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Question: Will the mark of the beast come before or after the
rapture?

1. As we seek to determine what is the "mark of the beast"
(Rev.13:16,17), we need to say a word about our approach to the
book. Many believe almost everything in the book is prophetic of
the future. But look at the very first verse: "the things which
must shortly come to pass." "For the time is at hand" (1:3).
Although the day of judgment, and the eternal destinies of heaven
and hell are yet future (20:11-21:1-26), most of the book was to be
fulfilled in the relatively immediate future of the people of
John's day. So it was with the "mark of the beast." This had
meaning for first century Christians.

2. Actually, there are two beasts in Rev. 13. The first beast that
came out of the sea was like a lion, a bear, and a leopard. This
represented the Roman Empire, in power when Revelation was written
( the basis for this symbolism is Dan.7; note v.23). Images were
erected at various locations where the people were required to burn
incense to Caesar. Only those whose names were written in the book
of life would refuse to worship the beast (Rev.13:8).

3. The earth beast of vv. 8-18 represents false religion. He is
called the false prophet in 19:20. This refers to the men who
enforced Caesar worship throughout the Empire. The mark of the
beast meant that one was loyal to the Empire, and thus a worshipper
of Caesar. Unless one gave in, he could lose his job, and find it
difficult to buy and sell.
     a. He exerciseth authority of the Sea Beast (v. 12).
     b. Causes the earth (the inhabitants) to worship the Sea Beast
(v.12). This is a key passage.
     c. He causes that a mark be placed on the right hand or upon
the forehead of those who worship the beast (v.16).
          1) This mark gives individuals the right to buy or sell.
(v.17).
          2) This mark is the name of the beast or the number of
his name. The number is the number of a man. (Some suggest Nero, or
one of the other Roman Emperors).
          3) Those who received this mark would be punished (14:9-
12).
     d. Never forget that God has a seal (mark) upon those that are
His (7:4; cf.2 Tim. 2:19).

4. The lesson for us is that a Christian must not compromise the
faith, though it mean loss of job, prosperity, or even life itself.
Unbelievers, and compromising Christians, will be punished.

5. So far as whether it will come before or after the rapture: The
rapture in not mentioned at all in connection with the mark of the
beast. In fact, the rapture is nowhere mentioned in the Bible. But
that is another question. If you would like for us to discuss the
question of the rapture, let us know, and we will be happy to
address it.



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