Using Simple English to PROVE God Does Not Revoke a Christians Salvation if They Got The Mark of The Beast
Many people argue that verses like Revelation 16:2 teach that if a Christian receives the mark of the beast, God will revoke their salvation. Today, I want to debunk that claim using basic English writing principles. However, before I dive into the topic, I can’t help but recall the reactions the last time I taught on this subject. There was no shortage of angry, out-of-control individuals who seemed to think that disagreement on doctrine automatically labels someone as a heretic or even the embodiment of evil.
To those individuals, I say this respectfully: grow up, behave, and act like Christians. My intention here is not to encourage anyone to receive the mark of the beast—or to commit any sin, for that matter. I’m simply sharing what I believe to be a logical interpretation of what God is teaching us. We can agree to disagree without resorting to childish behavior. I’m open to opinions and discussion, as long as we keep it respectful.
Let’s begin by reading Revelation 16:2:
“The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth, and harmful and painful sores afflicted the people who had the mark of the beast and who worshiped his image.”
This time, I want to approach the verse a bit differently. In my original video, I presented what I believed to be a logical explanation of who would be afflicted. Many of you agreed; others did not—and that’s perfectly fine. For this discussion, I will take a different approach by focusing purely on the English language, removing personal opinion.
Let’s analyze the grammar of the verse:
Regardless of which Bible translation you’re reading, you’ll notice there is no comma before or after the word “and” in this verse.
Comma rules in English:
In English, a comma is used before “and” in specific circumstances, such as in lists or when separating two independent clauses. When connecting two independent clauses with “and”, a comma is placed before “and,” but never after.
Example:
“I went to the store, and I bought some milk.”
Here, two independent actions are connected:
- I went to the store.
- I bought some milk.
Now, returning to Revelation 16:2, we do not see a comma before or after “and.”
What does this mean in context?
The verse states: “Harmful and painful sores afflicted the people who had the mark of the beast and who worshiped his image.” This phrasing identifies a specific group of people affected by the sores—those who meet both conditions:
- They had the mark of the beast.
- They worshiped his image.
The absence of a comma indicates that these two characteristics are not separate but linked. In other words, the affliction targets people who meet both criteria simultaneously. The verse does not imply that those who only bear the mark or only worship the image are afflicted. Instead, it specifies that the sores affect individuals who do both.
If the verse only mentioned “those who had the mark of the beast,” the scope of the affliction would be broader. However, the inclusion of “and who worshiped his image” narrows the focus to a specific group.
Conclusion:
Either the translators of our Bibles need a refresher course in grammar, or we must conclude that both conditions—having the mark and worshiping the beast—must be present for someone to receive this punishment.
This logical interpretation reinforces the idea that God does not revoke the salvation of Christians who are deceived into receiving the mark of the beast. God’s grace covers our naivety and ignorance, even in cases of deception. I am confident that no true Christian would ever willingly worship the beast.
All praise and glory be to Jesus. Let’s continue to rely on His grace and truth.
Author: Mike Cynar
Mike Cynar was raised in a church setting where he frequently noticed that many attendees would eventually drift away. The church labeled these individuals as ‘back sliders’ or ‘fake Christians’ just looking for ‘fire insurance’. However, Mike realized the issue was rarely with these individuals but instead with the church’s message itself. The teachings heavily emphasized behavior improvement and one’s flaws, with only a fleeting mention of one’s identity in Christ. It felt as though every sermon was tailored to the church of Corinth, who as we know or committing sins that even unbelievers don’t partake in. This trend was noticeable not just in one denomination, but across Baptist, Catholic, Pentecostal, and many other churches. Upon understanding the true essence of the gospel – that our righteousness comes from Jesus’ actions, not our own – Mike was inspired to liberate believers from lifeless sermons and reconnect them with the genuine teachings of Jesus. He believes that one can nurture a vibrant and growing bond with Jesus, unhindered by rigid religious practices. And thus, “Jesus Without Religion” was born.
It turns out that it is grace that leads to repentance. And if our heart is to get others to walk in the Spirit and live a godly life, then the best approach is not a beat down sermon, but rather to remind other that it is only when we understand our true identity in Christ that we will live it out. Yes, it’s true, if you’re convinced that God thinks you’re a dirty sinner, you will ultimately continue a lifestyle that mirrors that view, but if you truly believe that even on your worst day, you are called holy, sanctified, justified, and will be presented blameless in the end, well, it turns out this is the secret to living out on the outside what has been worked in to the inside.
