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Study 10 of 16

The Mark of the Beast and the Death Decree

The final test of loyalty and the transition from the sealing to the time of trouble.

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

Synopsis

The mark of the beast is the culmination of the Sunday-law enforcement, specifically received when individuals choose to observe Sunday after the truth regarding the Sabbath has been clearly understood and rejected. This mark is enforced by the 'image to the beast'—apostate Protestantism acting in union with the state. The Sabbath stands as the great test of loyalty that draws the final line between the loyal and the disloyal. While many currently observe Sunday out of sincere ignorance, the final enforcement will require a conscious choice against God. Following the close of probation, the death decree will be promulgated against those who persist in Sabbath-keeping. In response, God's people are counseled to move from cities into rural, secluded areas where they can more easily maintain their allegiance. Though many will suffer imprisonment, they will be sustained by direct divine intervention. The study concludes with the promise of the 'Song of Victory' for those who stand firm on the sea of glass, having gained the ultimate triumph over the beast, its image, and its mark.

Key points

  • The mark of the beast is a conscious rejection of God's Sabbath after full light is received.
  • Sunday-keeping by law becomes the test of allegiance to the apostate system.
  • The death decree occurs after the close of probation, during the time of the plagues.
  • God's people are encouraged to relocate from cities to rural areas to escape oppression.

Key texts

  • Revelation 14:9-12
  • Revelation 15:2-3
  • Revelation 13:15

From the book

Outline 10 · Chapter 6 — Persecution · Read this chapter

  • “Observance of Sunday (after passage of Sunday laws), mark of beast.” (book p. 105)
  • “Sabbath great test of loyalty; draws line.” (book p. 105)
  • “Not one abiding in Christ will fail.” (book p. 108)

Put it into practice

  • Prepare now for the crisis by prioritizing God's law over human laws.
  • Consider the counsel regarding city life and seek God's direction for your living arrangements.
  • Deepen your communion with Christ, knowing that His strength is perfected in our weakness.
  1. Comprehension

    1. When is the mark of the beast received?

  2. Doctrinal Clarity

    2. What role does the Sabbath play in the final crisis?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Why should we not fear the mark of the beast today?

  4. Application

    4. What should be our primary activity if Sunday is enforced by law?

  5. Scripture

    5. When is the death decree issued?

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. What is the primary reason for counsel to leave the cities?

  7. Comprehension

    7. How will God’s people be sustained in prison or seclusion?

  8. Contrast

    8. What does the 'Song of Victory' represent?