THE TWO-HORNED BEAST. A CHAIN OF PROPHECY

Is introduced before us in the book of Revelation, of which the two-horned beast is but a link; so in order to definitely understand the subject of the two-horned beast, we must make some inquiries in regard to this chain of prophecy and its symbols. Commencing with chap 12, to the close of verse 5, of chap 14, we find symbols of consecutive events extending from the time of the birth of Christ, to the deliverance of the saints from the earth to stand upon Mt. Zion. Three beasts are presented before us, and these three span the whole period, and form three great links of this chain of prophecy. The dragon, the beast with seven heads and ten horns, and the lamb-like appearing beast, succeed each other in the work here specified. By a careful examination of chaps. 12 and 13, we may ascertain the exact time and manner of the rise of these several powers symbolized.TBUS 5.1

We understand these three beasts used here as symbols, symbolize three powers or governments of earth. 1st, Because in symbolic prophecy, beasts that are presented before us, are in nearly every instance explained to be governments. See Daniel 7:3, 17, 18, and 8:3-7, 19-21. And 2nd, Because the beasts are represented as performing a work that is clearly set forth as the work of governments. We shall not claim that what is said concerning these several powers symbolized is a complete description of all the acts of those powers; but that it is the work those powers accomplish in connection with the people of God, that is symbolized and brought forth before us in the specifications of the prophecy.TBUS 5.2

The first power introduced in this chain of consecutive events is “the dragon,” which is represented as taking his position to war against the church of God at the time a man-child is born, who is to rule the nations with a rod of iron. The second power introduced, [Revelation 13:1,] “the seven-headed and ten-horned beast,” is established by a free gift on the part of the first, the dragon, who “gave him his power, his seat, and great authority.” The third power, “the two-horned beast” is introduced as commencing to accomplish its work, symbolized here in this prophecy at the point where the second government meets with an overthrow. It is not represented as directly connected with either of the others, but as an independent power; for when the seven-headed and ten-horned beast receives a deadly wound, this “two-horned beast” is seen coming up. It is not then seen forming itself on the ruins of the first; but already organized it is seen coming up at the very point where the death stroke is struck on the seven-headed beast. See verses 10, 11. We learn from the testimony of verse 14, that these two powers have no reference to the same governments; so no one can claim them to be identical; but the two-horned beast does miracles “in the sight of the first beast.” One does the miracles, while the other beholds.TBUS 6.1