The dragon standing on the seashore and wild beasts emerging from the
sea evokes the prophecies of Daniel 7:3-8 & 23-25. The description and
explanation in Daniel is so similar that it seems quite likely that the
wildbeast (therion) of Revelation 13 is the same as the fourth beast of
Daniel 7. The beast and the ten kings of blasphemy. John explicitly states that
Satan empowers this wildbeast. Almost as an aside, the fatal wound to one of
the heads was healed, appearing to be a supernatural healing. Perhaps this is
given as an identification to future readers, so that there will be no doubt as
to whom this passage refers. The wildbeast appears invincible, and encourages
or demands that everyone worship Satan, or perhaps his alias Lucifer, the
morning star or light bringer. But Satan has used many aliases and no doubt the
wildbeast will introduce an up-to-date version, as Baal, Moloch, and so forth
have had their reputations besmirched.
The
wildbeast
arrogantly blasphemes God, identifying him with the little horn of Daniel 7:8
& 20. John identifies that in blaspheming God and His tabernacle, he is
referring to those who dwell in heaven. On Satan's inspiration, he can't let go
of accusing the brethren, the believers. Satan was kicked out of heaven so he
could no longer accuse believers, so he persecuted them on earth and killed
them, sending them to heaven, and then, through the mouth of the wildbeast, he
continues to blaspheme them after he has killed them! That the tabernacle of
God consists of believers is confirmed by I Cor 3:16 & 6:19, and Rev 3:12.
What
is the essence of blasphemy? It appears
to be attributing to God characteristics unworthy of His name. This goes back
to the third commandment. (Exodus 20:7) Invoking God's name in an unworthy
fashion. Claiming God's authority for actions or statements that have nothing
to do with Him, or worse, that are antithetical to His character.
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