I wish we could end our journey together on a happy note, but it is not to be. We left Satan yesterday defeated and all washed up on the beach (12.18) But he is nothing if not persistent. And now he gathers reinforcements, his partners in crime.

First, the beast from the sea.

Chapter 14 opens the last half of the Apocalypse. The key players have been introduced and the drama continues with a slight change in focus.

In eight brief verses, chapter 15 sets the stage for the final drama, the pouring out of the seven bowls of God’s judgment (plagues, chapter 16). The term “last” (15:1) is “eschatos” in Greek and the basis of the word eschatology, the study of the “last things.”

The destruction of the religious and political systems that oppose God are spelled out in chapters 17-18. Chapter 17 describes the religious and political systems in the end times, and chapter 18 describes God’s judgment against them.

Two of Satan’s associates are mentioned – the shameless prostitute and the red beast.

God’s judgment on apostate religious and political systems (Babylon) is first announced in Rev. 14:8, is reiterated in 16:19, and wrapped up with a detailed explanation in chapter 18. The judgment and destruction of false religion and political systems is the final collapse of civilization itself.

Can you imagine what a difference it would make in our nation if our leaders acted as God’s representatives – spiritual leaders who inspire us to pray, seek justice and live lives dedicated to God! This was God’s intention for the leaders of his people.

Moses began leading as God’s representative when he went to Pharaoh with the message:  “Let my people go!” 

A good person should do good without compromising what is good. Then everyone benefits.  

In God’s Word the “good person” is the one who is made right with God, who, continually filled with His Word and Spirit, is able to live in a way that reflects God’s own goodness.