These kings have one purpose: to yield their power and authority to the beast. These kingsThe phrase "these kings" refers to the ten kings mentioned earlier in Revelation 17:12. In the prophetic vision given to John, these kings symbolize rulers or leaders who will rise to power in the end times. Historically, the number ten often represents completeness or totality, suggesting a coalition of world powers. The Greek word for "kings" is "basileis," which denotes sovereign rulers. In the context of Revelation, these kings are not just political figures but are part of a larger spiritual battle against God's kingdom. have one purpose
The phrase "have one purpose" indicates a unified intention or goal among these kings. The Greek word for "purpose" is "gnomē," which can also mean mind, intention, or resolve. This unity of purpose is significant because it shows a collective decision to align against God’s plan. Historically, such alliances have been seen in various empires and coalitions that opposed God's people, but this ultimate alliance is unique in its global scale and spiritual implications. to yield their power and authority
"To yield their power and authority" suggests a voluntary submission or transfer of control. The Greek word for "yield" is "didōmi," meaning to give or grant. This act of yielding indicates a conscious decision by these kings to support the beast, which is a representation of the antichrist or a satanic system. The terms "power" (Greek: "dynamis") and "authority" (Greek: "exousia") highlight the extent of control and influence these kings possess, which they willingly hand over to the beast. This reflects a historical pattern where earthly powers often submit to greater evil for perceived gain or survival. to the beast
The "beast" is a central figure in the apocalyptic narrative of Revelation, symbolizing the antichrist or a final world empire opposed to God. The Greek word "thērion" for "beast" conveys a sense of wildness and brutality. In the scriptural context, the beast represents not just a person but a system or government that embodies rebellion against God. This imagery is consistent with Daniel's visions of beasts representing empires that oppose God's people. The act of yielding power to the beast signifies a climactic moment in the spiritual warfare depicted in Revelation, where earthly powers align with satanic forces in opposition to Christ's return and ultimate victory. Persons / Places / Events 1. The KingsThese are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom but will receive authority as kings for one hour with the beast. They symbolize earthly rulers who align themselves with the beast. 2. The BeastRepresents a powerful, anti-God entity or system, often interpreted as a political or religious power opposing Christ and His followers. 3. The PurposeThe unified purpose of these kings is to give their power and authority to the beast, signifying a collective rebellion against God. Teaching Points Unity in RebellionThe kings' unified purpose to support the beast illustrates how worldly powers often unite in opposition to God's kingdom. Believers should be aware of the spiritual forces at work in the world. Temporary AuthorityThe kings' authority is temporary ("one hour"), reminding us that earthly power is fleeting compared to God's eternal kingdom. Discernment and AllegianceChristians are called to discern where their allegiance lies, ensuring it is with Christ rather than worldly systems that oppose Him. Spiritual WarfareThis passage highlights the reality of spiritual warfare, encouraging believers to remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith. Hope in God's SovereigntyDespite the apparent power of the beast and the kings, God's ultimate sovereignty assures us of His victory and the futility of opposing Him. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the temporary nature of the kings' authority in Revelation 17:13 influence our understanding of worldly power and success? 2. In what ways can Christians today be tempted to yield their "power and authority" to worldly systems or ideologies? 3. How does the unity of the kings in their purpose challenge us to consider the unity within the body of Christ? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our allegiance remains with Christ amidst a culture that often opposes Him? 5. How do the themes of rebellion and divine sovereignty in Revelation 17:13 encourage us in our daily walk with God? Connections to Other Scriptures Daniel 7The vision of the four beasts and the little horn parallels the imagery in Revelation, highlighting the theme of earthly powers opposing God. Revelation 13Describes the beast and its authority, providing context for the allegiance of the kings in Revelation 17:13. Psalm 2Depicts the nations conspiring against the Lord and His Anointed, echoing the rebellion seen in Revelation 17. People JohnPlaces Babylon, PatmosTopics Authority, Beast, Common, Mind, Policy, Power, Purpose, Strength, WildDictionary of Bible Themes Revelation 17:1-18 4125 Satan, agents of Revelation 17:7-13 4627 creatures Revelation 17:7-14 4609 beast, the
9115 antichrist, the Revelation 17:12-14 2372 Christ, victory Revelation 17:12-17 4654 horn Library The Present Distress of Nations.
"And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them with fear, and for looking after those things which are coming to pass on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken" (Luke 21:25, 26). As we have already remarked more than once, prophecy invariably has a double fulfillment at least, and so we believe it is with the one just quoted. Directly, it has reference …
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's ReturnThe vineyard Labourers.
"For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the market-place, and said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. …
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord Meditations to Stir us up to Morning Prayer.
1. If, when thou art about to pray, Satan shall suggest that thy prayers are too long, and that therefore it were better either to omit prayers, or else to cut them shorter, meditate that prayer is thy spiritual sacrifice, wherewith God is well pleased (Heb. xiii. 15, 16;) and therefore it is so displeasing to the devil, and so irksome to the flesh. Bend therefore thy affections (will they, nill they) to so holy an exercise; assuring thyself, that it doth by so much the more please God, by how much …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Epistle iv. To Cyriacus, Bishop.
To Cyriacus, Bishop. Gregory to Cyriacus, Bishop of Constantinople. We have received with becoming charity our common sons, George the presbyter and Theodore your deacon; and we rejoice that you have passed from the care of ecclesiastical business to the government of souls, since, according to the voice of the Truth, He that is faithful in a little will be faithful also in much (Luke xvi. 10). And to the servant who administers well it is said, Because thou hast been faithful over a few things, …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great A vision of the King.
ONE of the most blessed occupations for the believer is the prayerful searching of God's holy Word to discover there new glories and fresh beauties of Him, who is altogether lovely. Shall we ever find out all which the written Word reveals of Himself and His worthiness? This wonderful theme can never be exhausted. The heart which is devoted to Him and longs through the presence and indwelling of the Holy Spirit to be closer to the Lord, to hear and know more of Himself, will always find something …
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory Covenanting a Duty.
The exercise of Covenanting with God is enjoined by Him as the Supreme Moral Governor of all. That his Covenant should be acceded to, by men in every age and condition, is ordained as a law, sanctioned by his high authority,--recorded in his law of perpetual moral obligation on men, as a statute decreed by him, and in virtue of his underived sovereignty, promulgated by his command. "He hath commanded his covenant for ever."[171] The exercise is inculcated according to the will of God, as King and …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting The First Great Group of Parables.
(Beside the Sea of Galilee.) Subdivision B. Parable of the Sower. ^A Matt. XIII. 3-23; ^B Mark IV. 3-25; ^C Luke VIII. 5-18. ^a Behold, ^c 5 The sower went forth to sow his seed [Orientals live in cities and towns. Isolated farmhouses are practically unknown. A farmer may therefore live several miles from his field, in which case he literally "goes forth" to it]: ^b 4 And it came to pass, as he sowed, some seed { ^a seeds } fell by the way side, ^c and it was trodden under foot, and the birds of …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Conclusion
"Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth" (Rev. 19:6). In our Foreword to the Second Edition we acknowledge the need for preserving the balance of Truth. Two things are beyond dispute: God is Sovereign, man is responsible. In this book we have sought to expound the former; in our other works we have frequently pressed the latter. That there is real danger of over-emphasising the one and ignoring the other, we readily admit; yea, history furnishes numerous examples of cases of each. To emphasise …
Arthur W. Pink—The Sovereignty of God Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness, Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 5, 5-11. 5 Likewise, ye younger, be subject unto the elder. Yea, all of you gird yourselves with humility, to serve one another: for God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; 7 casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 whom withstand stedfast …
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III Links Revelation 17:13 NIVRevelation 17:13 NLTRevelation 17:13 ESVRevelation 17:13 NASBRevelation 17:13 KJV
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