Preparing for tough times ahead.

The Book of Revelation, a profound and often enigmatic part of the New Testament, presents a vivid picture of the end times. Among its many prophecies, Revelation 13 stands out for its depiction of a future world dominated by the Antichrist and a false prophet, leading to significant tribulations for Christians. One particular area of concern is the ability of Christians to find and maintain employment during these times, as suggested by the biblical text.

The Mark of the Beast and Employment

Revelation 13:16-17 describes a system where everyone, "small and great, rich and poor, free and slave," is required to receive a mark on their right hand or forehead. Without this mark, individuals cannot buy or sell. This mark, known as the "mark of the beast," is a symbol of allegiance to the Antichrist and is critical for economic participation.

For Christians, accepting this mark is not an option. Revelation 14:9-10 warns of severe consequences for those who take the mark, including divine wrath and eternal damnation. Therefore, Christians refusing the mark will face severe economic exclusion, making employment nearly impossible.

Societal and Economic Exclusion

In a world where the mark of the beast is required for all economic transactions, Christians will find themselves marginalized. Without the mark, they won't be able to engage in basic activities such as:

???? Applying for Jobs: Employers will likely require the mark as a condition for hiring, making it impossible for Christians to secure employment.

???? Banking and Financial Services: Without the ability to open bank accounts, receive salaries, or make transactions, Christians will be financially crippled.

???? Access to Goods and Services: Buying food, clothing, and other essentials will be challenging without the mark, leading to a struggle for survival.

Persecution and Discrimination

Beyond economic exclusion, Christians will also face intense persecution. Revelation 13:7 indicates that the beast will wage war against the saints and conquer them. This suggests not only physical persecution but also systemic discrimination:

???? Legal Discrimination: Laws may be enacted to enforce the mark, criminalizing those without it and justifying their exclusion from the workforce.

???? Social Ostracism: Society may view Christians as rebels or threats, leading to social ostracism and further hindering their ability to find employment or support.

Faith, Resilience, and Mutual Support

Despite these dire predictions, the Bible also emphasizes faith and resilience. Christians are called to endure persecution with steadfast faith. Revelation 14:12 states, "This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus."

In addition to faith and resilience, Christians will need to look after each other when it comes to employment and trade. Mutual support within the Christian community can mitigate some of the hardships caused by economic exclusion and persecution.

Building Strong Communities

To navigate these challenging times, Christians might:

???? Create Employment Opportunities within the Community: Christians can employ one another in businesses that operate outside the mainstream economy. Small businesses, home-based enterprises, and cooperative ventures can provide livelihoods while adhering to Christian principles.

???? Develop Alternative Economies: Establishing barter systems, shared resources, and other forms of economic interaction outside the mainstream can help sustain Christian communities. For example, community gardens, skill exchanges, and local currencies can provide essential goods and services without the need for the mark.

???? Provide Mutual Support: Christians should look out for each other's needs, ensuring that no one within the community is left without basic necessities. This includes sharing food, clothing, shelter, and financial assistance.

???? Enhance Spiritual and Emotional Preparedness: Strengthening faith and reliance on divine provision can offer spiritual and emotional fortitude. Regular worship, prayer meetings, and Bible study can reinforce communal bonds and provide comfort during difficult times.

The times described in Revelation 13 present a stark scenario for Christians, highlighting the severe difficulties they will face in finding employment and surviving economically without compromising their faith. While the prospect is daunting, the call for endurance, faithfulness, and mutual support remains central to the Christian response. By drawing on historical precedents and emphasising community and spiritual strength, Christians can prepare to navigate these prophesied challenges with hope and resilience. Through solidarity and mutual aid, they can create an environment where each member's needs are met, reinforcing the faith and unity that are essential in the face of adversity.