How should Revelation 17:7 influence our discernment of worldly powers today? The Scene and the Shock - Revelation 17:7: “Then the angel said to me, ‘Why are you astonished? I will explain to you the mystery of the woman and of the beast she rides, which has the seven heads and ten horns.’” - John’s amazement shows how dazzling, confusing, and intimidating worldly powers can appear. - The angel’s question—“Why are you astonished?”—immediately redirects John, and us, from mere spectacle to spiritual insight. What the Verse Teaches About Worldly Power 1. Worldly systems are mysterious but not unknowable. • The angel promises revelation, not endless speculation. • 1 Corinthians 2:10—“The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” 2. God is willing to unveil what looks overwhelming. • Daniel 2:28—“There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries.” 3. Awe must give way to discernment. • Psalm 73:3,17—Asaph envied the arrogant “until I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end.” Discernment Principles Drawn from the Angel’s Rebuke - Refuse passive astonishment. • Examine headlines, policies, entertainment, and tech through Scripture, not sensation. - Expect deceptive alliances. • The “woman” (false religion/corrupt culture) rides the “beast” (political power). • 2 Thessalonians 2:9–10 warns of counterfeit signs that serve lawlessness. - Look for the spiritual root, not just the political fruit. • Ephesians 6:12 reminds us our struggle is “against the spiritual forces of evil.” - Trust God to supply clarity in His timing. • John did not figure it out by reasoning alone; revelation came from God (James 1:5). Practical Ways to Apply This Discernment Today - Scripture First • Start daily news intake with a passage such as Psalm 2 or Revelation 17 before reading media feeds. - Analyze Narratives • Ask: Does this policy, ideology, or trend exalt human autonomy over God’s authority? - Watch the Partnerships • Note where cultural influencers and political powers merge to marginalize biblical truth. - Guard Your Emotions • Steer clear of fascination that slips into admiration. The angel’s “Why are you astonished?” still probes our hearts. - Speak Truth Graciously • Like the angel, explain—don’t merely react. Colossians 4:6: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” Encouragement from Related Passages - Isaiah 47:10—World powers boast, “No one sees me,” yet God exposes them. - Jeremiah 51:45—“Come out of her, My people,” foreshadows Revelation 18 and confirms God’s call to separation. - Revelation 17:14—The Lamb overcomes; those with Him are “called and chosen and faithful.” Discerning power begins and ends with allegiance to the Lamb. |
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