FUTURE COLLAPSE OF THE ONE WORLD ECONOMY
In Revelation 18, John recorded his vision of the fall of commercial Babylon. Babylon represents humanity’s Satan-inspired attempt to create a one world religion, government, and economy that glorifies man instead of God.
Man’s first attempt at creating Babylon took place not long after the Flood, when “the whole earth had one language and one speech” (Gen. 11:1). Instead of “filling the earth” (Gen. 9:1), as God had commanded Noah and his progeny, they gathered in one place saying, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower whose top is in the heavens; let us make a name for ourselves” (Gen. 11:4). So God confused their language, so they could not understand one another and caused them to be scattered abroad over the face of the earth. Therefore, their great tower was left unfinished and was called “Babel,” because God confused their language.
This desire for a one world religion, government, and economy, whereby man “makes a name for himself,” attempting to reach the heavens by his own human effort, is the desire for Babylon. Man has attempted to accomplish this throughout human history. Yet, in this age, it seems more possible than ever before.
John described this future world economy saying: “All the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her [Babylon’s] fornication, the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the abundance of her luxury” (Rev. 18:3). He described a time when every nation, every national leader and king, and every merchant would be enticed to enrich themselves at the expense of their own national interest. They would choose to “fornicate” with Babylon to become wealthy, even though it would weaken their own nations.
Isn’t this already happening today? Government leaders being paid by international merchants to support legislation that actually harms the American people? Billionaires turning a blind eye to the land that God has used to bless them, in order to become even more wealthy?
In the last days, the Antichrist will use humanity’s temptation for building Babylon to enslave them. He will use humanity’s desire for security, luxury and wealth to entice them to give up their freedom. He will require that they take his mark, in order to buy and sell goods. And for a short season it will seem wonderful. Yet, it will be judged by God and even though Babylon will appear invincible, it will suddenly fall. Even in “one hour,” she will be “made desolate” (Rev. 18:19).
How should we respond to the progression towards Babylon that we see in the world today? John heard an instruction that seems applicable: “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues” (Rev. 18:4). Don’t let the love of wealth and materialism enslave you! It is good to enjoy the blessings of God, but always remember to give thanks and to put Him first.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we recognize that the present world is moving towards the last days. Help us to be vigilant. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. We are blessed, but we do not glory in our blessings, but in You, from Whom all blessings flow. Strengthen us to spend our time, talent and treasure serving You and Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.