Who gives the beast his power and authority?
The dragon, identified as Satan, gives the beast his throne, his seat, and his authority. This satanic empowerment enables the beast to arise on the scene, driven by deception and charismatic appeal, accomplishing his corrupt ends through lying and flattery.
Les explains that the dragon is Satan, and he gives the beast his throne, his seat, and his authority. This means the man will come on the scene satanically driven. Les points out that he will achieve his end by lying, deception, flattery, and his charismatic personality, getting people to fall at his feet even though he is corrupt. The beast's description—leopard, bear's feet, lion's mouth—recalls Daniel's visions of the empires in reverse order, but the central point is that Satan empowers him.