Bible Prophecy
The Mark of the Beast
Est. date written:
Est. date fulfilled:
95 AD
The beast out of the earth causes all people to get the Mark of the Beast in their right hand or in their forehead in order to buy or sell. Only those who don't have the mark of God will receive the mark of the beast. The Mark of God is referenced in several passages, shown here.
We are also marked by the traditions we keep. In Exodus 12-13, the Israelites were instructed to keep Passover, for example, saying it would be a sign upon their hand and a memorial between their eyes (in their forehead), for God delivering them out of slavery in Egypt. They were instructed to mark their doors with the blood of a perfect lamb, so the Lord would not allow the destroyer to enter their homes. (Ex 12:23) By the blood of Jesus, the perfect lamb, we will be saved again. Jesus is the fulfillment of Passover.
It is no surprise that the enemy (as antichrist) forces all to receive a mark in their right hand or forehead in the end times. By all appearances, it will most likely be computer technology, such as an RFID chip, simply because the enemy always tries to acquire the power God has - to know our thoughts and deeds, and to influence or control our decisions and destiny. Most of all, he wants to hinder our relationship and favor with God, because God's Word warns us that those who receive the mark of the beast would develop a ghastly wound or sore (probably a tumor or infection), but what's worse is that anyone with the mark of the beast has no place in heaven. Without the mark, however, we will not be able to buy or sell, so it may be difficult to resist. Strong faith will help us endure. Prayer is both our offensive and defensive weapon. There are many promises associated with God's protection, for those that love Him.
Keeping the Sabbath is also a type of mark, a perpetual covenant (Ex 31:16), not just between God and the Israelites, but "also the stranger that join themselves to the Lord to serve him" (Is 56:6). This is not an old, defunct command. It is still in effect in the last days (Mt 24:20).