74. The False Prophet (Second Beast)

Posted on April 25, 2025

The doctrine of the False Prophet, also known as the “Second Beast,” comes primarily from the apocalyptic visions in the Book of Revelation. This figure is distinct from the Antichrist (the First Beast) and is often seen as a religious or deceptive spiritual leader who aids the Antichrist in deceiving the world through signs and wonders. Theologically, this figure is seen as central in the eschatological drama of deception, idolatry, and persecution of the saints. This analysis will explore scriptural foundations for and against the traditional interpretation of the False Prophet using the (KJV) translation, followed by denominational views.

I. Scriptures Supporting the Doctrine of the False Prophet (Second Beast)

  1. Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
    • Interpretation: This beast appears meek (“like a lamb”) but speaks deceitfully (“as a dragon”), indicating deceptive religious authority.
    • Theological View: Often interpreted as the False Prophet, who mimics Christ (the Lamb) but speaks Satanic lies.
  2. Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast…”
    • Interpretation: This figure compels global worship of the Antichrist.
    • Theological View: Seen as a religious enforcer or prophet supporting the political power of the Antichrist.
  3. Revelation 13:13 (KJV) – “And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men,”
    • Interpretation: Uses supernatural signs to deceive.
    • Theological View: False prophet uses counterfeit miracles to validate his authority.
  4. Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles…”
    • Interpretation: Miracles are used as deception.
    • Theological View: Echoes warnings of Jesus in Matthew 24 about false prophets performing signs to deceive the elect.
  5. Revelation 16:13 (KJV) – “And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon… and the false prophet.”
    • Interpretation: Explicitly names “false prophet” as part of the demonic trio.
    • Theological View: Seen as a demonic agent aligned with Satan (dragon) and Antichrist (beast).
  6. Revelation 19:20 (KJV) – “And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet… These both were cast alive into a lake of fire…”
    • Interpretation: Final judgment of both the Antichrist and the False Prophet.
    • Theological View: Confirms the False Prophet is a distinct eschatological personage subject to divine judgment.
  7. Revelation 20:10 (KJV) – “And the devil… was cast into the lake of fire where the beast and the false prophet are…”
    • Interpretation: The False Prophet’s eternal torment is linked with the devil and Antichrist.
    • Theological View: Affirms the triune nature of end-time evil: Satan, Antichrist, False Prophet.
  8. Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders…”
    • Interpretation: Jesus warns of eschatological deception through signs.
    • Theological View: Seen as a foreshadowing of the final False Prophet who deceives through signs.

II. Scriptures Opposing or Complicating the Doctrine of the False Prophet as a Future Literal Individual

  1. 1 John 4:3 (KJV) – “…this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard… and even now already is it in the world.”
    • Interpretation: Antichrist spirit already present, not just future.
    • Theological View: Suggests “false prophet” is a system or spirit, not a singular future figure.
  2. Matthew 7:15 (KJV) – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing…”
    • Interpretation: Many false prophets, not just one.
    • Theological View: Could indicate the concept is broader than one eschatological person.
  3. 2 Thessalonians 2:7 (KJV) – “For the mystery of iniquity doth already work…”
    • Interpretation: Deception is ongoing, not just in the future.
    • Theological View: Emphasizes present spiritual deception rather than future events.
  4. 1 John 2:18 (KJV) – “…even now are there many antichrists…”
    • Interpretation: Denies a single future Antichrist or False Prophet.
    • Theological View: False prophet may be symbolic of ongoing false religions and ideologies.
  5. Revelation 2:20 (KJV) – “…that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants…”
    • Interpretation: False prophecy present within the church.
    • Theological View: Indicates that the “false prophet” motif may be an archetype seen in many forms.
  6. Acts 13:6 (KJV) – “…a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:”
    • Interpretation: Term “false prophet” used generically.
    • Theological View: May suggest the “False Prophet” in Revelation is representative of many.
  7. Deuteronomy 13:1-3 (KJV) – “If there arise among you a prophet… and giveth thee a sign or a wonder… Thou shalt not hearken…”
    • Interpretation: False prophets have always existed.
    • Theological View: Argues against a unique end-time “false prophet” figure.
  8. 2 Peter 2:1 (KJV) – “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you…”
    • Interpretation: False prophets are a recurring pattern.
    • Theological View: Discredits a singular end-time identity in favor of a historical-spiritual pattern.

Theological and Linguistic Debates Around the Doctrine of the False Prophet (Second Beast)

In order to understand the doctrine of the False Prophet (Second Beast) in a more comprehensive way, a deep linguistic and theological analysis is essential. This analysis will examine the Hebrew, Greek, and English translations of relevant scriptures, including the KJV Bible. We will explore issues related to translation accuracy, theological debates, and how different Bible versions approach key terms related to the False Prophet.

I. Key Scriptures in Greek and Hebrew, and Their Translation Issues

  1. Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
    • Greek Text:
      The Greek term used here for “beast” is θηρίον (thērion), which refers to a “wild beast” or “a creature.” The term is frequently used in Revelation to describe the political and spiritual enemies of God.
      • θεῖον (thērion) is also connected to ferocity or destruction.
      • The term λαῖλαψ (lailaps) could be connected to destruction, and the term ἀρνίον (arnion), meaning “lamb,” contrasts the False Prophet’s appearance with that of Christ, who is often depicted as the Lamb of God.
    • Translation Issues:
      The Greek word θηρίον (thērion) is translated consistently as “beast” in the KJV, which aligns with the idea of a predatory or destructive force. However, the connotation of “lamb” (ἀρνίον – arnion) in this verse may confuse readers by implying harmlessness when, in fact, the character’s actions are anything but benign.
    • Theological View:
      This contrasts the meek appearance of Christ (the Lamb) with the deceptive nature of the False Prophet. Theological discussions often emphasize the false nature of the prophet, as he imitates Christ’s meekness but leads people to destruction. The KJV translation is generally accurate here, but the full weight of the term θηρίον might be better understood in light of its destructive implications.
  2. Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”
    • Greek Text:
      • ἐξουσία (exousia) is the Greek term for “power,” and its usage here is to denote authority or dominion. It is essential in understanding that the False Prophet doesn’t possess original power but rather exercises power granted by the first beast (the Antichrist).
      • προσκυνέω (proskuneo) is the verb used for “worship,” meaning to bow down or show reverence. The term emphasizes the deceptive nature of the worship being commanded.
    • Translation Issues:
      The translation of ἐξουσία (exousia) as “power” is accurate, though it could be emphasized that this power is not inherent but delegated. The usage of προσκυνέω (proskuneo) could also be extended to show the nature of false worship, highlighting the betrayal of true worship of God.
    • Theological View:
      This verse is essential in understanding the role of the False Prophet in enforcing worship of the Antichrist. Different theological views—especially futurist and dispensational interpretations—emphasize that this worship will involve global coercion, likely through religious and political institutions. The KJV translation holds up well in reflecting this power dynamic but does not necessarily capture the full gravity of spiritual deception that the Greek terms imply.
  3. Revelation 16:13 (KJV) – “And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet.”
    • Greek Text:
      • ἀκάθαρτος (akathartos) is the Greek term for “unclean,” traditionally used to refer to things or persons that are ritually impure.
      • The word βήνιος (bēnios) describes “frogs,” which in the ancient world were considered unclean animals. Frogs symbolize something that spreads impurity, chaos, or deception.
    • Translation Issues:
      The KJV captures the phrase “unclean spirits” accurately, but the symbolic nature of “frogs” might require further explanation. The use of ἀκάθαρτος (akathartos) might be understood as a more comprehensive term for spiritual impurity, which is significant in revealing that these spirits represent spiritual deception.
    • Theological View:
      Theologically, this verse is essential in understanding the connection between the False Prophet, Satan, and the Antichrist in the eschatological deception. Theological debates often center around whether these “unclean spirits” represent literal demonic beings or symbolic representations of spiritual deception and falsehood. Most theologians argue the latter, seeing these spirits as agents of deception.

II. Linguistic Issues and Translation Debates

1. The Term “False Prophet”

In the KJV and many other translations, the term “false prophet” (ψευδοπροφήτης – pseudoprophētēs) is consistently used to refer to the deceptive religious leader who aligns with the Antichrist. The Greek word ψευδής (pseudēs) means “false,” and προφήτης (prophētēs) means “prophet,” signifying someone who falsely claims to speak on behalf of God.

However, προφήτης in the New Testament is not always used with a positive connotation; it can describe anyone claiming divine authority, which includes those who falsely represent God’s will. Thus, the Greek term emphasizes the deception and falsehood rather than the legitimate prophetic gift. In the KJV, the term “false prophet” is accurate, but modern translations may provide additional clarity by further exploring the deceptive nature of this figure.

2. The Greek Article and Specificity

The Greek construction in Revelation often includes the definite article (ὁ – ho), which denotes a specific, identifiable person or entity. In Revelation 13, the beast and false prophet are both described with the definite article, suggesting that these are specific individuals or forces. The use of the article also points to the clear distinction between the False Prophet and other false prophets in general.

However, this specificity has led to debates about whether the False Prophet in Revelation is a literal, future individual or a symbolic figure representing a broader religious movement or ideology. The KJV adheres to the literal, futurist interpretation, though alternative translations (e.g., NIV, ESV) may leave room for symbolic readings.

III. Theological Implications and Translation Accuracy

The accuracy of Greek translations of Revelation plays a critical role in shaping theological perspectives. The KJV is a reliable translation, though it cannot capture all nuances of the Greek and Hebrew terms, especially for modern readers. The Greek words προφήτης and θηρίον bring forth images of prophecy and beast-like power that are essential to understanding the deceptive role of the False Prophet.

Modern translations, such as the ESV or NIV, often seek to clarify the symbolic elements, offering interpretations that highlight the broader spiritual significance of these figures. While the KJV remains strong in its theological foundation, newer translations sometimes provide more detailed notes on these symbols to accommodate contemporary readers’ understanding of the apocalyptic literature.

IV. Summary

The linguistic and theological study of the False Prophet in Revelation reveals both strong consistency and complex interpretation challenges. The KJV provides a generally accurate translation, but certain terms—like προφήτης (prophet) and θηρίον (beast)—require deeper exploration of their spiritual and symbolic meanings. Greek terms like ἀκάθαρτος (unclean) and προσκυνέω (worship) suggest broader themes of deception and falsehood, which modern translations attempt to unpack further. The theological debates surrounding the False Prophet—whether a literal individual or symbolic figure—are influenced by these translation nuances. Ultimately, while the KJV preserves the doctrinal essence, modern scholarship and translation efforts provide a more detailed understanding of the symbolic nature of these apocalyptic figures.

Denominational Views

1. Roman Catholic Church

The Roman Catholic Church holds that the “False Prophet” is a future figure that will arise in the eschatological timeline, acting in concert with the Antichrist to deceive the world into worshiping the latter. The Catholic Church teaches that this False Prophet will be a powerful religious leader, perhaps representing a false religious system, who will perform signs and wonders to mislead humanity. They also believe that the False Prophet’s role will be to lead people astray by coercing worship of the Antichrist.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
      • Greek: θηρίον (thērion) = “beast,” indicating a creature of destruction, not a literal lamb.
      • Catholic interpretation emphasizes that the “lamb-like” appearance symbolizes the deceptive gentleness, yet the false prophet’s true nature is the “dragon,” signifying Satan.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 7:15 (KJV) – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
        • Greek: προφήτης (prophētēs) = “prophet,” describing anyone who falsely speaks for God.
        • Catholic theologians argue that false prophets could also be seen as individuals or systems that lead others astray, making this verse applicable both symbolically and eschatologically.

2. Eastern Orthodox Church

The Eastern Orthodox Church also recognizes the concept of a “False Prophet” who will work alongside the Antichrist during the eschatological events. Their interpretation focuses on the spiritual deception of false teachings and the destruction of true worship. The Orthodox Church also connects this figure to heretical religious movements and ideologies that depart from the true Christian faith.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”
      • Greek: ἐξουσία (exousia) = “power,” which means authority or dominion.
      • Orthodox teaching sees this power as a usurpation of divine authority, marking the False Prophet’s deceptive ability to manipulate the masses through coercion.
    • Theological View Against:
      • 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (KJV) – “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”
        • Greek: ὁ ἀπόστολος (ho apostolos) = “apostle,” indicating that false apostles (which can include prophets) are deceptive.
        • The Orthodox view here focuses on how deception can come from within the Church itself, drawing attention to internal corruption rather than a future eschatological figure.

3. Evangelical

Evangelicals typically emphasize a literal, future interpretation of the “False Prophet” in connection with end-times events. The False Prophet is seen as a figure who will be involved in promoting a global religious system that serves the Antichrist. Evangelical thought often ties this to the rise of false religious systems, ecumenical movements, and other heretical teachings.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.”
      • Greek: πλάνη (planē) = “deception,” underscoring the False Prophet’s role in misleading the nations through miraculous signs.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “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.”
        • Greek: ψευδόχριστος (pseudōchristos) = “false Christ,” indicating individuals or systems that mimic Christ but lead people astray.
        • Evangelicals often view this as a warning for the Church to avoid false doctrines and remain vigilant.

4. Protestant (General)

In general Protestant thought, the False Prophet is seen as a symbol of false religious movements that align themselves with the forces of the Antichrist. Protestant denominations often hold a premillennial view of the eschaton, believing the False Prophet to be a future, literal figure, though some may see him as a metaphor for heretical systems.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
      • Greek: ἀρνίον (arnion) = “lamb,” suggesting a false imitation of Christ, which is central to Protestant eschatology.
    • Theological View Against:
      • 1 John 4:1 (KJV) – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
        • Greek: προφήτης (prophētēs) = “prophet,” suggesting that false prophets can be both individual people and broader systems of belief that arise throughout history.

5. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)

Baptists, particularly those with a dispensationalist framework, view the False Prophet as a literal figure who will deceive the world during the end times, aligning with the Antichrist. Baptist doctrine often emphasizes the need for individuals to personally examine scripture to avoid such deception.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”
      • Greek: προσκυνέω (proskuneo) = “worship,” indicating the False Prophet’s role in coercing worship, which is a significant theological point in Baptist eschatology.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders.”
        • Greek: μὴ πείθω (mē peithō) = “not to be persuaded,” warning against being deceived by those who perform signs.

6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)

The Methodist Church generally interprets the False Prophet as a figure that represents the widespread corruption and false teaching within the church. While there is an eschatological understanding of this figure, Methodists may also see the False Prophet symbolically, representing false religion at any point in history.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast.”
      • Greek: ἐξουσία (exousia) = “power,” here representing a usurped, coercive authority.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets.”
        • Greek: ψευδόχριστος (pseudōchristos) = “false Christ,” indicative of misrepresentations of divine authority.

7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)

Lutherans, while acknowledging the reality of a future False Prophet, often place more emphasis on false prophets throughout history who distort the gospel. They understand the False Prophet to be a deceiver, aligned with the Antichrist, but also symbolically connected to false teachings throughout time.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him.”
      • Greek: προσκυνέω (proskuneo) = “worship,” indicating that false teachings in the Church can be seen as aligning with the power of the Antichrist.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Galatians 1:8 (KJV) – “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”
        • Greek: ἀνάθεμα (anathema) = “accursed,” indicating that false teachings, regardless of source, are accursed.

8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)

Pentecostals typically interpret the False Prophet as a literal end-times figure who will deceive people into accepting the Antichrist. They emphasize spiritual warfare and the active work of the Holy Spirit in discerning false teachings.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles.”
      • Greek: τέρας (teras) = “miracle,” underlining the deceptive signs that the False Prophet will perform.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets.”
        • Greek: ψευδόχριστος (pseudōchristos) = “false Christ,” emphasizing the danger of false spiritual manifestations.

9. Jehovah’s Witnesses

Jehovah’s Witnesses interpret the False Prophet as the religious systems of the world that promote false doctrines, leading people away from the true worship of Jehovah. They see the False Prophet as a figure representing organized religion rather than a singular person.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
      • Greek: θηρίον (thērion) = “beast,” here representing religious systems that appear harmless but are dangerous.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 7:15 (KJV) – “Beware of false prophets.”
        • Greek: προφήτης (prophētēs) = “prophet,” indicating that false prophets can be ideological forces, not necessarily individuals.

10. Mormonism (LDS)

Mormons do not necessarily interpret the False Prophet as a singular future figure. Instead, they view false prophecies as any teachings that lead people away from the true gospel. They see the False Prophet conceptually connected to any individual or system that distorts the true nature of Christ’s mission.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast.”
      • Greek: ἐξουσία (exousia) = “power,” denoting authority used to deceive.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets.”
        • Greek: ψευδόχριστος (pseudōchristos) = “false Christ.”

11. Seventh-day Adventist

Seventh-day Adventists view the False Prophet as part of a broader false religious system leading people away from the true gospel and worship of God. They interpret Revelation in a way that includes both historical and future manifestations of deception, with the False Prophet as a religious leader who promotes false teachings.

  • Theological View For:
    • Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast.”
      • Greek: ἐξουσία (exousia) = “power,” indicating a coercive authority.
    • Theological View Against:
      • Isaiah 8:20 (KJV) – “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”
        • Hebrew: תּוֹרָה (Torah) = “law,” emphasizing that any teaching contrary to God’s Word is false.

Conclusion

The doctrine of the False Prophet as seen through the lens of different Christian denominations reveals both shared beliefs and significant variances. While most denominations acknowledge the role of a deceptive religious figure aligned with the Antichrist in the eschatological timeline, the specifics of the interpretation vary. Some view the False Prophet as a future, literal individual who will deceive the masses, while others interpret him symbolically, seeing the False Prophet as any religious or ideological movement that distorts the truth of God’s Word. The use of key words from the Greek and Hebrew, such as προφήτης (prophētēs) and θηρίον (thērion), helps to deepen the understanding of this doctrine and its application to both individual and societal religious deception. The emphasis across all traditions remains on vigilance against false teachings and maintaining true worship, though the approach to these beliefs varies in detail and application.

Table 1: Views For the Doctrine of the False Prophet (Second Beast)

DenominationViewInterpretationScripture Basis (KJV)
Roman Catholic ChurchA literal future figure who deceives the world into worshiping the Antichrist.The False Prophet will have “lamb-like” qualities but will ultimately speak as a dragon, showing deceptive gentleness masking evil intentions.Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
Eastern Orthodox ChurchA literal eschatological figure, often symbolizing false religious systems throughout history.The False Prophet’s power is derived from the first beast and forces people to worship the Antichrist. This power is a usurpation of divine authority.Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast.”
EvangelicalA literal figure in the end times who deceives the nations with signs and wonders.The False Prophet will deceive with miracles, coercing worship of the Antichrist, and will be a source of global spiritual apostasy.Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.”
Protestant (General)A symbolic and literal figure leading people astray in the eschaton.The False Prophet’s role is to deceive through signs and wonders, functioning as a religious leader alongside the Antichrist.Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
Baptist (Various)A literal figure aligned with the Antichrist, promoting idolatry and false worship.The False Prophet will serve as a deceptive religious leader, coercing the world to worship the Antichrist through signs and wonders.Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”
Methodist (Various)A future figure, or figures, who deceive with false doctrines and apostasy.The False Prophet embodies false religious movements leading people away from the true faith.Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast.”
Lutheran (Various)A figure or system promoting idolatry and false teachings, both eschatologically and symbolically.The False Prophet represents heretical systems, manipulating people through deceit and false signs.Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast.”
Pentecostal (Various)A literal figure in the end times, deceiving with signs and wonders, in league with the Antichrist.The False Prophet will perform miracles to deceive the masses into worshiping the Antichrist.Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast.”
Jehovah’s WitnessesRepresents false religious systems leading people away from true worship.The False Prophet is the embodiment of all false religions, with the Beast representing worldly governments and political powers.Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
Mormonism (LDS)False Prophet is connected to any religion that distorts the true gospel.The False Prophet could represent any heretical religious leader or movement that leads people away from the gospel of Jesus Christ.Revelation 13:12 (KJV) – “And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.”
Seventh-day AdventistA religious figure, or system, leading people away from worship of the true God.The False Prophet will deceive the world into following false religious practices and will align with the Antichrist in spreading apostasy.Revelation 13:14 (KJV) – “And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast.”

Table 2: Arguments Against the Doctrine of the False Prophet (Second Beast)

DenominationViewArgument Against InterpretationScripture Basis (KJV)
Roman Catholic ChurchA literal future figure who deceives the world into worshiping the Antichrist.False Prophets are not always literal but can be heretical systems present in history, not just a future event.Matthew 7:15 (KJV) – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
Eastern Orthodox ChurchA literal eschatological figure, often symbolizing false religious systems throughout history.False Prophets can exist within the Church, as seen with heresies, rather than only being a single eschatological figure.2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (KJV) – “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.”
EvangelicalA literal figure in the end times who deceives the nations with signs and wonders.The emphasis on literal signs and wonders may overlook the broader spiritual deception seen throughout history.Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “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.”
Protestant (General)A symbolic and literal figure leading people astray in the eschaton.False Prophets can be interpreted as anyone who misrepresents God’s word, not just a single person in the future.1 John 4:1 (KJV) – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
Baptist (Various)A literal figure aligned with the Antichrist, promoting idolatry and false worship.False prophets arise through ideologies, not necessarily as a future singular figure.1 John 4:1 (KJV) – “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.”
Methodist (Various)A future figure, or figures, who deceive with false doctrines and apostasy.False teachings can manifest at any time in history, making the focus on a single figure less relevant.Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders.”
Lutheran (Various)A figure or system promoting idolatry and false teachings, both eschatologically and symbolically.The issue of false teachings has been present throughout the Church, not just in the future.Galatians 1:8 (KJV) – “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.”
Pentecostal (Various)A literal figure in the end times, deceiving with signs and wonders, in league with the Antichrist.False miracles and deception have existed throughout Church history, not just as a future event.Matthew 7:15 (KJV) – “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”
Jehovah’s WitnessesRepresents false religious systems leading people away from true worship.The concept of a future false prophet as a singular figure does not align with the broader warnings about false religion.Revelation 13:11 (KJV) – “And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon.”
Mormonism (LDS)False Prophet is connected to any religion that distorts the true gospel.False prophets can appear throughout time, not just as one person in the future.Matthew 24:24 (KJV) – “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets.”
Seventh-day AdventistA religious figure, or system, leading people away from worship of the true God.False teachings have always existed, so the False Prophet is not limited to a future figure.Isaiah 8:20 (KJV) – “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”

Summary:
Across various denominations, there is an agreement that the False Prophet represents deception and apostasy, but the interpretations differ. Some focus on a literal future figure, while others see the False Prophet as a broader symbol of heretical religious systems or false ideologies. Theological views and scriptural interpretations vary, particularly around key Greek and Hebrew terms like προφήτης (prophētēs) and θηρίον (thērion), which impact the understanding of the False Prophet’s role in the end times. Despite these differences, all denominations emphasize the need for vigilance against deception and adherence to the true gospel.