Q: Is the deadly wound of the first beast described in Revelation 13 healed, or is it still in the healing process? — Enock, from Zimbabwe
A: In Revelation 13:3, we read, “And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.” And again, in verse 12 this beast is referred to as “whose deadly wound was healed.”
While the Bible describes this beast very clearly in the book of Revelation, including the fact that it receives “a deadly wound,” and that the wound will be healed, it doesn’t say exactly when that would be.
Nevertheless, it is clear from prophecy, history, and current events that healing of that wound is taking place rapidly. We read in that very insightful book, “The Great Controversy,” that:
“The infliction of the deadly wound points to the downfall of the papacy in 1798. After this, says the prophet, ‘his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.’ Paul states plainly that the ‘man of sin’ will continue until the second advent. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8.
“To the very close of time he will carry forward the work of deception. And the revelator declares, also referring to the papacy: ‘All that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life.’ Revelation 13:8. In both the Old and the New World, the papacy will receive homage in the honor paid to the Sunday institution, that rests solely upon the authority of the Roman Church.
“Since the middle of the nineteenth century, students of prophecy in the United States have presented this testimony to the world. In the events now taking place is seen a rapid advance toward the fulfillment of the prediction” (pages 578, 579).
If you have never read “The Great Controversy,” or would like to re-read it, I strongly encourage you to download a free copy of this timely book and begin reading it today. It’s available at: bit.ly/FreeGCdownload