The Third Angel

“Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, ‘If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation….they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.’ Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” Revelation 14:9-12

Finally, the third angel proclaims God’s solemn warning against worshiping the beast and his image. The Third Angel’s Message demands a decision. It divides the entire world into two groups. On one side stand apostate Christians who worship “the beast and his image” and receive “his mark on his forehead or on his hand.” On the other side stand those who reject the authority of the beast; these are the saints “who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.”

The message of the third angel points to the results of accepting false religious systems. It contains the most fearful warning ever issued by God to mankind. According to Revelation 14:9-12, the mark (deliberate Sunday-keeping) stands in contrast to the fourth commandment (Sabbath) of the Bible. Mankind’s attention is directed to God’s law, especially the Sabbath commandment (the seal of God).

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15

“And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” 1 John 2: 3-4