1. Revelation 13:11 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What is conveyed by this beast's having two horns like a lamb?

Revelation 13:11 (ESV)

11 Then I saw another beast rising out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb and it spoke like a dragon.

The great red dragon of Revelation 12:3 had “ten horns” and so did the beast arising from the sea (Revelation 13:1). Those horns were symbolic of bullying power, of using force to press their authority upon people. But this beast looks harmless, even agreeable. The two stubby little horns of a lamb do no damage. So to the viewer this beast contrasts in a favourable manner to the previous beasts. Given, though, that this creature too is a beast, the viewer should be aware that this initial impression may be deceptive.