← All studies

Study 08 of 16

Chapter 6—Persecution—The Confederated Powers (Part 1)

The alliance of religious and political powers to enforce the mark of the beast and the divine protection promised to the faithful.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

As the final conflict intensifies, a formidable alliance of powers, described as the 'confederated powers of evil,' will unite to oppose God’s remnant. This alliance involves the first beast (the Papacy), the second beast (the United States), and the 'false prophet' (apostate Protestantism), all under the influence of spiritualism. The focal point of this struggle is the law of God versus the traditions of men, specifically the biblical Sabbath versus the papal Sunday. The United States, which began with lamb-like principles of religious liberty, will speak as a dragon, leading the world in enforcing Sunday observance through national legislation. This will result in severe persecution, ridicule, and eventually a death decree for those who remain loyal to the Creator. However, the believer finds hope in the promise of divine protection. While some may be martyred before the close of probation, God has promised to preserve His people during the final plagues. Angels will stand as guardians over the faithful, and the presence of Christ will be felt even in prison cells. This time of trial is not to be feared, but to be met with the same faith that sustained Noah, Elijah, and the apostles. By anchoring our souls in the finished work of Christ on the cross, we can face the confederated powers with the assurance that 'the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations.'

Key points

  • A global alliance of the Papacy, apostate Protestantism, and civil governments will unite to enforce the mark of the beast.
  • The United States will lead this movement, abandoning its lamb-like principles to speak as a dragon.
  • The Sabbath is the focal point of the controversy, representing loyalty to God's authority.
  • God promises divine protection for His people, with angels guarding them during the height of persecution.

Key texts

  • Revelation 13:11-18
  • Revelation 16:13-14
  • Matthew 5:10-12

From the book

Outline 8 · Chapter 6 — Persecution—The Confederated Powers · Read this chapter

  • “The lamblike horns and dragon voice of the symbol point to a striking contradiction between the professions and the practice of the nation.” (book p. 97)
  • “Protestants will follow in the steps of papists... they will be following in the footsteps of Rome.” (book p. 94)
  • “Though a general decree has fixed the time when commandment keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree.” (book p. 90)

Put it into practice

  • Study the history of religious liberty to appreciate the value of the 'lamb-like' features of the U.S. Constitution.
  • Pray for those who will face difficult choices between government laws and God's commandments.
  • Memorize promises of divine protection, such as Psalm 91, to strengthen your faith for the coming crisis.
  1. Comprehension

    1. Who are the 'Confederated Powers' mentioned in the final conflict?

  2. Scripture

    2. What is the 'image to the beast' in practical terms?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Why is the Sabbath the 'focal point' of this final struggle?

  4. Contrast

    4. What 'striking contradiction' is noted regarding the United States in Revelation 13?

  5. Comprehension

    5. What kind of protection does God promise His people during this time?

  6. Scripture

    6. How will spiritualism be used to deceive the world in the final crisis?

  7. Doctrinal Clarity

    7. What does the outline say about 'apostates' during the persecution?

  8. Application

    8. How are you preparing your mind to stand alone if necessary, based on the examples of Noah or Elijah?