The Church is depicted as a woman who bore a male Child. She was given the wings of a great eagle to fly into the desert and remain there for three and a half years. The dragon continues the war against the woman (the Church) and those who followed Christ. In chapter thirteen of Revelation, a beast rises out of the sea with seven heads and ten horns, bearing blasphemous names. The Apostle John describes this beast as having the characteristics of a leopard, a bear, and a lion, with power given to it by the dragon. It is important to note that the devil has no inherent authority over man, but gains power when we give in to our passions and sins. The devil seeks to destroy us completely and does not care for our well-being. The power of the devil is not a true power, but rather a result of our submission to our own weaknesses. It is important to remember that only God has true power, and we must resist the devil’s attempts to control us through our sins and passions. Darkness is not a separate entity, but rather the absence of light. In the same way, the absence of Divine grace allows the devil to have power. The beast with seven heads and ten horns, empowered by the dragon, deceives the world with false miracles. People worship this beast, marveling at its power and abilities. The beast speaks blasphemies against God and the Church, waging war against the saints. Despite appearing to conquer, the beast will not ultimately defeat the Church, as God will allow it as a result of humanity’s sins. The beast will gain authority over all nations, symbolizing a global rule and recognition. In Revelation 13:8, it is stated that all those on earth will worship a being, except for those whose names are written in the Book of Life of the Lamb who was slain. These chosen ones of God, the faithful and holy people, will not worship the beast despite his power and miracles. Even though the beast may be seen as all-powerful, there will be humble and purehearted individuals who will not bow down to him.
One story from the Holy Mountain tells of Elder Geronda Averkios, a simple cave-dweller who lived in poverty and simplicity. Despite being semi-literate, he had a profound experience during an All-Night Vigil where he saw a bishop in the altar who wrote his name in the Book of Life. Shortly after this encounter, Elder Averkios passed away and went to Heaven.
These innocent and purehearted individuals, like Elder Averkios, have their names written in the Book of Life because of their repentance and love for Christ. They will remain faithful to the Lamb Christ and will not worship the beast, even though it may bring them torment. Resisting temptation and sacrificing everything for their faith is a difficult but necessary path for these chosen ones.
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