Revelation 17:7-18: Satan’s Divided House Cannot Stand: Part One

Outline

• The mount of the prostitute
• The downfall of the prostitute

Introduction

It was Jesus who said that a house divided against itself cannot stand, Matt. 12:25, and then, ‘And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand?’ Revelation chapter 17 which records the future fall of Babylon, the city of humanity who revolts against God and follows after Satan’s seductions. This city which is an instrument of Satan will itself be destroyed by Satan, v16, ‘And the ten horns that you saw, they and the beast will hate the prostitute. They will make her desolate and naked, and devour her flesh and burn her up with fire.’ The prostitute bride of the beast who was used to seduce the nations into solidarity with the beast will itself be destroyed by the beast. This is the opposite to Christ who redeems, cherishes and dies for His bride, not sells, uses and kills her. Satan’s house will be divided against itself and it will fall. The church is shown this picture in order to remind the saints who are being tempted and torn of the sovereignty of God. Woven into this graphic picture are two very important truths. Firstly, the saints are safe by the election of God and have their names written in the Lamb’s book of life, v8. This is a truth that comes with assurance and responsibilities. And secondly, it is God who puts it into the hearts of the 10 kings to destroy the harlot, v17. Once again this gives assurance and responsibilities. There are lots of different views on the beast and the harlot, but no matter your view, these are the take away truths.