Scripture:
[15] And the angel said to me, “The waters that you saw, where the prostitute is seated, are peoples and multitudes and nations and languages. [16] And the ten horns that you saw, they and the beast will hate the prostitute. They will make her desolate and naked, and devour her flesh and burn her up with fire, [17] for God has put it into their hearts to carry out his purpose by being of one mind and handing over their royal power to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled. [18] And the woman that you saw is the great city that has dominion over the kings of the earth.”
Observation:
Antichrist uses religion as a tool to fulfill his plan. After using Babylon to entice unbelievers into chasing after false gods, corruption and self indulgence, at some point he no longer needs it, so he uses the corrupt to destroy Babylon from within – “..they and the beast will hate the prostitute. They will make her desolate and naked, and devour her flesh and burn her up with fire.”
While Satan and the Antichrist move to fulfill their plan we see again that God is always in control and the prophecies will be fulfilled – “..for God has put it into their hearts to carry out his purpose..until the words of God are fulfilled.”
God uses the wicked to turn on themselves and will give them what they want – hopelessness and eternity without him.
Application:
Whether Babylon describes L.A, New York, Rome, or ungodly self indulgent places in general, is not important. What is important is that in the last days of the end times, Babylon is thriving but will be destroyed. Satan uses the Antichrist and false teachers to attract people to a one-world religion where many religions believe in the same god, and therefore that there is more than one way to heaven; where Jesus was perhaps just a man; where idolatry is strong; or where God wants me to be happy so if it feels good do it; or [fill in the blank for the non-biblical false doctrine that brings people together].
When Babylon has fulfilled its purpose, and Satan decides it is time for all people to worship only him, these wicked people will destroy their center of focus and shift to him. The good news though, is that while it appears that Satan’s plan is out of God’s control, it actually is not. God is in full control. The destruction of Babylon and the false teaching it represents, is fulfillment of prophecy and God is allowing Satan, no.. is using Satan, as tool during the tribulation period as part of His just judgement.
Prayer:
Lord thank You for Your Word. Thank You for reminding us that You are always in control and of how You will use even the wicked to fulfill Your ultimate plan. Thank You for peace in knowing that I am saved by Your Grace and will not be subject to Your judgement described in Revelation. Present me with opportunity and help with words and actions to tell others of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Amen