Chp.13 Rise of Antichrist: Greatest Tyrant of History

Revelation 12 sets the stage for chapter 13. It is a short, sweeping review (historical interlude in the Book of Revelation) of Satan and how he comes to the point in Chp 13 where he makes his stand and calls the Beast out of the sea. (vs. 1-3)

From the beginning of human history, Satan, or as he is referred to in Rev. 12, the Dragon, has been lurking at the gates and doors of humanity, deceiving if possible and destroying (Jn 10:1-10) any who he could get his hands on.

Genesis 4:6-8 (NLT) says,
“Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”

God loves and is close to people throughout the earth whose hearts break in longing for justice, for the humble in heart, for the pure in heart and for those who have been persecuted for doing what is right and just. God will give the meek an opportunity to chose right over wrong in the days ahead. His plan, revealed in the Revelation concerning the Tribulation and the Great Tribulation, will sweep in a harvest of souls that our greatest evangelists could have only dreamed to see (Revelation 7: 9-17).

During the Tribulation ‘s 7 years, the church is not being drawn together in cohesive groups (a work of the Holy Spirit) during this time, but souls are being saved by the millions.

The Antichrist will be in the place of political and judicial power, but to good people around the globe, he will be abhorrent! They will see him for what he is, and hate everything that he represents. Defying him will be an honor, refusing the mark a challenge to his authority, and death, if it comes, will be a relief...

(This is a short introduction to a teaching I gave last week to a study group I lead. It is based on the the Bible and specifically on the Book of Revelation. It is a glimpse into the near future for those who desire to see... If you would like to have a written review of the entire class, I will email it to you if you will request it in the comments section below.
Thanks.