(Chapter 17)

One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters. With her the kings of the earth committed adultery and the inhabitants of the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.” Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a desert. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. (Rev 17:1 - 3)

We open with the above three verses. In verse five - it is specifically stated this is “Babylon the Great”. And part of the summation and ending of Chapter Sixteen - states that God remembered Babylon the Great and gave her the cup filled with the wine of the fury of his wrath.

Consequently - these next two chapters must be dealing with the tremendous wrath of God - towards the system and beliefs of the world - which constitutes Babylon. Or, the Catholic church; or the Pope; or Barak Obama; or George Bush; or the Beetles - oh wait - they are no longer a contemporary Rock group.

Whomever, whatever - the current person or interest which we wish to vilify . . . Some individuals still believe Nero was/IS the anti-Christ . . .

Chapter Sixteen closes with a reference to Babylon. Chapter Seventeen opens with a discussion of Babylon. OBVIOUSLY - we are continuing to move FORWARD in time and events. Right?? Wrong.

In Chapter Sixteen closing - we have the following statement:

The great city split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed. God remembered Babylon the Great and gave her the cup filled with the wine of the fury of his wrath. Every island fled away and the mountains could not be found.

However - Revelation makes ALL of the following statements - BEFORE the above!

Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him.

I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars - I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you.

There was a great earthquake . . . The sky receded like a scroll, rolling up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place. Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and every free man hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?”

At that very hour there was a severe earthquake and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the survivors were terrified and gave glory to the God of heaven.

“The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever.” . . . “We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign. The nations were angry; and your wrath has come.

“Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great, which made all the nations drink the maddening wine of her adulteries.”

The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God’s wrath. They were trampled in the winepress outside the city, and blood flowed out of the press . . .

. . . with the seven last plagues - last, because with them God’s wrath is completed.

As I have stated throughout this ‘commentary’ - Revelation repeats itself constantly! In various and numerous ways - describing the same sequence of events - from various perspectives.

Notice the above statements (all are in order of appearance and sequence in Revelation) - have previously described the WRATH of God; and have previously stated that Babylon the Great - has been destroyed (fallen). e[pesen {G4406} (to fall, collapse; to bow down; to die) And this Greek word is stated twice for emphasis on the accomplishment or action.

Earlier, I pointed out that a straight line reference in Revelation and the battle of Armageddon would be 16:16 & 19:19

Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon. (R16:16)

Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered together to make war against the rider on the horse and his army. (R19:19)

The point to all of the above - is that Chapters Seventeen & Eighteen give substantial detail with reference to Babylon. And the close of chapter Sixteen - states that God ‘remembered’ Babylon the Great.

However, the close of chapter Sixteen - is given as a ‘heads up’ that we are changing perspective and views again . . . How can God ‘remember’ and pour out wrath on something which has already been destroyed??

Babylon the Great was declared fallen or destroyed - in Chapter Fourteen - just before encouraging believers to NOT succumb to the massive deceptions of the anti-Christ or Beast.

A second angel followed and said, “Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great, which made all the nations drink the maddening wine of her adulteries.” A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark on the forehead . . . (R14:8 - 9)

God ‘remembering’ Babylon - is remembering to tell us how He destroyed Babylon. Babylon does receive Wrath from God. The issue is WHEN. I submit that Babylon was/is destroyed and fallen long before all of the mountains and islands are destroyed; and men call out to rocks to fall on them; and the armies and Kings of the world gather together to make war against the Lamb of God at Armageddon! Babylon is destroyed long before that . . . And these two next chapters (Seventeen & Eighteen) - are given so that we can correctly identify Who & What Babylon IS; and so that we can see how - Babylon is destroyed!

One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters. With her the kings of the earth committed adultery and the inhabitants of the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.” Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a desert. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries. This title was written on her forehead: MYSTERY BABYLON THE GREAT THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. (Rev 17:1 - 5)

In the above description - who or what - is Babylon?

1. Babylon is a PROSTITUTE.

2. Babylon is Wealthy & Beautiful.

3. Babylon has great world influence; and controls the beast.

4. Many different peoples and cultures live in Babylon.

5. The entire world is fascinated with; and deals with Babylon.

6. Babylon is in a spiritual desert.

7. Babylon encourages Prostitution & Abominations.

Babylon is a Prostitute. But what is a prostitute?? What is the usage of this word?

Well, in ALL of scripture - in EVERY instance of the use of the word Prostitute, Harlot, or Whore - in 100% of EVERY usage of this word - it is used in ONLY two ways - in ALL of scripture.

1. A Person who sells themselves; or makes a living for someone else - by providing sexual pleasure.

2. A Person; Family; Group of people; or Nation - who will cause you to turn away from God; or used to serve God; and have now become unfaithful; and no longer follow His desires & moral codes; and serve wickedness, immorality, and or false gods.

A few examples:

But they replied, “Should he have treated our sister like a prostitute? ” (Genesis 34:31)

He asked the men who lived there, “Where is the shrine prostitute who was beside the road at Enaim?” “There hasn’t been any shrine prostitute here,” they said. (Genesis 38:21)

The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the LORD. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall be spared, because she hid the spies we sent. (Joshua 6:17)

They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine that they might drink. (Joel 3:3)

“Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. (Matthew 21:31)

*********

“Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you and you will eat their sacrifices. And when you choose some of their daughters as wives for your sons and those daughters prostitute themselves to their gods, they will lead your sons to do the same. (Exodus 34:15 - 16)

I will set my face against that man and his family and will cut off from their people both him and all who follow him in prostituting themselves to Molech. (Leviticus 20:5)

You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the LORD, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. (Numbers 15:39)

And the LORD said to Moses: “You are going to rest with your fathers, and these people will soon prostitute themselves to the foreign gods of the land they are entering. They will forsake me and break the covenant I made with them. (Deuteronomy 31:16)

They defiled themselves by what they did; by their deeds they prostituted themselves. (Psalms 106:39)

“If a man divorces his wife and she leaves him and marries another man, should he return to her again? Would not the land be completely defiled? But you have lived as a prostitute with many lovers - would you now return to me?” declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 3:1)

 “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new, which take away the understanding of my people. They consult a wooden idol and are answered by a stick of wood. A spirit of prostitution leads them astray; they are unfaithful to their God. (Hosea 4:10 - 12)

Now numerous individuals in reading Revelation - state that Babylon references a “system” and does NOT refer to a physical place. What we do know (from scripture) is that whomever, or whatever Babylon is (a system, culture, place, people, or person); Babylon used to identify with and ‘serve’ God. But now this stated ‘system’ has turned to their own lusts and pleasures - and became a prostitute. Babylon has turned away from God.

In scripture - you will find almost NO references to a people, culture, or nation who have never served God - being described as a prostitute when they continue to serve their false Gods, and do what they have always done . . . Exodus 34:15 - 16 is the ONLY reference in ALL of scripture - stating a people who do not know God - ‘prostitute’ themselves before false gods. And these two verses are also the very first time in scripture that the word ‘prostitute’ is used as a descriptive reference to serving false gods. Any and ALL other references with regards to a spiritual prostitution - is ALWAYS in regards to God’s chosen people - deliberately turning away from Him.

The word prostitute in scripture - has NEVER been used to describe a ‘system’.

Neither has the word prostitute ever been used in scripture to describe a ‘culture’. Except in the context of the word prostitute being a ‘culture’ of turning away from God. Since that is the way the word is always used - when not describing a person’s actual job profession.

Babylon the Great is also called a woman; and a great city.

The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.” (Rev 17:18)

The word woman refers to a female person or a wife.

gunhv [G1222] (woman; wife)

This word is found 215 times in scripture; and is translated in various ways . . . Typical examples would be:

woman 91x; wife 59x; women 30x; wives 12x; widow 3x; wife’s 2x; dear woman 2x; women’s 1x; woman’s 1x; she 1x; mother 1x; married to 1x; bride 1x

The word typically refers to a person. For example - ‘dear woman’ is found at John 2:4 & 19:26

The word bride is found at: R19:7

The Prophecy which is Revelation - uses the word wisdom sofiva {G5053} (wisdom (either secular or divine). Christ is called “the wisdom of God” in 1Co 1:24, 30. On the basis of the OT, wisdom can be personified) 4 times total. These 4x are found at: R5:12; 7:12; 13:18; 17:9

Note that the first two - discuss that Jesus is worthy to receive wisdom; and declares a blessing of wisdom upon Him.

The final two are discussing the mark of the Beast (anti-Christ); and Babylon. As we previously saw - identification of 666 requires wisdom. And now - in reference to Babylon - it is again stated that wisdom is required. Obviously - if identification of Babylon and actions of the Beast require wisdom - it might not be so simple as stating Babylon is in Iraq; or Babylon is a System; or Babylon is the errant Church.

Wisdom is required to correctly identify the Prostitute.

In addition to being referenced as a Prostitute and a Woman; Babylon is also declared a Great City.

mevga" [G3489] (great; spatially: large; of quantity or degree: loud, intense, violent; of time: long (time); of position: great, important)

povli" [G4484] (city, town, village)

And in scripture - what were the differences between a town, village, or city??

[CITY. In ancient times cities owed their origin, not to organized manufacture, but to agriculture. When men left the pastoral life and settled down to the cultivation of the soil, they often found their cattle and crops endangered by wandering tribes of the desert; and it was to protect themselves from such enemies that they created first the village and then the city. Cities were built in areas where agriculture could be carried on, usually on the side of a mountain or the top of a hill, and where a sufficient supply of water was assured. The names of cities often indicate the feature that was determinative in the selection of the site. For example, the prefixes Beer, meaning “well,” and En, meaning “spring,” in such names as Beersheba and En Gedi, show that it was a local well or spring that determined the building of the city. Names like Ramah, Mizpah, and Gibeah (all from roots indicating height), which were very common in Palestine, indicate that a site on an elevation was preferred for a city. A ruling family sometimes gave its name to a city (Beth, meaning “house of”).

Ancient farmers did not have their own farms. At the end of a day’s work they retired for the night to the village or city. Smaller villages sought the protection of nearby cities. That is the meaning of the expression, added to the name of a city, “and its surrounding settlements” (Num 21:25; 32:42). In return for the protection offered against nomadic attacks, the cities received payment in service and produce. Sometimes a city was protected by a feudal lord around or near whose fortress the city was built. Often it depended entirely on the strength of its walls and the bravery of its men.

The chief feature distinguishing a city from a village was that it had a wall (Lev 25:29-30). Walls twenty and thirty feet (six to nine m.) thick were not unusual. Sometimes a city was also surrounded by a moat (Dan 9:25; KJV “wall;” NIV “trench”), and even by a second smaller wall acting as a rampart (2 Sam 20:15). The wall had one or more gates that were closed during the night (Josh 2:5, 7), and in later times on the sabbath (Neh 13:19). The gates were strengthened with iron or bronze bars and bolts (Deut 3:5; Judg 16:3) and had rooms overhead (2 Sam 18:24). From the top of the wall or from a tower by the gate, a watchman was on the lookout for approaching danger (Jer 6:17). The gates were approached by narrow roads easy to defend. From a distance, usually all that could be seen of a city was its walls, except possibly its inner fortress or citadel.

Within the walls, the important features of a city were the stronghold or fortress, the high place, the broad place by the gate, and the streets. The stronghold was an inner fort protected by a garrison to which the inhabitants could run when the outer walls were taken by an enemy. The people of Shechem tried unsuccessfully to hold out against Abimelech in such a stronghold (Judg 9:49), and the king was afterward killed by a woman who dropped a stone from the tower within the city of Thebez (Judg 9:50, 53). When David captured the fortress of Zion, the whole city came into his possession (2 Sam 5:7). Sometimes towers abutted the inside of the city wall.

The high place was an important part of every Canaanite city and retained its place in Palestine to the time of Solomon’s reign (1 Sam 9:12 ff.). There sacrifices were offered and feasts held. Originally they were on an elevation, but the term became the general one for any local sanctuary even when it was on level ground.

The broad place was an open area - not a square, but only a widening of the street, just inside the city gate, serving as a place for social intercourse in general. It was the center of communal life. Here the people of the city administered justice, held deliberative assemblies, exchanged news, and transacted business. Strangers in the city passed the night there if they had no friends in the city. It had a defensive value in time of war, as it permitted the concentration of forces in front of the city gate.

The streets in ancient cities were not laid out on any fixed plan. They were narrow, winding, unpaved alleys. The streets of Jerusalem were not paved until the time of Herod Agrippa II. Cities built on steep hillsides had streets on the roofs of houses. Streets were rarely cleaned and were unlighted. Certain streets were allocated to particular trades and guilds - for bakers, cheese- makers, goldsmiths, etc.

Little is known about how city government was administered. In Deuteronomy 16:18 and 19:12 mention is made of elders and judges. Samaria had a governor (1 Kings 22:26). Jerusalem must have had several high officials (2 Kings 23:8). - SB New International Bible Dictionary, Pradis CD-ROM: Articles/C/City., Book Version: 5.1.50]

[TOWN. The translation of several words used in the OT: banôth, literally “daughters,” always in the plural, refers to the towns surrounding a city. Cities listed as having towns are: Heshbon, Jazer (Num 21:25, 32; KJV “villages,” NIV “settlements”); Ekron, Ashdod (Josh 15:45-47); Beth Shan, Ibleam, Dor, Endor, Taanach, Megiddo (Josh 17:11; Judg 1:27); Areor (Judg 11:26); Jair, Kenath (1 Chron 2:23); Bethel, Gezer, Shechem, Ayyah (7:28); Ono, Lod (8:12); Gath (18:1); Jeshanah, Ephron (2 Chron 13:19); Soco, Timnah, Ginzo (28:18 ASV; KJV and NIV “villages”); Kiriath Arba, Dibon, Jekabzeel, Beersheba, Meconah, Azekah (Neh 11:25-30 ASV, KJV “villages”; NIV “villages” and “settlements”). All the “daughters” of these cities were small towns without walls: hawwôth, “village, tent village” (Num 32:41; Josh 13:30; 1 Kings 4:13; 1 Chron 2:23), sometimes in compound names - Havvoth Jair (Deut 3:14; Judg 10:4). These villages may have been the dwelling places of nomads, that is, tent dwellings. Hatser, “settled abode, village” in Genesis 25:16 was a village of Ishmaelites, probably a movable one made up of tents; but this word usually means villages without walls around them. ‘Îr, the common Hebrew word for “city,” can indicate an unwalled town (Deut 3:5); a town with gates and bars (1 Sam 23:7); “country town” (27:5). Other words used are qîr, “wall,” once translated “town” (Josh 2:15 KJV; ASV and NIV omit); and perazôth, “open region, hamlet” (Zech 2:4, KJV “towns,” ASV “villages,” NIV “city”). The latter word denotes villages in the open country in contrast to those located in the mountains.

The only NT word that, strictly speaking, means “town” (komopolis) denotes a community larger than a village but smaller than a city; it occurs only once (Mark 1:38 KJV, RSV; NIV “village”). Another word, kome, “village,” is rendered “town” ten times in KJV (Matt 10:11; Mark 8:23, 26-27; Luke 5:17; 9:6, 12; John 7:42; 11:1, 30). NIV occasionally follows this but usually, like ASV, prefers “village.” New International Bible Dictionary, Pradis CD-ROM: Articles/T/Town., Book Version: 5.1.50]

Cities provided protection to villages, and towns. In addition to walls of protection - Cities might even have armies (feudal lord) who provided additional protection. Cities received payment (taxes) - for the services provided to all surrounding areas - allowing people to live their lives in peace; and grow food, and produce products for sale . . .

Governments collect taxes for the services they provide. Cities had ‘watchmen’ on the lookout for approaching danger. Countries and Nations now have ‘watchmen’ viewing computers & radar screens constantly watching for any approaching threat. And most governments have armies to help protect their citizens. Today - Babylon - the Great CITY which rules over the kings of the earth - might more correctly be called a NATION or Country.

The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.” (Rev 17:18)

The use of the word “city” might therefore be referencing a Nation. And Babylon is not classified as just a city - but the GREAT city.

And we have seen that Babylon used to serve God; but now she has turned away from God and His commands; and become a prostitute. And she revels in her prostitution, and her immorality - since she is declared to be the ‘Mother’ of prostitutes.

Babylon is extremely rich and wealthy - so she is described as being dressed in fine linen, purple and scarlet (expensive clothes); and covered with gold, precious stones, and pearls. She holds a cup made of gold in her hand . . .

Does this really sound like a system?? Yes, because the pope has a golden cup - and the pope resides in Rome; people like to state this is the Catholic church; or Rome, or the pope! Or the Catholic church tradition or system of rules and regulations; and how one should pray; whom to pray to; etc.

Does the Catholic church have false doctrine? YES. Might the Catholic church become even more deceived and run after the anti-Christ when he comes into power? Possibly. Is this description of Babylon - in the prophecy of Revelation - discussing a ‘system’ or the Catholic church; or Rome? NOPE.

Babylon substantially controls world (global) policy. She is described as riding the beast. You remember the beast?? From chapter thirteen? The one who is covered in blasphemous names (declaring himself to be God), and has seven heads and ten horns?? The one where we saw the description of his kingdom being totally & utterly Destroyed in chapters fifteen & sixteen. (And God’s wrath coming against this kingdom, at the end of chapter Eleven.)

And I saw a beast coming out of the sea. He had ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on his horns, and on each head a blasphemous name. (R13:1)

Scripture is quite clear - that a ‘spirit’ of the anti-Christ does exist.

Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. (1John 2:18)

but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. (1John 4:3)

Babylon is controlling world policy. She is extremely rich; has immense power, and authority; and is attempting to control the policies of the Beast.

Satan has been ruling the earth for quite some time. Jesus made it clear that various individuals were obeying their father the devil. Satan, or the Beast - is - currently ruling this earth.

. . . “If you were Abraham’s children,” said Jesus, “then you would do the things Abraham did. As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. You are doing the things your own father does.”. . . Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but he sent me. Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8:39 - 44)

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. (Eph 2:1 - 2)

Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (Eph 6:11 - 13)

Babylon, the woman - a prostitute; is a hugely influential, wealthy and prosperous nation - and is riding the beast - and attempting to control world policies. The Great City - is NOT a world ‘system’; and is NOT Rome; and is NOT the Catholic church; and is NOT Babylon in Iraq. And Iraq is essentially a landlocked country; and although Italy (Rome) does have sea ports (Mediterranean) ; it has no immediate global access to ocean ports.

In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!’ “Every sea captain, and all who travel by ship, the sailors, and all who earn their living from the sea, will stand far off. When they see the smoke of her burning, they will exclaim, ‘Was there ever a city like this great city?’ They will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out: “ ‘Woe! Woe, O great city, where all who had ships on the sea became rich through her wealth! In one hour she has been brought to ruin! (Rev 18:17 - 19)

The Great City - IS a physical place, and IS a very powerful and influential NATION.

Babylon is described as being dressed in fine linen, purple and scarlet (expensive clothes); and covered with gold, precious stones, and pearls. She holds a cup made of gold in her hand, filled with things she LOVES - but God declares are abominable and filth.

If you persist in declaring that Babylon is a ‘system’; then just a quick reminder of what God declares about Babylon - at the very beginning of Chapter 17:

1. Babylon is a PROSTITUTE.

2. Babylon is Wealthy & Beautiful.

3. Babylon has great world influence; and controls the beast.

4. Many different peoples and cultures live in Babylon.

5. The entire world is fascinated with; and deals with Babylon.

6. Babylon is in a spiritual desert.

7. Babylon encourages Prostitution & Abominations.

In light of what Revelation states about Babylon - how can we honestly say that when scripture states:

Then I heard another voice from heaven say: “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues; (Rev 18:4)

that this is discussing leaving a world ‘system’; living a Godly life, and not being caught up in sin??

How can we honestly state that being declared a ‘prostitute’ constitutes an entire world system?? Especially in light of ALL other verses referencing prostitute or prostitution in scripture? Or that the phrase “the Great City” is just referencing our entire world system of how we routinely conduct business??

And - if the “Great City” is another term for “world system” or “business as usual throughout the world”; then why would Satan and various rulers - hate the world system which Satan controls and set up??

YES - Satan HATES all people. Satan wants every person deceived and going to Hell! Satan does not want you partaking of the tremendous calling which God desires for you . . . But, one of the ways which Satan keeps us from turning to God - is thru the world business system. Being caught up in all of the pleasures of the world. He is Ruling. Why would he hate it? It is one of the reasons people are going to worship him as god. He controls the entire world . . .

Why would Satan destroy the world ‘system’ which has the entire planet Worshiping him as god?? He created and rules the system. Part of the final functioning of the system - is the requirement to WORSHIP him! And Satan (or the Beast) loves and craves worship. Worship as God. The world system eventually gives him that worship. And you believe that Satan destroys the very ‘system’ which is finally giving him what he has been seeking for almost his entire existence!!?? Pure, unadulterated Worship??

 But yet - Satan does indeed hate Babylon, the prostitute, and the great city. Satan plans the destruction of the great city. Why?? Because Satan HATES people; since we are ALL made in the image of God - and have a great destiny if we would only turn to God! So, Satan HATES every person on the planet. And Babylon is a physical place; filled with people from many nations, cultures, and languages - and Satan HATES people; and Satan hates this nation (prostitute) which at one time served and worshiped God - but now is only consumed with their own lusts and pleasures . . .

Then the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages. The beast and the ten horns you saw will hate the prostitute. They will bring her to ruin and leave her naked; they will eat her flesh and burn her with fire. (Rev 17:15 - 16)

Ok, so the Beast, and the ten horns - will hate this system they have created; and BURN the system with FIRE?? This interpretation of ‘Babylon’ does not make any sense . . .

 The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.” (Rev 17:18)

 . . . “Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great! She has become a home for demons and a haunt for every evil spirit, a haunt for every unclean and detestable bird. (Rev 18:2)

 . . . The kings of the earth committed adultery with her, and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries.” (Rev 18:3)

Give her as much torture and grief as the glory and luxury she gave herself. In her heart she boasts, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow, and I will never mourn.’ Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire . . . (Rev 18:7 - 8)

 “When the kings of the earth who committed adultery with her and shared her luxury see the smoke of her burning, they will weep and mourn over her. Terrified at her torment, they will stand far off and cry: “ ‘Woe! Woe, O great city, O Babylon, city of power! In one hour your doom has come!’ “The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes any more . . . (Rev 18:9 - 11)

 In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!’ “Every sea captain, and all who travel by ship, the sailors, and all who earn their living from the sea, will stand far off. When they see the smoke of her burning, they will exclaim, ‘Was there ever a city like this great city?’ They will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out: “ ‘Woe! Woe, O great city, where all who had ships on the sea became rich through her wealth! In one hour she has been brought to ruin! (Rev 18:17 - 19)

 . . . “With such violence the great city of Babylon will be thrown down, never to be found again. (Rev 18:21)

The music of harpists and musicians, flute players and trumpeters, will never be heard in you again. No workman of any trade will ever be found in you again. The sound of a millstone will never be heard in you again. The light of a lamp will never shine in you again. The voice of bridegroom and bride will never be heard in you again. (Rev 18:22 - 23)

I have been discussing the idea of Babylon being a ‘system’; or just the world’s “business as usual” concept quite a bit - because I disagree with it so vehemently.

The entire concept of Babylon/Prostitute/Great City - being classified as a ‘system’ or the sinful patterns and ways of the world - is really just a ludicrous concept. It has no basis in Revelation foundation; and exists solely so that significant choices in our lives - do not have to be made or dealt with!

If Babylon constitutes the world of sin which surrounds us - then when we accept Jesus as our Lord; and come into a relationship with Him - then we have automatically fulfilled our obligation to: “Come out of her . . .”

Scripture is already quite clear that we should CHANGE when we are ‘born again’; and have our lives made right before God. We ARE a new creation. And scripture is very clear - that as a new creation - we are no longer subject to the sins which previously enslaved us; and that we should live lives FREE from sin. As we learn to hear God; and do what God requests.

Since various verses are so clear on the ills of us continuing to walk in our old ways of life; while now having the choice of obeying GOD - then why would a PROPHECY - which is about End Times - and which Jesus stated we MUST know and understand - be so filled with symbology that it confuses everyone? Why not just clearly state that we are not to continue to carouse in sin; and to conduct ourselves as strangers in a strange land?? Romans, Corinthians, Hebrews; 1^st Peter; etc. ALL deal somewhat directly with how we are to conduct ourselves; considering all that has been given freely to us!

It is because we wish to reject the message in Revelation - that we have so much difficulty with it! It is not because it is so hard to understand that when Revelation refers to Babylon - it is referring to a physical place. Spiritual depravity; and various world systems do exist when discussing Babylon - the Prostitute; and MOTHER of all Prostitutes - but Babylon is a physical place!

A quick summary of Revelation teachings concerning Babylon:

1. Babylon is Wealthy & Beautiful.

2. Babylon has great world influence; and controls the beast.

3. Many different peoples and cultures live in Babylon.

4. Babylon is in a spiritual desert.

5. Babylon is very diverse; and is filled with people from various Nations, and Cultures.

6. Many different languages are spoken in Babylon.

7. Babylon is full of POWER; and is the world’s ‘Leader’.

8. Babylon consumes the majority of the world’s goods. (because no one buys their cargoes any more . . . )

9. Babylon is very rich, and her inhabitants reside in luxury.

10. Ten Horns (rulers/countries) will hate Babylon and destroy her.

11. The destruction will be extremely sudden.

12. The result of the destruction will be FAMINE & DEATH (for the inhabitants of Babylon.)

13. After the destruction - NO ONE will live in Babylon - anymore. NO machines, NO weddings, NO lamps, NO dancing, NO work of any type will be conducted in Babylon.

14. After the destruction - only DEMONS and Evil Spirits will dwell in Babylon.

Right up to the moment of Armageddon; even during the BATTLE at Armageddon - the world SYSTEM continues to exist! This is why ARMIES are gathered together to FIGHT Jesus at this battle! The world SYSTEM is alive and well; up to this very moment.

Even with all of the JUDGEMENTS, and searing pain and fire; and the elimination of electricity - which GOD poured out upon the earth with the Seven Bowls of WRATH - the world SYSTEM still exists! If it did not - NO Battle would take place!

But Babylon was destroyed LONG before. She is spoken of as being destroyed in chapter Fourteen! The Beast rules from Jerusalem. Jerusalem is not currently the World’s headquarters. Jerusalem & Israel do not consume all of the World’s goods . . .

How can you say that a SYSTEM which still exists up to the point of Armageddon - was previously destroyed? People will still be getting married during the anti-Christ’s rule. Individuals will still be WORKING! TRADE and workmen will still exist. Even ARMIES are actually a type of ‘profession’. And they still exist up to the final Battle! So how can you state that the World SYSTEM is destroyed; and you have no weddings, or lamps, or people buying and selling (one of the major reasons for the MARK/ was so that you could buy and sell); while you are still DOING all of the above?

If we are HONEST - it is fairly obvious - that BABYLON is a physical place; a NATION; who consumes a huge amount of the world’s global products; and that she is DESTROYED very suddenly.

Some like to say: “Well of course Babylon is a physical place. Babylon exists in Iraq. And it is going to be rebuilt; and a major commercial center.”

Well, Babylon in Iraq might be rebuilt. And it might even become a big commercial center. But Babylon in Iraq will never be the Babylon discussed here in scripture. Couple of reasons:

1. Iraq Babylon was never a Godly city. Babylon was known for being ungodly; worship of false gods; exalting themselves; etc. She was never known for being a righteous, upright, moral Standard. Babylon in Iraq does not qualify as a “Prostitute.”

2. Iraq Babylon is (as stated previously) essentially landlocked. Iraq Babylon has NO access to ANY ocean; and has just a very, very tiny bit with any sea access at all! It is Impossible for numerous cargo ships of all sorts - to carry their goods to Babylon in Iraq.

Now, Revelation prophecy expands in influence as time continues . . .

What do I mean by that statement? Well, during the time of John - who received Revelation from Jesus - the World commerce scene was significantly smaller. What was considered the ‘world’ was essentially Rome and its various areas of conquest. The North American continent for example; was not even known to exist. God knew it existed. John, Peter, etc. did not . . .

So, at the time when John recorded what Jesus showed him, what was considered the world was much smaller than today. And John and others, were able to look around, and make a determination of who constituted Babylon.

At the time when John recorded this prophecy - a place existed that the ‘world’ considered consumed the majority of the world’s goods.

And ALL thru the centuries; the same statement can be made. Three hundred years after John; people could look around and say: “This is Babylon.”

Of course, the vast majority of scriptures were LOST to the majority of mankind, for quite some time! They have been preserved by monks, etc; but the majority of people - had no access to scriptures.

But through all the centuries of time since this prophecy was given and revealed - at any time - a “Babylon” could always be identified. One could always say: “So and So is the world’s leader; and consumes the world’s goods. I need a job. I will move to so and so . . . If only I could live in such a place . . .” Etc. A ‘Babylon’ has always existed. Not necessarily so much as fulfilling all of the scriptural requirements. But a Babylon could be identified.

So it is today. Today, a Harlot; (who leads the world; institutes world policies; and previously some school text books even classified her as the “World’s Policeman”) does indeed exist.

A physical place - a NATION - that fulfills ALL of the scriptural requirements of BABYLON does exist!

And, if as time continues - if the anti-Christ does not come into visible power soon; and Jesus return . . . well at some point - a different physical place will be able to be identified as “Babylon.” And I guess that as we get closer to the time of Christ’s glorious return - this new ‘Babylon’ could mirror the scriptures even closer . . .

How one could be closer to matching the requirements of Babylon, not quite sure. (Well, actually - a few ideas do exist in my little head!) But, be that as it may - a Babylon does currently exist which is a virtual mirror fit of ALL of the scriptural requirements of Babylon!

Who is it? Well, you already KNOW, don’t you? You just don’t LIKE the idea. But you already KNOW. And you KNOW - because she fulfills ALL the requirements of Babylon.

1.     She used to be Godly.

1a.   Now, she revels in Homosexuality. She even led the world in renaming that particular sin. It is now called ‘gay’; and is no longer a ‘sin’.

2.     She used to FIGHT the sex trade.

2a.   Now, CARGO ships filled with women and young men and boys - for SEX SLAVERY - routinely come to her shores!

3.     She used to produce the vast majority of the World’s goods. All of the world was jealous of her power, might, and the quality of all the goods she produced which were shipped all around the world.

3a.   Now, instead of producing - she CONSUMES the world’s goods.

4.     She used to control the World’s financial markets.

4a.   She still does control the World’s financial markets. If you want to get rich - you must trade and deal with Babylon.

5.     Her very FOUNDING documents acknowledge God, the Creator. And essentially state that ALL rights, property, and privileges come from God.

5a.   Now, it is ILLEGAL to even PRAY in her schools.

6.     The FACT that God created all men - used to be taught in her schools.

6a.   Now, it is ILLEGAL to teach about GOD; and only the humanistic LIE of evolution is taught. (In the name of ‘science’.)

7.     She used to respect LIFE. Even the smallest, and weakest among her were protected by law.

7a.   Now, Abortion is RAMPANT throughout her borders. She has murdered BILLIONS of her most innocent and smallest citizens - in the name of “free sex.”

8.     Adultery, sexual promiscuity; sexual orgies; ALL were frowned upon; and discouraged.

8a.   Now, her motto is: “If it feels good: DO IT!” Rare, rare, rare is the young woman or man who gets married and is a virgin when he/she does so . . . CONDOMS are ROUTINELY handed out in Junior High school.

9.     She once provided food, coal, and numerous other supplies to an entire City - on the other side of the world for almost one full year - totally by air. In a successful effort to help prevent starvation.

9a.   Now, while MILLIONS of people in other parts of the world STARVE - she routinely throws food away into the trash.

10.   Her monetary coins and bills state: In God we Trust.

10a. Today, she rejects God in numerous, numerous ways; while constantly stating: Look how powerful, and great I am! I am so wealthy and rich; Look what I alone have accomplished by my own power and abilities! But - her coins still say: “In God we Trust” - while she denies that statement in virtually EVERYTHING she does!

11.   The vast majority of her citizens used to be Christians, and repent for sin.

11a. Now, a huge amount of people within her borders still proclaim they are ‘Christians’ - while relishing and rejoicing in immoral and un-Godly activities.

12.   People used to fellowship together; and READ the Bible together.

12a. Now, virtually no one reads the Bible; and everyone stays in their homes and watches Television. With filth about murder, sex, homosexuality, witches, vampires, occult, and ‘super heroes’ pouring out of it - on a daily, daily basis . . .

13.   Marriage - which was created by God - used to be understood to be between a man and a woman.

13a. Now, women marry women. Men marry men. And Homosexuals are a Federally protected class of citizens . . .

14.   She used to be called the Melting Pot of the World! Where people from various other countries and nationalities came together into one common bond and commitment. Rejoicing in becoming a citizen.

14a. Now, she is still filled with numerous peoples from various other countries and nationalities. Even more than previously. However; many, many people state: “I am this... I am that! I have my own cultures and beliefs. Numerous, numerous separate languages are now routinely spoken throughout her borders. She even has totally separate, sovereign Nations existing WITHIN her!

In other words - a Nation which used to Honor God - now totally REJECTS everything which God has said . . . And RELISHES sin and murder.

WHO is this Nation? Well, as I said previous - you ALREADY know. And you do! It is (as you know) - the United States of America.

The United States of America - fulfills EVERY qualifying statement made with regards to Babylon!

1.     One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters. (Rev 17:1)

1a.   The phrase: “many waters” has the specifically stated meaning - of many (different) peoples. (see R17:15) And the US is also ‘sitting’ on many physical waters. Having numerous lakes, seas, and two ocean fronts; along with numerous worldwide shipping ports . . . And, as we have seen - scripturally the word ‘prostitute’ in the context being used here - is indicating a group of People or Nation - who used to serve God; but now serve only their own pleasures and lusts.

2.     With her the kings of the earth committed adultery and the inhabitants of the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.” (Rev 17:2)

2a.   “Adultery” is indicating the tremendous leadership this People or Nation have - enticing other rulers away from any moral foundation or goals; in the pursuit of whatever “the great prostitute” is pursuing.

3.     Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a desert. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. (Rev 17:3)

3a.   The word “desert” e[rhmo" [G2245] (deserted, remote, solitary; as a noun, desert, uninhabited wilderness, or grasslands, implying in some contexts to be a forsaken, desolate place) is specifically referencing the spiritual condition of this Nation. John is already ‘in the Spirit’; he is being given a prophecy; and he was already ‘caught up to heaven’ (R1:10 & R4:2). Here, the Spirit takes John to the Spiritual condition of the woman. A DESERT. Where she is depicted as being Spiritually destitute; while RIDING the beast. She is dictating world policy. She has vast, vast influence . . .

4.     The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries. (Rev 17:4)

4a.   The use of the words ‘purple and scarlet; glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls . . .’ is stating that this woman or Nation is EXTREMELY rich. She is the richest nation on earth! She is COVERED in precious stones! Her wealth is VAST. And she holds a cup of GOLD in her hand; which is filled with things which are precious to her; but are abominable to God! We FIGHT over Abortion - with various groups stating that NO ONE WANTS an Abortion - and EVERYTHING should be done to LIMIT abortions - while also stating that EVERY woman should be allowed to have one! And they FIGHT for Abortions. Stating that if you contact a Parent - when a 14 year old girl wants an abortion - that is ‘limiting’ access! We no longer have ANY foundation, except for what seems good in our own eyes. We have homosexual PARADES in ALL major cities EACH year! We prohibit the use of the word ‘JESUS’ at Veteran Funerals and cemeteries . . . We constantly have various political leaders and groups stating that we must guard ourselves; and remember the: “separation of Church and State.” Referencing the Constitution {the Foundational document for ALL of our laws} as they do so . . . DELUSION. Do you know that the words: “separation of Church and State” do NOT exist in ANY founding documents? NONE! The word ‘church’ does not even exist in the entire US Constitution; and the words ‘religion, and religious’ are found only once - for each. And yet - based on various court rulings - we have numerous Local and Federal governmental authorities - stating that we must always have the ‘church’ separate from the government. No religion or religious beliefs allowed! And the Constitution - states that ALL of our rights and privileges come from the CREATOR. How far we have fallen.

5.     This title was written on her forehead: MYSTERY BABYLON THE GREAT THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. (Rev 17:5)

5a.   Mystery Babylon: A Babylon you do not expect! This is not the Babylon you think of when using the word Babylon! It is NOT Iraq Babylon! It is MYSTERY Babylon. And this Babylon is HUGE! She is GREAT. Very large, and powerful! And she leads the world in all types of terrible vices. Just as someone who has a car that they have really souped up - is said to have a ‘bad ass’ vehicle; or someone who really rips into a guitar riff with hard, fantastical playing is said to be: BAD. Being stated as a compliment . . . so too is the phrase: MOTHER of prostitutes. This is NOT saying that every and all prostitutes come from her; it IS saying that Babylon is the MOTHER of PROSTITUTES! She has totally FORSAKEN God and his foundations; and so not only is she the MOTHER of prostitutes in that sense . . . but she is also totally REJOICING in all of her sins; and is engaging in numerous sexual immoralities; etc.

6.     I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of the saints, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus. When I saw her, I was greatly astonished. (Rev 17:6)

6a.   Here in the US - the land of the Free; and Freedom of Speech - it is ILLEGAL to go to Seattle’s Public Pike Place Market; stand on the Street - and vocally Preach Jesus. That is correct. If you do so - you WILL be arrested. The Pike Place Market (easily an area of several blocks) has been declared to be ‘private property’. You have cars driving on the streets of this open air public market - but it is ‘private’ property. If you declare in a science class that you believe in Adam & Eve - you will be laughed out of the classroom. It does not matter that LOGICALLY Evolution does not make ANY sense at all . . . It is what is deemed true and correct. If you believe in GOD and the BIBLE; you are deemed a ‘right wing’ nut . . . a loon. Prophets are laughed at - even in CHURCHES! What God is speaking is not really listened to . . . And so those who give and bear testimony to Jesus - are washed down the drain. Our words are given no significance; and we are laughed at! How many of the MILLIONS of unborn BABIES (aborted) have gone to Hell? Might actually be that some have . . . I personally don’t believe that ANY have! But this is a decision of God’s and not mine. Personally - I think these are the most INNOCENT; and NONE are going to Hell. So, they ARE Saints - and we DO have their BLOOD on our hands! In addition to that - Revelation is PROPHECY; and it is easy to see that the US is becoming more and more and more NEGATIVE towards Christians. Right NOW, this document (commentary/writing) is ILLEGAL in Canada! Because it states that Homosexuality is a SIN! This is part of the US spread of adulteries! And it is easy to see that this is going to become worse and worse throughout the entire world. And our filth and adulteries are a major focal. Rather than being GODLY and MORAL - being a LIGHT to the world - we have sunk into filth and depravity. Encouraging the world to engage in more filth and depravity. John’s ‘astonishment’ is the fact that a Nation which originally was so rooted in God; and has such vast wealth and power given to it by God - could so utterly reject God with absolutely NO remorse! And that with her total rejection of God - while still stating that she is ‘Godly’ and a ‘Nation under God’; and a ‘Christian’ Nation - that she has not been punished! John is astonished that a Nation which is so filled with filth and abominations - is allowed to exist . . .

7.     “The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast. They have one purpose and will give their power and authority to the beast . . . The beast and the ten horns you saw will hate the prostitute. They will bring her to ruin and leave her naked; they will eat her flesh and burn her with fire. For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose by agreeing to give the beast their power to rule, until God’s words are fulfilled. The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.” (Rev 17:12 - 13  &  17:16 - 18)

7a.   Satan or the Beast - who is being ridden and somewhat controlled by Babylon - will hate this Nation. The center of the entire world needs to become Jerusalem; from where he will rule. Plus, Satan is controlling the world; and he does not wish to share his controlling power. He disagrees with some US policies. And he hates our Constitution. He hates man; and also hates anything Godly - or that used to be Godly. So, he hates the US; which used to have a protective hedge & shield around it - supplied by God. (see Job 1:10) He desperately desires to be recognized as GOD to the world; and worshiped as GOD; and he will have this - while ruling from Jerusalem. So, with our tremendous sins and lack of repentance - comes judgement. He is allowed to destroy us; and consequently ten small countries or Rulers are allowed to come into power. They give their power to the Beast - in other words - they do what the Beast desires. The Beast desires us destroyed. Have you not noticed the various small countries - who HATE the US?? They burn various effigies of our presidents; and call us ‘blasphemous’ names. Osama Bin Laden - routinely referred to us as the: “Great Satan.” Various other elements around the globe - think of the US as just being Evil. Some Factious rulers around the world HATE us; and want us DESTROYED. That is current, modern day reality. And Revelation PROPHECY - declares that ten rulers - will receive power from Satan. (That is what it means when it states they give their power (self-will) to Satan. They give themselves to him; and receive more power in return.) They receive power (the green light to destroy); and destroy the US - in one hour. Massive destruction.

8.     “The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes any more - cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron and marble; cargoes of cinnamon and spice, of incense, myrrh and frankincense, of wine and olive oil, of fine flour and wheat; cattle and sheep; horses and carriages; and bodies and souls of men. “They will say, ‘The fruit you longed for is gone from you. All your riches and splendor have vanished, never to be recovered.’ (Rev 18:11 - 14)

8a.   Babylon is not a huge producer of goods. She is a consumer. Looking at the US - we can see that this came about because of the fact that we used to PRODUCE all types of items; and they were proudly sold to ourselves; and to others around the world. Now, we consume a lot of what we produce; and we consume a lot of what everyone else produces. We consume EVERYTHING which is listed above; and MORE. We have illegal immigrants flooding this land - to get ‘rich’ and be able to send some funds back home . . . We literally sell women from other countries (who were poor and looking for a better life) into sexual slavery. They have made raids on CARGO containers filled with people - who were GOING to be sex slaves! The above is NOT a complete list! It is just a litany of items - to indicate the BROAD and IMMENSE amount of various goods imported and consumed by Babylon. But, the amount of various goods which Babylon consumes - is so HUGE - that when Babylon is destroyed (suddenly) - the rest of the world WEEPS and MOURNS! Babylon’s influence and consumption is HUGE; and the vast majority of the world WEEPS at our destruction. They are also TERRIFIED at our torment and stand far off! (see R18:10) This indicates several things:

                 1.     Concern for their own safety. If Babylon is destroyed; what country can you be safe in?? And people from around the world (far away) are deeply affected.

                 2.     The utter destruction of Babylon is HORRIBLE. And it is hard to contemplate. Plus, it might affect rescuers physically. So, you DON’T get close to the destruction; or offer ANY help. All who are weeping and mourning - stand FAR OFF! This statement is repeated THREE times in Revelation. (R18:10,15,17) Although the world will WEEP and MOURN at Babylon’s destruction - NO ONE will come to her aid! There will be NO outside help for the inhabitants of Babylon.

With a mighty voice he shouted: “Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great! She has become a home for demons and a haunt for every evil spirit, a haunt for every unclean and detestable bird. (R18:2)

9.     Give her as much torture and grief as the glory and luxury she gave herself. In her heart she boasts, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow, and I will never mourn.’ Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her. (Rev 18:7 - 8)

9a.   The US is extremely arrogant; and proud about our power. We do (in spite of some successful attacks against us) consider ourselves virtually untouchable. Even though we had 9/11; various individuals routinely discuss how we just need to be better ‘friends’ with the world. And that we do not need to have much ‘security’ to protect ourselves from attack! Various internet conversations - always boast about how ‘great’ we are; and how ‘powerful’. And just let someone try something - we’ll kick their butt! Plus, we constantly hold ourselves up as the Great Power - which the rest of the world should emulate! Others starve - because they haven’t done what WE did . . . Others are not as rich or successful - because they did not emulate what WE did . . . It is constantly what WE did - NOT the immense BLESSINGS from GOD - because of our stance with Him! We boast of our own power and might constantly; in various ways . . .

Now, you might be saying - “Wait, China murders people! China hates Christians! China is rich and wealthy!”

NOT so! The vast majority of Chinese - are still in poverty. However; one of the qualifiers of Babylon is that she CONSUMES the world’s goods. NOT that she PRODUCES the world’s goods!

A LOT of the tremendous goods which China produces - she still first has shipped to her. For example; a lot of the steel which comes out of China - has the raw materials shipped to her. And then she produces the steel; and it is shipped to the US.

The US consumed a vast amount of the world’s resources even when we PRODUCED goods! And now that a tremendous amount of the manufacturing base (of physical goods) has left - we still CONSUME the vast majority of the world’s goods . . .

Many, many people are still trying and attempting to GET INTO the US! People are trying to LEAVE China! But China restricts their citizens from leaving very severely.

In fact; the majority of various countries and nations around the world - are extremely homogenous. The diversity of any specific population group is very limited in the vast majority of countries and nations. Even China - where the vast majority of the world’s population resides - has a very limited population diversity.

The United States however; in contrast to EVERY other country and nation on earth - is FILLED with a HUGE diverse population! MANY different people, cultures, and languages - dwell within the US. And the various Indian tribes are even declared to be totally separate SOVEREIGN Nations - within the US - while at the same time - are still fully recognized as being US citizens!

Then the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages. (Rev 17:15)

The US is the ONLY place on earth - where the above scripture makes sense. Unless you wish to state that Babylon is a ‘system’. Which, as we have seen from other scriptures - Babylon is a physical place.

How does FAMINE and DEATH come to a ‘system’?

Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her. (Rev 18:8)

Now, let us move slightly on; and contemplate another interesting facet of this prophecy.

We have been discussing Babylon, and Chapter Seventeen. But remember; that at the end of Chapter Six - it was stated that the time for God ‘s wrath had come . . . So too -with Eleven. And essentially also - the end of Fourteen . . .

They called to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?” (R6:16,17)

The nations were angry; and your wrath has come. The time has come for judging the dead, and for rewarding your servants the prophets and your saints and those who reverence your name, both small and great - and for destroying those who destroy the earth.” (R11:18)

The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God’s wrath. (R14:19)

After the wrath of God - comes His millennial rule! His glorious reign of ONE THOUSAND years over all the inhabitants of the earth. Ruling with a rod of iron - since not everyone will be willingly submitted. During His millennial reign - Satan will be LOCKED UP! He will be LOCKED, and CHAINED in an Abyss - and will NOT be able to influence men.

And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. (Rev 20:1 - 2)

Well, as Chapter Seventeen points out - Satan (the Beast) - is already BOUND. He is NOT bound during the destruction of Babylon! After all, some Kings receive power from him to destroy Babylon. And as chapter Fourteen also declares - Babylon was destroyed long before Chapter Seventeen. In Seventeen, and in Eighteen; we are looking at why and how Babylon was destroyed! But the judgements against man have already occurred . . . and the Beast or Satan or the ancient serpent - is ALREADY locked up! He is in the abyss - for one thousand years . . .

And that is why Seventeen makes the following statement:

The beast, which you saw, once was, now is not, and will come up out of the Abyss and go to his destruction. The inhabitants of the earth whose names have not been written in the book of life from the creation of the world will be astonished when they see the beast, because he once was, now is not, and yet will come. “This calls for a mind with wisdom. (R17:8,9)

The beast who once was, and now is not, is an eighth king. He belongs to the seven and is going to his destruction. (R17:11)

When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison . . . And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (R20:7,10)

HELL and the lake of burning fire - DOES exist; and is ETERNAL torment!

Scripture is quite clear that understanding of the Beast, Babylon, and the Mark - requires WISDOM. Wisdom from God. READING Revelation!

Chapters seventeen & eighteen of Revelation are interesting - in how intrinsically they are tied together. Chapter seventeen is discussing who Babylon is; and the coming destruction of Babylon - in somewhat generic terms. As we flow into chapter eighteen - we continue with the discussion of the destruction of Babylon - but with more specifics.

“This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits. They are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come; but when he does come, he must remain for a little while. The beast who once was, and now is not, is an eighth king. He belongs to the seven and is going to his destruction. “The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast. They have one purpose and will give their power and authority to the beast. They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings - and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.” Then the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages. The beast and the ten horns you saw will hate the prostitute. They will bring her to ruin and leave her naked; they will eat her flesh and burn her with fire. For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose by agreeing to give the beast their power to rule, until God’s words are fulfilled. The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.” (Rev 17:9 - 18)

The woman (United States [great city/nation]) is sitting on seven hills or kings. She is attempting to control their actions; and dictating how they rule . . . She has destroyed various kingdoms; (rulers, dictators); but remnants of the doctrines and policies of those kingdoms still exist. Satan of course - as ruler of the earth - is a king who also dictates actions. Satan only desires to steal, kill, and destroy. He ‘belongs’ to the seven; and will of course go to his ultimate destruction.

The ten horns are ten future kings or rulers - who will give up their self will and become totally subservient to Satan; receiving power and authority to destroy the United States (Babylon). They have One purpose & goal - the destruction of Babylon. For God has determined that Babylon needs to be judged for her prostitution; and to fulfill His words. And of course, these ten kings will also join the Beast and all other rulers - and make war against the Lamb of God - Jesus Christ. And as we have seen; the tribulation period ends with those in Christ rising up in the air to meet Him; being changed in a twinkling of an eye - as described in 1^st Corinthians 15:52. And after the tribulation period ends - Jesus rules! And one of His first actions - is to pour out the bowls of His wrath upon the earth; and those that rejected Him. And after the bowls of His (God’s) wrath have been poured out - the world still gathers its armies together to come fight against Him - at Armageddon. (see R11,14,15,16) Consequently, if you are a servant & follower of Jesus; and remained faithful to Him - during the tribulation period - you will be WITH Him - riding on a WHITE HORSE; behind Him - and in the AIR - when He returns to FIGHT Satan and his armies at the battle of Armageddon.

If you are ON earth - when Jesus returns - and are NOT behind Him on a white horse; in an immortal, indestructible, glorious body (R19:14); then you are doomed to destruction; and you will not be happy; and you will MOURN at his coming!

 . . . and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers . . . (Rev 17:14)

The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. (Rev 19:14)

Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen. (Rev 1:7)

*Chapter 16*   *Chapter 18*

"Questions??? Give a shout!"

All Greek/Hebrew definitions (unless otherwise noted) are taken from
The NIV Exhaustive Concordance by Edward W. Goodrick & John R. Kohlenberger III © 1990 by The Zondervan Corporation. ISBN 0-310-436970-7

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, International Version®, NIV84®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™
Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Copyright 2011 - Revelation Disclosed Updated 10/14/11

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