The book of Revelation describes a time when the Antichrist will rise to global power, demanding worship and enforcing a system in which people must receive a mark on their right hand or forehead to buy and sell. This mark is closely tied to allegiance to the beast and his kingdom, and those who receive it are condemned. This raises an important question: Can a true believer in Jesus Christ take this mark?

Understanding the Mark of the Beast

The Bible describes this mark clearly:

“And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” (Revelation 13:16-17 KJV)

This mark is not merely an economic or political requirement; it is a spiritual act of allegiance. Revelation 14:9-11 states that all who receive this mark worship the beast and will face God’s wrath. The mark represents total loyalty to the Antichrist, rejecting God’s authority.

The Security of the Believer

Scripture teaches that those who are truly born again are sealed by the Holy Spirit and preserved by God’s power:

“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.” (Ephesians 1:13 KJV)

“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” (John 10:28 KJV)

True believers are sealed, meaning their eternal salvation cannot be undone. However, this does not mean Christians will live recklessly. Those who are sealed by the Spirit will be guided to faithfulness, even in persecution. The mark is tied to worship of the beast, so a true believer, indwelt by the Spirit, will not be deceived into taking it. A Christian or a true believer in Christ cannot accidently receive the mark without their knowledge. In order to receive the mark, one must completely and surrenderely give themself to the beast and receive them like a saviour, the way the believer does to Christ.

God’s Warning and Protection

Revelation shows a clear distinction between those who belong to God and those who follow the beast. God marks His own people:

“Saying, Hurt not the earth… till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.” (Revelation 7:3 KJV)

This is a spiritual seal of ownership and protection. The Antichrist’s mark is counterfeit, but God’s people are already spiritually sealed. Revelation 13:8 says that all who worship the beast are those “whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb.” Those written in the book of life will not worship the beast or receive his mark.

The Reality of Deception

The Bible warns that in the last days, deception will be powerful:

“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” (Matthew 24:24 KJV)

Notice Jesus’ wording: “if it were possible.” This implies that the elect (true believers) cannot ultimately be deceived to the point of eternal destruction. God preserves His own. However, this should not lead to complacency. Believers are called to be watchful, discerning, and steadfast.

A true believer, sealed by the Spirit and secured in Christ, will not and cannot take the mark of the beast. The mark is a sign of ultimate rebellion against God, and those who are truly saved are preserved by God’s power. While deception will be great, God’s elect will endure.

This truth should encourage believers to grow in faith, study Scripture, and walk closely with Christ. Instead of fearing the mark, we should focus on being faithful, proclaiming the gospel, and preparing our hearts for Christ’s return.

“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” (Revelation 14:12 KJV)