Page 131 - Bible Doctrine Survey I (3)

The meaning of 666 is a mystery as well. Some speculated that there was a connection to June 6,
2006—06/06/06. However, in Revelation chapter 13, the number 666 identifies a person, not a
date. Revelation 13:18 tells us, “This calls for wisdom. If anyone has insight, let him calculate the
number of the beast, for it is man’s number. His number is 666.” Somehow, the number 666 will identify
the Antichrist. For centuries Bible interpreters have been trying to identify certain individuals with 666.
Nothing is conclusive. That is why Revelation 13:18 says the number requires wisdom. When the
Antichrist is revealed (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4), it will be clear who he is and how the number 666
identifies him. It is a mystery reserved for the future.

The Antichrist Rise to Power

Armageddon and the Antichrist’s demise

The Antichrist along with his sidekick, the false prophet, will rule the entire earth during the second half
of the tribulation. During his rule, God is delivering the judgments described in Revelation, especially
the bowl judgments and the world will be in total chaos. You can imagine with such destruction of
human life and the earth, that the economic system of the earth will totally fail. Anarchy will prevail.
The Antichrist, meanwhile, will be totally consumed with the persecution and destruction of all believers
in Christ as well as the Jews. Toward the end of the tribulation, he will seek to annihilate Israel.

The Bible teaches that during this time, all of Israel will recognize Jesus Christ as their Messiah (see Psa.
79:1–13; 80:1–19; Isa. 53:1–9; 59:20–21; 61:8–9; 64:1–12; Jer. 30:3–24; 31:31–40; 32:37–40; 50:4–5;
Ezek. 11:19–20; 16:60–63; 34:25–26; 36:24–32; 37:21–28; Hosea 6:1–3; Joel 2:28–32; Zech. 9:11;
12:10—13:9; Rom. 11:25–27). The Lord will miraculously save a remnant of Israel in the country to the
south and east of the Land. The Lord will sustain them in a special way just as Elijah was cared for at
Cherith Ravine, east of the Jordan (Rev. 12:6)

130