For decades, prophecy teachers have speculated about the identity of the ten kings mentioned in Revelation and Daniel. Traditionally, many believed these figures would arise out of Europe, perhaps through the European Union. However, with 27 member nations today, that theory no longer holds as tightly as it once did.
In an interview with Tom Hughes, Mondo Gonzales pointed to Revelation 17:12, which says the ten kings are those “who have not yet received a kingdom, but will receive authority as kings for one hour with the beast.” This detail—“kings without a kingdom”—is key. They don’t currently rule over a nation but will share power with the Antichrist.
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/**/So who are these “kings without kingdoms?” Gonzales believes they may not be political leaders at all, but technocrats—billionaire elites who wield global influence through technology, finance and media.
“The antichrist needs technology to rule… Who could he get his help from?” Gonzales asks. “Enter in all of these super, super, uber wealthy people… Look at Bill Gates… Elon Musk…They’re developing all the technology the Antichrist would love to have at his fingertips.”
Unlike elected leaders, these individuals transcend governments. They are not confined to national borders but possess a kind of transcendent power. They control the flow of information, commerce and surveillance on a global scale.
“It’s not government… They’re going to be handing over their influence and capability… because [the Antichrist is] going to be like, ‘I need to be able to censor people. I need Starlink around the world to buy and sell,’” Gonzales points out.
Ultimately, these figures will cooperate with the Antichrist, aligning with the prophetic structure of an end-times coalition that spans industries rather than borders.
Hughes also offers a reassuring reminder from Revelation 17:17, where God’s sovereignty is reaffirmed: “God has put it into their hearts to fulfill his purpose… until the words of God are fulfilled.”
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In a world rapidly shaped by technology and global influence, the mystery of the ten kings takes on new relevance. Whether through governments or technocrats, one truth remains—everything is aligning according to a divine plan. The urgency is not to speculate, but to stay alert, rooted in faith and ready for what’s to come.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
