insights reveal the gradual rise of the papacy’s deceptive power. How does this little horn fulfill the specific marks of the antichrist? Let’s examine the evidence.

NINE IDENTIFYING MARKS: THE CASE FOR THE PAPACY

God does not leave us in the dark. Daniel 7 provides nine distinct identifying characteristics of the antichrist power:

1. Rises among the ten kingdoms of Western Europe (Daniel 7:8)
2. Has a man at its head who speaks for it (Daniel 7:8)
3. Uproots three kingdoms (Daniel 7:8)
4. Is different from the other kingdoms (Daniel 7:24)
5. Persecutes the saints of God (Daniel 7:21, 25)
6. Emerges from pagan Rome (Daniel 7:7–8)
7. Reigns for 1,260 prophetic days (years) (Daniel 7:25)
8. Speaks blasphemies against God (Daniel 7:25; Revelation 13:5–6)
9. Attempts to change times and laws (Daniel 7:25)

History confirms that the papacy—and not any individual pope—meets every single one of these marks. This is not speculative theology. This is prophetic fingerprinting. Doesn’t the sheer weight of these coinciding characteristics give you pause for reflection? While some might attribute these events to mere coincidence, the precision of prophecy points to divine orchestration. Revelation 17:9 adds, “And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.” Daniel 11:45 further aligns, “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.” Stephen N. Haskell notes: “The papacy fits these characteristics precisely… not as an individual, but as a system that arose from the ruins of pagan Rome” (The Story of Daniel the Prophet, p. 245, 1908). Ellen G. White adds, “The papacy became the world’s despot” (The Great Controversy, p. 51, 1888). She also notes, “The church appealed to the secular power, and this power was exercised in her behalf” (The Great Controversy, p. 51, 1888). Additionally, she wrote, “The papacy claimed the power to forgive sins, which is a prerogative of God alone” (The Desire of Ages, p. 266, 1898). Furthermore, she stated, “The papacy has attempted to change the law of God, setting aside His Sabbath” (The Great Controversy, p. 446, 1888). These quotes highlight the papacy’s unique role in prophecy.

How does God’s love shine through such a sobering revelation? Let’s explore the divine purpose behind these warnings.

HOW DO THESE CONCEPTS REFLECT GOD’S LOVE?

It may seem harsh—accusing a religious system of fulfilling the role of the antichrist. But divine love is not sentimental silence. It’s redemptive exposure. God’s warnings are acts of mercy. His judgments are invitations to repentance. Think of a loving parent warning their child about danger – it might sound stern, but it comes from a place of deep care. While the identification of the antichrist might seem critical, it ultimately serves to protect God’s people from deception. In Daniel’s vision, the court is convened, and judgment is passed—not against people, but against a corrupt religious system. Why? Because God defends His children. Isaiah 30:18 declares, “And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him.” Psalm 97:2 further states, “Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.” Ellen G. White comforts us with these words: “The Lord never rebukes His people without granting them grace and power to perform all that He requires” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 682, 1889). She also states, “He permits trials to come upon His people, that by their constancy and obedience they themselves may be enriched, and that His name may be honored before those who do not know Him” (The Great Controversy, p. 471, 1888). Additionally, she wrote, “God’s warnings are evidence of His great love and mercy, desiring to shield us from the destroyer” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 681, 1889). Moreover, she noted, “The severity of the test shows the importance of the truth that proves it” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 680, 1889). These assurances highlight that God’s corrections are for our salvation and growth. Recognizing the antichrist is not an intellectual achievement—it’s a spiritual obligation. If God reveals the deception, then I must walk in truth. That means honoring the law the antichrist seeks to change. That means worshiping the Creator on the day He sanctified. That means obeying God rather than man. Are we willing to stand firm on God’s Word, even when it goes against popular opinion? While the world may prioritize human tradition, our ultimate allegiance belongs to God and His commandments.

THE CALL TO FAITHFULNESS AND LOVE

Recognizing the antichrist is not an intellectual achievement—it’s a spiritual obligation. If God reveals the deception, then I must walk in truth. That means honoring the law the antichrist seeks to change. That means worshiping the Creator on the day He sanctified. That means obeying God rather than man. Are we willing to stand firm on God’s Word, even when it goes against popular opinion? While the world may prioritize human tradition, our ultimate allegiance belongs to God and His commandments. Sr. White states plainly: “The testing truth for this time is the proclamation of the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus Christ” (Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 107, 1958). Furthermore, she expounds, “It is our individual duty to walk in the light. God calls upon us to search the Scriptures for ourselves” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 707, 1889). Additionally, she wrote, “We should not take the testimony of any man as authority unless it harmonizes with the word of God” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 696, 1889). Moreover, she stated, “The law of God is the standard by which the characters and lives of men will be tested in the judgment” (The Great Controversy, p. 482, 1888). These quotes emphasize the supremacy of Scripture as our guide.

Understanding prophetic truth must never foster arrogance. My calling is to share the truth in love, not to condemn but to invite. Many sincere believers—yes, even within Catholicism—love Jesus deeply. They are not the antichrist. They are our brothers and sisters whom God is calling to deeper truth. How can we extend the hand of fellowship while still upholding biblical truth? While we must clearly present the truth, our approach should always be characterized by Christian charity and understanding. Revelation 14:12 reinforces this, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Deuteronomy 6:5 adds, “And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Stephen N. Haskell writes: “It is not the individual, but the system that is identified in prophecy… Many who are connected with this system are yet to hear God’s call and come out” (The Story of the Seer of Patmos, p. 288, 1905). Ellen G. White encourages, “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me’” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 143, 1900). She further advises, “Our work is to present the truth in love” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 152, 1909). Additionally, she states, “We should ever manifest the love of Christ toward those who do not share our faith” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 159, 1905). These principles guide us to share truth with compassion. What lies ahead in the unfolding of this prophetic drama? Let’s reflect on the future.

FINAL REFLECTIONS: WHAT’S NEXT IN PROPHECY’S UNFOLDING DRAMA?

The little horn’s reign has not ended. Though wounded in 1798, it continues to recover its influence. Revelation reveals that it will unite with Protestant America to enforce false worship worldwide. But judgment is coming. And Christ, the “Ancient of Days,” will reign. His saints will inherit the kingdom. And the false religious alliance will be destroyed forever. Doesn’t this future scenario underscore the urgency of understanding these prophecies? While the power of the antichrist may seem formidable, we have the assurance of Christ’s ultimate victory. This message is not merely history. It’s headline prophecy. And it’s happening now. Are we watching and discerning the signs of the times? Conversely, many remain oblivious to the significance of these unfolding events. Don’t delay. Don’t fear. Don’t ignore. Study the prophecies. Compare every teaching with Scripture. Let truth lead you—even if it costs comfort, tradition, or community. What steps will you take today to deepen your understanding of these vital truths? In contrast to apathy, a diligent study of prophecy is crucial for spiritual preparedness. Revelation 19:11-13 assures us, “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.” Daniel 2:44 further promises, “And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.” Ellen G. White affirms, “The final issue of the great controversy between Christ and Satan is fast approaching” (The Great Controversy, p. 623, 1888). She also notes, “God’s people will be prepared for the events of the last days by a thorough understanding of His Word” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 116, 1904). Additionally, she wrote, “The prophecies are to be studied as the voice of God speaking to us” (Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 41, 1958). Moreover, she stated, “The truth will triumph in the end, and those who stand for it will be honored” (The Great Controversy, p. 676, 1888). These assurances point to Christ’s ultimate victory. Daniel’s vision is your invitation. Will you stand with the saints who “keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus”? (Revelation 14:12, KJV)

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