Verse 12
The specific identity of the 10 horns (other kings but without kingdoms when John wrote) is not yet clear. Mounce took them as symbolic of complete power without reference to kings or kingdoms. [Note: Mounce, p. 317. Cf. Beale, p. 878.] They will be allies of the beast and serve under him in his worldwide government during the Great Tribulation (Daniel 7:23-24). Each of them will rule a kingdom simultaneously with one another and with the beast (cf. Daniel 7:7-8; Daniel 7:24). [Note: Bullinger, pp. 545-48; Walvoord, The Revelation . . ., p. 255; Kelly, pp. 368-76.] They will have authority to rule "for one hour," very briefly during the Great Tribulation (cf. Revelation 18:10; Revelation 18:17; Revelation 18:19). Evidently their short, independent rule will immediately precede the return of Jesus Christ to the earth (Revelation 17:14). The beast will give them their authority, but God will permit him to do so.
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