What does Revelation 13:7 mean?

And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. Revelation 13:7

Explanation

Revelation 13:7 is a part of the apocalyptic literature found in the New Testament, which details visions and symbolic representations of the end times. This verse speaks of a beast that is given authority to wage war against the saints and to overcome them. In Christian eschatology, this passage often refers to a period of tribulation where the forces of evil are allowed temporary victory over the righteous. The beast is often interpreted as the Antichrist or an anti-Christian power that will rise to oppress and dominate the faithful, challenging their steadfastness in their beliefs. The mention of “all kindreds, and tongues, and nations” indicates a global influence or control over people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written during a time of persecution for the early Christian community. Its author, commonly believed to be John the Apostle, wrote it in a highly symbolic language to provide hope to the faithful while also cloaking its message from Roman authorities. The historical context of the Roman Empire, with its demands for emperor worship and its pantheon of gods, is seen reflected in the imagery of beasts and the conflicts described within the text. The verse thus resonates with the experiences and fears of early Christians who faced pressure to renounce their faith.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has been interpreted through various lenses. For some, it represents the ultimate test of faith – a prophecy of a time when believers will face extreme persecution. Preterist theologians argue that this prophecy was fulfilled in the early persecutions of Christians or during the rise and fall of historical empires. Futurist perspectives, on the other hand, anticipate a future figure or system that would fulfill this role. Historically, the identity of the beasts and the nature of this conflict has been linked with different entities and events, often as reflections of the struggles of the time when interpretations were made.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, Revelation 13:7 reminds believers of the need for perseverance and faithfulness even under duress. It serves as a warning to remain vigilant and stand firm in one’s beliefs, no matter the societal pressures or temptations. Additionally, it underscores the importance of spiritual preparedness and resilience, encouraging Christians to support each other in times of collective or personal trials.

Cross-References

• Daniel 7:21: “I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;”
• Revelation 12:17: “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.”
• Revelation 11:7: “And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.”

Language Study

The key words in Revelation 13:7 in the original Greek text and their meanings include:

• “Polemēsai” (to make war): implying not only a physical battle but a struggle or conflict of wills and beliefs.
• “Hagiois” (saints): referring to holy or set apart individuals, implying those who are devoted followers of Christ.
• “Nikēsai” (to overcome): suggesting not just a defeat but a dominance or overpowering of one party over the other.
• “Exousia” (power): This word indicates authority, right, or jurisdiction, showing the extent of the beast’s permitted influence.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of a force or being that emerges to challenge the faithful appears across various religious and mythological narratives. Ancient mythologies are replete with stories of gods or creatures that test humanity or the divine order. In Zoroastrianism, for example, the figure of Angra Mainyu represents the destructive spirit against Ahura Mazda’s order. The narrative of a cosmic battle between good and evil reflects a common motif that plays out in many cultural myths.

Scientific Perspectives

While Revelation 13:7 is of a prophetic and symbolic nature, scientific perspectives predominantly do not intersect with this verse, as it speaks to spiritual and theological concepts rather than empirical realities. Scientific understandings of human psychology may provide insights into the fears and hopes reflected in apocalyptic literature, such as the way in which communities cope with persecution or crisis through the creation of such narratives.

commentaries

Various scholars and theologians have reflected on Revelation 13:7 through the ages:

• Walvoord and Zuck (The Bible Knowledge Commentary) recognize the dual fulfillment of this prophecy, both in a historical sense with persecutions in the Roman Empire and in a future sense, interpreting the beast as a ruler who will dominate over all peoples.
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary sees the verse as a reminder of the constant spiritual warfare Christians are to endure, with the hope that God will ultimately be victorious despite temporary sufferings.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament delves into the literary and symbolic aspects of Revelation, pointing out the artistic and rhetorical power of this apocalyptic vision.

These commentaries often highlight the endurance and eventual triumph of the faithful, as well as the sovereignty of God over all earthly powers.