I scrolled back to see what exactly 'thread' you are referring to, "Will You Take the Mark?" Russ's thread on 7/16/2009. There is some good info there. This one is more about the Middle East and an interview with Pat Robinson on the 700 Club. It's not really about the 'mark of the beast'...nonetheless,
'Just briefly, I am going to attach a 'brief explanation' from Pastor and Bible Teacher, John MacArthur....but first this is what Matthew Henry's Commentary has to say regarding the Mark of the Beast. Revelation 13:18
Revelation 13:18 "Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast; for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six." (KJV) [666]
'We have here the number of the beast, given in such a manner as shows the infinite wisdom of God. Whether this be the number of the errors and heresies that are contained in popery, or rather, as others, the number of the years from its rise to its fall, is NOT certain.
The most admired dissertaion on this intricate subject is that of Dr. Potter, where the curious may find sufficient entertainment. It seems to me to be one of those seasons which God has reserved in his own power; only this we know, God has written Mene Tekel upon all his enemies; He has numbered their days, and they shall be finished, but his own kingdom shall endure for ever.' -- -----------
-Pastor John MacArthur's youtube comments:
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." [John 14:6]
