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Revelation 17:1
Verse
Context
The Woman on the Beast
1Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters.2The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality.”
Sermons
Chuck Smith
Steve Gallagher
Mike Attwood
Mike BickleMike BickleSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will show unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters - That idolatrous worship is frequently represented in Scripture under the character of a whore or whoredom, is evident from numerous passages which it is unnecessary to quote. See Ch1 5:25; Ezekiel 16:1-63; 23:1-49, etc. The woman mentioned here is called a great whore, to denote her excessive depravity, and the artful nature of her idolatry. She is also represented as sitting upon many waters, to show the vast extent of her influence. See on Rev 17:13 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And there came one of the seven angels that had the seven vials,.... It may be the first of them, since one of the four beasts designs the first of them, in Rev 6:1 though Brightman thinks the fifth angel is meant, because he poured out his vial on the seat of the beast, who is by this angel described; but rather this is the seventh and last angel, concerned in the utter destruction of antichrist: and therefore proposes to John to show him the judgment of the great whore: and talked with me, saying unto me, come hither: he conversed with him in a friendly manner, see Zac 1:9 and desires him to come nearer to him, and go along with him, adding, I will show unto thee the judgment of the great whore; that noted and famous one, known before to John by the names of Jezabel and Babylon, who taught and caused many to commit fornication, Rev 2:20 Rev 14:8 and is no other than Rome Papal; for that a city or state is meant is clear from Rev 17:18 and it is usual for idolatrous or apostate cities to be called whores or harlots, see Isa 1:21 Eze 23:2 and she is called a "great" one, because of the largeness of the Papal see; and because of the multitude of persons, the kings of the earth, and the inhabitants of it, with whom the Romish antichrist has committed spiritual fornication, or idolatry: her "judgment" signifies either her sin and wickedness; in which sense the word is used in Rom 5:16 and which is exposed, Rev 17:5 namely, her idolatry and cruelty; or else her condemnation, and the execution of it, suggested in Rev 17:8 and more largely described in the following chapter: that sitteth upon many waters; which in Rev 17:15 are interpreted of people, multitudes, nations, and tongues, subject to the jurisdiction of Rome; and so several antichristian states are in the preceding chapter signified by the sea, and by rivers and fountains of water: and this is said in reference to Babylon, an emblem of the Romish harlot, which was situated upon the river Euphrates, and is therefore said to dwell upon many waters, Jer 51:13 her sitting here may be in allusion to the posture of harlots plying of men; or may denote her ease, rest, and grandeur, sitting as a queen; and is chiefly expressive of her power and dominion over the kings and nations of the earth, Rev 17:18.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here we have a new vision, not as to the matter of it, for that is contemporary with what came under the three last vials; but as to the manner of description, etc. Observe, 1. The invitation given to the apostle to take a view of what was here to be represented: Come hither, and I will show thee the judgment of the great whore, etc., Rev 17:1. This is a name of great infamy. A whore [in this passage] is one that is married, and has been false to her husband's bed, has forsaken the guide of her youth, and broken the covenant of God. She had been a prostitute to the kings of the earth, whom she had intoxicated with the wine of her fornication. 2. The appearance she made: it was gay and gaudy, like such sort of creatures: She was arrayed in purple, and scarlet colour, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls, Rev 17:4. Here were all the allurements of worldly honour and riches, pomp and pride, suited to sensual and worldly minds. 3. Her principal seat and residence - upon the beast that had seven heads and ten horns; that is to say, Rome, the city on seven hills, infamous for idolatry, tyranny, and blasphemy. 4. Her name, which was written on her forehead. It was the custom of impudent harlots to hang out signs, with their names, that all might know what they were. Now in this observe, (1.) She is named from her place of residence - Babylon the great. But, that we might not take it for the old Babylon literally so called, we are told there is a mystery in the name; it is some other great city resembling the old Babylon. (2.) She is named from her infamous way and practice; not only a harlot, but a mother of harlots, breeding up harlots, and nursing and training them up to idolatry, and all sorts of lewdness and wickedness - the parent and nurse of all false religion and filthy conversation. 5. Her diet: she satiated herself with the blood of the saints and martyrs of Jesus. She drank their blood with such greediness that she intoxicated herself with it; it was so pleasant to her that she could not tell when she had had enough of it: she was satiated, but never satisfied.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:1–19:10 The great drama in this section focuses on the powers that are hostile to God and responsible for the persecution and suffering of God’s people. Rome’s power was captivating to many (17:6); John purposely defines Rome’s sins and provides God’s assessment (17:3-18) before outlining its fall (18:1-24) and heaven’s response (19:1-10). 17:1 One of the . . . angels of judgment addresses John and summons him to a new scene in which he sees the coming judgment of the great prostitute, who rules over many waters. Rome, located on the Tiber River, controlled the seats of power and water trade routes throughout the Mediterranean, from the British Isles to the Euphrates River.
Revelation 17:1
The Woman on the Beast
1Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters.2The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Through the Bible) Revelation 17-18
By Chuck Smith2.0K49:04Through The BibleMAT 7:15REV 17:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the judgment of the false religious system, referred to as Babylon, which has deceived many people. The speaker mentions Jesus' warning about false prophets who appear as sheep but are actually wolves. Babylon is seen as a symbol of confusion, as it originated from the tower of Babel where people tried to communicate with the universe. The confusion of languages resulted in different groups migrating away and forming their own language groups. The speaker emphasizes the confusion and deception within the religious system created by man, where some claim to be more righteous and have a greater connection with God, acting as intermediaries between God and others.
Come Out of the Darkness of Babylon
By Steve Gallagher1.8K45:50Babylon2TI 4:3REV 17:1REV 18:1REV 19:19REV 21:9The video shown during the sermon was described as a production created by the church. The speaker prayed for the congregation and mentioned that some people may choose to stay behind and seek the Lord in the sanctuary. The speaker then discussed the book of Revelation, explaining that the first three chapters serve as an introduction to the overwhelming scenes depicted in the rest of the book. Chapter 18 was highlighted as describing life as it is currently known, particularly in the United States, focusing on pleasure, entertainment, and sensuality.
The Church: Recovery & Testimony - History of the Church in China - Part 1
By Stephen Kaung1.4K1:19:44Recovery And TestimonyREV 2:7REV 17:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the reason for a revival that occurred in Bucho and into college. The revival was initiated by two western sisters, one of whom was mentioned frequently as Mr. Baba. These sisters felt a burden to further the gospel in China and believed that the involvement of students and intelligent people was crucial. They began praying fervently, and as a result, a revival broke out in Bucho and into college. The preacher also references the book of Timothy, where it is mentioned that one should teach others who are competent to teach as well. The sermon emphasizes the importance of pursuing righteousness, faith, love, and peace, and paying attention to spiritual reality rather than worldly matters. The preacher also mentions the book of Revelation, where John sees a vision of the risen Lord walking among his churches. The sermon concludes by highlighting the power of the church built by Jesus Christ, which cannot be overcome by darkness.
Middle East Crisis: What Is Mystery Babylon?
By Jack Hibbs1.2K1:04:58REV 17:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding the concept of Babylon. He suggests that Babylon can refer to various things, such as the ancient city in Iraq or a religious and spiritual system. The speaker also mentions the rise of a dominant European market and speculates about the potential arrival of the Antichrist. Additionally, the speaker describes Babylon as a system that has infiltrated various aspects of human existence, including economics and religion, and has tried to compete against God and his gospel. The sermon includes references to biblical verses, such as verse four, which mentions Babylon's wealth and dominance, and highlights the harlot-like and murderous nature of Babylon's passions. The speaker concludes by urging the audience to stay engaged until the end of the sermon, as the topic may be offensive to some.
Church History Series - Part 5
By Mike Attwood4635:46ReformationChurch HistoryREV 17:1Mike Attwood discusses the dark ages of church history, focusing on the rise of the Catholic Church's power and the subsequent emergence of reformative movements. He highlights the introduction of doctrines like transubstantiation and purgatory, which led to widespread disillusionment among the populace, especially during events like the Black Death. Attwood emphasizes the importance of figures such as John Wycliffe and John Huss, who challenged the church's authority and laid the groundwork for the Protestant Reformation. He also notes the impact of the Great Schism and the role of universities in fostering new ideas that would eventually lead to reform. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the five solas of the Reformation, underscoring the significance of scripture and faith in Christ alone.
The Fall of Babylon
By Mike Bickle2550:52End Times DeceptionThe Fall of BabylonREV 17:1Mike Bickle discusses 'The Fall of Babylon' in Revelation 17 and 18, emphasizing the angelic explanation of the severe judgments against Babylon and the Antichrist's empire. He highlights the seductive power of the harlot system, which will lead many believers to fall away from their faith due to its apparent prosperity and humanitarian efforts, while also warning of the cruel persecution that will arise against the saints. Bickle stresses the importance of understanding the temporary nature of this system, as it will ultimately face inevitable destruction. He encourages the church to stand firm in truth amidst the rising tide of deception and to prepare for the coming revival and judgment.
The Harlot Babylon: The One-World Religion
By Mike Bickle2542:48End TimesDiscernmentREV 17:1Mike Bickle discusses the emergence of the harlot Babylon, a one-world religion that will seduce nations and even the church in the end times. He emphasizes the warnings from Paul about a significant falling away from the faith, where many will turn to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons. Bickle explains that this false religion will appear tolerant and benevolent, but will ultimately lead to persecution of true believers. He highlights the importance of discernment in recognizing the dangers of this seductive system, which will be supported by political leaders for their gain. The sermon serves as a call to prepare the church to stand firm against this deception and to remain faithful to the truth of the Gospel.
Allegiance to Jesus: Resisting the False Justice Movement (Rev. 17)
By Mike Bickle1749:58Allegiance to JesusDiscernment in FaithREV 17:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the necessity of allegiance to Jesus amidst the rise of a false justice movement, warning that this movement is a precursor to a more dangerous harlot religion that will lead many away from the truth. He stresses the importance of discerning true justice and compassion as defined by Jesus, rather than the deceptive humanitarian efforts that lack a foundation in the gospel. Bickle calls for the church to maintain fierce loyalty to Christ and to love the truth, as many will fall away due to the allure of false teachings. He encourages believers to stand firm in their faith and to be bold in proclaiming the truth of the gospel, even in the face of societal pressures. The sermon serves as a clarion call for vigilance and commitment to the teachings of Jesus in a time of increasing deception.
The Harlot Babylon: The One-World Religion (With Korean Translation)
By Mike Bickle161:27:53The One-World ReligionDeception in the Last DaysREV 17:1Mike Bickle discusses the prophetic significance of the Harlot Babylon as a symbol of the coming one-world religion, emphasizing the dangers of deception that will lead many believers away from the true faith. He highlights the seductive nature of this false religion, which will unify various faiths under a guise of tolerance and prosperity, while ultimately leading to persecution of true Christians. Bickle warns that this harlot religion will appear attractive and powerful, but it is rooted in demonic influence and will ultimately fail. He calls for the church to be vigilant and prepared to expose this deception, as it poses a grave threat to the faith of many. The sermon encourages believers to understand the implications of Revelation 17 and 18 to safeguard their faith and the faith of others.
The Seven Dooms
By W.J. Erdman0REV 17:1REV 18:24REV 19:11REV 20:1W.J. Erdman preaches on the visions of Babylon and the Beast in Revelation 17, highlighting the judgment of the great harlot and the beast with seven heads and ten horns. The woman symbolizes a corrupt religious system drunk with the blood of saints, leading to her ultimate destruction. The distinction between 'Babylon' as a system and a city is made, emphasizing the need for God's people to come out of her before her final judgment. The sermon delves into the fall of Babylon, the dooms of the Beast, false prophet, and the Dragon, culminating in the final victory of the King of kings and Lord of lords.
Adultery and Apostasy: The Bride and Bridegroom
By Francis Schaeffer0EXO 20:14JER 3:14JHN 3:282CO 11:2EPH 5:22REV 17:1Francis Schaeffer delves into Ephesians 5:21-32, emphasizing the profound connection between Christ and the church as His bride, mirroring the marriage relationship between husband and wife. The Bible portrays believers as individually the bride of Christ and collectively as the church being His bride, highlighting the mystery of Christ as the divine Bridegroom. Schaeffer explores the significance of the bride and Bridegroom symbolism in both the Old and New Testaments, underscoring the beauty of marriage and the deep relationship between God and His people. He addresses the seriousness of sexual immorality in relation to the sacredness of the marriage relationship and the spiritual adultery that occurs when believers turn away from Christ.
The Tribulation, and Those Who Are to Pass Through It.
By William Kelly0ISA 30:30DAN 12:1MAT 24:21LUK 21:20ROM 8:171TH 5:9REV 17:1William Kelly preaches about the great tribulation, emphasizing the distinction between the tribulation that the Christian must endure in this world and the specific trouble at the end of the age that the prophets speak of. He highlights the importance of understanding the unerring testimony of God regarding the final tribulation, which is solely for the Jewish people and not for Christians. Kelly explains the significance of the tribulation falling upon the Jews in the future, the role of Michael the archangel in standing for the children of Daniel's people, and the necessity for the faithful Jewish remnant to escape the impending tribulation by following the Lord's instructions.
(Knowing God's Way) 17. the Seven Pillars of Wisdom
By Zac Poonen0The Bride of ChristWisdomREV 17:1Zac Poonen contrasts the spiritual states of Babylon the Harlot and Jerusalem the Bride of Christ, emphasizing the importance of purity and separation from worldly influences. He outlines the seven pillars of wisdom that define the true church: purity, peaceableness, consideration, willingness to yield, fullness of mercy, steadfastness, and freedom from hypocrisy. Poonen encourages believers to seek divine wisdom, which is essential for building these pillars and becoming part of the Bride of Christ. He stresses that true wisdom is not merely knowledge but a heart transformed by God, leading to genuine actions and relationships. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to pursue wisdom through faith and surrender to God.
How to Deal With Vandals
By Denis Lyle02KI 2:23PSA 105:15PSA 111:10JHN 3:36JHN 15:191CO 4:2GAL 6:7EPH 4:152TI 3:12REV 17:1Denis Lyle preaches on how to deal with vandals, drawing parallels between the church under attack in Revelation and a modern-day church facing hostility. He discusses the story of Elisha facing opposition in Bethel, highlighting the vigorous hostility, vital ministry, and vocal antipathy he encountered. Lyle emphasizes the need for Christians to stand firm in the face of persecution, maintain a faithful ministry that balances grace and judgment, and uphold reverence for God and His servants.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will show unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters - That idolatrous worship is frequently represented in Scripture under the character of a whore or whoredom, is evident from numerous passages which it is unnecessary to quote. See Ch1 5:25; Ezekiel 16:1-63; 23:1-49, etc. The woman mentioned here is called a great whore, to denote her excessive depravity, and the artful nature of her idolatry. She is also represented as sitting upon many waters, to show the vast extent of her influence. See on Rev 17:13 (note).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And there came one of the seven angels that had the seven vials,.... It may be the first of them, since one of the four beasts designs the first of them, in Rev 6:1 though Brightman thinks the fifth angel is meant, because he poured out his vial on the seat of the beast, who is by this angel described; but rather this is the seventh and last angel, concerned in the utter destruction of antichrist: and therefore proposes to John to show him the judgment of the great whore: and talked with me, saying unto me, come hither: he conversed with him in a friendly manner, see Zac 1:9 and desires him to come nearer to him, and go along with him, adding, I will show unto thee the judgment of the great whore; that noted and famous one, known before to John by the names of Jezabel and Babylon, who taught and caused many to commit fornication, Rev 2:20 Rev 14:8 and is no other than Rome Papal; for that a city or state is meant is clear from Rev 17:18 and it is usual for idolatrous or apostate cities to be called whores or harlots, see Isa 1:21 Eze 23:2 and she is called a "great" one, because of the largeness of the Papal see; and because of the multitude of persons, the kings of the earth, and the inhabitants of it, with whom the Romish antichrist has committed spiritual fornication, or idolatry: her "judgment" signifies either her sin and wickedness; in which sense the word is used in Rom 5:16 and which is exposed, Rev 17:5 namely, her idolatry and cruelty; or else her condemnation, and the execution of it, suggested in Rev 17:8 and more largely described in the following chapter: that sitteth upon many waters; which in Rev 17:15 are interpreted of people, multitudes, nations, and tongues, subject to the jurisdiction of Rome; and so several antichristian states are in the preceding chapter signified by the sea, and by rivers and fountains of water: and this is said in reference to Babylon, an emblem of the Romish harlot, which was situated upon the river Euphrates, and is therefore said to dwell upon many waters, Jer 51:13 her sitting here may be in allusion to the posture of harlots plying of men; or may denote her ease, rest, and grandeur, sitting as a queen; and is chiefly expressive of her power and dominion over the kings and nations of the earth, Rev 17:18.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here we have a new vision, not as to the matter of it, for that is contemporary with what came under the three last vials; but as to the manner of description, etc. Observe, 1. The invitation given to the apostle to take a view of what was here to be represented: Come hither, and I will show thee the judgment of the great whore, etc., Rev 17:1. This is a name of great infamy. A whore [in this passage] is one that is married, and has been false to her husband's bed, has forsaken the guide of her youth, and broken the covenant of God. She had been a prostitute to the kings of the earth, whom she had intoxicated with the wine of her fornication. 2. The appearance she made: it was gay and gaudy, like such sort of creatures: She was arrayed in purple, and scarlet colour, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls, Rev 17:4. Here were all the allurements of worldly honour and riches, pomp and pride, suited to sensual and worldly minds. 3. Her principal seat and residence - upon the beast that had seven heads and ten horns; that is to say, Rome, the city on seven hills, infamous for idolatry, tyranny, and blasphemy. 4. Her name, which was written on her forehead. It was the custom of impudent harlots to hang out signs, with their names, that all might know what they were. Now in this observe, (1.) She is named from her place of residence - Babylon the great. But, that we might not take it for the old Babylon literally so called, we are told there is a mystery in the name; it is some other great city resembling the old Babylon. (2.) She is named from her infamous way and practice; not only a harlot, but a mother of harlots, breeding up harlots, and nursing and training them up to idolatry, and all sorts of lewdness and wickedness - the parent and nurse of all false religion and filthy conversation. 5. Her diet: she satiated herself with the blood of the saints and martyrs of Jesus. She drank their blood with such greediness that she intoxicated herself with it; it was so pleasant to her that she could not tell when she had had enough of it: she was satiated, but never satisfied.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
17:1–19:10 The great drama in this section focuses on the powers that are hostile to God and responsible for the persecution and suffering of God’s people. Rome’s power was captivating to many (17:6); John purposely defines Rome’s sins and provides God’s assessment (17:3-18) before outlining its fall (18:1-24) and heaven’s response (19:1-10). 17:1 One of the . . . angels of judgment addresses John and summons him to a new scene in which he sees the coming judgment of the great prostitute, who rules over many waters. Rome, located on the Tiber River, controlled the seats of power and water trade routes throughout the Mediterranean, from the British Isles to the Euphrates River.