How can we guard against the allure of worldly power described in Revelation 17:3? Setting the Scene Revelation 17:3: “Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness, and I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns.” The Spirit takes John to a barren place so he can see how seductive, blasphemous power really looks once its glitter is stripped away. The woman (world system) rides the beast (political strength), illustrating how alluring—and dangerous—worldly power can be. Recognizing the Lure • Power offers visibility, influence, and comfort. • It flatters pride: “a woman … sitting” in apparent control. • It pours on luxury (v. 4) to disguise blasphemy. 1 John 2:16 pinpoints the roots: “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.” Why Power Seduces • It sells the illusion of self-sufficiency (Genesis 11:4). • It promises shortcuts to worthy goals (Matthew 4:8-9). • It feeds ego—yet “God opposes the proud” (James 4:6). • It demands misplaced allegiance (Exodus 20:3). Practical Safeguards 1. Cultivate contentment • 1 Timothy 6:6-7—godliness with contentment is great gain. • Regular gratitude dismantles envy. 2. Guard exclusive worship • Matthew 4:10—“Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.” • Test every loyalty that competes with Christ. 3. Choose humble service • Mark 10:43-45—greatness equals servanthood. • Seek unseen acts of kindness. 4. Submit and resist • James 4:7—submit to God, resist the devil. • Daily surrender disarms temptation. 5. Stay accountable in community • Hebrews 3:13—encourage one another daily. • Invite others to question your ambitions. 6. Remember who promotes • Psalm 75:6-7—God exalts and brings down. • Trust His timing; refuse manipulation. Walking in the Opposite Spirit • Practice generosity over accumulation (Acts 4:32-35). • Give God the credit (Psalm 115:1). • Trade control for trust—“Not My will, but Yours” (Luke 22:42). • Live as pilgrims; Babylon is temporary (Philippians 3:20). Anchored in Certain Hope Revelation 17:14: “They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them… and with Him will be His called, chosen, and faithful followers.” Because the Lamb wins, we can resist the beast’s lure today, choosing lasting kingdom authority over fleeting worldly power. |
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