Rev. 18:1 – 19:5 – The Judgment of Babylon

(O.T. References – Ez. 26-28; Is. 13, 14, 21; Jer. 50-51)

 

Ch. 18 – is a series of songs – funeral songs – words borrowed from the O.T. – against Babylon (O.T.) – Rome (N.T.) – The world (Future).   Songs sung in judgment against all who aligned with evil.  The words are proclaiming doom on all the unrighteous sympathizers.  

For John – what God has brought against the evil kingdoms of the past, He will bring to the evil kindom of his day (Rome) and all evil out into the future until it is completely defeated.

 

“Final judgment means the overthrow of all that opposes God.”  John is focused on the collapse of civilization – not one empire!  It is the judgment of God against evil – not a particular culture.

 

v. 1 – An angel – with great authority – important – take note! – splendor – confirming it

“coming down” – John’s perspective is now on earth again.

 

v. 2 – “Mighty voice” – The only time used this way – another attention grabber.   Fallen, Fallen is Babylon – The fall of the “Great City” is still future, but is so certain it is spoken of in the past tense (a done deal).  It is now desolate – a place for scavengers to collect only (demons, evil spirits, unclean & detestable birds) – (Is. 13:21-22; Jer. 51:37).

 

v. 3 – Her downfall? – She made others sin with her – led others away from God. Others (merchants, kings, etc.) became wealthy through her corruption – kings committed adultery with her.  They were lured in by the power of her luxuries.  Not as much her sin as that she caused others to sin and fall under God's judgment.

 

v. 4 – The church was persecuted severely and compromise was a real threat.  They were tempted to yield to “the city.”  Life could be much easier – persecution would cease – no threats!  They needed a smack of reality – have nothing to do with evil!  They are called to “come out of her, my people.”  O.T. and N.T. are consistent with this same plea – be separated!

 

v. 5 – Whether we think evil doers are getting away with it or not – God remembers all sins that unbelievers do  - They will be held accountable to God and judged accordingly.

 

v. 7-8 – Arrogance! -  She gave herself glory and honor (luxury) undeserved.  She lives under an illusion --- She’s riding the crest of the wave.  Things can’t get any better.  She is happy, in charge, and will never mourn – So it seems – (the materially prosperous in every age!).

 

v. 8 – BUT - - judgment will come quickly – DEATH, MOURNING, FAMINE, and FIRE.  Disaster is certain – The Lord God has judged her.  He is Mighty – It is unstoppable – sure – deliberate – necessary.  God inflicts the judgment the “city” deserves.