The woman represents Babylon…a symbolic
reference to a city and false religious system centered in Rome during the
Tribulation Period, according to the footnotes in my Ryrie Study Bible.
Revelation can be a very confusing and disturbing book to study with all the
symbolism that is evident throughout the book. But it is worth digging into…as
is any book in the Bible. As Paul wrote to Timothy…
You should know this, Timothy, that in the
last days there will be very difficult times. ... But you, Timothy, certainly
know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my
faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. You know how much persecution
and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in
Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra--but the Lord rescued me from all of it. Yes, and
everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
But evil people and impostors will flourish. They will deceive others and will
themselves be deceived. But you must remain faithful to the things you have
been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who
taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they
have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in
Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us
what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us
when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare
and equip His people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:1, 10-17
(underline mine for emphasize)
Be prepared. Dig into God’s word—reading,
studying and being taught how to live. Be prepared—like Paul we may…or more
likely…WILL…have to endure persecution. Remain faithful. Don’t be deceived—just
persistently follow Jesus. Know what He wants and expects of you. Read and
study His word to show yourself approved by God. Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive His approval.
Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly
explains the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15.
It is one thing to know and understand God’s
word…and it is another to be able to explain—correctly explain—it to someone
else. That is where studying is important. Choose a mentor who can help you—go beyond
the Sunday sermon. Then pay close attention and learn to share the details of
God’s word with another person. Be a mentor to someone else. Is God challenging
you in your heart to do that?
Prayer
~ Lord Jesus, provide insight into Your word that I would understand details
like those You’ve written in the book of Revelation. Provide me with a mentor
who can challenge me and give me additional insight. One of the greatest joys
in my life is studying Your word. Make it new every morning to me.
© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT)
unless otherwise noted.
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