UNITY, POWER & WEALTH (ARMS OF WISE SATAN)

Study: Revelation 17: 1 — 18.

The study of Revelation 17:1-18 offers deep insights into the mysterious working of evil forces in the end times, particularly through the metaphor of the great harlot, Babylon. In this content, we will explore the concepts of unity, power, and wealth, often manipulated by Satan, referred to here as the Wise Satan, to deceive humanity and establish a one-world system. In addition, we will delve into the themes of universalism, globalism, and the new world order, as reflected in the Bible. This teaching helps unveil the gospel’s message from Revelation 17 and sheds light on the signs of the last days.

Let's define and explain some terms we will be using or talking about:

1. UNITY

   Unity refers to the state of being one or united. From a spiritual perspective, unity can have both positive and negative connotations. Positive unity refers to being united in Christ, as instructed in Ephesians 4:3, where believers are called to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. However, Satan perverts this idea of unity by bringing together people in rebellion against God’s authority, as seen in Revelation 17 with Babylon's deceptive influence. This false unity binds people under a universal false religion or system.

2. POWER

   Power is the ability to influence or control the behavior of others. The Bible speaks about both divine and satanic power. In this context, power refers to the authority Satan exercises over worldly systems to manipulate and control nations. Revelation 17 portrays Satan’s power in the form of a beast, symbolizing oppressive empires throughout history. The wise Satan exploits political power to establish dominion.

3. WEALTH

   Wealth is the abundance of valuable possessions or money. While wealth can be a blessing from God (Proverbs 10:22), it can also become a snare when pursued outside of God’s will. In Revelation 17, wealth plays a significant role in Babylon's influence, as she seduces kings and nations with her luxurious lifestyle. Wealth, when wielded by the wise Satan, leads to corruption and rebellion against God.

4. ARMS

   The term "arms" refers to the instruments or strategies used to accomplish a goal. Here, it symbolizes the means by which Satan, in his wisdom, unites and manipulates humanity. The arms of unity, power, and wealth are Satan’s tools to deceive the world into accepting his rule.

5. WHY IS HE CALLED WISE SATAN?

   Satan is often called wise because of his cunning and deceptive nature. Ezekiel 28:12 describes the king of Tyre, a symbolic representation of Satan, as full of wisdom. Satan uses his knowledge and insight to craft subtle lies and manipulate the systems of the world to achieve his purpose of drawing people away from God.

6. UNIVERSALISM

   Universalism is the belief that all religions and belief systems ultimately lead to God or salvation. This ideology promotes religious unity, regardless of doctrinal differences. Satan uses this concept to push a one-world religion, aligning with the prophetic events in Revelation where Babylon represents a false religious system.

7. GLOBALISM

   Globalism is the political and economic ideology that advocates for a unified world government. This plays into Satan’s plan as Revelation 17 reveals the global control exerted by the beast and Babylon over the nations. Globalism is a step towards establishing the new world order, which will unite the world under the control of the Antichrist.

8. NEW WORLD ORDER 

   The New World Order refers to a future global government system, predicted in the Bible, that will be led by the Antichrist. This system, built on globalism, will consolidate power, wealth, and religion into one, deceiving humanity into rejecting God.

ACCORDING TO THE GOSPEL IN REVELATION 17 TO THE END

Revelation 17 describes the judgment of the great harlot, Babylon, who symbolizes the corrupt systems of the world. Her influence reaches the kings of the earth, leading them into sin and rebellion against God. But despite her seeming power, the message of the gospel remains firm: God will ultimately judge and destroy these systems, and Christ will reign supreme. Revelation chapters 18 to 22 highlight the fall of Babylon, the return of Christ, and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom; when we study further.

LOOKING AT THE TOWER OF BABEL IN GENESIS

The Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 is a significant precursor to the events of Revelation. It represents humanity’s first attempt at establishing unity apart from God. They sought to build a tower reaching the heavens, symbolizing their pride and self-reliance. Similarly, in Revelation, Babylon symbolizes human pride and rebellion, where the wise Satan uses unity and power to challenge God’s authority.

THE BABYLON SINS OF TODAY

The sins of Babylon manifest today in the pursuit of materialism, false religion, and the corruption of political systems. Nations and individuals are seduced by wealth and power, leading to moral decay. Like ancient Babylon, today's world is filled with idolatry, sexual immorality, and rebellion against God.

THE WORLDWIDE RELIGION 

Revelation predicts the rise of a worldwide religion that will unify all false systems of worship under one banner, controlled by the Antichrist. This religion will be built on the principles of universalism and will oppose the true gospel of Christ. The rise of syncretism and the merging of different faiths are signs of this emerging one-world religion.

SIGNS OF THE LAST DAYS 

Several New Testament passages speak of the signs of the last days:

• Matthew 24:6-8: Jesus speaks of wars, famines, and earthquakes as the beginning of birth pains.
• 2 Timothy 3:1-5: Paul warns that in the last days, people will be lovers of themselves, money, and pleasure rather than lovers of God.
• 1 Timothy 4:1-2: Paul also warns that some will depart from the faith, following deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, a direct reference to the growing influence of false religion.

THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST  

The second coming of Christ will mark the end of this present world system. Revelation 19 describes Christ's return in power and glory to judge the nations and establish His eternal kingdom. This event will bring an end to Satan’s rule and usher in the reign of Christ, fulfilling God’s ultimate plan.

SOCIETY CHANGES AT THE LAST DAYS

Today’s society is witnessing the fulfillment of 1 Timothy 4:1-2, where people are turning away from the truth and embracing false teachings. The rise of moral relativism, rejection of biblical truths, and increasing spiritual deception are evidence that we are living in the last days. The majority of the world is missing out on the eternal life promised by God due to these deceptions.

VAST MAJORITY OF THE WORLD MISSING ETERNITY

Despite the gospel's spread, many will miss eternity because they choose the pleasures of this world over the truth of Christ. Jesus warns in Matthew 7:13-14 that the path to life is narrow, and few find it, while the path to destruction is wide, and many walk on it. This reality should stir believers to share the gospel with urgency.

PRAYER FOR SALVATION

Heavenly Father,  

I recognize my need for a Savior. I acknowledge my sin and believe that Jesus Christ died and rose again for my salvation. I turn from my sin and ask You to cleanse me. Jesus, I invite You into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Guide me by Your Holy Spirit, and help me live a life that pleases You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

PRAYER OF FAITH 

Dear Lord Jesus,  

I stand in faith, trusting in Your promises. I believe You are the way, the truth, and the life. Strengthen my faith, and help me to hold fast to You in these trying times. May my heart be steadfast in serving You, and may I always seek Your will in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

DIDI-OMAH AUGUSTINE CHINAZAEKPERE | 2024