What is the significance of the number 666, and what is the mark of the people of God?
Brief Explanation for New Christians:
The number 666 is called the “number of the beast” in Revelation 13:18. It represents a symbol of evil and opposition to God, often understood as the power or system that rejects God’s authority. It’s not just a random number but points to imperfection and rebellion. The “mark of the people of God,” on the other hand, is not a physical mark but shows that someone belongs to Jesus by living according to His commands and faith in Him.
Detailed Explanation for Mature Christians:
In Revelation 13:18, John writes: “This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.”
Significance of 666
· The number six in biblical symbolism often represents human imperfection or something less than divine completeness (which is symbolized by seven).
· The triple repetition (666) intensifies this imperfection, symbolizing extreme rebellion and opposition to God’s perfect order.
· Many scholars and theologians believe the “number of the beast” refers to a specific man or system that embodies evil and opposes God. It is commonly understood in the Church of Christ tradition as antichristian worldly powers or false religious and political systems that stand against Christ.
· It is called “the number of a man,” meaning it symbolizes human attempts to usurp God’s authority.
· The exact identity of “666” is intentionally veiled, inviting believers to discern spiritually, recognizing the spirit of opposition to Christ wherever it appears.
The Mark of the People of God
In contrast to the mark of the beast, the Bible speaks of a mark or seal that shows someone belongs to God: “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man… He will wipe away every tear… The one who conquers will be clothed thus, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life…’” Revelation 21:3-4, 27
More specifically, the seal of God is mentioned in Revelation 7:2-3: “…and I heard the number of those who were sealed, 144,000, sealed on their foreheads.” This “seal” signifies God’s ownership and protection of His people, marking them as His own through their faith and obedience. It is not a physical brand but a spiritual reality; those who live by Christ’s commands and remain faithful to Him bear this mark.
Practical Meaning
· The mark of the beast represents allegiance to evil powers opposed to God.
· The mark of God represents faithfulness, purity, and dedication to Jesus.
· This contrast is about loyalty and spiritual identity, not merely physical signs.
Summary
666 symbolizes imperfection and opposition to God in its fullest expression, pointing to worldly rebellion against Christ. The mark of God is the spiritual identity and protection of those who belong to Jesus by faith and obedience.