Revelation 17:8 — “The beast, which you saw, once was, now is not, and yet will come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because it once was, now is not, and yet will come.”
Explanation of the Verse
This verse continues the angel’s explanation of the vision John saw. Now the focus shifts to the beast that the woman is riding. The beast is described in a strange and symbolic way: “once was, now is not, and yet will come.” This phrase points to a kind of counterfeit resurrection—a false imitation of eternal power.
The beast comes “out of the Abyss,” a term used in Revelation for the deep pit where demonic forces are held (see Revelation 9:1-2). Though it may rise for a time, its final destiny is certain: destruction.
This verse also talks about how the people of the world—those “whose names have not been written in the book of life”—will be amazed by the beast. They are drawn in by its power and mystery, not realizing that it is doomed.
Historical Context
When the early Christians read this, they would likely have connected the beast to the Roman Empire, which had persecuted believers, demanded emperor worship, and appeared unbeatable. Some early believers may have thought of the emperor Nero, who died and then, according to rumors, would return—a myth that made the idea of a beast that “once was, now is not, and yet will come” even more chilling.
But the beast also represents more than just one empire or leader. It symbolizes the larger system of human rebellion against God—governments, cultures, or movements that rise up in power and opposition to God’s truth. These systems may seem powerful and unstoppable, but their end is already determined.
Theological Implications
This verse shows us how deception works. The beast’s return from the Abyss creates a false sense of awe and amazement. People are drawn to power, especially when it seems supernatural. But what looks powerful isn’t always true or eternal. The beast is not resurrected in the way Jesus was—it is a counterfeit, meant to mimic real authority and lead people astray.
The contrast between those whose names are written in the book of life and those who are astonished by the beast is important. God’s people are marked by their loyalty to Him and are not deceived by appearances. Others, who live for the world and not for God, are caught off guard.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “once was, now is not, and yet will come” mirrors a statement earlier in Revelation about God, who “was, and is, and is to come” (Revelation 1:8). This is deliberate. The beast tries to imitate God, pretending to have eternal power, but it is a lie. The beast’s return from the Abyss is dramatic, but it leads only to destruction.
The “book of life” is mentioned again here—a book that symbolizes those who belong to God. This image comes up several times in Revelation as a reminder of God’s sovereign knowledge and saving power. The literary contrast between those who are amazed and those who are secure in their faith is central to the verse.
Cross-References
- Revelation 13:3 — “One of the heads of the beast seemed to have had a fatal wound, but the fatal wound had been healed. The whole world was filled with wonder and followed the beast.”
- Revelation 9:1-2 — Describes the Abyss being opened and releasing destructive forces.
- Revelation 20:1-3 — The devil is thrown into the Abyss and locked away for a thousand years.
- Philippians 3:19 — “Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach… their mind is set on earthly things.”
- Revelation 3:5 — Jesus promises not to blot out the names of the faithful from the book of life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a warning not to be fooled by appearances or worldly power. Just because something looks strong or gains global attention doesn’t mean it’s from God. We are called to be grounded in truth, not impressed by spectacle.
There are still “beasts” today—ideas, movements, and systems that oppose God while pretending to offer hope or power. This verse reminds us to stay alert and trust God’s Word rather than the world’s excitement.
It also reassures believers: if your name is written in the book of life, you are secure. No matter how powerful evil may look for a time, its end is certain—destruction. But those in Christ will not be shaken or deceived.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He reveals the truth to His people. He doesn’t leave us in the dark. He shows us what is coming so we won’t be caught off guard. He also marks His people with care by writing their names in the book of life. That’s not just a list—it’s a sign of belonging, security, and eternal hope.
Even when the world is amazed by false power, God protects His own. His love guards us from deception and promises us victory through Jesus.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The beast tries to imitate Christ but only ends in destruction. Jesus, on the other hand, truly “was and is and is to come” (Revelation 1:8). He died, rose again, and lives forever. His resurrection is real. His kingdom is unshakable.
Jesus also holds the book of life. In Revelation 3:5, He says He will never blot out the names of those who overcome. Those who trust in Him are safe, no matter how powerful evil seems. Jesus has already defeated the beast by His death and resurrection (Colossians 2:15). And one day, He will return to finish what He started (Revelation 19:11-21).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the world is so easily impressed by the beast?
- What does the phrase “once was, now is not, and yet will come” say about the nature of evil?
- How does the beast try to mimic God, and why is that significant?
- What are some examples today of false power or systems that seem strong but oppose God?
- How can Christians avoid being deceived by impressive appearances?
- What comfort do you find in knowing your name is written in the book of life?
- How does Jesus’ true resurrection help you stand firm in a world full of lies?