Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #27 — Prophetic Overview ‒ Part 2

Picture: Counsel #27 — Prophetic Overview ‒ Part 2 CCW 135.1

Many Bible scholars see the second beast of Revelation 13:11, 12 as the United States. It emerges "out of the earth" (unpopulated area), mirroring America's rise from sparse territory. The timing aligns with the first beast’s “captivity" (decline of Papal power in 1798). The United States' unique emergence with these characteristics at the prophesied time strengthens this interpretation. CCW 135.2

The "two horns like a lamb" represent an initial democratic, freedom-loving republic that ultimately morphs into a coercive dragon. From this symbolism, Adventists believe the United States will abandon freedoms associated with the Lamb imagery — specifically, religious liberty and civil liberties. This shift would culminate in the United States forcing the world to worship another entity ("the first beast") and creating a new, restrictive form of government. Essentially, Adventists see a future America where the freedom of worship enshrined in the First Amendment is no longer respected.^[201] CCW 135.3

“And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.” Revelation 13:12 NKJV CCW 135.4

“It has been shown that the United States is the power represented by the beast with lamblike horns, and that this prophecy will be fulfilled when the United States shall enforce Sunday observance, which Rome claims as the special acknowledgment of her supremacy.” Ellen White in The Great Controversy, p. 579 CCW 135.5

Reflect: What would motivate you to stand firm for your faith if faced with oppressive persecution? CCW 135.6