August 3, 2022
Now the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. And great Babylon was remembered before God, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath. Revelation 16:19
Just as the ancient city of Babylon straddled the great river Euphrates and depended upon it for power and sustenance, end-time Babylon straddles many waters (17:1,15) and draws power from them through their monetary and military support; all the while, her misrepresentation of Christ has been the secret that has facilitated the flowing streams of money and cooperation. While she is referred to as the great city, her influence has been exerted the world over. Clothed in fine linen, purple, and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls (18:16), she has lived luxuriously (18:7). Her trading (a Biblical term for conversation – see Ezekiel 28:16,18) has cost the salvation of countless millions of souls of men (18:13).
In John’s vision, the three parts into which the great city was divided is the breakup of the unholy trinity. The erroneous teachings that originated with the dragon (Satan himself), were codified by the beast (the papacy), and perpetuated by the false prophet (apostate Protestantism)—see v.16:13—will have rightfully incurred the fierce wrath of God. When this three-way union is fractured, cities the world over will descend into utter chaos.
The illicit relationship between Satan and people was initiated by Satan in the Garden of Eden. We must thank God that—from before the foundation of the world—He provided for the redemption of mankind, which, since all have sinned, includes assisting each of us in “breaking up” with the devil. In the first prophecy of the Savior to come, God included that He would ensure the breakup of the friendship between Satan and true followers of Christ. Addressing Satan directly, God said:
“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” Genesis 3:15
Beloved, make it a habit to listen carefully to the voice of the Holy Spirit. And count your blessings! You cannot possibly count them all, but just getting started will overwhelm your heart with thankfulness. Because of God’s word, His people may also count the blessings to come as we unite in the full assurance that the divine Deliverer will successfully bring His people Home to Him. We know that Satan’s kingdom will not stand, for in addition to leading His people out of Babylon, the leadership of Babylon will be broken up. Jesus confirms the concept in our closing verse:
“Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” Matthew 12:25