In Revelation 13, God gives ten clues to help us identify the beast. He gives us a long list of characteristics so that we can be absolutely certain of the beast’s identity.
1. Rises up out of the sea (v. 1)
2. Receives its power, seat, and authority from the dragon (v. 2)
3. Becomes a worldwide power (vv. 3, 7)
4. Is guilty of blasphemy (vv. 1, 5, 6)
5. Rules for 42 prophetic months (v. 5)
6. Receives a deadly wound that heals (v. 3)
7. Is a religious power that receives worship (vv. 4, 8)
8. Persecutes God’s saints (v. 7)
9. Has the mysterious number 666 (v. 18)
10. Is led by one supreme man (v. 18)
Only one power fits all ten identifying marks—the papacy.