There are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, and the other has not yet come; but when he does come, he must remain for only a little while. There are also seven kings.This phrase introduces a symbolic representation of power and authority. In biblical prophecy, "kings" often symbolize kingdoms or empires. The number seven is significant in Scripture, often representing completeness or perfection. This could suggest a complete series of world powers or a specific sequence of rulers. The context of Revelation, with its apocalyptic imagery, points to these kings as significant figures in the unfolding of God's plan. Dan 2:37-44 You, O king, are the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven… Five have fallen, This indicates that five of these kings or kingdoms have already passed away by the time of John's writing. Historically, this could refer to past empires that have had significant influence over Israel and the biblical narrative, such as Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Greece. Each of these empires played a role in the history of God's people and had fallen by the time of the New Testament. Isa 14:9-11 Sheol beneath is eager to meet you upon your arrival.… one is, The "one is" refers to the current power at the time of John's writing, which would be the Roman Empire. Rome was the dominant world power during the first century and had a significant impact on the early Christian church. This aligns with the historical context of Revelation, written during a time of Roman persecution of Christians. Dan 2:38-39 Wherever the sons of men or beasts of the field… and the other has not yet come. This phrase points to a future kingdom or ruler that had not yet appeared at the time of John's writing. It suggests a prophetic element, indicating that there will be another significant power or leader in the future. This future entity is often interpreted as a final world empire or a specific end-times ruler in eschatological studies. Dan 7:23-24 This is what he said: ‘The fourth beast is a fourth kingdom… But when he does come, This anticipates the arrival of the future king or kingdom. The language suggests an inevitability, emphasizing the certainty of prophetic fulfillment. This future ruler is often associated with the Antichrist in Christian eschatology, a figure who will oppose Christ and His followers. Dan 11:21-23 In his place a despicable person will arise;… he must remain for only a little while. This indicates the temporary nature of this future ruler's reign. Despite the power and influence this king or kingdom may wield, it will be short-lived in the grand scope of God's eternal plan. This aligns with the biblical theme that earthly powers are transient and ultimately subject to God's sovereign will. The brevity of this reign offers hope to believers, affirming that evil will not prevail indefinitely. Jhn 7:33 So Jesus said, “I am with you only a little while longer,… Persons / Places / Events 1. Seven KingsThese represent a sequence of rulers or empires. The number seven often symbolizes completeness in biblical literature, suggesting a complete series of worldly powers. 2. Five Have Fallen This phrase indicates that five of these kings or empires have already passed away or been defeated by the time of John's writing. 3. One Is This refers to the current ruling power at the time of John's vision, often interpreted as the Roman Empire. 4. The Other Has Not Yet Come This king or empire is future from John's perspective, indicating a power that will arise after the Roman Empire. 5. Must Remain for Only a Little While This suggests that the future power will have a brief period of dominance compared to the others. Teaching Points Understanding Prophetic ImageryRecognize that biblical prophecy often uses symbolic language to convey spiritual truths. The sequence of kings represents the transient nature of earthly powers compared to God's eternal kingdom. God's Sovereignty Over History The rise and fall of empires are under God's control. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over all historical events and powers. The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power Earthly kingdoms and rulers are temporary. This should encourage believers to focus on the eternal kingdom of God rather than worldly power. Vigilance and Discernment Christians are called to be vigilant and discerning about the times they live in, understanding that worldly powers can be opposed to God's purposes. Hope in Christ's Return The brevity of the final king's reign points to the hope of Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the symbolism of the seven kings in Revelation 17:10 help us understand the nature of worldly powers?2. In what ways does the prophecy in Daniel 7 provide insight into the vision of the kings in Revelation 17:10? 3. How can understanding the temporary nature of earthly kingdoms influence our daily lives and priorities as Christians? 4. What are some practical ways we can remain vigilant and discerning about the times we live in, as suggested by the imagery in Revelation 17:10? 5. How does the promise of Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom provide hope and encouragement in the face of worldly challenges? Connections to Other Scriptures Daniel 7The vision of the four beasts in Daniel parallels the sequence of empires, providing a prophetic backdrop to the imagery in Revelation. Revelation 13 The beast from the sea in Revelation 13 is often linked to the sequence of kings and empires, symbolizing oppressive worldly powers. 2 Thessalonians 2 The "man of lawlessness" is a figure that some interpret as connected to the final king or power that will arise.
People JohnPlaces Babylon, PatmosTopics Behoveth, Continue, Fall, Fallen, Kings, Reigning, Seven, Seventh, Short, Space, YetDictionary of Bible Themes Revelation 17:1-18 4609 beast, the Library The Present Distress of Nations. "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them with fear, and for looking after those things which are coming to pass on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken" (Luke 21:25, 26). As we have already remarked more than once, prophecy invariably has a double fulfillment at least, and so we believe it is with the one just quoted. Directly, it has reference … Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return The vineyard Labourers. Meditations to Stir us up to Morning Prayer. Epistle iv. To Cyriacus, Bishop. A vision of the King. Covenanting a Duty. The First Great Group of Parables. Conclusion Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness, Suffering Links Revelation 17:10 NIVRevelation 17:10 NLT Revelation 17:10 ESV Revelation 17:10 NASB Revelation 17:10 KJV Revelation 17:10 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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