Babylon – False Christianity (13 Reasons)

The great harlot Babylon typifies confused, false Christianity found in churches and faith-based parachurch organizations.  In Revelation 17-18, there are at least 13 reasons found that False Christianity is the symbolic meaning of the great city and great harlot, Babylon.  Please click on video link or continue on to the study that follows.

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Babylon’s Churches and Parachurches

13 Reasons Why Babylon is False Christianity

#1 – A Woman (Rev 17:3, Rev 17:4, Rev 17:18)

#2 – In the Wilderness (Rev 17:3)

#3 – An Harlot (Rev 17:1, 17:5)

#4 – Great, Mighty City (Rev 17:18, 18:10, 18:18-19)

#5 – A Queen Reigns over Kings of the Earth (Rev 17:18, Rev 18:7)

Sits on the Beast / Carries Babylon – (Rev 17:3,7)

Sits on Many Waters (Rev 17:1,15)

#6 – Believes she is not a widow and will see no sorrow (Rev 18:7)

#7 – True Christians – Voice of Bridegroom and Bride (Rev 18:23)

#8 – True Christians have the Light of the Candle (Rev 18:23)

#9 – Clothed in Fine Linen, Purple and Scarlet (Rev 17:4, Rev 18:16)

#10 – Gold, Precious Stones and Pearls (Rev 17:4, Rev 18:16)

#11 – Merchandise – Christian Symbols (Rev 18:12-13)

#12 – Habitation of Demons (Rev 18:2)

#13 – Blood – Prophets / Saints (Rev 17:6, 18:20, 18:24)

 

Babylon’s Churches and Parachurches

 

  • Churches
    • World population – 7.5 Billion
      • 2.4 Billion Christians (1/3 of the world population)
      • Catholic – 1.3 Billion
      • Protestant / Eastern orthodox / other – 1.1 Billion
      • 33,000+ organized groups
    • Sources:
  • Parachurhces
    • … Christian faith based organizations that work outside and across denominations to engage in social welfare and evangelism. Parachurch organizations seek to come alongside the church …
  • Examples:
    • Evangelistic organizations
    • Christian music publishers
    • Christian media of all types
    • Schools, colleges, universities
    • Social services of all types
    • Self help groups
  • Source:

 

13 Reasons Why Babylon is False Christianity

 

#1 – A Woman (Rev 17:3, Rev 17:4, Rev 17:18)

 

Summary:  A symbol of either the true or false church of God.

 

A woman in the Bible can often be used to represent the people of God (i.e., God being typified by the husband and the church being typified by the wife).  We find that the people of God are called the Bride of Christ (Eph 5:22-33, Mat 25:1-13, Rev 19:7-8, 21:2, 2 Cor 11:2).  We find Christ referred to as a bridegroom (Ps 19:5, Mat 9:15, Mat 25:1-10, Is 62:5, 61:10, Jer 2:32, Jer 7:34, Jer 16:9, Jer 25:10, Jer 33:11, Mk 2:19-20, Lk 5:34-35, John 3:29, etc.).

 

In the Old Testament, God’s church Israel / Judah was married to God and became divorced from God due to her unfaithfulness and whoredoms (Jer 3:1, Jer 31:32, Hos 2:1-13, Is 54:1-7, Is 50:1, Deut 24:1-4).

 

In Revelation 12, we see that the true church of God is symbolized as a woman who has fled into the wilderness.  There are many symbols, when correctly interpreted, support that this woman is the true church of God (12 stars, with child gave birth to Jesus, persecuted by Satan, woman’s remnant, etc.).

 

In Gal 4:21-31, we see evidence that Hagar and Sarah and portraits of a church trying to be saved by the works of the flesh (typified by Hagar) and a church saved by the grace of God (typified by Sarah).  All Christians are children of the free woman (spiritually, typified by Sarah).

 

Finally, in 2 John 1, 2 John 4, 2 John 13 and 1 Pet 5:13, it is apparent that the church is referred to as a woman.

 

#2 – In the Wilderness (Rev 17:3)

 

Summary: The wilderness is a type of the place of the Christian’s journey and therefore, this is where the end-time false Christian church of Babylon also resides.

 

So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet colored beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.  (Rev 17:3)

 

The wilderness is a type of life that exists in this world, especially for a Christian (Mat 4:1, 1 Cor 10:5, Heb 3:8, Rev 12:6, 14, Ps 63, Ps 106:9, 2 Cor 11:6).  Although Babylon is a city, John under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit was taken into the wilderness to view the city Babylon.  A Christian’s journey as a pilgrim in the wilderness includes encountering the great and mighty city of Babylon.  However, the Christian must remember that in this world they are in the wilderness and if they find themselves in Babylon, they must flee from the deception and the whoredoms of Babylon (Rev 18:4).

 

#3 – An Harlot (Rev 17:1, 17:5)

 

Summary:  A symbol of the apostate church of God that has rebelled by serving other gods and idols

 

The most distinctive description of Babylon is that of a Whore (same root word as fornication, Greek: porneia).  The noun ‘whore’ (or harlot) is used throughout the Bible primarily to describe people who identify with Jehovah God, in name, but have rebelled from God and have joined themselves to serve other gods and idols in contradiction to the first two commandments (Ex 20:3-6).   Other gods and idols refer to whatever a person worships or mostly values in their life (which could include money, false teaching about the true God, materialism, family, accomplishments, power, fun, cars, boats, work, sports, wisdom, new age philosophy, etc., etc.).  Notably, we find that greediness is a form of idolatry (Col 3:5).

 

Israel in the wilderness (God’s church of the Old Testament – see Acts 7:38) was called a harlot because Israel rebelled from God and as a result, did not enter into the promised-land.  Israel was caused to wander 40 years in the wilderness (Num 14:33) for her whoredoms.  In Num 25:1, as influenced by Balaam (Num 31:15-16, 1 Cor 10:8), we find that Israel pursued whoredom by joining themselves to the daughters of Moab and bowed down to the gods of Moab (Num 25:1-3).  Israel, at this time, joined themselves with Baal-peor, providing an example of whoredom by the worshiping of other gods.

 

Similarly, the northern 10 tribes (called Israel) and the southern two tribes (called Judah) also committed abominable whoredom just as their fathers did (Eze 20:30).  Ezekiel 16 provides a history of the whore Israel and records her whoredoms she committed with idols of other gods (Eze 16:17, 36).  In Ezekiel 23, Israel and Judah are signified by two sisters (Oholah and Oholibah), which committed great whoredoms against God because of their service to false gods and idols.

 

In the book of Hosea, Israel is recognized as being an adulterous whore (Hos 3:3, Hos 4:10-18, Hos 5:3-4, Hos 6:10, Hos 9:1) in that she rebelled from God’s holy path.  Hosea was told to marry a whore (Gomer), which symbolized the nation of Israel (Hos 1:2, Hos 2:2-5, Hos 3:3, Hos 4:10-15, Hos 4:18).

 

There are many other references to Israel / Judah being considered as an adulterous whore, which represented their going after false gods and idols (Eze 6:9, 43:9, Jer 3:1-9, 5:7, 2 Ki 9:22, 2 Chr 21:11-15, Ex 34:15-16, Deut 31:16, Judges 2:16-17, Micah 1:7, Pr 7:10, Ps 73:27, Ps 106:39, Lev 17:7, Is 1:21, etc.)

 

Nineveh – We find in Nahum 3:4 (see also Nah 1:1) that Nineveh is referred to as a whore as well.  The book of Jonah records that the city of Nineveh repented at the preaching of Jonah and Jehovah God spared them (i.e., a portrait of salvation to the Gentiles).  At this time, the people of Nineveh became Jehovah God’s people due to their repentance (Jonah 3:6-10, Jonah 4:10-11, Mat 12:41).  The people of Nineveh became a great example of God’s salvation plan for all His chosen gentile people, not just those of the heritage of Israel.  However, within just a few generations, the city had returned to worship false gods and therefore, was considered as a whore, since they rebelled from Jehovah God.

 

Based on the above, it can be concluded that a whore (harlot) in the Bible can spiritually refer to a group of people who were considered God’s people, but rebelled and pursued other gods and idols.

 

#4 – Great, Mighty City (Rev 17:18, 18:10, 18:18-19)

 

Summary: Babylon is large in extent and is very strong.  She can control the world’s kingdoms by her worship of other gods and idols.

 

And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.  (Rev 17:18)

 

Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is thy judgment come.  (Rev 18:10)

 

And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is like unto this great city!

And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate.  (Rev 18:18-19)

 

  • Great city – See Rev 17:18 w/ Rev 17:5, Rev 18:2, Rev 18:10, Rev 18:18-21, Rev 11:8 – Babylon
    • Satan’s dominion – see notes on Rev 8:8-9, Rev 9:14, Rev 14:8
    • Great city – Jerusalem – great city in Revelation – 10 occurrences
      • Jerusalem (symbol for the church in the world) – Rev 11:8
      • Babylon – Rev 14:8, Rev 16:19, Rev 17:8, Rev 18:10, Rev 18:16, Rev 18:18, Rev 18:19, Rev 18:21
      • New Jerusalem – Rev 21:10
    • City – (G4172), Gr: polis
      • Opposite of the wilderness – 2 Cor 11:26, Ps 107:4, Jud 1:16, John 11:54
      • Where people gathered together – opposite of the wilderness – Jos 8:20, Jdg 1:16, Jdg 8:16, Jdg 20:42, 2Ch 8:4, Psa 107:4, Isa 14:17, Isa 27:10, Isa 42:11, Isa 64:10, Jer 4:26, Jer 22:6, Jer 51:43, Joh 11:54, 2Co 11:26
      • That which has rule (organization) – Pr 25:28, Pr 16:32
      • Zion, the city of then Great King – Ps 48:2
      • Cities have strength – Deut 2:36, Pr 18:19
      • Where the multitude is – Job 39:6
      • The rich man’s wealth is his strong city – Pr 10:15, Pr 18:11
    • Similar verses – Jer 4:7, Is 6:11, Is 1:7, Jer 33:10, Jer 9:11, Jer 2:15

 

Great City – In the Bible, there are only a few cities that were referred to as ‘great’ (e.g., Resen – Gen 10:12, Gibeon – Josh 10:2, Nineveh – Jonah 1:2, 3:1-3, 4:11, earthly Jerusalem – Rev 11:8, New Jerusalem, the city of God – Rev 21:10, 3:12).  Babylon is also called a ‘great city’ numerous times in the Bible (Revelation 14:8, 16:9, 17:18, 18:10, 16, 18, 19, 21).  In the Bible, ‘great’ refer to extent (i.e., large organized entities that involve large numbers of people).  The word ‘city’ involves organization.  In the Bible, people grouped together in cities for sustenance and protection. Otherwise, they lived in the wilderness (on their own and self-sufficient).  A city strongly implies organization, hierarchy, services and government.

 

It is important to observe that the great city refers to Jerusalem and Babylon.  As Jerusalem is symbolic for where God’s people exist, so too Babylon becomes the ‘great city’ during the Great Tribulation.  Jerusalem, the symbolic location of where God’s people dwell becomes Babylon since the church has become incorporated into Babylon.  See further discussion on the ‘Babylonian Captivity’ in ‘Bible History of Babylon’ and ‘Babylon Captivity in the Olivet discourse’.

 

Mighty City which rules over the kings of the earth – Not only is Babylon great in extent and organization, she is also ‘mighty’. The adjective ‘mighty’ in the word ‘ischuros’, which means ‘forcible’.  It is often translated as ‘strong’ and is used to represent Satan (Mat 12:29, Mk 3:27, Lk 11:21), used as the opposite of weak (1 Cor 1:27, 4:10, 1 John 2:14, 2 Cor 10:10) and used as something physically or otherwise strong (Mat 14:30, Heb 6:18, etc.).  Therefore, we see that Babylon is an organized entity having power to influence and control events and circumstances.   So much so, that Babylon is able to control the kings of the earth.  By her actions of whoredom in worshipping gods and idols, her desire for riches and persecution of true Christians, she musters up the power needed to control kings.  This false religion is effective in causing many sovereign nations to follow her. ‘Kings’ represent earthly leaders (earthly politics).  Babylon is involved with the politics of government using her influence to rule leaders, which is political influence (see later discussion under the section entitled ‘Babylon’s Actions’).  Some trust in chariots, but Christians will trust in the Lord our God (Pr 20:7).

 

#5 – A Queen Reigns over Kings of the Earth (Rev 17:18, Rev 18:7)

 

How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.  (Rev 18:7)

 

And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.

(Rev 17:18)

 

Queen – A queen in the Bible often represents the wife or consort of the king (e.g., Maacha – 2 Chr 11:20-22, 1 Ki 14:31, 1 Ki 15:2,10,13, Vashti – Esther 2:9-18, Esther – Esther 2:4, Athaliah, wife of Jehoram – 2 Chr 22:12, see also 2 Chr 15:16, Neh 2:6. Jer 29:2, Dan 5:10). We also find that the queen of heaven referenced in Jeremiah refers to the worship of a false god (Jer 7:18, Jer 44:17-19,25).  We see that in Eze 16:13, the whorish Israel is depicted as a queen in that she was considered as married to God, who is the King of Kings.  She is decked with gold, silver, fine linen (similar to Babylon of Rev 17-18) and she prospered in the kingdom.  Therefore, we can see that the church in the wilderness (Israel) was considered as a queen.  Similarly, the true church of believers is the bride of Christ, who is the King of Kings (Mat 25:1-13, Rev 19:7-8).  However, it must be recognized that since this is the queen of Babylon who have daughters, she must be connected to the King of Babylon who is Satan himself (Is 14:4, 12-14).  Babylon seeks to glorify herself (and receive worship) – Rev 18:7, Hab 2:16, Rev 13:15.

 

Queen in the Bible:

  • Queen of Sheba – 1 Ki 10:1, 1 Ki 10:4, 1 Ki 10:10, 1 Ki 10:13, 2 Ch 9:1, 2 Chr 9:3, 2 Chr 9:9, 2 Chr 9:12, Mat 12:42, Lk 11:31
  • Queen Vashti – Est 1:9-17
  • Esther – Est 2:4, Est 2:17, Est 2:22, Est 4:4, Est 5:2-3, Est 5:12, Est 7:1-8, Est 8:1, Est 8:7, Est 9:12, Est 9:29, Est 9:31, Est 9:37
  • Candace, queen of the Ethiopians – Acts 8:27
  • Athaliah, wife of Jehoram – 2 Chr 22:12
  • Maacha (wife of Abijam) – 2 Chr 11:20-22, 1 Ki 14:31, 1 Ki 15:2, 1 Ki 15:13, 2 Chr 15:16
  • Wife of King Ahaziah was a queen – 2 Ki 10:13
  • See also, 1 Ki 11:19, , Neh 2:6, Ps 45:9, Song 6:9
  • And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with their face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me. (Isa 49:23)
  • Say unto the king and to the queen, Humble yourselves, sit down: for your principalities shall come down, even the crown of your glory. (Jer 13:18)
  • (After that Jeconiah the king, and the queen, and the eunuchs, the princes of Judah and Jerusalem, and the carpenters, and the smiths, were departed from Jerusalem;) (Jer 29:2)
  • Queen of heaven worshiped in Egypt:
    • The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other gods, that they may provoke me to anger. (Jer 7:18)
    • But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense unto the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for then had we plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil. But since we left off to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her, we have wanted all things, and have been consumed by the sword and by the famine. And when we burned incense to the queen of heaven, and poured out drink offerings unto her, did we make her cakes to worship her, and pour out drink offerings unto her, without our men?  (Jer 44:17-19)
    • Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saying; Ye and your wives have both spoken with your mouths, and fulfilled with your hand, saying, We will surely perform our vows that we have vowed, to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto her: ye will surely accomplish your vows, and surely perform your vows. (Jer 44:25)
  • Now the queen, by reason of the words of the king and his lords, came into the banquet house: and the queen spake and said, O king, live for ever: let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy countenance be changed: (Dan 5:10)

 

Sits on the Beast / Carries Babylon – (Rev 17:3,7)

 

Summary:  The Beast is a symbol of Satan and his entire kingdom and provides the motive force for the end-time false Christian church.

 

So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.   (Rev 17:3)

 

And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.  (Rev 17:7)

 

Sit – To sit on an animal represents that the animal is being used for motive force and gives its will to the rider (e.g., four horsemen of Revelation 6, Christ rides on colt of a donkey (Mk 11:2,7, Lk 19:30, John 12:14, Christ on white horse (Rev 19:11,19)).  In this case, Babylon is seen sitting on a beast.

 

  • To sit – place of authority / judgment
    • Man of sin sits in the temple of God – 2 Thess 2:4
    • Ps 1:1 – the seat of the scornful
    • Christ sat at right hand of the Father – Mk 12;36, Mk 14:62, Lk 20;42, Lk 22:69, Acts 2:34, Heb 1:3, Heb 1:13, Heb 10:12, Col 3:1
    • God seated on throne – Rev 20:11, Rev 21:5, Rev 19:4, Zech 6;13, Rev 4:2-3
    • Judgment – Rev 20:4, Lk 22:30, Acts 25:6, 17
    • Satan’s seat – Rev 2:13
    • Authority – Rev 13:2, Mat 23:2, Eph 2:6, Lk 22:28-30
  • Church originally had authority over the Satan due to the binding of Satan (Rev 20:1-7), but loses it once Satan is loosed from the abyss
  • Sit on a horse is to be honored:
    • Then took Haman the apparel and the horse, and arrayed Mordecai, and brought him on horseback through the street of the city, and proclaimed before him, Thus shall it be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honour. (Est 6:11)

Horses – that which transports into battle:

  • Horse
  • Horses are for battle – Pr 21:31, Ps 20:7, Ps 76:6, Ps 147:10, Zech 9:10, Zech 10:3-5, Zech 12:4, Zech 14:15-20, Rev 9:7-9, Rev 19:11, Eze 26:7-9, Jer 50:42, Is 31:, Deut 20:1, 1 Sam 8:11, 1 Sam 13:5, 1 Ki 1:5, 2 Sam 10:18
  • Pharaoh’s horses – Ex 14:9, Ex 14:23, Ex 15:1
  • Great strength – Ps 33:17
  • 4 chariots – 4 spirits of God (Zech 6:1-8)

 

Beast that ‘Carries’ Babylon:

 

In Rev 17:7, the Scriptures note that the beast ‘carries’ the woman, Babylon.  The Greek word (G941) is bastazo. The word literally means to ‘lift up’ or ‘bear’ (e.g., to support).  In other words, it is the Beast (Satan) to supports Babylon.  Combined with the fact that Babylon sits on the beast, it can be concluded that Satan is the power that supports Babylon and also transports her into spiritual battle.

 

Here are the usages of this Greek word (G941) bastazo in the New Testament:

  • I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: (Mat 3:11)
  • That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our (Mat 8:17)
  • Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day. (Mat 20:12)
  • And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. (Mar 14:13)
  • And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. (Luk 7:14)
  • Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. (Luk 10:4)
  • And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. (Luk 11:27)
  • And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.  (Luk 14:27)
  • And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in. (Luk 22:10)
  • Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. (Joh 10:31)
  • This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein. (Joh 12:6)
  • I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.  (Joh 16:12)
  • And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: (Joh 19:17)
  • Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. (Joh 20:15)
  • And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;  (Act 3:2)
  • But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: (Act 9:15)
  • Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? (Act 15:10)
  • And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people. (Act 21:35)
  • Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.  (Rom 11:18)
  • We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. (Rom 15:1)
  • I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever  he be.  (Gal 5:10)
  • Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. (Gal 6:2)
  • For every man shall bear his own burden. (Gal 6:5)
  • From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.  (Gal 6:17)
  • I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: (Rev 2:2)
  • And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.  (Rev 2:3)
  • And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns. (Rev 17:7)

 

Babylon is carried by the Scarlet colored beast of Rev 17 – The scarlet beast of Revelation 17:3-14 is a symbolic representation of Satan and his kingdom.  The scarlet beast itself is Satan (which is of the 7 kings and therefore, considered as the 8th king).  The scarlet beast was, is not (yet is) and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit.  This represents the fact that at the time of the writing of Revelation, Satan was bound in the bottomless pit during the millennium (which is a symbol for the entire church age).  Satan will once again ascend out of the bottomless pit for a short season (Great Tribulation).  The phrase is not (yet is) refers to the fact that although Satan is bound in the bottomless pit (millennium – church age), he still has access to the earth and walks about as a roaring lion.  This scarlet beast as 7 heads and 10 horns.  The 7 heads represent 7 kings and 7 mountains.  Kings represent world leaders and the mountains represent kingdoms.  The 7 heads includes 5 kings that have fallen, one king that is (at the time of the writing of the Book of Revelation in the 1sst century A.D.), and one king that will come for a short period of time.  The 5 fallen kings represent leaders of the world (Satan’s kingdom) that oppressed, persecuted, afflicted or desolated God’s people (Israel / Judah). The 5 kingdoms were Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Media-Persia and Greece.  The one king that was at the time of the writing of Revelation was the Roman Empire.  The one king that is to come for a short time is the antichrist (Leopard Beast of Revelation 13, etc.).  The 10 kings that rise for 1 hour symbolize the fullness of the world’s nations that will gather against Jesus Christ at the Day of Judgement (a.k.a., the Battle of Armageddon).  The color scarlet is identified with sin (Is 1:18) and was used in Old Testament sacrifices (Heb 9:19).  In Is 1:18, scarlet is also linked to red and therefore, can be related to the blood of Christ as well it is the color of Satan in Rev 12:3.  Names represent greater truths and are symbolically used (see discussion above on the ‘name’ on Babylon’s forehead).  The beast is strongly connected to blasphemy.  Blasphemy (which is literally means ‘injurious or evil speaking’) is when one accuses another wrongly and tries to hurt another person.  It is the opposite of love, which seeks to be kind, gentle, does not behave unseemly, thinks no evil and bears all things (1 Cor 13:8, etc.).  Blasphemy relates to Satan since he is the accuser of the brethren (Rev 12:10 Job 1:9, 2:5, Zech 3:1-2, Lk 22:31, Titus 2:3), he makes himself equal to God (John 10:33-36, Lk 5:21, Mk 2:7, 14:64, Mat 26:65) and is the lord of untruth and deception (John 8:44, 1 John 3:8, Rev 2:9, 1 Tim 1:20, 6:1, acts 13:45, 18:6, 1 Tim 1:13,etc.) Therefore, we see strong connection between the beast and Satan.

 

  • Gr: therion (G2342, G2341) – 47 occurrences (usually a dangerous created animal)
    • Paul fought with at Ephesus (1 Cor 15:32), Snake / viper (Acts 28:4-5) that Paul shook off into the fire, the antichrist (Rev 11:7, 13:1-4, 11-18, Rev 14:9, Rev 16:2, 10-13, 19:19-20, Rev 20:4, Rev 20:10), the false prophet (Rev 13:11-12) in wilderness at temptation of Christ (Mk 12:13), Peter’s sheet (Acts 10:12, 11:6), Cretans (Titus 1:12), Cherubim / living creature (Rev 6:7-8), Rev 17:3 – Satan (scarlet colored beast)
  • Beasts (H2423) of Daniel Chapters 7 and 8
  • A symbol of Satan and his ministers (antichrist, unsaved teachers / shepherds) who try to lead the flock astray
  • Evil Beasts (Eze 14:15, see also Eze 5:16-17, Lev 26:22, 1 Ki 20:36 (lion), 2 Ki 17:25, Jer 15:3, Eze 34:5, Hos 2:12, Ez 29:5, 33:26‑29, Jer 7:33, etc.)
    • Spiritually represents the ministers of Satan – e.g., Rev 13:1-10, 17:6, Titus 1:12, Acts 28:4,
    • John 10:12 (wolf among sheep either catches them or scatters them)
    • 1 Pet 5:8 (lion), Is 35:9 (lion as a ravenous beast)
    • Eze 34:5 (no shepherd, beast present – see also Jer 23:1-2)
    • Rev 13:14-15, 20:4 (image of the beast)
    • Rev 13:16-18, 20:4 (mark of the beast)
    • Satan as the serpent (Gen 3:1), etc.
    • Snake is a beast – Acts 28:4-5
    • Beasts used to scatter Israel – see notes on Rev 6:8
    • That which scatters and devours – Is 35:9, Hos 2:12, Pr 30:20

 

Sits on Many Waters (Rev 17:1,15)

 

And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many water  (Rev 17:1)

And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.  (Rev 17:15)

  • The fact that the woman sits on many waters (peoples, multitudes, nations, tongues) harmonizes with the fact that she sits on the Beast. The Beast is Satan and his kingdom, which is the earthly world of which he controls:
    • Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (Mat 4:8-9)
  • Therefore, it is apparent from Rev 17:1,15 that Babylon has far-reaching impact and control in Satan’s kingdom, the world.

Summary:  Many water represents the world in its natural divisions of political powers (peoples), physical location (multitudes) , ethnicity (nations) and languages (tongues).

 

  • And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many water (Rev 17:1)
  • And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. (Rev 17:15)

 

Summary: Babylon influences a wide range of diverse people groups that are in need of salvation.

 

Waters – Water can be viewed in two significant aspects in the Bible.  It is used symbolically in the salvation of God’s people in that it cleanses from sin (Eph 5:26, Heb 10:22, Titus 3:5, Rev 1:5, etc.).  It can also be viewed as a type of the Holy Spirit (John 7:38-39).  However, in large amounts can also be seen as a means of judgment and being under damnation.  For example, Noah’s flood (Gen 7:17-33) is an obvious example of the judgment on evil.  Being in a flood of water is also used elsewhere in the Bible of the place where one is in when they need salvation (Ps 69:2, 88:6-7, Mat 24:38-39, Lk 17:27, 2 Pet 2:5, etc.).

 

‘Many’ waters – This phrase is used notably in Jer 51:13, which discusses the judgment on Babylon.  In Jer 51:13, Babylon is noted to dwell upon many waters (similar to Rev 17:1,15).  In Jeremiah 51:13, the Bible says that Babylon is therefore, abundant in treasures and will be judged for her covetousness. By connecting these verses in Revelation 17 and Jeremiah 51, we can see that the richness of Babylon comes from being seated upon nations, peoples, multitudes and tongues (see also Eze 19:10 for the richness that comes from being on waters).  But, in the Bible we also find that the reference to ‘many waters’ refers to the location from which one must be saved (2 Sam 22:17, Ps 18:16, Is 8:7).  In Ps 93 (notably verse 4), we find that the floods rise and there are many waters, but Jehovah God is mightier than these perils.   In Is 17:12-13, we find that the many waters are like the rushing of an enemy nation, which Jehovah God must rebuke.  Connecting all these verses, we can conclude that the peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues of Rev 17:1,5 can be viewed as a great host of people who are unsaved.  Although Babylon appears to be Christian, she actually sits upon many unsaved people who need salvation and be rescued from the many waters.

 

Voice like many waters – This phrase is used in Ps 29:3, Eze 43:2, Rev 1:15, Rev 14:2 and Rev 19:6.  God’s voice is like many waters in that it brings both salvation and judgment.  It is vast and can affect many, many different types of peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues (whether for salvation or judgment).

 

Peoples, multitudes, nations and tongues

 

Peoples – This represents a group that is connected by one cause or purpose.  An important example is that all true Christians from whatever background, creed, language, culture, race, etc. become one people as Christians (Rev 21:3, Heb 8:10, 2 Cor 6:18, Hos 1:10, 2:23, 1 Pet 2:10, Ro 9:25, Mat 1:231, Ro 8:29, etc.).  A people could also be a group of individuals that rally behind a political figure, a society that is governed by a ruler, a social cause or any other reason by which they are unified.

 

Multitudes – This word is typically used in the Bible to represent a group of people that are gathered physically together.  They may or may not have the same purpose of beliefs.  The multitudes that followed Jesus included people with varying motives and all these people were not actually disciples of Jesus (Mat 4:25, 12:15, 13:2, Gen 13:16, 16:10, 4:16, John 6:60-71).

 

Nations – The Greek word for nations is ‘ethnos’, which means a group of people who have a common ethnic (or cultural) background.  This word is used extensively to refer to ‘gentiles’, which were those who were outside of the commonwealth of Israel (Eph 2:11-12).  This word should not be used in the context of people who live in a particular country unless the people of the country are all of the same ethnicity.

 

Tongues – This Greek word (glossa) refers to one’s spoken language (Acts 1:19, 2:3-4, 11, 26, Rev 5:9, etc).

 

Practical Example – In the United States, the people are those who are governed under the laws of the country.  Multitudes of people attend social events, rallies, games, etc.  There are many ethnicities within the country that form sub-cultures.   Finally, there are many different languages spoken in the country.

 

World religion statistics (Wikipedia, Major religious groups – 2012 data)

  • Christianity – 31.5% (2.2 billion)
  • Islam – 23.2% (1.6 billion)
  • Irreligion – 16.3% (1.2 billion)
  • Hinduism – 15.0% (1.1 billion)
  • Buddhism – 7.1% (0.5 billion)
  • Folk religion – 5.9% (0.4 billion)
  • Other religions – 1% (.07 billion)

As can be observed from the above information, the only widespread religion that can be viewed to have authority over varying ethnicities, races, cultures and languages would be Christianity.  All others are significantly more limited in their extent.

 

 

 

#6 – Believes she is not a widow and will see no sorrow (Rev 18:7)

 

How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. (Rev 18:7)

 

Summary: Babylon is a queen and Satan (the king of Babylon) is her consort.  She incorrectly believes that she is saved and that she will not experience God’s wrath, although she does not humbly trust in God for her salvation.

 

Not a widow and believes she will see no sorrow – The Bible reminds us that to be a widow is a person who is vulnerable and needy as the result of the death of her husband (Eze 22:7, Eze 22:25, Mal 3:5, Jer 7:6, Deut 10:18, etc.).  We are reminded that a widow indeed is one who is desolate, but trusts in God and continues in prayer night and day (1 Tim 5:5-6).  Because all true Christians have died to our previous husband (i.e., the law – see Ro 7:1-4), they are typified by widows since they must trust in God for their salvation and daily living.  However, we see Babylon adamantly proclaiming that she is no widow.  She remains married to her King, Satan (Is 14:4, 14) and has not died to the demands of the law.  She believes that she shall not see any sorrow due to her lofty position as a queen and her many luxuries and riches.  Yet, the Bible reminds us that Babylon will fall in God’s judgment (Rev 14:8).  She will receive the fierceness of God’s wrath (Rev 16:19).  She shall receive plagues, death famine and mourning and be utterly burned in God’s wrath (Rev 18:8).  We find just a few verses later in Rev 18:15, the same Greek word for sorrow used in Rev 18:7 is used for Babylon’s ‘wailing’.  Very importantly, Rev 18:7 is a reference to Isa 47:8, where God says that Babylon is given to pleasures and lives without care.  She says in her heart that she shall not be a widow and she shall not see the loss of her children.  This false religion of pleasures, pride and self-righteousness who thinks that they are saved from the wrath of God, will find out that their religion was in vain.  Just as Jerusalem became a widow when God rejected her (Lam 1:1-2), so too will Babylon become a widow when she is judged for her abominations and harlotries.  See also Isa 54:4-5 (not a widow, no longer have reproach) and Isa 47:8-9 for more information on widowhood being symbolic for one that needs God.  Babylon seeks to glorify herself (and receive worship) – Rev 18:7, Hab 2:16, Rev 13:15.

  • Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed: neither be thou confounded; for thou shalt not be put to shame: for thou shalt forget the shame of thy youth, and shalt not remember the reproach of thy widowhood any more. For thy Maker is thine husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called. (Isa 54:4-5)
  • Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married. (Isa 62:4)
  • Old Testament – Widow (H488, H489, H490, H491) – 60 occurrences
    • For Israel hath not been forsaken, nor Judah of his God, of the LORD of hosts; though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel. (Jer 51:5)
    • Therefore hear now this, thou that art given to pleasures, that dwellest carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me; I shall not sit as a widow, neither shall I know the loss of children: But these two things shall come to thee in a moment in one day, the loss of children, and widowhood: they shall come upon thee in their perfection for the multitude of thy sorceries, and for the great abundance of thine enchantments. (Isa 47:8-9)
    • Gen 38:11,14,19 – Tamar
    • Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed: neither be thou confounded; for thou shalt not be put to shame: for thou shalt forget the shame of thy youth, and shalt not remember the reproach of thy widowhood any more. (Isa 54:4)
    • And David came to his house at Jerusalem; and the king took the ten women his concubines, whom he had left to keep the house, and put them in ward, and fed them, but went not in unto them. So they were shut up unto the day of their death, living in widowhood.  (2Sa 20:3)
    • Thy princes are rebellious, and companions of thieves: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them.  (Isa 1:23)
  • Ye shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child. (Exo 22:22)
  • And my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your wives shall be widows, and your children fatherless. (Exo 22:24)
  • A widow, or a divorced woman, or profane, or an harlot, these shall he not take: but he shall take a virgin of his own people to wife. (Lev 21:14)
  • But if the priest’s daughter be a widow, or divorced, and have no child, and is returned unto her father’s house, as in her youth, she shall eat of her father’s meat: but there shall no stranger eat thereof. (Lev 22:13)
  • But every vow of a widow, and of her that is divorced, wherewith they have bound their souls, shall stand against her. (Num 30:9)
  • He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. (Deu 10:18)
  • And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest. (Deu 14:29)
  • And thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite that is within thy gates, and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that are among you, in the place which the LORD thy God hath chosen to place his name there. (Deu 16:11)
  • And thou shalt rejoice in thy feast, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite, the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, that are within thy gates. (Deu 16:14)
  • Thou shalt not pervert the judgment of the stranger, nor of the fatherless; nor take a widow’s raiment to pledge: (Deu 24:17)
  • When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands. (Deu 24:19)
  • When thou beatest thine olive tree, thou shalt not go over the boughs again: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. (Deu 24:20)
  • When thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it afterward: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. (Deu 24:21)
  • When thou hast made an end of tithing all the tithes of thine increase the third year, which is the year of tithing, and hast given it unto the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that they may eat within thy gates, and be filled; (Deu 26:12)
  • Then thou shalt say before the LORD thy God, I have brought away the hallowed things out of mine house, and also have given them unto the Levite, and unto the stranger, to the fatherless, and to the widow, according to all thy commandments which thou hast commanded me: I have not transgressed thy commandments, neither have I forgotten them: (Deu 26:13)
  • Cursed be he that perverteth the judgment of the stranger, fatherless, and widow. And all the people shall say, Amen. (Deu 27:19)
  • And the king said unto her, What aileth thee? And she answered, I am indeed a widow woman, and mine husband is dead. (2Sa 14:5)
  • And David came to his house at Jerusalem; and the king took the ten women his concubines, whom he had left to keep the house, and put them in ward, and fed them, but went not in unto them. So they were shut up unto the day of their death, living in widowhood. (2Sa 20:3)
  • He was a widow’s son of the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a worker in brass: and he was filled with wisdom, and understanding, and cunning to work all works in brass. And he came to king Solomon, and wrought all his work. (1Ki 7:14)
  • And Jeroboam the son of Nebat, an Ephrathite of Zereda, Solomon’s servant, whose mother’s name was Zeruah, a widow woman, even he lifted up his hand against the king. (1Ki 11:26)
  • Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee. (1Ki 17:9)
  • So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little water in a vessel, that I may drink. (1Ki 17:10)
  • And he cried unto the LORD, and said, O LORD my God, hast thou also brought evil upon the widow with whom I sojourn, by slaying her son? (1Ki 17:20)
  • Thou hast sent widows away empty, and the arms of the fatherless have been broken. (Job 22:9)
  • They drive away the ass of the fatherless, they take the widow’s ox for a pledge. (Job 24:3)
  • He evil entreateth the barren that beareth not: and doeth not good to the widow. (Job 24:21)
  • Those that remain of him shall be buried in death: and his widows shall not weep. (Job 27:15)
  • The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon me: and I caused the widow’s heart to sing for joy. (Job 29:13)
  • If I have withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail; (Job 31:16)
  • A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation. (Psa 68:5)
  • Their priests fell by the sword; and their widows made no lamentation. (Psa 78:64)
  • They slay the widow and the stranger, and murder the fatherless. (Psa 94:6)
  • Let his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow. (Psa 109:9)
  • The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down. (Psa 146:9)
  • The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow. (Pro 15:25)
  • Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. (Isa 1:17)
  • Thy princes are rebellious, and companions of thieves: every one loveth gifts, and followeth after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come unto them. (Isa 1:23)
  • Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still. (Isa 9:17)
  • To turn aside the needy from judgment, and to take away the right from the poor of my people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless! (Isa 10:2)
  • If ye oppress not the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, and shed not innocent blood in this place, neither walk after other gods to your hurt: (Jer 7:6)
  • Their widows are increased to me above the sand of the seas: I have brought upon them against the mother of the young men a spoiler at noonday: I have caused him to fall upon it suddenly, and terrors upon the city. (Jer 15:8)
  • Therefore deliver up their children to the famine, and pour out their blood by the force of the sword; and let their wives be bereaved of their children, and be widows; and let their men be put to death; let their young men be slain by the sword in battle. (Jer 18:21)
  • Thus saith the LORD; Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place. (Jer 22:3)
  • Leave thy fatherless children, I will preserve them alive; and let thy widows trust in me. (Jer 49:11)
  • How doth the city sit solitary, that was full of people! how is she become as a widow! she that was great among the nations, and princess among the provinces, how is she become tributary! (Lam 1:1)
  • We are orphans and fatherless, our mothers are as widows. (Lam 5:3)
  • In thee have they set light by father and mother: in the midst of thee have they dealt by oppression with the stranger: in thee have they vexed the fatherless and the widow. (Eze 22:7)
  • There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof. (Eze 22:25)
  • Neither shall they take for their wives a widow, nor her that is put away: but they shall take maidens of the seed of the house of Israel, or a widow that had a priest before. (Eze 44:22)
  • And oppress not the widow, nor the fatherless, the stranger, nor the poor; and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart. (Zec 7:10)
  • And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts. (Mal 3:5)
  • New Testament – Widow
    • Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. (Mat 23:14)
    • Which devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation. (Mar 12:40)
    • And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. (Mar 12:42)
    • And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: (Mar 12:43)
    • And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. (Luk 2:37)
    • But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land; (Luk 4:25)
    • But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. (Luk 4:26)
    • Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. (Luk 7:12)
    • And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. (Luk 18:3)
    • Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. (Luk 18:5)
    • Which devour widows’ houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation. (Luk 20:47)
    • And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. (Luk 21:2)
    • And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: (Luk 21:3)
    • And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. (Act 6:1)
    • Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. (Act 9:39)
    • And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. (Act 9:41)
    • I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. (1Co 7:8)
    • Honour widows that are widows indeed. (1Ti 5:3)
    • But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. (1Ti 5:4)
    • Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. (1Ti 5:5)
    • Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, (1Ti 5:9)
    • But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; (1Ti 5:11)
    • If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed. (1Ti 5:16)
    • Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. (Jas 1:27)
    • How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. (Rev 18:7)

 

#7 – True Christians – Voice of Bridegroom and Bride (Rev 18:23)

 

And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee … (Rev 18:23)

 

Moreover I will take from them the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the sound of the millstones, and the light of the candle. (Jer 25:10)

 

Babylon allows true Christians to remain within her midst.  The voice of the bride and the bridegroom refers to the truth of Jesus Christ (the bridegroom) and the true church (the bride) (Ps 19:5, Mat 9:15, Mat 25:1-10, Eph 5:25-27, Rev 21:2,9,17, John 3:29, Jer 2:32, Jer 7:34, Jer 16:9, Mk 2:19-20, Lk 5:34-35, Is 61:10, Is 49:18, Joel 2:16, ).   Notably, in Rev 21:2, Rev 21:9 and Rev 22:17, we find the true church referred to as New Jerusalem and the Bride.  So the voice of Christ and the true church, New Jerusalem were heard in Babylon, but evil Babylon held majority control of the world’s leaders (politics) and inhabitants.  Many will say in Judgment Day that they did great things for the Lord, but will find that they were serving Babylon and not God (Mat 7:21-23).

 

Christians (as the light of a candle and bring the voice of the bridegroom and bride), are commanded to come out of Babylon that they be not partakers of her sins and that they do not receive her plagues (Rev 18:4, 23).   In Rev 18:4 and Rev 18:23, Christians are referred to as ‘my people’ (Hos 1:10, 2:23, Heb 8:10, 2 Cor 6:16, Ro 9:25, etc.), the light of the candle (Mat 5:14-16, Eph 5:8, Rev 1:13, 20) and the bride (Rev 21:2, 9, 22:17, John 3:29, etc.).

 

#8 – True Christians have the Light of the Candle (Rev 18:23)

 

And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee … (Rev 18:23)

 

Moreover I will take from them the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the sound of the millstones, and the light of the candle.  (Jer 25:10)

 

The true Gospel is a beautiful light in an otherwise dark world.  In order to understand the Rev 18 reference to ‘light of the candle’ being present in Babylon, it is important to understand the nuance of ‘light’, ‘candle’ and ‘candlestick’.  The candlestick supports the candle, which once ignited shines forth the true Gospel.  The ‘candlestick’ (sometimes referred to as a lampstand) in the Bible refers to the true church of God itself (see Rev 1:12, Rev 1:20, Ex 25:31-40, etc.).  The true church of God (not Babylon) is supposed to support the candle, which shines forth the Gospel.  We find that a candle (Greek: luchnos) refers to a true Christian (Mat 5:15 in the context of Mat 5:14-16, Mk 4:21, Lk 8:16, Lk 11:33 John 5:34-35, Lk 12:35).  The light (Greek – phos) is the Gospel of Jesus Christ itself (2 Cor 4:6, John 8:12, Eph 5:8, Col 1:12, 1 John 2:7-10, John 1:4-9).

 

Babylon, as the wicked end-time Christian corporate church indeed has the light of the candle in that it contains true Christians that know, believe and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  But this Gospel is often perverted by the deception that exists in Babylon. This perversion of the Gospel by offering anyone and everyone a ‘free-will’, name it and claim it false gospel is rampant within organized Christianity causing the church to balloon with unsaved nominal members (Mat 7:21-23). This doctrine as well as non-Biblical doctrines are false gods and idols since they cause people to worship other ideas and philosophies other than Jesus Christ, who is the Word of God.  The essence of the Gospel is there, but it is perverted by a large contingent of false demonic ministers and congregants that control the organized Christian church.  Satan and his ministers have taken their seat in the temple of God (2 Thess 2) and the abomination of desolation is in place (Mat 24:15).

 

#9 – Clothed in Fine Linen, Purple and Scarlet (Rev 17:4, Rev 18:16)

 

Summary:  Babylon is dressed and adorned by things that are recognized as of being Christian and spiritually valuable.

 

And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:  (Rev 17:4)

 

And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!  (Rev 18:16)

 

Fine linen – In the Bible, fine linen represents holy things.  We see that fine linen (Gr: bussinos) IS defined in Rev 19:8 (see also 19:14) as the righteous acts of the saints (Christians).  Fine linen was used to make the Old Testament priests, which represented holiness (Ex 28:42, 39:28, Lev 16:10, etc.).  It was also used symbolically as the material in which Israel was dressed by God in Eze 16:10-13 (once again a symbol of holiness) and being clothed with the righteousness of Christ (Is 61:10, Gal 3:27, Eze 16:7-8, 2 Cor 5:3, etc.).  However, we see in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16:19 that the rich man’s clothes were also fine linen.  In this case, as is the case of Babylon, the fine linen represents one that believes they are clothed with righteousness and saved, but it is not genuine.  Babylon is indeed adorned with what appears to be righteousness and indeed, in part may be attributable to the righteous acts of the saints that dwell in her kingdom, but this in appearance only.   Just as the ministers of Satan can appear as angels of light and ministers of righteousness (2 Cor 11-13-15), so too does Babylon appear to be righteous, but indeed she is not.

 

Purple – We find in Mk 15:17-20 and John 19:2-5 that Christ was made to wear a ‘purple robe’ and mocked prior to His crucifixion. Purple is the color of royalty.   Purple, along with fine linen, was considered to be royal apparel and was placed on Mordecai after he was exalted in the Persian kingdom in Shushan (Est 8:15).  It also has a royal significance in Song 7:5.  Purpose was used in the Ephod for the high priest of Israel (Ex 39:5).  We see the same color adorned on the rich man of Lk 16:19, who apparently thought himself to be as royalty.  It is no wonder that Babylon would also be adorned in such an apparel as purple.  Although the true Christians are considered to be royalty (see Rev 1:6, 5:10, 1 Pet 2:9-10, Eph 2:6, etc.), the false religion of Babylon is adorned with this color of royalty.

 

Scarlet – We find in Mat 27:28 that Christ is also arrayed in scarlet prior to his crucifixion.  The Bible also notes that scarlet was used in Old Testament sacrifices (Heb 9:19).  It was a symbol of sin as Is 1:18 teaches that our sins are as scarlet, but they will be made as white as snow.   In Is 1:18, scarlet is also linked to red and therefore, becomes symbolic of the blood of Christ (see also Num 4:8, Josh 2:18, 21, 1 Sam 1:12, Num 19:2, Ex 25:5, etc.).   Once again, we see a color related to true Christianity.  On the surface, Babylon appears to be Christian, but indeed is a servant of Satan.

 

#10 – Gold, Precious Stones and Pearls (Rev 17:4, Rev 18:16)

 

Summary:  Babylon is dressed and adorned by things that are recognized as of being Christian and spiritually valuable.

 

And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:  (Rev 17:4)

 

And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls!  (Rev 18:16)

 

Gold – In the Bible, gold can be used in a good sense and in a bad sense.  In a bad way, gold is related to the world’s corruptible riches (Acts 3:6, 20:33, 1 Pet 1:18, James 5:3, Lam 4:1) and what idols can be made of (Jer 10:4, Is 2:7, 2:20, 30:22, 31:27, Ps 115:4, 135:15, Hos 8:4, etc.) .  But in a good way, gold is referred to a type of true Christians as they are built into the House of God (1 Cor 3:12, 2 Tim 2:20, Rev 21:19).  Gold is of great value (Job 28:16, Rev 1:12).  But the word of God is worth more than gold (Ps 119:72, 127, Pr 16:16).  The altar of incense, which represents prayer to God was made of gold (Ex 30:1-10).  Therefore, Babylon is adorned with a substance that looks very Christian and of great value.

 

Precious stones – Once again, precious stones relates to things that appear to be Christian (see above on Rev 18:19).  We see that the blood of Christ is precious (1 Pet 1:19).  Christian faith (1 Pet 1:7, 2 Pet 1:1) and fruit (James 5:7) is considered precious.  God’s promises (2 Pet 1:4) and God’s wisdom are precious (Job 28:16, Pr 3:15).  Christ is precious (1 Pet 2:4-6).  Finally, those who are the chosen of God are precious (Ex 19:5, Deut 14:2, 26:18, Ps 135:4, Ecc 2:8, 1 Pet 2:9).  Finally, Christians are precious and they are referred to building stones in the house of God (1 Cor 3:12, 1 Pet 2:4-8, Lk 3:8, 19:40, 21:5-6, Mk 13:1-2, Lam 4:2, James 5:7).

 

Pearls – An important reference to a pearl is found in the parable of the Pearl of Great Price (Mat 13:44-45).  In that parable, the kingdom of God is compared to a merchant who is searching for pearls and finds a pearl of great price.  He sells all he has so he can buy this pearl.  In the Bible, we find that pearls are something considered very precious (1 Tim 2:9, Eze 16:10, 13, Job 28:18) and should not be unduly cast before swine (represents the reprobate), so that they may trample on them (Mat 7:6).  Notably, the 12 gates that allow entrance into heavenly Jerusalem are pearls (Rev 21:21).  The gates are the way of salvation in the eternal city of God, which indeed is of infinite value.  It is worth more than anything else we own and therefore, selling all we have for that great pearl is warranted.  The wearing of pearls by Babylon reflect an appearance of Christian salvation, but is not reflective of her actual works.

 

#11 – Merchandise – Christian Symbols (Rev 18:12-13)

 

Summary: In Rev 18:12-13, the merchandise that Babylon buys from the merchants of the land and sea refer to things that are or appear to be Christian and, similar to the objects used to build the tabernacle in the wilderness (Ex 25) and Solomon’s Temple (1 Chr 29). The close resemblance between the merchandise of Babylon and the construction materials of the tabernacle and Solomon’s Temple, underscore that Babylon appears to be Christian, but is indeed not the true church.

 

Valuable Metals and Stones

 

Gold and silver – In the Bible, gold and silver can be used in a good sense and in a bad sense.  In a bad sense, gold and silver is related to the world’s corruptible riches (Acts 3:6, 20:33, 1 Pet 1:18, James 5:3, Lam 4:1) and what idols can be made of (Jer 10:4, Is 2:7, 2:20, 30:22, 31:27, Ps 115:4, 135:15, Hos 8:4, etc.) .  But in a good way, gold and silver is referred to as a symbol of true Christians as they are built into the House of God (1 Cor 3:12, 2 Tim 2:20, Rev 21:19).  God is of great value (Job 28:16, Rev 1:12).  But the word of God is worth more than gold (Ps 119:72, Ps 119:127, Pr 16:16).  The altar of incense, which represents prayer to God was made of gold (Ex 30:1-10).  Therefore, Babylon is adorned with substances that look very Christian and of great value.

 

Precious stones – Once again, precious stones relates to things that appear to be Christian (see Rev 18:19).  We see that the blood of Christ is precious (1 Pet 1:19).  Christian faith (1 Pet 1:7, 2 Pet 1:1) and fruit (James 5:7) is considered precious.  God’s promises (2 Pet 1:4) and God’s wisdom are precious (Job 28:16, Pr 3:15).  Christ is precious (1 Pet 2:4-6).  Those who are the chosen of God are precious (Ex 19:5, Deut 14:2, 26:18, Ps 135:4, Ecc 2:8, 1 Pet 2:9).  Finally, Christians are precious and they are referred to building stones in the house of God (1 Cor 3:12, 1 Pet 2:4-9, Lk 3:8, 19:40, 21:5-6, Mk 13:1-2, Lam 4:2, James 5:7).

 

Pearls – An important reference to a pearl is found in the parable of the Pearl of Great Price (Mat 13:45-46).  In that parable, the kingdom of God is compared to a merchant who is searching for pearls and finds a pearl of great price.  He sells all he has so he can buy this pearl.  In the Bible, we find that pearls are something considered very precious (1 Tim 2:9, Eze 16:10, 13, Job 28:18) and should not be cast before swine (represents the reprobate), so that they may trample on them (Mat 7:6).  Notably, the 12 gates that allow entrance into heavenly Jerusalem are pearls (Rev 21:21).  The gates are the way of salvation in the eternal city of God, which indeed is of infinite value.  It is worth more than anything else we own and therefore, selling all we have for that great pearl is warranted.  The wearing of pearls by Babylon reflect an appearance of Christian salvation, but is not reflective of her actual works.

 

Fabrics

 

Fine linen – In the Bible, fine linen represents holy things.  We see that fine linen (Gr: bussinos) is defined in Rev 19:8 (see also 19:14) as the righteous acts of the saints (Christians).  It was used in the Old Testament as the clothes for priests that represented holiness (Ex 28:42, 39:28, Lev 16:10, etc.).  It was also used to dress Israel in Eze 16:10-13, once again symbolizing the holiness and being clothed with the righteousness of Christ Is 61:10, Gal 3:27, Eze 16:7-8, 2 Cor 5:3, etc.).  However, we see in the parable of the rich fool in Luke 16:9 that the rich man’s clothes were also fine linen.  In this case, as is the case of Babylon, the fine linen represents one that believes they are clothed with righteousness and saved, but it is not genuine.  Babylon is indeed adorned with what appears to be righteousness and indeed, in part may be attributable to the righteous acts of the saints that dwell in her kingdom, but this in appearance only.   Just as the ministers of Satan can appear as angels of light and ministers of righteousness (2 Cor 11:13-15), so too does Babylon appear to be righteous, but indeed she is not.

 

Purple – We find in Mk 15:17-20 and John 19:2-5 that Christ was made to wear a ‘purple robe’ and mocked prior to His crucifixion. Purple is the color of royalty.   Purple, along with fine linen, was considered to be royal apparel and was placed on Mordecai after he was exalted in the Persian kingdom in Shushan (Est 8:15).  It also has a royal significance in Song 7:5.  Purpose was used in the Ephod for the high priest of Israel (Ex 39:5).  We see the same color adorned on the rich man of Lk 16:9, who apparently thought himself to be as royalty.  It is no wonder that Babylon would also be adorned in such an apparel as purple.  Although the true Christians are considered to be royalty (see Rev 1:6, 5:10, 1 pet 2:9-10, Eph 2:6, etc.), the false religion of Babylon is adorned with this color of royalty.

 

Silk – This is the only occurrence of this word in the New Testament.  However, it is used in Eze 16:10,13 as a covering for Israel.  In fact the covering of Israel by God described in Eze 16:10-13 is very similar to how Babylon is adorned.  The use of silk as a covering can be viewed spiritually as a garment of salvation by the putting on of Christ (Is 61:10, Gal 3:17) to cover our spiritual nakedness.

 

Scarlet – We find in Mat 27:28 that Christ is also arrayed in scarlet prior to his crucifixion.  The Bible also notes that scarlet was used in Old Testament sacrifices (Heb 9:19).  It was a symbol of sin as Is 1:18 teaches that our sins are as scarlet, but they will be made as white as snow.   In Is 1:18, scarlet is also linked to red and therefore, becomes symbolic of the blood of Christ (see also Num 4:8, Josh 2:18, 21, 1 Sam 1:12, Num 19:2, Ex 25:5, etc.).  Once again, we see a color related to true Christianity.  On the surface, Babylon appears to be Christian, but indeed is a servant of Satan.

 

Building materials

 

Thyine wood, precious wood – All this merchandise refers to the religious actions that go on within the great Babylon.  We see that there is thyine (or fragrant) wood and precious (or very costly wood).  Wood itself is used in the construction of buildings and houses, which are a portrait of building the church (Ex 35:7, 24, 33, 36:20, 2 Tim 2:20, 1 Cor 3:12). Fragrant wood provides a nice smell and was used in Solomon’s temple (1 Ki 10:11, 2 Chr 2:8).  We find elsewhere in the Bible that the receipt of gifts and material help is a sweet smell (Phil 4:18).  Jesus was a sweet smelling sacrifice (Eph 5:2).  The knowledge of God is also a sweet smelling savour (2 Cor 2:14-16).  Precious wood is a spiritual symbol of the building of the house of God with believers, who are precious (1 Pet 1:7, Lk 12:6-7, etc.).  Therefore, we can see that the merchandise can refer to people who are being used by Babylon for building the church.  The preciousness and sweet smell of this wood can point to genuine believers.

  • G3585 (xulinos) / G3586 (xulon) occurs 21 times
    • 5 occurrences point to the cross – Acts 5:30, Acts 10:39, Acts 13:29, Gal 3:13, 1 Pet 2:24
    • 3 occurrences of the Tree (wood) of life – Rev 2:7, Rev 22:2, Rev 22:14
    • Church members – 1 Cor 3:12, 2 Tim 2:20
  • Precious wood – Rev 18:12

 

Ivory – Ivory in the Bible can point to that which is used by people in the church who are living very comfortably (those that are at ease in Zion), but are not concerned about God’s people who are being afflicted (Amos 6:1-14, especially verse 4, see also Amos 3:15).  It also points to very luxurious merchandise (Eze 27:6, 15).  The Bible refers to ivory palaces and was is brought into those houses (Ps 45:8, 2 Chr 9:21).  King Solomon’s throne was of ivory (2 Chr 9:17, 1 Ki 10:18).  We find that wicked Ahab made a house of ivory (1 Ki 22:39).  Therefore, we see that the luxury of ivory is merchandised in Babylon, who is at ease and very comfortable.

  • King Solomon’s merchandise from across the sea
    • For the king had at sea a navy of Tarshish … bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.  (1Ki 10:22)
    • … the king made a great throne of ivory… (2Ch 9:17)
  • Ahab’s house of ivory – 1 Ki 22:39
  • … [from] many islands were the merchandise of thine hand: they brought thee for a present horns of ivory and ebony.  (Eze 27:15)
    • Present – gift (Ps 72:10)
  • Building the church by gifts from afar

 

Brass and Iron together:

  • I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron: (Isa 45:2)
  • Because I knew that thou art obstinate, and thy neck is an iron sinew, and thy brow brass; (Isa 48:4)
  • For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness. (Isa 60:17)
  • They are all grievous revolters, walking with slanders: they are brass and iron; they are all corrupters. (Jer 6:28)
  • Son of man, the house of Israel is to me become dross: all they are brass, and tin, and iron, and lead, in the midst of the furnace; they are even the dross of silver. (Eze 22:18)
  • As they gather silver, and brass, and iron, and lead, and tin, into the midst of the furnace, to blow the fire upon it, to melt it; so will I gather you in mine anger and in my fury, and I will leave you there, and melt you. (Eze 22:20)
  • Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. (Dan 2:35)
  • Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure. (Dan 2:45)
  • Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth: (Dan 4:15)
  • And whereas the king saw a watcher and an holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him; (Dan 4:23)
  • They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone. (Dan 5:4)
  • But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified: (Dan 5:23)
  • Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was diverse from all the others, exceeding dreadful, whose teeth were of iron, and his nails of brass; which devoured, brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with his feet; (Dan 7:19)

 

Brass – Brass is an inferior metal to gold and silver (Dan 2:33-45, Isa 60:17) and is typically used by those who are work.  Brass can be the material of idols (Rev 9:20, Dan 5:4, Dan 5:23).  But, it is also representative of the feet of Christ that walked the earth and therefore, refer to the work of salvation (Rev 1:15, 2:18).  Brass is used as money (Mat 10:9). It is also used to represent Greece (Dan 2:32).  It also represents someone who is obstinate (Is 48:4).  It was used for its strength (Job 40:18, Isa 45:2, Ps 107:16).  The altar of God in the temple where sacrifices were made was brass (Ex 39:39) (as well as other objects that made up the temple or were related to the temple (pillars, laver, staves, fasteners, etc. – Exo 26:11, Exo 26:37, Exo 27:2, Exo 27:3, Exo 27:4, Exo 27:6, Exo 27:10, Exo 27:11, Exo 27:17, Exo 27:18, Exo 27:19, Exo 30:18, Exo 31:4, Exo 35:5, Exo 35:24, Exo 35:32, Exo 36:18, Exo 36:38, Exo 38:2, Exo 38:3, Exo 38:5, Exo 38:6, Exo 38:8, Exo 38:11, Exo 38:17, Exo 38:19, Exo 38:20, Exo 38:29, Exo 39:39).  Therefore, we can see brass in the Babylonian merchandise as a symbol of strength and work.

 

Iron – Iron represents strength (Job 40:18, 41:27, Dan 2:33-45, Is 45:2, Ps 107:16, Micah 4:13) and ruler-ship (i.e., rod of iron, Rev 19:15, 2:27, Ps 2:9). It can also provide protection (breastplates, Rev 9:9-10 and gates Acts 12:10).  Therefore, we can see that iron in Babylon can represent organization, ruler-ship and protection (protection in the church).

  • Iron – strength – Job 40:18, Job 41:27, Dan 2:33-45, Is 45:2, Ps 107:16, Micah 4:13, Dan 2:33-45, 7:7,19, Rev 2:27, Rev 12:5, Rev 19:15, Jer 28:13-14, 1 Chr 22:3, Ps 2:9, Rev 18:12
  • Kill by an instrument of iron – Num 35:16
  • Iron – represents rulership (i.e., rod of iron, Rev 19:15, 2:27, Ps 2:9).
  • It can also provide protection (breastplates, Rev 9:9-10 and gates Acts 12:10).
  • Breastplate – Eph 6:14, 1 Thess 5:8 (righteousness, faith, love)
  • Put trust in own works, ability, strength
  • Rod of iron – Rev 2:27, Rev 19:15, Is 10:24, Is 11:4, Ps 2:9, Ps 23:4, Ps 89:32 (judgment day)

 

Marble – Marble is only talked about in 3 other places in the Bible.  In 1 Chr 29:2, Solomon’s temple contained an abundance of marble stones.  In Esther 1:6, marble was used in the king’s palace.  In Song 5:15, Solomon’s legs are described as marble (which would represent strength in the ability to stand).  Therefore, we find marble as being another material that underscores the beauty and strength of Babylon.

 

Incense / fragrance

 

Cinnamon – Rev 18:13 is the only occurrence of the word cinnamon in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, it is only found in 3 places.  In Ex 30:23, it is one of the ingredients in the holy anointing oil used for the articles of the tabernacle and Aaron, the high priest and his sons.   In Song 4:14 it is one of the spices of the garden of the Shulamite.  But, the adulteress in Pr 7:17 places cinnamon in her bed.  Piecing these verses together, it can be seen that cinnamon is strongly tied to anointing oil and therefore, the three fold ministry of Christ (Prophet, Priest and King).  However, it is also used by an adulteress as a lure to attract her victims to her bed.  It is likely that this would be the meaning of this merchandise, when tied to Babylon.

 

Odors – The Greek word used for odors is the same root used for ‘incense’ in Rev. 5:8, Rev 8:3-4, Lk 1:9-11 and Heb 9:4.  In Heb 9:4, the odors are from the golden censer used in the tabernacle.  In Rev 5:8, the odors before God are defined as the prayer of the saints (see also Ps 141:2 and Rev 8:4).  Therefore, this spiritual merchandise that Babylon uses is prayer.  Prayer abounds in the church of Babylon and she uses it to her advantage to appear to be godly, but God does not hear the prayer of the wicked (John 9:31, Ps 66:18-19, 1 Pet 3:12, Is 58:9, Pr 1:28-29, etc.).

 

Ointments – The Greek word used here is ‘muron’ and is used in the New Testament when the ointment was placed on Jesus’ feet and also what was prepared for his death (Mat 26:7-12, Mk 14:3-4, Lk 7:37-38, 46, 23:56, John 12:2-3, John 12:5).  This ointment therefore could be viewed with a focus on the death of Jesus Christ.  Once again, Babylon uses Christian type of merchandise to appear Christian (e.g., Easter).

 

Frankincense – The only other occurrence of ‘frankincense’ (Gr: libanos) is used at the birth of Christ (e.g., Christmas) as it was one of the gifts offered by the magi (Mat 2:11).  The Greek word is also closely connected to a censer that is used for the odors discussed in Rev. 8:4 (see above).   Therefore, we see the very same gift offered to Christ at his birth used as merchandise by Babylon.

 

Food and drink

 

Wine – Wine (Gr: oinos) is used in various ways to represent spiritual things.  It is used to represent someone who is drunk because of excess (Eph 5:18, 1 Tim 3:8).  Along with oil, it was used as a healing agent (Lk 10:33-34). Wine is used as a picture of God’s wrath (Rev 14:10, 16:19, 19:15) which Babylon will receive on Judgment Day.  It is also the wine of the wrath of Babylon’s fornication (Rev 17:2, etc.).  However, the fruit of the vine (wine) was also a representation of the blood of Christ in the Lord’s Supper (Mat 26:26-29, 1 Cor 11:25, 10:16-17).  The merchandise of Babylon would include the Christian proclamation of the Lord’s Supper and is widely used throughout Christianity and it would also include the fornication is serving other gods and idols, as inspired by Babylon.

 

Oil – This oil (Gr: elaion) is related to the olive tree and therefore, would be olive oil. Oil is what is used in the anointing of prophets, priests and kings (1 Ki 19:15-16, Ex 40:13, 30:30, 1 Ki, 1 Sam 10:1, 16:13, Dan 9:25-26, Heb 1:9, Acts 10:38 (Jesus), etc., etc.).  It is also a type of the Holy Spirit (Zech 4:6, 1 John 2:20, 26-27, 2 Cor 1:21-22, etc.).  Also, miraculous healing with anointing oil is discussed in James 5 (apostolic miracles).  Therefore, Babylon would tend to value the ‘anointing’ oil with a strong focus on the Holy Spirit and associated signs and wonders.

  • 3rd Seal – Black Horse (Rev 6:6)
    • … and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine. (Rev 6:5-6)
    • Christians are anointed with oil (Holy Spirit) – 1 John 2:20-27, Mat 25:3-8
      • All Christians are indwelt by Holy Spirit – Ro 8:9, 2 Tim 1:14
    • Wine – represents the blood of Christ – 1 Cor 11:17-34, Mat 26:26-28
    • Oil and wine provides healing of Samaritan man – Lk 10:33-34

 

Fine flour – This is the only occurrence of this word in the New Testament.  However, the Old Testament uses fine flour in the sacrificial system (Num 15:4-9, 28:5-28, 29:3-14, Lev 2:2, etc.).  As flour would be used to make bread, this fine flour points to Jesus as the Bread of Life (John 6) or that the Word of God is referred to as bread (John 6:63, Deut 8:3, Ex 29:2, Isa 55:10-11, Mat 4:4, Amos 8:11, etc.) .  Therefore, use of the Bible as merchandise is in view.

 

Wheat – Similar to fine flour, wheat can be viewed as the Word of God (Ps 81:16, 147:14-15, Jer 23:38).  But, in the New Testament, it can be viewed as one who is a genuine Christian (Mat 3:12, 13:25-30, John 12:24, 1 Cor 15:37).  Therefore, once again that the merchandise of Babylon includes genuine believers.

  • New Testament wheat – G4621 (Greek: sitos) – 14 occurrences
    • Wheat and chaff / tares – Mat 3:12, Mat 13:25, Mat 13:29-30, Lk 3:17
    • Seed produces wheat – Christians – Mk 4:38
    • Unjust steward collected 80 versus 100 measures – Lk 16:7
    • Satan desires to sift Peter – Lk 22:31
    • Jesus as a corn of wheat in ground, produces much fruit – John 12:24
    • Lightened ship by casting out the wheat – Acts 27:38
    • Christian dead body, but God will give a renewed body – 1 Cor 15:37
    • Rev 6:6 – 1 measure of wheat for a denarius
    • Merchandise of Babylon – Rev 18:13
    • Jacob heard there was wheat (corn) in Egypt – Acts 7:12 (H7668 – Gen 42:1-2. Gen 42:19, Gen 42:26, Gen 43:2, Gen 44;2, Gen 47:14, Amos 8:5, Neh 10:31)
  • Old Testament Wheat (H2406, Heb: chittah – 30 occurrences)
    • H2406 key occurrences
      • Wheat harvest tied to Pentecost (firstfruits) – Ex 34:22
      • Promised land – Deut 8:8
      • Offering for priests – Ex 29:2
      • Barley harvest and wheat harvest – Ruth 2:23
      • Wheat harvest – Gen 30:14, 1 Sam 6:13, 1 Sam 12:17
      • Thistles contrasted with wheat – Job 31:40
      • Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress – Jud 6:11
      • Samson in the wheat harvest – Jud 15:1
      • Solomon gives Hiram 20,000 measures of wheat for food each year – 1 Ki 5:11, 2 Chr 2:10, 2 Chr 2:15
      • Children of Ammon give 10,000 measures of wheat and barley – 2 Chr 27:5
      • Israel should have been fed with finest of the wheat – Ps 81:16
      • Makes peace and fills them with the finest of wheat – Ps 147:14
      • His belly is like a heap of wheat – Song 7:2
      • Cast wheat and barley in the appointed places – Is 28:25
      • Sow whet but reap thorns because of the anger of the Lord – Jer 12:13
      • Treasures of wheat and barley – Jer 41:8
      • Bread made out of wheat and barley – Eze 4:9
      • Offer the sixth part of an ephah of an homer of wheat (same for barley) – Eze 45:13
      • Harvest of wheat and barley is perished – Joel 1:11

 

Animals

 

Beasts – The word most used in the New Testament for ‘beast’ is the Greek word ‘therion’ which refers to a wild beast (e.g., Rev 13, 17).  However, the beasts referred to here is the Greek word ‘ktenos’ which is only used four times and refers to a beast that is ‘owned’ or would be considered as a tamed and domesticated animal.  For example, it is used in Lk 10:34 and Acts 23:24 as an animal that someone would ride upon (e.g., donkey, camel, etc.), which would be similar to the donkey’s colt that Christ rode on in His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.  This concept is described in 1 Tim 5:18 with regards to one who is serving in the church (see also 1 Cor 9:9).  Therefore, once again, we can see that Babylon merchandises (buys) beast of burden and servitude (which is representative of people who work in the kingdom of God.

 

Sheep – The use of sheep almost universally in the Bible refers to genuine Christians (e.g., 1 Pet 2:25, John 10:1-27, Ro 8:36, Mat 15:24, etc.).  Therefore, we can seed that Babylon also makes merchandise of genuine Christians.

 

Horses and chariots – The combination of horses and chariots is used throughout the Bible and typically refers to their use in warfare (e.g., Rev 9:9, Hag 2:22, Ex 14:9, Deut 11:4, Josh 11:4, Is 66:20, etc.)  Psalm 20:7 describes horses and chariots as the might that people put their trust in instead of trusting in God.  The bible teaches us that Christians are in spiritual war and that Christians must take up the whole armor of God (Eph 6:10-18).   But our implements of war are not horses and chariots, but rather are not carnal but mighty for bringing down arguments and other high places that are contrary to God (2 Cor 10:3-7).  Babylon is involved in spiritual warfare, but the combination of horses and chariots provides some insight that their spiritual warfare is carnal in that they trust is their might and ability instead of God (Ps 20:7, 1 Sam 17:45, Ps 33:16).

 

Bodies and Souls of Men

 

Slaves (18:13) – The Greek word for slaves used here is actually the word ‘soma’, which literally means ‘body’.  In the nearly 150 usages of ‘soma’ in the New Testament, Rev 18:13 is the only place where it is translated as something different than referring to a body.  As we review the last two descriptions of body and soul, God provides more light that the focus of Babylon’s merchandise is on people.  The reference to the body refers to the physical presence of persons that have been merchandised into the church of Babylon and will submit to and serve the apostate church.

 

Souls of men (18:13) – Beyond, the physical body, Babylon also desires to control the souls of men.  The soul is the living, conscious part of man that can relate to its worldly surroundings (while the spirit part of man is what relates to God and the part of man to which the Holy Spirit indwells and leads if one is a Christian).  The soul is the result of God’s breath of life (spirit) being placed into the flesh (Gen 2:7).  Unsaved man is referred to be as being ‘soulish’ (Jude 19) because they are considered spiritually dead (Eph 2:1-10), while the saved man is considered ‘spiritual’ (Ro 8:1-9), being spiritually born again (John 3:1-8, 1 Pet 1:22-23, etc).  So, the final piece of merchandise that Babylon has become rich on is the souls of men and the spirits of men are not mentioned.

  • … and slaves, and souls of men. (Rev 18:13)
    • Slaves – Greek: soma – 146 occurrences – 145 as ‘body’
  • And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  (1Th 5:23)
  • Spirit is not merchandise
    • Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God … That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  (Joh 3:3,6)

 

#12 – Habitation of Demons (Rev 18:2)

 

Summary: Babylon is inhabited by demons, false ministers and unsaved persons, but is also inhabited to an extent by genuine Christians.  There are many notable ministers who spread Babylon’s religion locally as well in missions work.  Babylon can appear to be Christian through its work of building churches and spreading of religious teaching.  It also uses music in its ministry.  Babylon’s works can be genuinely godly insofar as genuine Christians are led by the Spirit of God, but in many other cases these works are simply imitations of the genuine.

 

Habitation – The Greek words for habitation (katoikeo, katoikesis, katoiketerion) means ‘to be in a house’ (the Greek word ‘oikeo’ means ‘house’).  Christians are spiritually considered as a house since it is the where God will dwell (Eph 2:19-22, James 4:5, 1 Cor 16:15-19, 2 John 10, 1 Pet 2:5, etc.).  On the other hand Babylon is considered as a house (or dwelling place) for devils, foul spirits and hateful birds.

 

Devils – This is the Greek word daimon (demon) which occurs about 80 times in the New Testament.  We find in Rev 12:4 that Satan has cast these demons to the earth.  Demons are not prevalent in the Old Testament, but become very prevalent in the New Testament:

  • Synagogue demoniac (Mk 1:23‑28, Lk 4:31‑36)
  • Blind and dumb demoniac (Mat 12:22, Lk 11:14)
  • Gadarene men (Mat 8:28‑34, Mk 5:1‑20, Lk 8:26‑29)
  • Dumb Demoniac (Mat 9:32‑33)
  • Syro-Phoenician’s daughter (Mat 15:21‑28, Mk 7:24‑30)
  • Possessed boy (Mat 17:14‑18, Mk 9:14‑29, Lk 9:38‑42)
  • Other: Mk 1:34, Mk 3:11 Lk 4:41, Acts 8:7

Significance of casting out demons points to salvation: (Mat 8:16‑17, Eph 2:2, 4:8‑9, 6:12, 1 John 4:1‑4, 5:19, John 12:31)

 

We find that Babylon houses demons and therefore, it can be concluded that this worldly, apostate, organized Christian church is influenced by demons.  We find in 1 Tim 4:1 that in the latter times, people will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils (i.e., demons).  James 3:14-16 notes that bitter envying and strife in the heart is contrary to truth and this type of ‘wisdom’ is demonic. James 3:16 states that this results in confusion (i.e., Babylon).  Other verses mention that it is possible to worship demons by our actions: 1Cor 10:20, Deut 32:17, Ps 106:37, Gal 4:8, Ex 22:20, 32:8, 34:15, 2 Chr 11:15, Lev 17:7).  These verses teach us that whatever we sacrifice our time and resources to, that is what we worship.  Worshiping of devils and giving heed to their seductions and doctrines is considered as idolatry as well (see 1 Tim 4:1, 1 Cor 10:20-21, Deut 32:17, Ps 106:37).

 

Hold / Cage – These words to describe foul spirits and hateful birds are actually the identical work in the Greek language (phulake) which is the word for prison.  In other words, the foul spirits and hateful birds are in prison within Babylon. They are unable to release themselves from this prison.  They are servants of their sinful nature and therefore, represent those who are not saved.  We find the word prison used in the Bible can refer to Christians that are being persecuted for their beliefs (e.g., Heb 11:36, 2 Cor 6:5, Lk 21:12, 2 Cor 11:23, etc.).  But, in this context in Revelation 18, it should be understood that the unclear spirits and hateful birds are enslaved to their condition.  They are in bondage to their sin (Ro 6:16-23, etc.).

 

Foul spirits – The word ‘foul’ literally means ‘unclean’ (Greek: akarthartos).  To be unclean is to be unrighteous or sinful.  Demons are spirits (e.g., Mat 8:16) and unclean spirits are used interchangeably to refer to demon possession (e.g., Mk 1:23-26, 3:30, 5:1-30, Lk 4:33, etc.)  However, the use of the word ‘spirit’ when referring to demons underscore the arena to which they are operating: the spiritual realm.  Other spirits at the time of Christ, possessed human bodies being evidenced by sickness, palsy, deviant behavior, etc., evil spirits are also referred to as being the motivating force behind false doctrines (1 Tim 4:1) and false ministers. In 2 Cor 11:13-15, the Bible teaches us that just as Satan appears as an angel of light, so too does his ministers appear as ministers of righteousness in order to deceive people.  The spiritual realm is where we know God the Father and Jesus Christ, by the indwelling Holy Spirit (John 14-16).  We are instructed that we must worship God in spirit and n truth (John 4:23-24). It I by the Spirit, that we can understand and know God through the Bible (1 Pet 1:10-12, 2 Pet 1:19-21, 2 Tim 3:16, Eph 5:18 w/ Col 3:16, 1 Cor 2:1-13, Ro 8:9, John 14:26, 15:26, etc.). Therefore, unclean spirits can be understood as those who operate within organized Christian religion that are teaching things contrary to the truth of God.  In this sense, they are unclean spirits.  1 John 4:1-3 teaches us that we must test the spirits to see if they are from God.  Every spirit that does not confess that Jesus, as the Christ has come in the flesh is not of God, but this is the spirit of antichrist.  To understand Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not just agreeing that Jesus was an actual man-God that existed, but it is also to agree that he is the Christ (Prophet, Priest and King).  If one does not believe in these three offices of Jesus, he is not saved (1 John 5:1) and he is an antichrist.  The church of Babylon contains many who may ‘believe’ in Jesus because of their decision for Him, but they have not received the faith of Christ (Eph 2:8-9, Ro 3:22, Rev 14:22, Gal 2:20, etc.) which causes them to have faith in Jesus Christ (Prophet, Priest and King) and therefore, born again.

 

Hateful Birds – Hate (Greek: miseo) is the opposite of love (Mat 5:43-44, 6:24, John 15:19, Ro 9:13, 1 John 4:20).  Love is keeping God’s commandments (2 John 6, 1 John 5:13, John 14:15, 15:10).  1 Cor 13:4-8 also defines love as longsuffering, kind, not envious, not prideful or braggadocios.  It does act unseemly, is not selfish or easily provoked and thinks no evil. It rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things and endures all things.  But, in the church of Babylon, we find schisms, conflicts, jealousies, strife, deception, uncaring, pride, and haughtiness, etc.  The reference to birds (which are mostly considered as unclean animals) relates to Jer 5:26-27.  This passage refers to the deceptive practices in the Old Testament church at Jerusalem and how wicked men would lay traps to deceive people into their ‘cage of birds’.  The evil workers in Babylon have similarly used deceit to capture hateful, deceived people into their church.

 

#13 – Blood – Prophets / Saints (Rev 17:6, 18:20, 18:24)

 

  • And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.  (Rev 17:6)
  • Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.  (Rev 18:20)
  • And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.  (Rev 18:24)

 

It is important to note that the church (Israel) was responsible for the killing of the Old Testament prophets  and saints (Mat 23:30, Mat 23:37, Mat 5:12, Mat 21:35-36, Mat 22:6, 2 Chr 24:21-22, Neh 9:26, Jer 2:30, Jer 26:23, Mk 12:3-6, Lk 20:11-14, Acts 7:5-52, 1 Thess 2:156, Rev 11:7, 1 Sam 22:18, etc.). This literal occurrence becomes a type of the spiritual martyrdom of all Christians as they live out their lives.  This martyrdom, during the Great Tribulation occurs in the false church of the Great Tribulation.

 

Israel was the church in the wilderness (Acts 7:38), yet it is Israel that killed those who God sent to warn her:

  • And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. (Mat 23:30-32)
  • O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! (Mat 23:37)

 

The leaders of Israel (Judah) also were the primary instigators to have Jesus killed:

  • And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people. (Luk 22:2)
  • And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him, And could not find what they might do: for all the people were very attentive to hear him. (Luk 19:47-48)
  • Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him. (Mat 26:3-4)
  • And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them. (Luk 20:19)
  • But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance. (Mat 21:38)
  • When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death: And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. (Mat 27:1-2)
  • Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation; And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death. (Joh 11:47-53)
  • Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; (Mat 26:59)
  • And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none. (Mar 14:55)
  • After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death. But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people. (Mar 14:1-2)
  • Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. (Joh 5:18)
  • After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him. (Joh 7:1)
  • Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs which God did through him .in your midst, as you yourselves know–this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucifiedand killed by the hands of lawless men. (Acts 2:22-23)
  • Let all the house of Israel therefore know assuredly that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified(Acts 2:23)
  • The God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered up and deniedin the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, and killed the Author of Life, whom God raised from the dead …. And now, brethren, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ should suffer, he thus fulfilled. (Acts 3:13-18)
  • Be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well. (Acts 4:10)
  • For truly there were gathered together in this city against thy holy servant Jesus, whom thou didst anoint, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever thy hand and thy plan had predestined to take place. (Acts 4:27-28)
  • The God of our fathers raised Jesus whom you killedby hanging him on a tree. (Acts 5:30)
  • And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered. (Acts 7:52)
  • They put him to death by hanging himon a tree; but God raised him on the third day and made him manifest. (Acts 10:39-40)
  • For those who live in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognize him nor understand the utterances of the prophets which are read every sabbath, fulfilled these by condemned Though they could charge him with nothing deserving death, yet they asked Pilate to have him killed. And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree and laid him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead. (Acts 13:27-30)