JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

July 1987

Dear Friend:

You asked about reports that in Brussels there exists a giant computer referred to as "The Beast." Supposedly stored in it are numbers soon to be imprinted on the foreheads or hands of those who will be permitted to buy or sell.

Such stories are widely circulated, but no proof exists for any of them. Those reports seem to be based on Revelation 13.

The "beast" mentioned in Bible prophecy is not a machine but a governmental system headed by an evil human dictator. When Jesus comes, He will personally throw both that dictator and his "false prophet" accomplice into the lake of fire (Rev. 19:20).

Receiving the "beast's" number and its mark has to do with giving allegiance to the government this dictator will establish and to the false religion which will be part of that system. The Bible uses the symbols of the forehead and the right hand to represent one's allegiance by thoughts and works. The Scriptures teach that God's law is to be uppermost in our lives. Please see Deuteronomy 6:8 and 8:3.

The "beast's" system will be a counterfeit of God's way, and its mark a counterfeit of God's sign. What is God's sign, the sign of our allegiance to Him? It is the Sabbath! (Eze. 20:12). (Our free booklet WHICH DAY IS THE CHRISTIAN SABBATH? explains this in greater detail.)

The PLAIN TRUTH magazine will keep its readers informed as prophecies concerning the coming antichrist dictator are fulfilled. In the meantime, we suggest that you request our booklet entitled WHO OR WHAT IS THE PROPHETIC BEAST? for additional information on this vital subject.

We appreciate this opportunity to be of service. If you have other questions concerning the Bible, please feel welcome to send them to us.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT