Is the Next Pope the Last? What Bible Prophecy Really Says
Is the next pope the last? Explore what Bible prophecy truly says about the end times, the role of the papacy, and the importance of staying rooted in sound doctrine as we await Christ’s return.
With the laying to rest of Pope Francis recently, as reported across major outlets, many are once again wondering about the prophetic implications this moment might hold.
For centuries, there have been theories about the role of the papacy in the end times. One of the most enduring ideas is that the next pope — or possibly even the current one — will be the last, ushering in the final chapter of world history before Christ’s return. But what does the Bible actually say about this?
Strictly speaking, Scripture does not mention a “final pope” by name. Instead, the Bible's end-time prophecies, especially in Daniel, 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation, warn of a coming world leader often called the Antichrist, along with a corrupt religious system described as the “Great Whore” of Babylon (Revelation 17).
Many Bible scholars and students have drawn connections between these warnings and the influence of the Roman Catholic Church throughout history. Some suggest that a future pope could play a significant role in leading global spiritual deception.
The belief that the next pope will be the last is most famously tied to The Prophecy of St. Malachy, a 12th-century document attributed to an Irish archbishop. It contains a list of popes leading up to a final figure, referred to as "Peter the Roman," under whose reign Rome will allegedly fall and the end will come.
However, it’s important to remember:
The Prophecy of St. Malachy is not part of Scripture.
Its authenticity and accuracy have been widely debated by historians and theologians.
What the Bible does clearly teach is that believers should be alert for religious leaders who abandon sound doctrine and lead many astray. As 2 Timothy 4:3–4 warns:
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”
Whether or not the last pope will fulfill the role of the False Prophet described in Revelation 13 remains to be seen. But Scripture is clear on this:
We are called to stay vigilant, rooted in the true gospel, and discerning against rising spiritual deception.
At the end of the day, our hope must rest not in speculation, but in the unshakable promise of Christ’s return.
As the Book of Revelation assures us:
“Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.”
— Revelation 1:7 (KJV)
If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, the invitation is open today:
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
— Romans 10:13 (KJV)
Wherever you are right now, you can call out to Him in prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I know I’m a sinner. I believe you died for my sins and rose again. I ask You to forgive me, come into my heart, and be my Savior. I trust you alone for my salvation. Amen."
The Narrow Minded Way
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