December 28-December 31

Revelation: A Celebration That Will Never End
Revelation 17-22
Brian Magnuson, PhD
Dothan, Alabama


It is amazing what impresses people today. It has always been that way. Revelation 17 acknowledges that many nations were “intoxicated” (2) by Rome’s affluence (4). But this lavish lifestyle was built upon the backs of the poor and downtrodden and for that Rome will be judged harshly. Rome will also experience God’s severe hand because she is, “drunk with the blood of the saints” (6). As the persecution against Christians in Asia Minor continues, God proclaims his intolerance with such behavior. Many nations will ally themselves with Rome but they will suffer the same fate of the mighty empire; that is, “the Lamb will overcome them” (14) and with God will reign all of those who have not given up but have endured with Him to the very end.

The evidence of Rome’s downfall is recorded in the 18th chapter as a funeral dirge is offered on her behalf. The warning to Christians is once again announced, “Come out of her, my people” (4), a warning against compromise and assimilation. The sadness at the funeral of Rome shows the confused state of life without God. Many mourn for the once mighty empire but their sorrow is not so much for Rome as it is for their own lost opportunities to make a profit.

While there is sadness on earth over the destruction of a once mighty nation, chapter 19 announces rejoicing in heaven. “Salvation, glory and power” (1) were once claimed by the Roman Emperor but now only belong to God. All that is left of Rome is “smoke” that goes up for ever and ever (3). A multitude of martyrs shout, “Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory” (7). They can rejoice because Jesus is seen riding on a white horse. He takes the beast (Roman Emperor) and false prophet (Local authorities) and throws them into the “fiery lake of burning sulfur” (19-20).

Chapter 20 shows us the next series of events that take place, revealing the ultimate rule of God. Satan is restricted by God from being able to carry out persecution on the church for a limited time (1000 years). This 1000 years is symbolic of a time of rest for the church at the conclusion of Satan’s torture by Rome. Those who have been beheaded (i.e. the martyrs) are privileged to go immediately and reign with God (4). The rest of the dead will wait for the general resurrection (11-15). The great revelation of God now moves from the history of man on this fallen earth to the end of time. Satan is flung into hell where all of those who have followed him will spend eternity (7-10).

For those whose names are written in the Book of Life, they are pictured as a beautiful city coming down from God. Chapter 21 expresses the greatest joy of heaven; eternity in the presence God (3).

The Tree of Life, once forbidden in the Garden of Eden (Genesis) now is offered freely in heaven (Revelation 22:2). God concludes this wonderful letter the way it started. He sees the plight of His people, cares very much and is moved to action on their behalf. God will not tolerate sin, rebellion and persecution. He will come soon to relieve their suffering in this life and ultimately will reward them for their faithfulness.

[Dr. Brian Magnuson lives in Dothan, Alabama where he preaches for the Westgate Church of Christ. Prior to moving to Dothan, Brian preached for the McKnight Road church in St. Louis. He is the proud father of two children, Destin and Kade.]