Revelation 18:7

As much as she has glorified herself and lived in luxury, give her the same measure of torment and grief. In her heart she says, 'I sit as queen; I am not a widow and will never see grief.'

Study Bible

As much as she has glorified herself
This phrase highlights the self-exaltation and pride of Babylon, often interpreted as a symbol of worldly power and corruption. The Greek word for "glorified" is "edoxasen," which implies a self-bestowed honor and splendor. Historically, Babylon was known for its grandeur and opulence, often elevating itself above others. In a spiritual context, this self-glorification is a warning against pride and self-reliance, reminding believers of the importance of humility before God.

and lived in luxury
The phrase "lived in luxury" translates from the Greek "estreniasen," indicating a life of excessive indulgence and sensual pleasure. This reflects the materialism and hedonism that characterized ancient Babylon and serves as a metaphor for societies that prioritize wealth and comfort over spiritual values. The historical Babylon was a center of commerce and wealth, and this serves as a cautionary tale for Christians to avoid the trappings of material excess and to seek spiritual richness instead.

give her the same measure of torment and grief
Here, the principle of divine justice is emphasized. The Greek word "basanismon" for "torment" and "penthos" for "grief" suggest a retributive justice that matches the degree of Babylon's self-indulgence and pride. This reflects the biblical theme that God’s justice is proportional and fair. The historical context of Babylon's fall serves as a reminder that no earthly power is immune to God's righteous judgment, encouraging believers to live righteously and trust in God's ultimate justice.

In her heart she says
The phrase "in her heart" indicates an inner attitude or belief, often hidden from outward appearances. The heart, in biblical terms, is the center of thought and intention. This phrase suggests a deep-seated arrogance and self-deception within Babylon. It serves as a warning to believers to guard their hearts against pride and to ensure that their inner thoughts align with God's truth.

‘I sit as queen
The declaration "I sit as queen" reflects a sense of sovereignty and invulnerability. The imagery of a queen suggests authority, power, and a false sense of security. Historically, Babylon was a dominant empire, often seen as invincible. Spiritually, this is a caution against complacency and self-assuredness, reminding Christians that true security and authority come from God alone.

I am not a widow
The claim "I am not a widow" signifies a denial of loss or vulnerability. In ancient times, widowhood was associated with loss and dependency. Babylon's assertion of not being a widow reflects its belief in its enduring power and self-sufficiency. This serves as a metaphor for spiritual arrogance, warning believers against the illusion of self-sufficiency and the denial of their need for God.

and I will never see grief.’
The phrase "I will never see grief" underscores a false confidence in perpetual prosperity and immunity from suffering. This reflects a denial of reality and an overestimation of one's own strength. Historically, Babylon's eventual downfall illustrates the futility of such arrogance. For Christians, this serves as a reminder of the transient nature of worldly power and the importance of relying on God's eternal promises rather than temporal circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Babylon
Symbolic of a great city or system representing human pride, luxury, and opposition to God. In Revelation, it often represents the corrupt world system.

2. The Woman
Represents Babylon, personified as a queen who is arrogant and self-assured, believing herself to be invulnerable.

3. Torment and Grief
The consequences of Babylon's pride and self-indulgence, reflecting divine judgment.

4. The Heart
The inner thoughts and attitudes of Babylon, revealing her self-deception and arrogance.

5. Judgment
The event of divine retribution that Babylon will face due to her pride and self-glorification.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Pride leads to self-deception and false security. Like Babylon, individuals and societies that glorify themselves above God will face consequences.

The Illusion of Invulnerability
Babylon's claim of being a queen and not a widow reflects a false sense of security. Believers should recognize that true security is found in God alone.

The Consequences of Luxury
Living in luxury without regard for God or others can lead to spiritual complacency and eventual judgment.

God's Justice is Certain
The judgment of Babylon assures us that God will ultimately bring justice to those who oppose Him.

Call to Humility
In contrast to Babylon's arrogance, believers are called to live humbly, recognizing their dependence on God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of Babylon in Revelation 18:7 reflect attitudes or systems in today's world?

2. In what ways can pride manifest in our personal lives, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the concept of divine justice in Revelation 18:7 provide comfort or challenge to you in your current circumstances?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure that your security and identity are rooted in God rather than worldly success or luxury?

5. How can the warnings in Revelation 18:7 and its connected scriptures inspire you to live a life of humility and dependence on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 47:7-9
This passage parallels the pride and downfall of Babylon, emphasizing the false security and eventual judgment of those who exalt themselves.

Proverbs 16:18
Highlights the principle that pride precedes destruction, a theme evident in the judgment of Babylon.

James 4:6
Speaks to God's opposition to the proud and His grace to the humble, contrasting the attitude of Babylon with the call to humility.

1 John 2:15-17
Warns against the love of the world and its desires, which are temporary and opposed to the will of God, similar to the indulgence of Babylon.