Revelation 18:24

And there was found in her the blood of prophets and saints, and of all who had been slain on the earth.

Study Bible

And there was found
The phrase "And there was found" suggests a discovery or revelation of something hidden. In the Greek, the word "found" (εὑρέθη, heurethē) implies a judicial examination or a divine uncovering. This indicates that the judgment upon Babylon is not arbitrary but based on evidence that has been revealed. The uncovering of this evidence is a divine act, showing God's omniscience and justice.

in her
The pronoun "her" refers to Babylon, symbolizing a corrupt system or city that stands in opposition to God. Historically, Babylon was a literal city known for its wealth, power, and idolatry. In Revelation, it represents a broader system of worldly corruption and rebellion against God. The use of "her" personifies this system, emphasizing its seductive and deceptive nature.

the blood of prophets and saints
The "blood of prophets and saints" signifies the persecution and martyrdom of God's faithful servants. Prophets, in the biblical context, are those who speak God's truth, often facing opposition. Saints refer to all believers who are set apart for God. The Greek word for "blood" (αἷμα, haima) is often used to denote life given or taken violently. This phrase underscores the gravity of Babylon's sins, as it has been responsible for the death of those who bore witness to God's truth.

and of all who had been slain
This phrase expands the indictment against Babylon to include all innocent bloodshed. The Greek word for "slain" (ἐσφαγμένων, esphagmenōn) conveys the idea of slaughter or sacrifice, often used in the context of martyrdom. It highlights the extent of Babylon's violence and injustice, encompassing not only the prophets and saints but all victims of its tyranny.

on the earth
The phrase "on the earth" indicates the global impact of Babylon's influence and corruption. It suggests that the reach of this system is not limited to a single location but affects the entire world. This aligns with the apocalyptic vision of Revelation, where the struggle between good and evil is universal. The earth, in biblical symbolism, often represents humanity and the realm of human activity, emphasizing the widespread nature of Babylon's sins.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon the Great
Symbolic of a corrupt and oppressive system or city, often interpreted as representing the epitome of human rebellion against God. In Revelation, Babylon is depicted as a harlot and a city of great wealth and sinfulness.

2. Prophets
God's messengers who were often persecuted and killed for delivering His messages. They represent those who speak God's truth in the face of opposition.

3. Saints
Believers in Christ who are set apart for God's purposes. They often face persecution and martyrdom for their faith.

4. The Slain
Refers to all those who have been unjustly killed, particularly those who have suffered for righteousness' sake.

5. Judgment
The event of divine retribution against Babylon for her sins, including the shedding of innocent blood.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
The passage highlights the severe consequences of sin, particularly the sin of shedding innocent blood. It serves as a warning against participating in or supporting systems that oppress and persecute God's people.

God's Justice
God's justice is assured. Though it may seem delayed, Revelation 18:24 assures believers that God will avenge the blood of His prophets and saints.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Christ may lead to persecution and even martyrdom. Believers are called to remain faithful, knowing that their sacrifices are not in vain.

The Call to Holiness
As saints, believers are called to live lives set apart from the corrupt systems of the world, maintaining purity and righteousness.

Hope in God's Sovereignty
Despite the apparent triumph of evil, believers can have hope in God's ultimate sovereignty and His plan to bring about justice and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the depiction of Babylon in Revelation 18:24 challenge us to examine the systems and structures we are part of today?

2. In what ways can we, as modern-day believers, identify with the prophets and saints mentioned in this verse?

3. How does the promise of God's justice in Revelation 18:24 encourage you in your personal walk with Christ?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure you are living a life set apart from the corrupt influences of the world?

5. How can the themes of persecution and martyrdom in Revelation 18:24 deepen your understanding of the cost of discipleship and your commitment to Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 23:35
Jesus speaks of the blood of the righteous, from Abel to Zechariah, being upon the generation that rejects Him, highlighting the continuity of persecution against God's people.

Revelation 6:9-11
The souls of the martyrs cry out for justice, connecting to the theme of divine retribution against those who shed innocent blood.

Jeremiah 51:49
Babylon is held accountable for the slain of Israel, paralleling the judgment pronounced in Revelation.