From this solemn chapter of Revelation 13, we know that the times of the Gentiles will end in the most terrible form of dictatorship that the world has ever seen. Christendom, having apostatized from God, will fall into utter anarchy and confusion from which men will seek relief by submitting to a power that, though energized by Satan and blaspheming God, will apparently be able to end wars and bring order out of chaos (see Rev. 13:4). In result, the age will close in a repetition of the idolatry with which it commenced, only in a more terrible form. As Nebuchadnezzar set up his golden image before which all men were to fall down and worship, so, in the last days, all who dwell on the earth will have to worship the image of the beast, or be killed.

Men are dreaming of a “new order,” which they hope to bring about by their own efforts and which will secure a world of peace and plenty. But, as one has said, “Instead of permitting ourselves to hope for a continued progress of good, we must expect a progress of evil. We are to expect evil, until it becomes so flagrant that it will be necessary for the Lord to judge it.”

Nevertheless, however terrible the end of this present age, it can be faced by the believer in quiet patience and faith in God as he looks on to the glory that lies beyond. In chapter 14, there is One who can overcome all the power of evil, secure the glory of God, and bring His people into the promised blessing—the Son of Man with a crown of victory on His head and the sharp sickle of judgment in His hand.