Published in · 2 min read · Aug 21, 2023
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It also forced all people, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, so that they could not buy or sell unless they had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of its name. (Revelation 13:16–17 NIV)
The Mark of the Beast. This is one of the most well-known images coming out of Revelation. There is endless speculation about this mark and what the number 666 represents. But I suspect we are missing the point when we focus on the physical aspects of this mark. This mark represents the name of the beast and signifies allegiance to him.
In contrast to this mark of the beast is Revelation 3:12, where Jesus said he would write God’s name on those who are victorious. And in Revelation 7:3, a mark is put on the forehead of the servants of God, a mark that in Revelation 14:1 is identified as the names of Jesus and the Father.
Who this group bearing the seal of God is, is highly debated and is beyond the scope of this post. What is significant is that two groups mentioned in Revelation have names written on their foreheads. One group is identified as servants of God, and the other owes allegiance to the beast. Those with the mark of the beast have an easier time in this world, able to buy and sell, but they will face the wrath of God (Rev. 13:9–11). In contrast to that are those bearing God’s name. Life may be more challenging in this world, but their fate is entirely different (read the back of the book — Revelation 19–21).
So, whose name is written on your forehead?
