Revelation Chapter 17

Revelation 17 Summary: Meaning, Themes & Reflection

Explore this passage of Scripture with its full text and meaning. Read these 18 Bible verses from Revelation and discover their timeless wisdom.

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1. Then one of the seven angels with the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits on many waters. 2. The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality.” 3. And the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness, where I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns. 4. The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls. She held in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the impurities of her sexual immorality. 5. And on her forehead a mysterious name was written: BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. 6. I could see that the woman was drunk with the blood of the saints and witnesses for Jesus. And I was utterly amazed at the sight of her. 7. “Why are you so amazed?” said the angel. “I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the beast that carries her, which has the seven heads and ten horns. 8. The beast that you saw—it was, and now is no more, but is about to come up out of the Abyss and go to its destruction. And those who dwell on the earth whose names were not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world will marvel when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet will be. 9. This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits. 10. 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. 11. The beast that was, and now is not, is an eighth king, who belongs to the other seven and is going into destruction. 12. The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but will receive one hour of authority as kings, along with the beast. 13. These kings have one purpose: to yield their power and authority to the beast. 14. They will make war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will triumph over them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and He will be accompanied by His called and chosen and faithful ones.” 15. Then the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute was seated, are peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues. 16. And the ten horns and the beast that you saw will hate the prostitute. They will leave her desolate and naked, and will eat her flesh and burn her with fire. 17. For God has put it into their hearts to carry out His purpose by uniting to give their kingdom to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled. 18. And the woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.”

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18 verses
Revelation 17:1Revelation 17:2Revelation 17:3Revelation 17:4Revelation 17:5Revelation 17:6Revelation 17:7Revelation 17:8Revelation 17:9Revelation 17:10Revelation 17:11Revelation 17:12Revelation 17:13Revelation 17:14Revelation 17:15Revelation 17:16Revelation 17:17Revelation 17:18

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Key Themes and Application

Background

This chapter of Scripture reveals important truths about God's character and His relationship with His people. The 18 Bible verses in this passage offer wisdom that applies to our daily lives.

Main Message

This passage contains timeless wisdom that speaks to believers across generations.

Life Application

  • Read these verses slowly and prayerfully, asking God to speak to you
  • Consider how this passage applies to your current circumstances
  • Journal about what God is teaching you through this Scripture
  • Share these insights with friends or in a small group setting

Reflection Questions

  • What stands out to you most in these 18 Bible verses?
  • How does this passage challenge or encourage you today?
  • What is God inviting you to do or believe through this Scripture?
  • Who in your life needs to hear the message of these verses?

About These 18 Bible Verses

Reading the Bible is more than just checking off a task on your list. When you open these 18 Bible verses from Revelation, you are entering into a conversation with God that has spanned thousands of years.

This chapter of Scripture invites you to slow down and listen. The words on these pages have comforted, challenged, and guided countless believers throughout history. As you read this passage, remember that God speaks through His Word to meet you right where you are.

Many people find it helpful to read these verses multiple times. First, read to understand the overall message. Then read again to notice specific words or phrases that stand out. Finally, read once more asking God to show you how this Scripture applies to your life today.

Why Study This Passage?

For Personal Growth

These 18 Bible verses offer wisdom for your journey. As you meditate on this passage, God uses His Word to shape your character, deepen your faith, and guide your decisions.

For Group Study

This chapter provides rich material for discussion. Reading these Bible verses with others allows you to gain new perspectives and encourage one another in faith.

For Teaching and Preaching

Pastors and teachers find in this passage timeless truths to share. The themes in these verses speak to people of all ages and backgrounds.

For Prayer and Worship

Let these words become your prayer. As you read, turn the verses into conversations with God, thanking Him for His promises and seeking His guidance.

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