Revelation: The Bride, The Beast, and Babylon
The Dragon of Revelation

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Update 7: Religion, Power, and Politics


Update 7: Religion, Power, and Politics
Posted 09.28.2015

Pope Francis has returned to the Vatican after a six-day visit to the United States, where he was received with acclaim and considered by many as a celebrity. Delivering messages of tolerance and compassion, the pontiff, who attracted large crowds, spoke in three U.S. cities, including a historic address to a joint session of Congress. His trip was not just for religious purposes.

Reflections on his visit continue to permeate the news. Positive responses have poured in from Americans of every religious persuasion—not just Catholics. Even the non-religious have applauded the bishop of Rome. A Jewish congressman is lobbying to nominate the pope for a Nobel Peace Prize. A Mormon senator praises his “unique approach” as inspiring Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

The Pew Research Center reveals the pope’s growing popularity with a 90 percent favorability rating among U.S. Catholics and 70 percent favorability among all Americans (a jump from 57 percent when he first entered his office in March 2013). Even the non-religious (68 percent) in American speak positively of the pope.

One observer commented, “He’s speaking a universal message that is touching humanity in the heart. … People are looking for somebody in a position of power and influence outside [politics] to speak on those issues that concern all human beings…”

In speaking on women as priests, the pope said that cannot be done. Then he added, “Not because women don't have the capacity. Look, in the church women are more important than men, because the church is a woman. It is 'la' [female] church, not 'il' [masculine] church. The church is the bride of Jesus Christ. And the Madonna is more important than popes and bishops and priests.”

The book of Revelation describes two women who symbolize a true church and a false church. Can you tell the difference? Some of the indicators point to religion, power, and politics. Find out more by watching The Bride, the Beast & Babylon.

 


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