In chapter 17 we read about the judgment of the great Harlot which we suggested refers to Rome. Chapter 18 looks more closely at the aftereffects of her fall. The terms “Babylon” and “the great city” are terms that are used throughout the chapter to describe her. After discussing why she was destroyed and the effect her fall had on the world, the chapter concludes with “And in her was found the blood of prophets and saints, and of all who were slain on the earth” (18:24).
Note as you read the chapter, three groups that are impacted by the fall of Babylon: the nations, the kings, and the merchants. My guess is the nations refers to people who had to choose whether to follow God or the beast. The kings refer to the political powers that might have allied with the beast and harlot. The merchants refers to commercial interests that depended on her. They are all impacted severely by her fall.
The sins of the harlot in chapter 17 included blasphemies, fornication, filthiness, and persecution of the saints (2-6). Reading through chapter 18 what do you see emphasized about her character? See especially, 3, 7, 9, 11-20.
One part of this chapter that I am having trouble reconciling with Rome is what it says about the duration of her fall. What do 8, 10 and 17 say about the fall of “Babylon”?
Vs 10 and 17 give the duration of one hour, 8 a day. I read this the be rapid and not confined to real time. The analogy here in my mind is the difference in outcome for those who aligned themselves with the state and those who chose to align themselves with God. It reminds me of the Proverb “there is a way that seems right to man but the end thereof is death.”
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Wow, Mary Kay, that’s a great Proverb!
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She is described several times as being immortal and sensual. This shows total self indulgent. The kings around her were also described as partaking of these same acts. She is portrayed as a great power but when she fell so did the economic stability. A total collapse.
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I was impressed with all it said about materialism, luxury, commerce – things not necessarily sinful, but which can become our idols. This too is characteristic of an ungodly society.
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Good point Jimmy–So true!
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