Revelation 17 Devotional

The Lamb Conquers the Kings

“They will make war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will triumph over them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and He will be accompanied by His called and chosen and faithful ones.””Revelation 17:14 (BSB)

Revelation 17 shows a woman dressed in purple and scarlet, glittering with gold and pearls, holding a gold cup brimming with abominations, drunk on the blood of God's people (17:4-6). Her name is Babylon the great, and she rides a scarlet beast with seven heads and ten horns (17:3, 5). John is utterly amazed at the sight (17:6). Power and wealth can dazzle even a faithful observer.

The angel explains the vision in detail, but the point he lands on is simple. The beast was, is not, and is headed for destruction (17:8, 11). The kings who join it will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them. He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and with him are his called, chosen, and faithful ones (17:14). Even the forces of evil end up carrying out God's purpose until his words are fulfilled (17:17). However impressive the powers arrayed against God's people, their end is already settled. The one who wins is the Lamb, and those who belong to him stand with him.

To think about: What power, wealth, or influence tends to dazzle you, and how does the Lamb's victory put it in perspective?