Introduction

 

This volume of Seventieth Week Magazine is a very, very serious issue. We're not playing games, we're not using conjecture, but we're covering a most important topic that you might This volume of Seventieth Week Magazine is a very, very, serious issue. We’re not playing games, we’re not using conjecture, but we’re covering a most important topic that you might say is where the rubber meets the road. That proverbial line in the sand we've talked and written about over the years in this publication is being drawn NOW!

 

In other words the “elite” that run the world, whether you want to call them the Illuminati, the Committee of 300, the Zionist, the CFR, the Bilderburgers, etc, etc. . . . have a stick in their hands, and they're presently scratching it through the sand right before our very eyes, . . right in front of our feet so to speak. You either remain firm in your convictions and take your stand, or you capitulate through the hardships they'll impose, (he causeth all) and you cross that line in the sand into the Beast's territory, and accept the mark. Who's your provider?

 

I can see now that all these years I've been warning, teaching, and exhorting the Remnant that God's put me in contact with (thousands over the past years) is boiling down to this HISTORICAL, PROPHETIC MOMENT in time. In fact if what they're proposing is true, (and it is) these Quarterly's may have to some day cease from going out from this ministry! Why? 'Because the U.S. Post Offices will require you to present the new Federalized ID. Card in order to send or receive any mail. So over the next couple years, let's stay in touch while we can & cover these topics. OK?

 

As you read this issue of the Quarterly, you really need to make it's contents a matter of prayer, and seek the Holy Spirit on this matter with all your heart. If you don't plan to give in"      then your number one prayer to your Heavenly Father should be that He will really build your perseverance, endurance, determination, and faith to have the strength to overcome. We're all about to be thrust into the valley of decision, and we're going to have to make the most important decision of our lives!

Yaspeed-Bro Ben

 

 

 

Overcoming the Tribulation That Begins Next Year!

 

What? You're saying the Tribulation begins next year? That's 2008! How can anyone know that for sure? Well you can if you know two things. First, if you know what that word "Tribulation" really means, and it's proper Biblical definition, and secondly, you know that next year they're going to implement a new law that will bring that definition about for the elect. (Jacob's seed)….then you can know for sure that the Time of Jacobs Tribulation/Trouble is about to begin.

 

When most people hear the phrase: "The Tribulation", they automatically conjure up images of great earthly destruction, like hundred pound hail stones falling from the sky, burning mountains being cast into the oceans, 200 million man armies from China, our lakes, streams, rivers and water wells turning to blood, , and on and on. But you know what? These folks are getting "Tribulation" confused with God's "Wrath" for one thing; not to mention not properly "dividing the word of truth" between that which is literal & that which is symbolic.

 

The second article in this issue of the Winter Quarterly will deal with the new law that is to go into effect next year that qualifies for thrusting us into the Tribulation. This article however will deal with what qualifies for the terminology of what the Bible refers to as the Tribulation. Let's take a look at this word, "Tribulation" very closely so that we can better substantiate the title:

 

"Overcoming The Tribulation That Begins Next Year"

 

Tribulation: #2347 thlipsis   pressure, affliction, anguish, burdened, persecution, trouble.

 

When Jesus and the apostles spoke that word, they used the Greek equivalent: thlipsis. simply meaning trouble or persecution. ie : "In the world ye shall have thlipsis". In every single instance the word "tribulation" is used in the Bible, (26 times) it is never once used in describing earthly calamities, or worldwide upheaval. It's always used to describe PERSONAL trouble or persecution whether to an individual or a small group of the righteous. Here's just a few examples:

 

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might

have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: (thlipsis)

but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world"          John 16:33

 

“…that we must through much tribulation (thlipsis) enter

into the Kingdom of God..."                                            Acts 14:22

 

“…but we glory in tribulations (thlipsis) also: knowing that

tribulation worketh patience;"                                        Romans 5:3

 

"So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God

 for your patience & faith in all your persecutions and

 tribulations (thlipsis) that ye endure:"          II Thes 1:4

 

"Who comforteth us all in our tribulations" (thlipsis)

                                                                                           II Co 1:4

 

 

So as we can see from the above scripture verses, whether it was Jesus or Paul speaking, they both were describing tribulation of the elect or the church…never for the world at large. But Jesus spoke of a time of GREAT Tribulation. Again, not for the world, but an extreme time of persecution for the elect of God. So remember, tribulation doesn't mean earthly calamities and upheavals. That's God's judginent and wrath. Okay?

 

Who Me? Persecuted?!?

 

When I used to sit in the Baptist Church I grew up in, and listen to the preacher talk about how the day was coming when Christians would be persecuted for their beliefs some day, and he would read scriptures like: "those of your own household would become your enemies" and then go on to quote Christ Jesus saying: "If they persecuted me, then know they they’ll persecute you." Well, back then I had a really hard time grasping why someone would want to harm you, if you were simply living a mild mannered clean life, like that of our Savior. I mean why would anyone here in America (where we have freedom of religion) want to persecute you, hate you, or even want you put to death just because you believed in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? It just never made much sense to me... until now. See dear friend, claiming the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior, and not denying him isn't what's going to bring on the persecution and hatred, and don't for one minute let anyone mislead you into believing that will be the reason. Do you realize how many Protestant Churches there are here in America that hold up the Christian banner? Go to any large city or even a small town, and you'll find a Christian Church on nearly every street corner, and believe me, they all claim to follow Jesus Christ, and most would refuse to deny his name!

 

There are tens of millions of Christians in this country. The way my old Pastor used to talk, it would be these tens of millions of Christians who would some day be evil spoken of; hated by all Nations, persecuted, and perhaps even killed for not denying Jesus as their Lord. But see, . . . most people today really don't care who you worship!

 

So are people really going to hate you, and persecute you someday, (even in your own family), just for saying you're a Christian?? Well, that doesn't exactly compute with the words of Jesus, and with what the rest of the Bible says regarding this matter. Let's examine the evidence, shall we?

 

 

Now that you have a better understanding of the word: "tribulation" and we've correctly defined THAT word that was written in the Bible 2,000 plus years ago, all indications are that "tribulation" is going to begin for some of us THIS year, and others next year. And it's only going to intensify from there, but it certainly won't be for being a Christian. And remember, you can be a Berean, and study this all out for yourself, to see if these things be so. But first let's determine who it will be, that will be doing the persecution, or "tribulating", and the real reason why.

 

It's not going to be the Wiccans, the Buddists, or the Muslims who all gang up on Christians to persecute them, and want them dead. It's really talking about your own country/kinsman: (brother against brother), and in most cases these will be those of your own professed faith. Of course we know the Bible doesn't say: "They’ll kill you thinking they 're doing Allah a service", but doing Yahweh (the one true God) a service. This indicates they believe in the very same God that you and I believe in. The Bible doesn't say it will be those of a foreign country, or of a different religion that betray and persecute you, but in some cases, those of your very own household!! The ones coming from a foreign country and from different religions come for slaughter not persecution. That comes later!!

 

Now how many of us are going to have our husband or wife want us dead just because we believe in Jesus Christ? And are we really supposed to believe that our own Sons or Daughters are going to become our staunch enemies, and want us killed just because we have different religious views than they do, or because we claim the name of Christ?

 

I don't think so. In most cases, those of us who have children, well..... they believe in the same Jesus we do in most cases, and the few who don't certainly don't want us killed for our belief. Do yours? So it's got to be something much more than just being a Christian believer, or claiming the name of Jesus, Yahshua, etc.

 

 

Nowhere in the pages of the Bible does it say that the elect will be hated because they're Christians, or because they believe in Jesus, even though that's what most "Babylonian Pastors" teach will happen some day. It says we'll be hated by all "nations" for his "name" sake. Those two words could have been translated a little better in the King James Version, and if you just read over them at face value without studying to show yourself approved; that you would be hated by all men for claiming the name of Jesus. then you could easily come away without comprehending the full meaning; . . Let's examine those two words a little closer, in their original language to get a more clear understanding of just what it was Jesus and Paul both were saying here.

 

Nations: #1484 ethnos: race   Name: #3686 onoma: authority or character

 

When translated properly, Jesus was saying you would be hated for not only identifying HIM as your Kinsman redeemer, but hated by all races for his authoritative example, and living up to his character and teachings. This would include, especially the politically incorrect ones. In other words, when this thing really starts getting nasty, ... you're going to be hated by the J-ws, the Hispanics, Blacks, the Orientals, the Ishmaelites (Arabs), & yes, even the White  man. ALL races! Or as Christ said: all ethnicities

 

Why? Not because you say you're a Christian, or you've asked him into your heart, or even utter His "name", but because of claiming the same exact authority that He did, by saying you're a son of God! Yes, the persecution should come for exemplifying the characteristics of our Father, the same way Jesus did. Remember, the Jews crucified Christ because he had the audacity (actually the authority) to tell them He was the Son of God. He also condemned THEM by His Godly character, and His openness of telling them who their Father really was. (John 8:44). And "they" (as most refer to them as) are still here today my friends. The good news is that the sons of God are here now also... they just haven't been revealed yet! That's what the Bible says the whole world (creation) groans after. This coming tribulation is one of the things that's going to accomplish that revelation to the rest of the world, especially to all those "theys" out there who hate Christ. (they're antichrist's) But one of the main reasons Christ was persecuted, evil spoken of; and eventually crucified, was because of His radical teaching & His "buck the system" attitude.

 

 

The Edomite J-ws, "they" weren't going to tolerate someone coming along (like you and I) who promoted bucking the system, and pointing out that religion was nothing more than the false traditions of men, or in Christ's time: (the tradition of the elders) It was upsetting the apple cart so to speak' and went against the grain of the Roman authorities. Sound familiar? That's where the real rub comes in friend; Godly Authority, Christlike Character, & True Teachings ... that BUCK THE SYSTEM!

 

So it's not because of what we DO that brings on the persecution, but because of what we WON'T do. These tens of millions of "Christians" will be on that same broad road that everyone else is on when the Lord's Day arrives. That's why it will take them by surprise and come as a thief. With their "card mark" they'll be enjoying a security and prosperity "partnership" with the beast.

 

 

"When they cry peace (# 1515 prosperity) & safety, (#803 security) sudden destruction cometh. "  I Thes 5:3

 

Christ also said there would be a different road to travel down!! A road that he described as straight and narrow, and let's not forget the most important thing he said about it; that there would be FEW that found it. Most won't go down Persecution Lane!

 

Even though it's still quite mild, the persecution has indeed already started. All we have to do is look at those who are being evil spoken of NOW, & being persecuted NOW, & what it's for, to get a glimpse of who it is that will qualify as this small Remnant who are on this straight and narrow path. The ones Christ said would be hated by everyone before the Son of Man is revealed from heaven. Don't forget this: everyone who claims to be a Christian is NOT a son of God. That means there's not as many sons of God down here on this earth as most people think. The whole earth groans (longs for) for the revealing of the ELECT which is what that means. The difference between the two will become clear once the Sons of God are revealed, and become like their Kinsman Redeemer. (1 John 3:2) Some "Christians" are born of this earth (they call it being born again) but the Elect are born from where Jesus told Nicodemus where you must be born from to see the Kingdom of God.

 

 

And that is from ABOVE. The word "again" in the Greek is #509 anothen: which means from above, or from the first. From the first of what? From the first earth age?! This gets into being foreordained, or foreknown, (Rom 11:2) but that's really another subject for another time. The point is: very few are born from up above, or from the very first, and on that narrow path.

 

Okay, now let's get back to this idea of bucking the system, based on a very simple commandment that Jesus Christ Himself taught: "Ye cannot serve two masters"……..As in servitude! I heard someone say on RBN, (which is a short wave radio network) the other day: "Yeah, about this Real ID Act, when it goes finally active in 2008, it 'sjust the next stage in the enslavement process here in the US." NO! This isn't just "the next stage" my dear friends, this is definitely the "line in the sand" for the elect of God and the "system buckers"! It's a BIG time fork in the road. All your needs are "beast supplied" on the EASY Puth but you're on your own, and "God Supplied" when you find the DIFFICULT Path.

 

 

Two Roads

 

Now this is really important for everyone to grasp if you can. Jesus spoke of only TWO roads that one would travel down in this short life. And it's not so much a matter of choosing one over the other, but finding the right one. (That takes study & wisdom) One stays horizontal with an eventual sudden drop-off, and the other one has a gentle slope upward. The one that runs sideways is extremely broad, and it has countless travelers on it. Some are even nice people who go to church, pay their taxes, obey all of the (sometimes ridiculous) Babylonian Laws, and live happy, fulfilled lives with their families. Now since all of these "people" live "sideways", all they ever really know is this earthly plane, where they're influenced by a Beast government and it's antics. All they ever consider are "man made", and "man operated" ruling powers, and some even have False Shepherds teaching them "Traditional Religion", all with different spins put on it.

 

Since they're all citizens of Prophetic Babylon, they're on this broad road, oblivious to the straight and narrow path that Jesus spoke of. They simply can't find it because they're too busy! Unfortunately, they're also so wrapped up in "things", and programmed and brainwashed by TV, Entertainment, and Media, (yes, even the church-goers) that the "Christians" think they've found that straight & narrow path just by professing Christ, but have really missed the whole point in what Jesus was teaching. Jesus was a one man revolutionary act, who lived it out by NOT conforming to the system. They're not bucking the system!! Bucking the system is a synonym for Coming out of Babylon.

 

 

 

 

This goes right along with choosing between God & Mammon. Some of these folks say, "Yeah since you come out of Babylon in your mind and heart, then God's going to understand if we continue doing commerce with Babylon, because we 're IN this world, but just not suppose to be OF it".

 

That's a pretty weak excuse if you ask me, because if you've truly come out of Babylon in your heart and mind, then you also come out in your actions as well. You're certainly not going to want to participate in this intrusive National ID program. The elect & very elect, who are on that very narrow road, are not only going to refuse to participate in the National ID snare, but neither do they care anything about their kangaroo courts, their humanist minded universities, their whorehouse churches, their filthy entertainment, their unlawful taxes, and the list goes on and on. The rarely found narrow path is a complete reversal of mindset!!

 

See, when you really grasp hold of what it means to be on this sometimes treacherous, narrow path (the way) and live out the reality of treading upon it in not only words, but actions as well, then you're going to start making some enemies right in your own household if they're still making their way down that easy, broad way like everyone else in Mystery Babylon. The narrow path seems narrow minded to them. Too narrow minded!

 

In fact, the ones who are going to give you the hardest time for not receiving your new "do everything" card will be those of the Christian faith. You know why? Because you're condemning them by your actions, that's why. Actually, you don't have to say a word. But let's not forget that the Bible says it was Noah who "condemned the world" Heb. 11:7) by both his preaching AND his actions. It was his ACTIONS that not only condemned the world, but also proved that he believed what he was saying to them: . . . that God was going to destroy the earth (erets = land) by a never before seen substance that would fall from the skies: WATER! He had such faith to believe what the Father had told him, that he combined his faith WITH works, otherwise he would have been dead. Faith without works is dead, or can obviously bring on death, both spiritual & natural.

 

Do you believe and have the faith that God is going to do what He said He's going to do, as revealed to His prophets… that He's going to rain a never before seen, destroying fire down upon the inhabitants of Babylon in His wrath? If so, then you're going to transpose that faith into works by coming OUT of Babylon.

 

Since you can't go anywhere to escape Babylon, then it's obviously speaking of coming out in your deeds, actions, and loyalty to Christ. The bottom line is where does your loyalty and dependence lie? You're actions prove which is the case, and you will condemn the world BY those actions, thus bringing on persecution, or tribulation. That's why with this Real ID Act going into effect next year, we can Biblically and Truthfully say:

 

We must Overcome the Tribulation that begins next year.

 

To close out this first article in the Winter Quarterly, let me just say this; The three main areas that are required for something to qualify for the "Mark of the Beast" is that it has to be something to do with your right hand or forehead, include some kind of mark, involve the "Beast" and initiate a decision to be able to continue to buy and sell, or conduct commerce. Now that we have a real good understanding of just what "the tribulation" is, please read the next article describing just what brings it about, and how the "beast" is planning on implementing it.

 

 

Does The National I.D. Card Qualify For The Mark of the Beast?

 

And he appoints everyone, both the least of men and the mighty of men, abundant and pauper, unrestrained citizen and subservient, to bring forth and commit' to a badge of servitude with a stamp or etching on it, of their right hand or their face.

 

And that no person would be able to go to market and gather in public or be busy and trade, except he that had the badge of servitude with their stamp or etching, and/or the authorization of the beast, and/or the number of ones own name.

 

Now you may be saying; "Where on earth did that come from, and from what translation of the Bible did you get it?" Well, I think if you'll hear me out, you'll see just how correct the above translation is. . . in light of what we're all about to face as early as next year. . . and quite possibly sooner! Each one of the above words or phrases are taken directly from the Greek Manuscripts, and each Greek word is given it's most plausible English meaning or definition just as John the Revelator wrote them some nineteen centuries ago.

 

Now let's simplify Revelation 13:16-17 from the above translation which deals with this.. one of the most well known verses in the whole Bible when dealing with end time prophecy, and let's go ahead and give it some up to date "post 911/Patriot Act" relevancy. This is just a TODAY paraphrase:

 

"A new law will be passed that will require everyone, whether on welfare, middle class or wealthy to provide some identifying mark that's either in their right hand or a facial and retina scan to be encoded into a badge or cord that will allow you to conduct everyday affairs of life dealing with public commerce."

 

"And no one will be able to drive, gather in public buildings, shop at stores, or conduct trade of any kind, including holding a job or collecting social security, without this badge or card of authorization, showing you're in compliance with the government having your own biometric marks and social security number."

 

Some may he saying right now: "Oh, that's kind of stretching it a little hit Bro. Ben...reading a lot into two verses that I just can't see that are there." Well, I challenge you to go get a Bible, and you look up each and every word in those two verses in the Greek Concordance Dictionary like I did, then you can come to your own conclusions. Before you just take those verses at face value for what they appear to say in the KJV translation without searching out the scriptures; remember these two important things Jesus himself stressed: Let NO man deceive you, and Beware of the scribes (translators). I certainly can't tell you what to do, or what not to do…it's simply my duty as a Watchman to inform you with the knowledge, then it's all between you and your Maker from that point on.

 

 

 

 

So is the Real ID it!?! Is the National ID card meeting the criteria for the Revelation 13 "mark"?!? Remember, as I've said for many years in writing about prophecy: . . . Even though you have preachers and teachers out there by the hundreds or even thousands who read prophetic verses, then tell you exactly what they mean, and exactly how they're going to be fulfilled, well EVERYONE OF THEM are either fibbing, or they're extremely conceited and ignorant, because as far back as the early church days up until the present, no one can be 100% accurate on interpreting prophecy until AFTER it has occurred. That is why when Jesus was here, he would say: "This is that which (such and such) the prophet spoke of”. It was always AFTER the fact. So it is in our day my friends. However, I must say: in all the years I've been studying the topic of the Mark of the Beast, this is about as close as one can get: 99.9% BEFORE the actual fulfillment, in being able to truthfully say: “'This is that which the prophet, John the Revelator spoke…” and we're all going to have to make our own decision on this, because THIS ONE is staring us right in the face!!

 

I think it's high time we quit asking ourselves: "what is THE Mark of the Beast, or what is THEIR Mark of the Beast, but asking: "What is MY Mark of the Beast! What does it mean to YOU! It all comes down to CONVICTION my dear friends. Work out YOUR OWN salvation with fear and trembling, the Word says. Right? Also take this into account: When the Biblical prophecy is being fulfilled that DOES quality for this Prophesied "mark", and it is finally implemented, EVERYONE is going to go along with it out of sheer convenience, and for not having to "do without", except for that tiny small fraction the Bible calls "The Elect of God". T'won't be very many y'all! You know…it'll only be "the kooks". So mull that one over for a while. Broad is the road that leadeth to destruction and MANY there be that go there in, but narrow is the way that leadeth to life everlasting and FEW there be that find it. If everyone else is participating in something that requires bowing to the system that ALLOWS them to continue to buy and sell, and you're convicted NOT to go along, you better count that prompting of the Holy Spirit as a blessing, and be thankful He's giving you eyes to see, & you're one of the few!

 

 

Always remember this, and if you don't get anything else out of this article BUT this, please don't forget it: The Tribulation is for YOU! Ml of those poor masses out there aren't facing tribulation. Few are worthy,..... they're facing WRATH! The tribulation is a prized time to sift and put through the fire the seed of Jacob. That's why it's called the time of Jacob's Trouble. We're to count it all joy when it arrives. (Jam 1:2) If you don't, then something is terribly wrong, so always remember that. The tribulation (thlipsis) is the pressure that squeezes you out of the system. And don't plan for it to get any easier until the Day of the Lord arrives. But we're to be the Overcomers mentioned in scripture! This time is your crown in glory.

 

Here's another thing to consider; Before we can determine what the "Mark" is or isn't, we first must determine just what the "Beast" is, which will be covered in more detail a little later. With that thought in mind: is it the mark of some "man"? Is it the mark of a "system"? Is it the mark of the "antichrist", or could it be the mark of YOU? Think about that for a moment!! THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS SUBJECT DEAR ONES!!! Obviously the most important subject I've ever covered in these fourteen years. I'm beginning to see this is the whole reason the Heavenly Father has placed me here in this Historical time. . . To WARN as a Watchman! The Lord has opened up some more clarification, and understanding I believe on just what the Mark of the Beast entails, based on going back to the original Greek manuscripts, of which the Bible was translated from, (which I started this article off with), and I feel I must share it with you without delay, because if this is correct, then we are now down to MONTHS (not years) before we all will have to make a very important choice, when we're all thrust into this prophetic Babylonian valley of decision.

 

As I study and read the words of Jesus (especially the Olivet Discourse) he warned us over and over again to not be deceived, as did Paul. Note especially Matthew 24:24 where it advises that the deception would be so strong, and running so rampant, that even the very elect would come close to being deceived if it were possible. I believe this is particularly true when it comes to this important subject of the Mark of the Beast.

 

Now just ask yourself: What is so deceiving about a numbered microchip embedded under your skin on your right hand? That's pretty cut and dry, wouldn't you say? I mean come on!! Who is going to be deceived into not realizing THAT is the Mark?!? Not many I assure you. And Christ said it would be the MANY that would be deceived, did He not?

 

There's a whole lot more involved surrounding this "mark" than just not being able to go to the grocery store and purchase a can of green beans without having some device or tattoo in or on your right hand or your forehead. First of all it's not "THE" mark that's mentioned in Rev. 13:16, but it says "A" mark.

 

Men have speculated for centuries on just what this dreaded mark is. But as we come closer and closer to the end of this present age, it becomes more and more clear just what this prophecy possibly means. I've heard it all, like most of you have; That the mark is something as simple as worshiping on Sunday instead of Saturday, to the bar code, to an actual RFID chip implanted under the skin of the right hand or forehead.

 

The RFID theory is the most popular because it's the latest, that's all. In fact IBM just announced this last Fall of 2006 it will be bringing on the market a newer device that is a tenth the size of the RFID chip, and will have the ability to contain over a hundred times more information. I've always kind of had a bit of a problem with any kind of "implant" being the mark, simply because it's way too obvious. Do we really think that satan is that stupid!! He's the great deceiver, & again, what kind of deception is in that theory? Who's going to take a foreign device implanted in their right hand to buy & sell with?

 

Sure, you've got a FEW idiots out there who do stuff like that for attention, like the Jacobs family down there in Florida a few years ago, but of course you've also got a FEW Satan worshipers out there too. The key word there is "few" compared to the nearly 300 million in this country. What I'm getting at is, as a vast majority, no one is that stupid, especially if they're even the least bit familiar with the Revelation 13 passage, and even most agnostics know what the 666 mark is!!

 

That's why I think the RFID chip is nothing more than a DISTRACTION & DECEPTION to make people THINK that's what the mark is going to be. Now we really need to ask ourselves;…why is the media hyping that so much? I'll tell you why, because that way if something else comes along that actually FITS the criteria for a mark according to scripture, they'll readily accept it, because they'll think, "this couldn’t be the mark because it's not the "implantable chip". Think about it! Remember, once again; it's only the very elect who aren't deceived. Most will just continue thinking it's the chip implant.

 

The problem lies in "interpretation" when it comes to this vital subject, and you have some who are on one end of the scale who simplify it to the extreme, saying it's all in your heart and mind (what you think) and what you do, (your outward actions). Then there's the other extreme that it absolutely HAS to be some foreign device that is placed IN your hand or IN your forehead by force. Well, I think both extremes are erroneous, and it could fall somewhere in between. Now I believe BOTH are correct when it comes to principle. Again, when it comes to the PRINCIPLE of the matter, then they fit. Let me explain: On the simpler extreme it DOES involve what's truly in a man's heart whether he participates or not, and on the more literal extreme, it involves an outward action showing the world where you stand. So please keep these two principles in mind as we continue the study, because I believe BOTH will have to be present in order to qualify for the fulfillment of this prophecy. In other words... before you ever participate in an outward action to continue to buy & sell with, or conduct commerce of any kind, (like a National ID card for example) and you go ahead and accept it, you've ALREADY got the mark in your heart and mind. The outward act simply proves it.

 

Now here's the IMPORTANT ISSUE on this whole matter. It's not so much WHAT the "mark" happens to be, or doesn't happen to be, but the MOTIVES behind accepting or refusing it. In other words, the primary issue here is keeping mammon and comfort by bowing to the demands of the "Beast" and IT'S Kingdom, versus poverty and even discomfort by bowing to the demands or commandments of Christ and HIS Kingdom.

 

And above all, . . following HIS example that He laid out in His own life. Jesus said himself he had not a place to even lay his head. He didn't store up wealth in any form while walking this earth. He lived day to day, and expects us to do the same when a time comes that we have a "line in the sand" choice: To keep mammon & comfort, or give it up, & endure the consequences.

 

That's why in Revelation 3:10 it is described as a test and a temptation.: I will keep thee from that hour of TEMPTATION which will come upon the whole world to try (TEST) them that dwell upon the earth.

 

Now think about this for a moment. The man who has a nice retirement fund, or a sizable 401K, or a moderate investment in General Motors stock, Microsoft stock, IBM, (take your pick) or even a lot of cash stuffed in his mattress, is going to have a much more difficult time in making the right decision in walking away from all of that mammon by forsaking all, refusing the "badge of servitude", and his option to use those funds, than the man who doesn't have any of those worldly possessions in the first place. Perhaps that's why Christ said it was easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

 

I used to think that the verse in Rev. 3:10 was talking about God "keeping" you from all the terrible things that were going to happen during the "tribulation", . . for keeping the word of His patience. But now it's become much more clear: It's the TEMPTATION that He keeps you from,…not the tribulation I persecution. How might this happen? Well, I can see how events in my own personal life (and maybe yours too) are perhaps fulfilling that prophecy,…Please allow me to explain. As a younger man, I had every opportunity to become quite wealthy on several occasions, owning my own business, acquiring various investments, etc., but God always intervened! I had the intelligence, I had the know how, the drive, and ambition to do so, but ROAD BLOCKS were always thrown in my path usually right at the last minute. So He was "keeping" me from becoming wealthy (and again, possibly you too) for our own protection! The Heavenly Father "keeps" you from that temptation of having "mammon" and having to decide to give it all up, kind of like the rich young ruler had to decide.

 

So this prophetic instance in time that's coming in 2008 is certainly going to be an occasion when men will be thrust into: "The Valley of Decision" as the prophet Joel described it (Joel 3:14) A tempting trap/snare indeed, just as Jesus referred to it as in Luke

 

“For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the lace of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore and pray always that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things (wrath vs.23-26) that shall come to pass, to stand before the Son of man.“            Luke 21:35-36

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now Let's Get Back To the Study Text: Revelation 13:16-17

 

Again, once you break down the meanings of the original Greek words used in that passage, it takes on a whole different meaning, and any serious Bible student will think twice before either accepting or especially using a National I.D. card to conduct everyday commerce with. (ie. Banking, working, etc.)

 

                                                                                                                                         

The Primary objective of this portion of this article is to show that the looming National ID card (which has already passed Senate & Congress) meets all of the criteria for the “Mark of the Beast" should it become a necessary credential to conduct everyday commerce. (Buy & Sell)

 

Before we begin discussing exactly what the "mark" could be, we need to lay some groundwork on just what is meant by the term "beast" when used in the Holy Bible, especially in correct prophetic terminology. Over the last 150 years, . . . ever since John Darby popularized the current false interpretation, and then had C.I. Scofield cram it down everyone's throat beginning in the early nineteenth century, .    .  popular "prophecy teachers" have espoused that "the beast", when used in Revelation 13, is describing a single man, namely THE antichrist, but is this correct? We had better make sure, because all of this could determine our eternal destiny when studying such a serious topic as the: "Mark of the Beast".

 

It's always baffled me how these supposed "scholars" will begin reading Revelation 13:1 speaking of this Beast that rises up out of the sea' (which the book of Daniel clearly describes as a Kingdom) and suffers a deadly wound that gets healed... then when they get on down to verse 16, this "Beast" suddenly switches, and now it's some man whom they refer to as the antichrist. It's crazy'.!! If we misinterpret what the "beast" is in these passages, then we're getting off on the wrong foot to begin with. Those who accept only ONE interpretation of the beast, (a charismatic one world leader called THE antichrist) will in all likelihood take anything the Government proposes to buy and sell with as long as this "mark" isn't the "devils" mark, or the mark of "the antichrist". Unfortunately, they'll be in serious jeopardy and here's why:

 

                                                       When a Beast Isn’t Just A Beast

 

The "Mark", as well as the "Beast" go all I book of Genesis. We don't have time in this article to  extensively as I have on this subject, but I’ve been praying for wisdom on this matter for more than a decade, but just to whet the appetite for those who want to do a deeper study: It has to do with “satan” who was described as the most subtle BEAST in the field, (world) and “MARK” that God put ON Cain, not IN Cain” in this first book of the Bible. That should give you a clue as to where we’re going in this study. Since the very first entity ever mentioned in the Bible as “the beast” (Gen. 3:1) was satan, (allegorically the serpent) along with Cain not being listed in Adam's genealogy, and being taught by John that: "Cain was of that Wicked one" ('John 3:12) well . .1 personally can't come to any other conclusion than the following:…Satan was a beast, and his child received a mark from God. (Gen. 4:15) Now I'm merely telling you what the Bible says. Keep in mind that Cain (with his mark) was the first "man" to develop a metropolis of commerce, being the' first one to build a city of trade, and it does take citizens to have a city mind you!

 

A beast, is a beast, is a beast. Or is it? Before one can really understand the deeper meanings of certain Bible passages, he must come to the knowledge of how God uses "idioms" all through the Bible. What is an idiom? Well, it's kind of like an analogy, or using something else other than the literal, to teach or describe a particular truth. Jesus used idioms & analogies all during his ministry. Remember when He called Herod a "fox"? Well, that was a good example of an idiom for getting His point across ofjust how sly and cunning this evil Edomite King was. Most Edomites are. Webster's defines an idiom thusly:

 

1.  "an accepted phrase, construction, or expression contrary to the usual patterns Of the language or having a meaning different from the literal"2. "a peculiar phraseology ".

 

So just like the words: "trees", "sheep", and "dogs", the word "beast" is not only used to describe animals, but it's sometimes used to describe humanoids as well. Both as individuals or as a corporate body. (Government or Kingdom).

 

Other than actual four-footed animals, there are three primary uses of the idiom phrase: "Beast" that are used in the Bible to describe three distinct "corporate bodies" or "individual beings". These are Kingdoms, pre-Adamites, & the descendants of Cain. The only life forms that are never referred to as "beasts" are the "sons of God", (either unmixed Adamites, or Israelites).

 

Let's keep this is mind as we study the mark of the beast; There's many other examples of idioms in the Bible, but we don't have the time to go through them in this treatise, so I would recommend you do your own private study on idioms, because it will open up your understanding of prophecy to a whole new level. The different "trees" mentioned in the Bible is a good place to start if this vital and essential topic interests you, ... which describes the different "nations" of the world.

 

Now, remember how God said in Genesis 3:1 that the serpent (satan) was more subtle than any beast of the field? We know satan wasn't a four legged animal (or even a snake for that matter) that roamed the field. (world) So what does the Bible mean when it uses the terminology of "beast" throughout the Word? While it’s true that most of the time it IS describing an animal, there's other times that it's referring to a non-Adamite/Israelite. For example: In Jonah it speaks of the "beast's" putting on sackcloth and repenting. Does that sound like what animals do? Absolutely not! More on this in a moment.

 

Before we look at our first few verses dealing with "beast's", allow me to share what I've come to more fully understand this idiom to mean. It has to do with "man". Not "A Man", but man in general, but more precisely unregenerate man. To simplify it:.. Once a person becomes "born again" he becomes a new CREATURE, and he no longer has this "beast like nature" but becomes a son of God. Adam was created perfect and sinless in the very beginning, and the Bible says he was created in the "Image of God". If you stop and think about it, this is the exact opposite of the "Image of the Beast". Do you catch the contrast there? The "beast" can represent not only unregenerate man in general, but a group of men, or mans government. The main point here is that the beast is representative of fallen man, whether an individual or a secular Government/Kingdom.

 

 If you’re still having a bit of a problem believing the Biblical terminology of : “beast” can represent man or humanoids”, let’s see what Solomon (the wisest man on earth) said:

 

“I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts.”          Eccl. 3:18

 

Now remember, we're trying to lay some groundwork here on the "beast" so you'll have a better understanding of just what the mark of the "beast" actually is. We'll get into Revelation 13 in a moment, but suffice to say, this "beast" isn't just some chide everyone calls "the antichrist'. .it's much more than that.

 

So what was Solomon saying in the above verse? Notice he didn't say "the sons of God" but "the son’s of men". Remember, we don't become the sons of God until we are born again, or regenerated. So in essence he was saying fallen, unregenerate man is no different than a "beast" in the sight of the creator. You might say: The sin nature, is the beast nature, or visa versa. Of course God loves ALL of His creation, but longs for fallen Adamites to be regenerated, and then no longer looks upon them as beasts, but as the sons of God. Now it's best to have at least two witnesses on this truth' so let's look at another verse equating "beast" with men . . . this time in the venue of Government. Don't forget that Government is made up of men. I've heard people over the years say: "The beast is a man", then others say: "No, the beast is a government". Well, how about BOTH! Let's take a look.

 

Daniel 7:23 is clear on describing the BEAST as a Kingdom or Government. This HAS to be the same beast described in Revelation 13 as it has seven heads and ten horns, it's the fourth, (or last beast of this age) and is the one that is dreadful and terrible, and makes war with the saints. The point being: The Bible interprets itself, and in this case the angel of the Lord interprets Daniels vision for him explaining the beast he saw in his vision is the latter day Government. And again, governments are made up of MEN. In this case: evil men who are against the Most High. And they will eventually persecute the Elect, or the Saints, as the scriptures foretell.

 

Another Biblical proof text that beast's are sometimes made up of evil men in Government; Where does this end time beast arise from? The waters or the sea. In other words that is where this beast originates from. Well, what are the waters an idiom or analogy for? Revelation 17:15 tells us. The waters are people, multitudes, nations, and tongues. Pretty plain huh? This beast is made up of men. In this case: an organized body of men.

 

Let's have even a 3rd witness that prove "beast's can be men". If one does a careful word study of Jonah 3:7-8, (read it) it becomes clear that the word "beast" in these passages is not talking about an animal. What dumb animal puts on sackcloth and repents & cries mightily to the Lord?!.? In fact verse 7 differentiates between men (adamites), beasts (non-adamites), and animals (herds & flocks). Verse eight describes the beast turning from their evil ways and repenting from the violence of their HANDS. (not paws or hoofs) Do you really think it's speaking of animals there? Absolutely not!! So the whole point here is sometimes when the word "beast" is used in scripture (not always) it's NOT merely talking about animals. Granted, most of the time it is, but not in every instance. That's where rightly DIVIDING the word of TRUTH comes in. You have to divide the meaning of the word based on it's context. With this in mind, let's continue on in our study.

 

I know we've spent a lot of time on the subject of just what the word "Beast" can mean: animal, pre-adamites, unregenerate man in general, or an evil Government made up of men, but this understanding is so crucial in grasping just what the meaning of the Mark of the Beast is. It doesn't just mean the mark of the antichrist, as most Babylonian Churches teach.

 

Now let's do a word by word study of Revelation 13:16.1 will put in bold type (three) critical words we will examine in their original Greek meanings or definitions.

 

"And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to RECEIVE a MARK IN their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." Revelation 13:16-17

 

So the words we're going to focus in on here in this study text verse are: RECEIVE, MARK, and IN.

 

Receive: # 1325 didomi - to give, bestow, bring forth, commit, deliver up, grant, offer, take, yield up, suffer (allow), etc

 

As we can see here, the word "receive" actually means the exact opposite of what the scribes translated it. (Again. why do you think Jesus said "Beware of the scribes“?) It actually means to give, or to bring forth!! To commit to. Now keep that in mind.

 

Mark: # 5480 charagma: a scratch or etching (ie. to stamp) as in a badge of servitude.

 

As we see here the word "mark" means a "scratch" or "etching", or to "stamp".  We're  talking  about something here that's engraved. If you look carefully at your own thumbprint, aren't the lines etched into your thumb or finger. It's your own unique, individual engraved identifier. In fact, when we give our thumbprint, we place our thumb or finger in the ink, then stamp the paper with it. It's in essence a crude stamp and stamp pad. Of course now all of this is done digitally or inkless. But notice the most alarming definition for the word charagma: a badge! Card? And one that denotes servitude at that!!