The Mark of the Beast: Will You Stand Strong in the Last Days?

It is said that in the last days, the Antichrist and the False Prophet will enforce the Mark of the Beast. Many Christians confidently state that they would never accept such a mark. But are we truly strong enough to stand firm in our convictions when the time comes?

Revelation 13:16-17 warns us of this moment: "It also forced all people, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, so that they could not buy or sell unless they had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of its name."

But what will we do when our children or grandchildren cry out for food? How will we respond when the winter comes, and there is no gas or electricity to heat our homes? Will we have the strength to say no, or will we be driven to desperation? Will we resort to stealing, or even worse, killing, to survive?

The Early Church’s Expectation of Christ's Return

There are several verses in scripture that suggest the early disciples believed Jesus Christ would return during their lifetime. Acts 3:20, 1 Corinthians 1:7, James 5:8, and Jude 1:21 all indicate that they expected His return at any moment. Yet, many years have passed, and Christ has tarried, as 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

Many Christians today believe in a "great rapture" that will protect them from the horrors of the Beast and the False Prophet. But what if the Christian community must endure the tribulation? Just for a moment, consider how you might respond if the time comes when you are told that everyone must receive a chip to maintain peace and societal order. Would you say no, hesitate, or simply agree to have a chip inserted into your body?

Learning from Daniel's Faithfulness

In the story of Daniel, we find an example of a man who refused to compromise. Daniel remained faithful to God's call, standing firm in his convictions.

As a society, we recently stopped and quarantined for months based on our leaders’ recommendations. We may soon be called upon again to make decisions that affect our lives and the lives of those we care for. What must we do in such times? We can learn from Daniel’s example.

Daniel did not grab his weapons and start shooting.
Daniel did not protest in the streets or damage property.
Daniel did not scream or yell.
Instead, Daniel continued his routine of faithfully serving God.

What is your routine? For Daniel, it was going into his home, closing the door, and praying. Are you and I doing the same today? Do we have a routine of reading God’s Word, praying, and spending time with Him?

Stand Firm in Faith

If we have a routine like Daniel’s, we will know how far to go and what to do when difficult decisions arise. When we commit to daily prayer and the study of Scripture, we will be at peace, knowing that we are following God's guidance, no matter the circumstances.

As the days grow darker and the pressures to conform increase, may we stand firm in our faith, just as Daniel did. The world may demand our submission, but if we keep our eyes fixed on Christ and our hearts aligned with His will, we will know how far we are willing to go.