Revelation·Chapter 17

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on the influences in your life. Ask yourself: What are the 'cities' in your world that seem to have power over you? Is it social media, peer pressure, or perhaps societal expectations? Write down a couple of these influences and then think about how you can reclaim your power. Consider taking a break from something that feels dominating, or engage in an activity that empowers you and aligns with your values. This is about taking small, actionable steps toward recognizing your own power in the midst of external pressures.

Chapter Context

Leading up to this moment, the chapter dives deep into a vivid vision filled with symbols and imagery. It’s a time of turmoil and tension, where the world seems to be at a crossroads. This verse lands right in the middle of a dramatic revelation about the struggles between good and evil, power and vulnerability. It’s the climax of a story where this powerful city is revealed, shedding light on the forces at play in the world. This verse advances the narrative by showing us the scale of influence this city has, setting the stage for the unfolding drama that follows.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• woman - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• saw - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• is - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• great - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• city - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• has - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• dominion - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When you think about the 'great city' that holds influence in your life, what emotions does that bring up for you? How can you actively choose to engage with or step away from those influences?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 13:19 - This verse talks about the fall of Babylon, a great city that had immense power, predicting its downfall long before it happened.
• Revelation 14:8 - Here, another angel announces the fall of Babylon, reinforcing the idea that powerful systems will ultimately face consequences for their actions.
• Jeremiah 51:7 - This verse mentions Babylon as a cup of great wrath, showing how it was viewed as a symbol of corruption and future judgment, aligning with the themes of power and dominance.
• Daniel 2:44 - Written hundreds of years before, this verse prophesies that God's kingdom will ultimately prevail over worldly powers, highlighting the temporary nature of human dominion.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Revelation 17:18. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Corruption and Idolatry, Divine Judgment, Spiritual Adultery, Power and Authority, Victory of the Lamb, Symbolism of Evil, Hope for Believers

Key Verses

Revelation 17:1, Revelation 17:5, Revelation 17:14, Revelation 17:16, Revelation 17:18

Historical Context

Written during a time of intense persecution under Emperor Domitian, Revelation serves to provide hope and encouragement to Christians facing trials. Chapter 17, in particular, addresses the allure and inevitable downfall of worldly systems that oppose God. The imagery of Babylon resonates with the socio-political landscape of the Roman Empire, which was marked by idolatry and the worship of emperors. The chapter's focus on the judgment of the great prostitute highlights the broader theme of the conflict between good and evil that permeates the book, ultimately assuring believers of God's sovereignty and the eventual triumph of Christ over all forms of corruption.