Our goal in this episode is to explore the significance of one of the most notorious sets of images within the book of Revelation, namely the mark of the beast, and the number of the beast. Chris and Jon begin by exploring some of the more unhelpful, yet unfortunately, common popular assumptions associated with these themes, and then seek to offer clarity with regard to the historical allusions and political commentary that are likely intended by the use of these images in their own context and frame of reference. Ultimately, what we hope to communicate yet again is that this book is not intended to obscure but to reveal; not to encourage fear or speculation about the future but rather to inform faithful witness in the present. Our hope is that we can help to demystify these images so that we can see how they fit into the book of Revelation’s consistent message, which is focused on (1) faithful discipleship instead of compromise and (2) faithful worship instead of idolatry.
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