Revelation 13:11

Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. This beast had two horns like a lamb, but spoke like a dragon.

Study Bible

Then I saw
The phrase "Then I saw" indicates a continuation of John's visionary experience. The Greek word for "saw" is "εἶδον" (eidon), which implies not just physical sight but a deeper, spiritual perception. This suggests that John is being shown a revelation of significant spiritual truth, a vision that requires discernment and understanding beyond the natural.

another beast
The term "another beast" introduces a second entity distinct from the first beast mentioned earlier in the chapter. The Greek word for "beast" is "θηρίον" (thērion), often used to describe a wild, untamed creature. This beast is symbolic of a powerful, malevolent force or system that opposes God. The use of "another" (ἄλλος, allos) indicates that while this beast is different in form, it shares a similar nature or purpose with the first beast.

rising out of the earth
The imagery of "rising out of the earth" contrasts with the first beast, which rose from the sea. The earth, in biblical symbolism, often represents stability and the realm of humanity. This suggests that the second beast emerges from a more familiar, perhaps more deceptive, environment. It may symbolize a power or influence that appears more grounded or acceptable to human society.

This beast had two horns like a lamb
The description "two horns like a lamb" is intriguing because it combines the imagery of power (horns) with the appearance of innocence or gentleness (lamb). In biblical symbolism, a lamb often represents purity, sacrifice, and Christ Himself. The Greek word for "lamb" is "ἀρνίον" (arnion), which is used elsewhere in Revelation to refer to Jesus. This suggests that the beast may present itself as Christ-like or benevolent, yet its true nature is deceptive.

but spoke like a dragon
The phrase "but spoke like a dragon" reveals the true nature of the beast. The dragon, identified earlier in Revelation as Satan, is the embodiment of deceit and opposition to God. The Greek word for "dragon" is "δράκων" (drakōn), symbolizing a creature of chaos and evil. Despite its lamb-like appearance, the beast's speech betrays its allegiance to the dragon, indicating that its words and actions are ultimately destructive and opposed to God's truth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beast from the Earth
This is the second beast mentioned in Revelation 13, distinct from the first beast that rises from the sea. It symbolizes a deceptive power that appears gentle but speaks with the authority and deceit of a dragon.

2. The Earth
The origin of the second beast, contrasting with the sea from which the first beast arises. The earth may symbolize a more stable or familiar realm, suggesting a deceptive influence that arises from within rather than from external chaos.

3. The Lamb
The beast has two horns like a lamb, indicating a semblance of innocence or gentleness. The lamb is often a symbol of Christ, suggesting that this beast mimics Christ-like qualities to deceive.

4. The Dragon
Represents Satan, the source of the beast's authority and deceitful speech. The dragon is a recurring symbol in Revelation, embodying opposition to God and His people.

5. John the Apostle
The author of Revelation, who receives this vision while exiled on the island of Patmos. His role is to convey the prophetic visions to the early Christian churches.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Deception
Believers must be vigilant and discerning, recognizing that not all that appears Christ-like is truly from God. The beast's lamb-like appearance is a warning against superficial judgments.

The Power of Words
The beast speaks like a dragon, emphasizing the power of words to deceive and lead astray. Christians are called to test the spirits and align their beliefs with Scripture.

The Role of False Prophets
This passage highlights the danger of false prophets within the church. Believers should be rooted in biblical truth to withstand deceptive teachings.

Endurance in Faith
Understanding the nature of spiritual deception encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting in God's ultimate victory over evil.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
The imagery of the beast calls for constant spiritual vigilance, as deception can arise from familiar and seemingly benign sources.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the beast from the earth challenge our understanding of spiritual deception within the church?

2. In what ways can we apply Jesus' warning in Matthew 7:15 to our discernment of spiritual leaders today?

3. How does the imagery of the beast having horns like a lamb but speaking like a dragon inform our approach to evaluating teachings and doctrines?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are not swayed by false prophets or deceptive teachings?

5. How does the ultimate fate of the beast in Revelation 19:20 provide hope and encouragement for believers facing spiritual deception?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 7:15
Jesus warns about false prophets who come in sheep's clothing but are inwardly ravenous wolves. This connects to the beast's lamb-like appearance but dragon-like speech, highlighting the theme of deception.

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10
Describes the coming of the lawless one with false signs and wonders, paralleling the deceptive nature of the beast from the earth.

Daniel 8:25
Speaks of a king who will cause deceit to prosper, similar to the deceptive power of the beast.

Revelation 19:20
The fate of the beast and the false prophet, showing the ultimate defeat of these deceptive powers.