THE UNCLEAN SPIRIT LIKE FROGS
And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet Rev 16:13
These “unclean spirits like frogs” are “the spirits of devils” (or in Gk. demons). In the New Testament demons or devils are associated with mental instability, insanity – Hence we may understand the basic idea that a spirit of madness is to go forth to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them in opposition to God Almighty (See Jer 51:7).
We may further note that the word “spirit” means a force, and by extension can relate to a disposition of mind (eg. Eph 4:23). In 1 John 4:1 “spirit” is associated with teachings (that which affects or influences the mind) - and that would seem to be the idea in Rev 16:13 where the spirits come “out of the mouth”. Teachings, doctrines and policies come out of a mouthpiece - and this is what we see here.
“like frogs” - In seeking a Scriptural key for this sign, we can only go to Exodus 8. It is the only incident where frogs occur in the whole of the Bible. What can we learn from this plague of frogs that will help us to understand that insane philosophy or teaching that will lead the nations of the world into Armageddon?
What did the plague of frogs accomplish? At first glance we may think that they accomplished very little beyond a nuisance and a bad smell. But if the account be read carefully it may be noted that as a result of this plague - and for the first time, Pharaoh promises liberty:
“Entreat the Lord, that he may take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice unto the Lord.” (Exod 8:8)
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So as a result of the frogs we can see a promise of liberty; even of religious liberty to the Jewish people - but it was a false promise.
But this is not all that we learn. A comment upon the plagues in Psalm 78 mentions “frogs, which destroyed them” (Psa 78:45). The trouble here is that the frogs did not “destroy” them. The Hebrew word here translated “destroyed” is schachath; to cause decay or ruin; to corrupt.
The frogs may have contributed to the ruin of Egypt, but the Psalmist has more than that in mind - for this Psalm is a parable (Psa 78:2). The same word is used in Exod 32:7 for example, and refers to moral corruption. Such an idea is very well suited to a teaching or philosophy which is to gather peoples in opposition to Almighty God.
A Godless Spirit - As we piece together the clues that are provided in the symbolism of the passage under review it is difficult to ignore the growing links with those philosophical teachings that found political expression in the French Revolution. It was indeed a spirit of madness - it was utterly godless. It was an unclean spirit or teaching that would corrupt not only the French nation, but in time the whole of the world. From this source would come the atheistic teaching of the theory of evolution and the consequent denial of creation. It would teach liberty, only to produce a Reign of Terror. It was a spirit that originated in human wisdom and of which James wrote:
“This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, demoniacal. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:15-16)
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James uses the Greek word akatastasia, translated “confusion” but which Vine renders revolution or anarchy! The words are important. This “demoniacal” wisdom of which James speaks is the basis of that godless and insane philosophy that will gather the nations to Armageddon. It was a philosophy brought forth like an abundance of frogs which entered into the chambers of all the kings of Europe, which spiritually is called Egypt (Psa 105:30).
It promised liberty, but it brought moral and spiritual corruption (cp. 2 Pet 2:19).
This spirit has swept all before it. No philosophy or religious creed has withstood it. It has brought vast changes to the world through education, political emancipation and apparent freedoms. Today we see it in women’s rights, gay rights and rights for every other moral perversion. It is madness, it is wickedness - and it is extremely powerful.
Jesus has warned us about this spirit and he has told us what it is accomplishing. His message to us is “watch”. It is the spirit of our age and we are to overcome it through faith and patience.
Even so come Lord Jesus
Insight
