The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality." The kings of the earthThis phrase refers to the rulers and leaders of the world's nations. In the context of Revelation, these kings symbolize the political powers that align themselves with worldly and ungodly systems. Historically, kings and rulers have often been tempted by power and wealth, leading them to compromise their values. The Greek word for "kings" (βασιλεῖς, basileis) emphasizes authority and dominion, suggesting that these leaders have significant influence over their people. The phrase warns of the dangers of political alliances that prioritize earthly power over divine truth. were immoral with her
The immorality mentioned here is symbolic of spiritual unfaithfulness and idolatry. The Greek word for "immoral" (ἐπόρνευσαν, eporneusan) is often used in the New Testament to describe sexual immorality, but in Revelation, it frequently represents spiritual adultery—turning away from God to worship false idols or systems. This phrase indicates that the kings have engaged in a relationship with the "woman" described in Revelation 17, who represents a corrupt and idolatrous system opposed to God. and those who dwell on the earth
This phrase refers to the general population of the world, particularly those who are not followers of Christ. In Revelation, "those who dwell on the earth" often signifies people who are focused on worldly matters rather than spiritual ones. The Greek word for "dwell" (κατοικοῦντες, katoikountes) implies a settled, permanent residence, suggesting that these individuals are deeply rooted in earthly concerns and values. were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality
The imagery of intoxication here conveys a loss of control and discernment. The Greek word for "intoxicated" (ἐμεθύσθησαν, emethysthesan) suggests being under the influence, leading to impaired judgment. The "wine of her immorality" symbolizes the seductive and corrupting influence of the idolatrous system represented by the "woman." This phrase warns of the dangers of being seduced by worldly pleasures and ideologies, which can lead to spiritual blindness and separation from God. The use of "wine" as a metaphor highlights the alluring yet ultimately destructive nature of sin and idolatry. Persons / Places / Events 1. The Kings of the EarthThese are the rulers and leaders of various nations who have engaged in immoral acts with the symbolic figure described in Revelation 17. They represent political powers that have aligned themselves with corrupt systems. 2. Those Who Dwell on the EarthThis phrase often refers to the general population of the world, particularly those who are not followers of Christ. In this context, it highlights those who are influenced by and participate in the immorality of the symbolic figure. 3. The Woman (Symbolic Figure)Although not directly mentioned in verse 2, the context of Revelation 17 identifies a symbolic woman, often interpreted as representing a corrupt religious or political system that leads others into immorality. 4. ImmoralityThis term, from the Greek word "porneia," refers to sexual immorality but is often used metaphorically in Scripture to describe spiritual unfaithfulness or idolatry. 5. Wine of Her ImmoralityThis symbolizes the seductive and intoxicating nature of the corrupt system's influence, leading people away from God. Teaching Points Spiritual DiscernmentBelievers must be vigilant and discerning about the influences they allow into their lives, recognizing the seductive nature of worldly systems. Faithfulness to GodJust as the kings and inhabitants were led astray, Christians are called to remain faithful to God, avoiding spiritual adultery. Understanding SymbolismRecognizing the symbolic language in Revelation helps believers understand the broader spiritual truths about the battle between good and evil. Impact of LeadershipThe actions of leaders can have a profound impact on their followers, emphasizing the importance of godly leadership. Call to HolinessChristians are called to live holy lives, set apart from the immorality that characterizes the world. Bible Study Questions 1. How can we identify and resist the "wine of immorality" in our own lives today? 2. In what ways do the actions of leaders influence the spiritual direction of a nation or community? 3. How does understanding the symbolic language of Revelation help us apply its truths to our lives? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful to God amidst a corrupt world? 5. How do other scriptures, such as 1 John 2:15-17, reinforce the message of Revelation 17:2 regarding worldliness and immorality? Connections to Other Scriptures Jeremiah 51This chapter describes Babylon's fall and the nations' intoxication with her wine, paralleling the imagery in Revelation 17. Ezekiel 16 and 23These chapters use the metaphor of unfaithfulness and immorality to describe Israel's idolatry, similar to the symbolic language in Revelation. 1 John 2:15-17This passage warns against loving the world and its desires, which connects to the idea of being intoxicated by worldly systems. People JohnPlaces Babylon, PatmosTopics Acts, Adulteries, Adultery, Commit, Committed, Deeds, Desires, Drunk, Drunken, Dwell, Dwellers, Evil, Fornication, Full, Immorality, Inhabitants, Inhabiting, Intoxicated, Kings, Lewd, Lewdness, Sexual, Themselves, Unclean, Whoredom, WineDictionary of Bible Themes Revelation 17:1-2 4544 wine Revelation 17:1-3 4113 angels, agents of judgment Revelation 17:1-5 6239 prostitution Revelation 17:1-18 4125 Satan, agents of 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 17:2 NIVRevelation 17:2 NLTRevelation 17:2 ESVRevelation 17:2 NASBRevelation 17:2 KJV
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