Revisiting The Prophecy Of The Popes: What Should We Really Be Watching For?

With the news of Pope Francis' passing at the age of 88, many believers are once again turning their eyes to an old and mysterious prediction known as the Prophecy of the 112 Popes. For centuries, this prophecy has stirred the imaginations of scholars, skeptics, and saints alike. But as students of Bible prophecy, how should we view it in light of Scripture? What weight should we give it in a time when spiritual deception and end-time confusion abound?

The so-called "Prophecy of the Popes" is attributed to St. Malachy, a 12th-century Irish archbishop. According to legend, Malachy received a vision during a pilgrimage to Rome in 1139, where he saw a procession of 112 future popes. Each pope was described with a short, cryptic Latin motto. The list allegedly begins with Pope Celestine II (elected in 1143) and ends with a final pope, dubbed "Peter the Roman," whose reign will supposedly culminate in the destruction of Rome and the final judgment.

This document first surfaced in 1595 in a book by Benedictine monk Arnold Wion. That fact alone is suspect: why did no one mention or publish this vision for over 400 years? Historians and Catholic scholars alike have pointed out that the early mottos seem eerily accurate, while the later ones devolve into vague and generalized descriptions that can be retrofitted to nearly any pontiff.

Wion's timing is also suspicious--his book was released during a season of contentious papal elections, leading many to speculate that the list was a political forgery designed to sway opinion. Indeed, respected scholars have cast serious doubt on the prophecy's authenticity.

Despite these criticisms, some find the prophecy's apparent accuracy compelling. For example, Pope John Paul II's motto was "De labore solis" (of the solar eclipse), and he was born during a solar eclipse and buried during another. Pope Benedict XVI's motto, "Gloria olivae" (the glory of the olive), sparked discussion due to his connection with the Benedictine order, sometimes symbolized by the olive branch.

As for Pope Francis, some proponents of the prophecy believe he could be "Peter the Roman" because of his birth name, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, whose father was an Italian immigrant--effectively making Francis "Roman" by heritage. Others point out that he chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, who was born Giovanni di Pietro (John, son of Peter). This connection has led some to conclude that the prophecy may have already been fulfilled in Francis. On the other hand, others argue that he is only the 111th pope, meaning there is still one more to come who will fulfill the "Peter the Roman" title.

Adding an interesting twist to the conversation: among the current contenders for the next papacy, there are three cardinals whose names include a form of "Peter." Whether coincidence or confirmation, this has only fueled speculation and renewed interest in the prophecy.

Bible prophecy is not meant to be a sideshow or curiosity. It is God's revelation to His people about His plan for the end of the age. When attention shifts too heavily to extra-biblical prophecies, believers risk missing the forest for the trees. Jesus warned in Matthew 24:24 that false prophets would arise, showing great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.

This leads to a far more important and biblically grounded prophecy: the rise of the False Prophet.

In Revelation 13, two beasts are introduced: one from the sea (representing a political leader--the Antichrist), and one from the earth (a religious figure, often identified as the False Prophet). Revelation 13:11-17 describes this second beast as one who "had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon." He appears religious and gentle but speaks with the authority of Satan.

The False Prophet's role is to support the Antichrist by performing deceptive miracles, setting up an image of the beast, and enforcing the infamous mark of the beast. This religious leader will lead the world into worshiping the Antichrist and ultimately into rebellion against God (Revelation 16:13, 19:20, 20:10).

Today, concerning trends of spiritual compromise, interfaith movements, and a push toward global religious unity can be seen--developments that seem to be preparing the world for a religious figure who will unite people under a false gospel.

The office of Pope is certainly a leading contender for someone to assume such power  The global influence of the papacy, combined with the increasing call for religious inclusivity, places such a figure in a unique position to fulfill the role described in Revelation. As with all speculation, it must be approached with humility as scripture simply doesn't reveal how this religious man will rise to power.  

Many religious figures throughout history have appeared suddenly and gathered a following quickly.  Anything is possible with today's technology and the nature of viral communications. Influencers online can acquire millions of followers in mere hours.  Add a religious twist with miracles to people looking for answers in a lost society and you can see why the world bows down.

Rather than fixating on an ambiguous list from centuries ago, believers should be watching clear biblical markers:

The growing apostasy in the church (2 Thessalonians 2:3)

The rise of globalism

The call for a unified world religion

And the moral and spiritual decline described in Romans 1 and 2 Timothy 3.

These trends point toward the soon return of Christ and the fulfillment of Revelation's final chapters.

The death of a pope naturally causes the world to pause and reflect. For some, it reignites interest in prophecies like St. Malachy's. But students of the Word are called to test every spirit and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). The Prophecy of the 112 Popes is fascinating, but it lacks biblical backing and reliable provenance.

Instead, attention must be fixed on the Word of God, which alone holds the authority and clarity needed in uncertain times. While there may be coincidences that seem compelling, doctrine and hope must not be built on fragile ground. Vigilance, discernment, and faithfulness to the truth that God has clearly revealed in Scripture are essential.

As the world navigates these last days, may believers be found watching, praying, and living in the light of God's unshakable truth.