Revelation 17:11

The beast that was, and now is not, is an eighth king, who belongs to the other seven and is going into destruction.

Study Bible

The beast that was, and now is not
This phrase refers to a recurring theme in Revelation concerning the beast, symbolizing a powerful, oppressive empire or ruler. Historically, this has been associated with the Roman Empire, which persecuted early Christians. The "was, and now is not" suggests a temporary cessation or transformation of this power, echoing the idea of a wounded beast in Revelation 13:3. This reflects the cyclical nature of oppressive regimes throughout history, which rise, fall, and sometimes re-emerge in different forms.

is an eighth king
The "eighth king" implies a continuation or culmination of the previous seven kings mentioned earlier in Revelation 17. This could symbolize a future or ultimate manifestation of evil power, distinct yet connected to its predecessors. In biblical numerology, the number eight often signifies new beginnings or a new order, which in this context could mean a final, intensified form of opposition to God’s kingdom.

who belongs to the other seven
This indicates that the eighth king shares characteristics or lineage with the previous seven, suggesting a continuity of rebellion against God. The seven kings can be seen as historical or symbolic representations of earthly powers that have opposed God’s people. This connection emphasizes the persistent nature of evil throughout human history, as seen in Daniel 7, where successive kingdoms oppose God’s rule.

and is going into destruction
The ultimate fate of the beast and the eighth king is destruction, affirming the biblical theme of divine justice and the eventual triumph of God over evil. This echoes the prophetic declarations found in Daniel 2:44 and Revelation 19:20, where God’s kingdom prevails over all earthly powers. It reassures believers of the temporary nature of evil and the certainty of God’s final victory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Beast
Symbolic of a powerful, evil entity or empire that opposes God. In Revelation, the beast often represents oppressive political powers or leaders that embody rebellion against God.

2. The Eighth King
This refers to a ruler or kingdom that emerges from the previous seven, signifying continuity and culmination of evil power. The eighth king is distinct yet connected to the previous seven.

3. The Seven Kings
These are symbolic of a series of rulers or empires that have historically opposed God. They represent completeness in opposition to God, as the number seven often signifies completeness in the Bible.

4. Destruction
The ultimate fate of the beast and the eighth king, indicating God's final judgment and the end of their power.

5. Revelation
The book of Revelation is a prophetic vision given to the Apostle John, revealing the ultimate triumph of God over evil and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Teaching Points

The Nature of Evil Power
The beast represents the recurring nature of evil throughout history. Believers should be aware of how power can corrupt and lead to opposition against God.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the rise of evil powers, God remains sovereign. The ultimate destruction of the beast assures believers of God's control over history and His final victory.

Perseverance in Faith
Christians are called to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that evil powers are temporary and will be judged by God.

Discernment in Leadership
Believers should exercise discernment in recognizing leaders or systems that oppose God's principles, aligning themselves with God's truth.

Hope in God's Justice
The promise of the beast's destruction provides hope that God's justice will prevail, encouraging believers to trust in His righteous judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the beast in Revelation 17:11 help us understand the nature of evil in the world today?

2. In what ways can the rise and fall of the beast and the eighth king encourage believers to trust in God's ultimate plan?

3. How can the connection between Revelation 17:11 and Daniel 7 deepen our understanding of prophetic literature in the Bible?

4. What practical steps can Christians take to discern and resist systems or leaders that embody the characteristics of the beast?

5. How does the assurance of the beast's destruction in Revelation 17:11 provide hope and motivation for believers facing persecution or trials?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 7
The vision of the four beasts in Daniel parallels the imagery in Revelation, representing kingdoms that rise and fall, ultimately leading to God's eternal kingdom.

2 Thessalonians 2
Discusses the "man of lawlessness," who opposes God and exalts himself, similar to the beast's role in Revelation.

Revelation 13
Provides further details about the beast, its authority, and its blasphemous nature, offering a broader context for understanding Revelation 17:11.