Revelation 17:8

The beast that you saw--it was, and now is no more, but is about to come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. And those who dwell on the earth whose names were not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world will marvel when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet will be.

Study Bible

The beast that you saw
This phrase refers to the vision of the beast that John, the author of Revelation, witnessed. The "beast" is a symbol of a powerful, malevolent force or empire that opposes God and His people. In the Greek, "therion" (beast) often denotes a wild, dangerous animal, suggesting the chaotic and destructive nature of this entity. Historically, this has been interpreted as a representation of oppressive regimes or figures throughout history, particularly those that have persecuted Christians.

was, and is not, and is about to come up
This phrase indicates the cyclical nature of evil powers throughout history. The beast "was" signifies its past existence, "is not" suggests a temporary absence or defeat, and "is about to come up" points to a future resurgence. This reflects the ongoing spiritual battle between good and evil, where evil may seem to disappear but often re-emerges. The Greek verb "mello" (about to come) implies an impending action, emphasizing the urgency and inevitability of this return.

out of the abyss
The "abyss" is a term used in Scripture to describe a deep, bottomless pit or a place of confinement for demonic forces. In Greek, "abussos" conveys a sense of depth and darkness, often associated with chaos and evil. This imagery suggests that the beast's power is rooted in the spiritual realm of darkness, highlighting the spiritual warfare that underlies earthly events.

and go to its destruction
This phrase assures believers of the ultimate defeat of evil. The Greek word "apoleia" (destruction) signifies complete ruin or loss, indicating that the beast's power is temporary and destined for annihilation. This is a source of hope for Christians, affirming that despite the apparent strength of evil, God's justice will prevail.

those who dwell on the earth
This phrase typically refers to people who are worldly or opposed to God, often used in Revelation to describe those who are not part of God's redeemed community. The Greek "katoikeo" (dwell) implies a settled, permanent residence, suggesting a deep-seated allegiance to earthly, rather than heavenly, values.

whose names were not written in the book of life
The "book of life" is a metaphorical record of those who belong to God and have eternal life. In the Greek, "biblion" (book) and "zoe" (life) together symbolize divine knowledge and assurance of salvation. This phrase underscores the distinction between those who are saved and those who are not, emphasizing the importance of faith and divine election.

from the foundation of the world
This phrase highlights the eternal nature of God's plan and foreknowledge. The Greek "katabole" (foundation) suggests the laying down of a structure, indicating that God's purposes and the destiny of His people have been established since the beginning of creation. This provides comfort and assurance to believers of their secure place in God's sovereign plan.

will be astonished when they see the beast
The reaction of astonishment indicates a sense of shock or surprise at the beast's appearance and power. The Greek "thaumazo" (astonished) conveys a sense of wonder or amazement, often with a negative connotation in this context, as it reflects the deception and allure of evil that captivates those not grounded in faith.

that was, and is not, and yet will be
This repetition reinforces the transient and deceptive nature of the beast's power. It mirrors the earlier phrase, emphasizing the cyclical and persistent threat of evil. However, it also serves as a reminder of the ultimate futility of opposing God, as the beast's existence is temporary and its end is certain. This encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that God's victory is assured.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beast
Represents a powerful, evil entity or empire that opposes God. It "was, and is not, and is about to rise," indicating a cyclical or resurrected nature of evil power.

2. The Abyss
A place of confinement for evil spirits, often associated with chaos and the underworld in biblical literature.

3. The Book of Life
A heavenly record of those who belong to God, whose names are written from the foundation of the world, signifying eternal security and divine election.

4. Those Who Dwell on the Earth
Refers to people who are not aligned with God, often used in Revelation to describe those who follow worldly systems and reject divine truth.

5. Destruction
The ultimate fate of the beast, indicating God's final victory over evil.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Evil
Evil may seem to disappear but often re-emerges in different forms. Believers must remain vigilant and discerning.

The Assurance of Salvation
Those whose names are written in the Book of Life have eternal security. This should encourage believers to live confidently in their faith.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the rise of evil, God is in control, and the ultimate destruction of the beast is assured. Trust in God's plan and timing.

The Call to Witness
Understanding the fate of those not in the Book of Life should motivate believers to share the Gospel with urgency.

Spiritual Discernment
Believers are called to discern the times and recognize the spiritual realities behind worldly events.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the beast in Revelation 17:8 challenge or affirm your understanding of evil in the world today?

2. In what ways can the assurance of having your name in the Book of Life impact your daily life and decisions?

3. How can the cyclical nature of evil's rise and fall encourage you to remain steadfast in your faith?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure you are spiritually discerning the events and influences around you?

5. How does the ultimate destruction of the beast inspire you to share the Gospel with those who do not know Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 7
The vision of the four beasts, which parallels the imagery of Revelation, showing the rise and fall of empires opposed to God.

2 Thessalonians 2
Discusses the "man of lawlessness" who will be revealed, similar to the beast's rise from the abyss.

Exodus 32
The concept of the "book" where names are written, relating to the Book of Life mentioned in Revelation.

Philippians 4
Paul speaks of fellow workers whose names are in the Book of Life, emphasizing the assurance of salvation.