It’s at this point that John introduces the beasts from the sea and the earth more commonly known as the Antichrist and the False Prophet. These two beings are obviously men, but they are empowered by the dragon that was identified as Satan previously. Scripture declares that God is going to allow Satan great leeway in the exercise of his power at this period in time.
Revelation 13:13–14 “And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 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….” (in reference to the False Prophet)
2 Thessalonians 2:8–9 “And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders….” (in reference to the Antichrist)
I think that is an area in which many people are deceived by false prophets today. The ability to do signs and wonders does not verify one as a true prophet of God. Scripture is clear in telling us that Satan and his ministers often appear as an “angels of light” in the guise of righteous ministry. Paul warns us of this very truth.
2 Corinthians 11:13–15 “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”
The apparitions of the Virgin Mary so venerated in the Catholic church today I believe fall into this category. Scripture is clear in its teaching that the holy angels and the Holy Spirit all present themselves in light of bringing honor and glory to Father and Son and no one else.
John 15:26 “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:”
John 16:13 “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 shew you things to come.”
The next angel we meet is flying through the heavens boldly proclaiming the gospel to all on planet earth (Revelation 14:6). He is immediately followed by another angel proclaiming the destruction of the city of Babylon. Right on his heels appears another angel warning the people on planet earth not to take the mark of the beast. All three of these angels are proud messengers of God basically declaring that God is still in control and His plan is unfolding just as He purposed. They are also reminding the people who find themselves enduring the terrible events associated with God’s wrath that His grace is still available to those who will choose to place their faith in Him.
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