What does Revelation 18:6 teach about God's justice and retribution? The Key Verse “Give back to her as she has done to others; pay her back double for what she has done; mix her a double portion from her own cup.” – Revelation 18:6 Divine Justice Mirrors Human Deeds • “Give back to her as she has done” echoes the ancient principle of measured retribution (Exodus 21:23–25). • God’s judgments are never arbitrary; they exactly correspond to the nature of the sin committed (Psalm 62:12; Jeremiah 17:10). • The phrase reassures the oppressed that every wrong will be righted without exception (Romans 2:6). Why the “Double Portion”? • Doubled repayment signifies heightened guilt—Babylon’s sins are piled high (Revelation 18:5). • Jeremiah 51:24 employs the same “double” image against historical Babylon, tying together prophetic threads. • “Double” also reminds readers that sin always costs more than it promises (Galatians 6:7). God’s Cup of Retribution • “Mix her a double portion from her own cup” pictures God forcing the wicked to drink what they themselves prepared (Psalm 75:8). • The metaphor underlines personal accountability: evil cannot be outsourced or excused (Revelation 14:10). • It contrasts sharply with the believer’s “cup of salvation” (Psalm 116:13). Retribution Is God’s, Not Ours • Believers are told, “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Romans 12:19). • Revelation 18:6 functions as a heavenly answer to every cry of “How long, O Lord?” (Revelation 6:10). • Our role is patient endurance and separation from Babylon’s sins (Revelation 18:4). Consistent Themes Across Scripture • Isaiah 47:3—God promises to “take vengeance” on Babylon without mercy. • Psalm 137:8—rejoices over Babylon’s coming recompense. • 2 Thessalonians 1:6—“God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you.” Encouragement for Today • Evil systems flaunting wealth and power will meet an exact, intensified judgment. • No injustice slips past God’s ledger; His timing is perfect, His retribution certain. • Trusting this truth frees believers from bitterness and fuels faithful witness in a hostile world. |
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