Revelation 17 -- The Religious System

My commentary explains that in this chapter, the religious system of the beast is judged, while in the next, the political and economic system is judged.  It also says that the heavy use of symbolism encourages believers in every age, for in every age there’s been a false religious system that has abandoned the truth for personal gain and a political and economic system that has sought to control people’s minds and destinies.

The angel told John several explanations.  “The woman is identified with a city that existed in John’s day.  This city is prosperous and powerful, but also idolatrous and dangerous.”

The mystery is Babylon, mentioned as far back as Genesis 10, and associated with an idolatrous attempt by man to defy God (the tower of Babel), my commentary says.  That anti-God influence has been felt throughout history and gave birth to all false religions.

The beast is carrying the harlot – Satan is carrying the false religious system and eventually sheds it and becomes the world dictator with people worshiping himself.  “When dictators are friendly with religion, it is usually a sign that they want to make use of religion’s influence and then destroy it.  The church of Jesus Christ has been most influential in the world when it has maintained a separated position … In every age, there is the tremendous pressure to conform to popular religion and to abandon the fundamentals of the faith.  We need to be true to our God.”

Father, there are so many things right now vying for the title of the harlot.  Please help Your people to have spiritual discernment that will allow us to see Your truth.  Don’t let us fall under the sway of the beast.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford