[1000 silverlings]

From the bible, we see that God expressly commanded Israel to never number the people. When this commandment was broken by David (2 Samuel 24) Israel was punished.

So it is a command of God not to number His people.

Now note, this is His people, not the rest of the world.

Christ has numbered all who are His with His blood. He knows who they are. Mankind does not know who they are.

The only way that you can identify with "the Beast" is to think (forehead) and act (right hand) like the beast. When you don't, but live as a holy people separate from the world, you will endure persecution. Or you can fit in with the crowd, it's your choice. The elect will never do it.

[Alamo-Girl]

Truly, the elect cannot be fooled.

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. - Matthew 24:24

And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. – John 10:4-5

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: - John 10:27

No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. – John 6:44

Maranatha, Jesus!!!

[Matchett-PI]

Sorry, but I’m not a Chiliast.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-religion/1983867/posts?page=85#85

[topcat54]

The only way that you can identify with "the Beast" is to think (forehead) and act (right hand) like the beast.

The imagery becomes understandable by looking at other portions of Scripture, e.g. Exodus 28:38 where the priest's turban had a gold plate inscribed "HOLINESS TO THE LORD" and was worn covering the forehead. And we also see the mark of the 144,000 righteous ones (the company of God's elect) in Rev. 7.