Revelation 17:10

There are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come; but when he does come, he must remain for only a little while.

Study Bible

There are also seven kings
The phrase "seven kings" is symbolic and has been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history. The number seven often represents completeness or perfection in biblical literature, suggesting a complete series of rulers or empires. In the context of Revelation, these kings could symbolize earthly powers or kingdoms that have significant influence over the world. The Greek word for "kings" (βασιλεῖς, basileis) can refer to literal monarchs or metaphorically to powerful leaders or empires. Historically, this has been linked to the succession of empires that have dominated biblical history, such as Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome.

Five have fallen
This phrase indicates that five of these kings or kingdoms have already passed away or lost their power. The use of "fallen" (ἔπεσαν, epesan) suggests a downfall or defeat, which is consistent with the biblical theme of the rise and fall of earthly powers under God's sovereign plan. Historically, this could refer to past empires that have risen and fallen before the time of John's writing, emphasizing the transient nature of human power compared to God's eternal kingdom.

one is
The phrase "one is" suggests the presence of a current power or kingdom at the time of John's writing. This is often interpreted as the Roman Empire, which was the dominant power during the late first century when Revelation was written. The Greek word for "is" (ἐστίν, estin) indicates a present reality, highlighting the immediate context of the prophecy and the relevance of the message to John's original audience.

the other has not yet come
This part of the verse points to a future power or kingdom that has not yet appeared. The anticipation of a coming ruler or empire aligns with the prophetic nature of Revelation, which often looks forward to future events. The Greek phrase "has not yet come" (οὔπω ἦλθεν, oupō ēlthen) suggests an expectation of future developments in the unfolding of God's plan for history.

but when he does come, he must remain for only a little while
This final phrase indicates that the future king or kingdom will have a brief period of influence. The Greek word for "remain" (μείνῃ, meinē) implies a temporary stay, reinforcing the idea that all earthly powers are ultimately transient. The phrase "for only a little while" (ὀλίγον, oligon) emphasizes the limited duration of this future power, contrasting with the eternal reign of Christ. This serves as a reminder to believers of the temporary nature of worldly authority and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Seven Kings
These represent a sequence of rulers or empires. The number seven often symbolizes completeness in biblical literature, suggesting a complete series of worldly powers.

2. Five Have Fallen
This phrase indicates that five of these kings or empires have already passed away or been defeated by the time of John's writing.

3. One Is
This refers to the current ruling power at the time of John's vision, often interpreted as the Roman Empire.

4. The Other Has Not Yet Come
This king or empire is future from John's perspective, indicating a power that will arise after the Roman Empire.

5. Must Remain for Only a Little While
This suggests that the future power will have a brief period of dominance compared to the others.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophetic Imagery
Recognize that biblical prophecy often uses symbolic language to convey spiritual truths. The sequence of kings represents the transient nature of earthly powers compared to God's eternal kingdom.

God's Sovereignty Over History
The rise and fall of empires are under God's control. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over all historical events and powers.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power
Earthly kingdoms and rulers are temporary. This should encourage believers to focus on the eternal kingdom of God rather than worldly power.

Vigilance and Discernment
Christians are called to be vigilant and discerning about the times they live in, understanding that worldly powers can be opposed to God's purposes.

Hope in Christ's Return
The brevity of the final king's reign points to the hope of Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolism of the seven kings in Revelation 17:10 help us understand the nature of worldly powers?

2. In what ways does the prophecy in Daniel 7 provide insight into the vision of the kings in Revelation 17:10?

3. How can understanding the temporary nature of earthly kingdoms influence our daily lives and priorities as Christians?

4. What are some practical ways we can remain vigilant and discerning about the times we live in, as suggested by the imagery in Revelation 17:10?

5. How does the promise of Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom provide hope and encouragement in the face of worldly challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 7
The vision of the four beasts in Daniel parallels the sequence of empires, providing a prophetic backdrop to the imagery in Revelation.

Revelation 13
The beast from the sea in Revelation 13 is often linked to the sequence of kings and empires, symbolizing oppressive worldly powers.

2 Thessalonians 2
The "man of lawlessness" is a figure that some interpret as connected to the final king or power that will arise.