“… for God has put it into their hearts to carry out his purpose by being of one mind and handing over their royal power to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled.” — Revelation 17:17
I have been reading The Revelation of Jesus Christ for the last three months and have thoroughly enjoyed it. So many encouraging and challenging passages. I was particularly encouraged by the verse above — let me explain.
Chapter 17 is a wild chapter — talking about the great prostitute and the beast. This great prostitute is seated on many waters and the kings of the earth have sinned sexually with her. Next, it talks about ten kings who give their power to the beast. Most commentators believe the beast is a reference to the antichrist. At the end of the chapter, an angel explains John’s vision.
God’s Absolute Control
As we read Revelation (Chapter 17) it’s clear that evil forces and people are up to no good. In addition, it even says these evil forces are waging war against Jesus.
But, look at God’s absolute control over this scene of evil in verse 17. Two phrases in particular caught my eye, “God has put it into their hearts to carry out his purpose” and “until the words of God are fulfilled.” Ten kings are bringing the beast to power to make war against Jesus. That sounds like a bad situation. However, God is in absolute control of that.
God is in absolute control of the evil and wickedness we see around us today. The hatred, murder and hypocrisy; God is allowing and using that to accomplish His purposes. That will be true in Revelation 17 and it is true today. Whatever hardship is in your life, know that God is allowing that evil for a time, in order to perfectly carry out His purposes.
I rest in that. I trust you do, too, Church.
Posted in A Word from the Pastor