The term "The Great City" appears in various contexts within the Bible, often symbolizing significant centers of power, influence, and sometimes spiritual opposition to God. This entry explores the biblical references and theological implications of "The Great City" as found in the Scriptures.

1. The Great City in Revelation

The Book of Revelation frequently mentions "The Great City," often in apocalyptic and symbolic terms. Revelation 11:8 states, "Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city—figuratively called Sodom and Egypt—where their Lord was also crucified." Here, "The Great City" is associated with Jerusalem, symbolizing a place of spiritual corruption and opposition to God's prophets.

In Revelation 16:19 , "The Great City" is linked to Babylon: "The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed. And God remembered Babylon the Great and gave her the cup of the wine of the fury of His wrath." This passage portrays "The Great City" as a representation of Babylon, a symbol of worldly power and rebellion against God.

Revelation 17:18 further identifies "The Great City" with Babylon: "And the woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth." This imagery depicts a city of immense influence and authority, often interpreted as a metaphor for a corrupt system or empire opposing God's kingdom.

2. Historical and Theological Interpretations

Historically, "The Great City" has been interpreted as a reference to various cities known for their grandeur and influence, such as Rome or Babylon. These cities were seen as centers of political and economic power, often in opposition to the early Christian church.

Theologically, "The Great City" is understood as a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God. It represents the culmination of human efforts to establish a society independent of divine authority, often characterized by moral decay and spiritual apostasy.

3. Symbolism and Prophetic Significance

In prophetic literature, "The Great City" serves as a warning against the dangers of idolatry, materialism, and the pursuit of power. It is a call for believers to remain faithful to God amidst a world that often prioritizes wealth and influence over spiritual truth.

The destruction of "The Great City" in Revelation signifies God's ultimate victory over evil and the establishment of His righteous kingdom. Revelation 18:10 declares, "In fear of her torment, they will stand at a distance and cry out: 'Woe, woe to the great city, the mighty city of Babylon! For in a single hour your judgment has come.'"

4. The Great City as a Call to Repentance

The depiction of "The Great City" in the Bible serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power. Believers are encouraged to place their trust in God rather than in the fleeting promises of worldly cities and empires.

In summary, "The Great City" in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol representing human ambition, spiritual opposition, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. Through its various references, it challenges readers to reflect on their own allegiances and to seek a deeper commitment to God's eternal purposes.