Does the Bible mention a black pope in relation to the end times?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible doesn’t mention a “black pope,” nor does it predict a pope as an end-times figure. This idea comes from a twelfth-century figure, Saint Malachy, who reportedly had a vision listing 112 future popes, ending with a “black pope.” Over time, some have interpreted this to mean a pope of African background, while others think it refers to a pope associated with the black attire of the Jesuit order, which is why some linked it to Pope Francis. In any case, the prophecy is based on extra-biblical tradition, rather than Scripture, and falsely assumes the Bible teaches a papacy. The vague wording from Malachy and difficulties matching his numbering to history make it even less reliable.

Revelation does mention a city on "seven hills,” which some interpret as a reference to Rome (Revelation 17:9 [NIV]). However, the office of pope developed centuries after the New Testament was written, so seeing a pope in this imagery is reading later assumptions into the first century. Instead, Scripture emphasizes a final world ruler who demands worship, enforces a mark for commerce, and persecutes those who resist (Revelation 13:16–18). Because the Bible does not mention a papacy at all, claims about a “black pope” are purely speculative and lack biblical support.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• This topic concerns the end times, including support for a pope as an end-times figure from Revelation.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The New Testament never mentions a pope or describes a universal bishop over all Christians. Instead, leadership is consistently shown to be through elders, overseers, and deacons serving in local congregations (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5; Philippians 1:1). The Roman Catholic Church later claimed that Peter was the first pope, but Peter himself spoke with humility, calling himself “a fellow elder” alongside other pastors (1 Peter 5:1). That language reflects shared pastoral care under Christ, not a solitary head of the global church. At the true center of the church’s authority stands Christ Himself, who is “the head of the body, the church” (Colossians 1:18).
• Historically, the title "pope" (from papa, “father”) was widely used for bishops in the early centuries, and it wasn't until much later that the bishop of Rome developed into a centralized role with unique claims of authority. This change occurred after the time of the apostles and is not something the Bible teaches or anticipates.
• Against this backdrop, speculation about a “black pope” relies entirely on extra-biblical sources. The twelfth-century figure Saint Malachy reportedly predicted 112 future popes, concluding with a "black pope." At one point, some attempted to connect this to Pope Francis because Jesuits traditionally wear black. His recent death (and replacement by another pope) serves as a warning against making unsubstantiated claims based on extrabiblical material. Another interpretation of Malachy’s phrase is a pope from Africa. Either way, the ambiguity of the label and the inconsistency of Malachy’s numbering with historical events demonstrate the unreliability of the claim. This is because it does not rest on biblical authority.
• What Scripture describes are symbolic visions, such as a city on "seven hills” (Revelation 17:9 [NIV]). First-century readers probably thought of Rome, as it was the dominant power at that time. Still, John did not identify a pope or suggest such an office in the end times. Instead, the prophetic focus is on a global tyrant who demands worship, enforces a mark for commerce, and persecutes God’s people (Revelation 13:1–18; 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4). Jesus will return, defeat this rebel leader, and reign forever (Revelation 19:11–21; 20:1–6). Trying to decode the phrase “black pope” distracts from the real warnings and hope God actually gave. Our focus should be on Christ’s lordship and faithful endurance until He comes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Predictions about a “black pope” illustrate how quickly people turn to sources outside the Bible in search of secret insights about the future. Pursuing these speculations distracts from what God has actually revealed and often stirs fear or curiosity instead of faith. Even when people turn to Scripture, they can misuse prophecy by treating end-times details as the most important part of the Christian life.

The Bible does speak about the end, but it does so to anchor believers in hope. Prophecy assures us that no matter how unstable the world becomes, Jesus will return, evil will be judged, and God’s kingdom will be established forever. These promises are not meant to fuel endless end-times guessing games, but to give you confidence that God is in control and to strengthen your endurance during difficult times.

The proper response to prophecy is to live faithfully in the present—praying for leaders, loving your neighbors, and keeping your focus on Christ. Instead of worrying about extra-biblical visions, you can find peace in the clarity of God’s Word, which points you to trust Him and walk in obedience until the day His kingdom comes in fullness.

UNDERSTAND

• The Bible never mentions a pope—black or otherwise.
• Saint Malachy’s prophecy of 112 popes is unreliable and unbiblical.
• The Bible’s end-times focus is on Jesus’ return and the rise of a global ruler opposing God, reminding believers to live faithfully and trust in God’s revealed Word.

REFLECT

• How can you guard your faith against being distracted by unbiblical prophecies or sensational claims about the end times?
• What does focusing on Christ’s clear promises, rather than speculation, reveal about your trust in God’s Word?
• How does remembering that Jesus—not any human leader—is the true head of the Church affect the way you live out your faith?

ENGAGE

• Why are people often drawn to extra-biblical prophecies like the “black pope” prediction, and how can we help each other stay rooted in Scripture?
• How does understanding biblical church leadership (elders, overseers, deacons) contrast with later developments like the papacy?
• How can studying legitimate biblical prophecy strengthen our hope and endurance, rather than fuel fear or speculation of the end times?