THE NUMBER OF THE BEAST (SYSTEM)
“Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred three score and six.” (Rev. 13-18) Many have been the conjectures regarding this number 666. But John declares it is the number of a man or as has been rendered” for number is of man.” It is the numerics of the system of man in opposition to the system of God.
Jesus Christ came to destroy evil from the earth so it is fitting that when the years had run their course 6 times 666 from Adam’s fall the Christ was born who is to destroy all the evil works of men.
It was from the earth and during the time that the Roman and fourth world Empire was active that this second beast came to power. Hence we are not surprised to find 666 associated with not only the economic structure but also with the political and religious activities of man during these years. Prophetic students have found that this number 666 applies to the political activities of Rome and is a numerical number found associated with the Papacy. Because the economic system of Babylon has as its foundation the worship of gold* in the carrying on of its commercial endeavors it is not without significance that, “The weight of Gold that came to Solomon in one year was six hundred threescore and six (666) talents of gold.” (I King 10:14)
Gold is the foundation on which rests the image of the beast, which image is the financial or monetary system, the image of the commercial activities of Babylon. Because this is so the possession of money is essential for those who would live and work in the present world order of society. Without the medium they are refused the things of life both in trade and commerce.
What, then, shall the righteous do for they cannot serve God and Mammon? Jesus answered this question. The righteous are not to serve Mammon or conform with the system. They are to deal righteously in the use of the things of Mammon even though the system itself is evil.
*The acquiring of gold or its equivalent in the medium of exchange has become the objective of man’s endeavors as a result of Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, having called a great economic conference of nations to meet at Babylon. Daniel describes that meeting: The King built a column sixty cubits high and placed on top the Winged Disc or, as Daniel puts it, the Image of Gold. (Dan. 3) Here we have an account of the birth of the gold standard, when by solemn decree it was made a controlled medium of exchange, the possession of which became essential to those who would buy and sell in the world markets along with everyday needs.
Excellent Post!
Thank you!