The beast represents the spirit and empires of the world, who work hand in hand with the seductive woman, Babylon. The identification of these two beasts has had an interesting history all of its own, one or other of the beasts being identified as the Antichrist, whilst the other aiding in his activities. It seems best to regard the two as different manifestations of the same opposing force, antichrist. The beast of the sea having predominantly political powers whilst the beast of the earth having religious intensions As we come to the end of the Book of Revelation, we are to grasp the message that our salvation has been acquired only at the cost of the fiercest opposition. Evil forces are fiercely determined to prevent the accomplishment of God's design.
Revelation is a wake-up call to every believer to prepare themselves for the battle that lies ahead.
We do not live a neutral zone. The picture of the Christian life, now and prior to Christ's return, is one of contest. The Holy War , Precious Remedies against Satan's Devices , The Christian in Complete Armour. John has been telling us that it is always best to live in the light of certain victory, rather than a feared defeat. Though the actual war depicted here takes place in the future, that does not in any way lessen our response to it.