Revelation 13:6-10

The power of the sea beast Revelation 13:6-10: The sea beast was so powerful that he had caused many to worship Rome. However, the Christians would only worship the God of heaven. The nation of Rome blasphemed God, blasphemed God's name, and His tabernacle. (Revelation 13:6) The Christians exalted God, even at the cost of their own lives.

The sea beast was not all-powerful. The truth is that God is still the sovereign in His universe. The Devil will never be able to destroy God's faithful people. (Romans 8:31-39) He will, however, use many methods to destroy the saints. He will use murders, massacres, and bloody punishments of all sorts. Those not written in the book of life will worship him. It is through the sacrifice of the life of Christ that victory over Satan is possible.

The expression "If any man have an ear, let him hear" is found several times in the book of Revelation. Here it has specific reference to recognizing God's enemy and the followers of this enemy, and avoiding them completely. The enemies of God must be avoided because they will certainly be overthrown. If they live by the sword, by the sword they will die. The essential thing is for God's people to simply hold fast regardless of the circumstances.