'Rev 18:9-24

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Reactions to Babylon’s fall (Rev 18:9-19:5)

Those who grew prosperous through their commerce with the city weep and mourn at its destruction. The rulers of the nations stand afar off, watching the destruction but doing nothing to help the city in its distress (Rev 18:9-10).

Merchants and businessmen mourn for the burning city, not because they have any love for it, but because they have no more market for their goods. Like the rulers they are guided by motives that are entirely selfish. They are distressed only because of their loss of profits (Rev 18:11-16).

Ship-owners and others who profit from international trade likewise mourn because their source of gain has suddenly been cut off (Rev 18:17-19).

Christians see the city differently. Because they stood firm for God and refused to follow the ways of the world, they rejoice that Babylon has been overthrown. For them the occasion is one of victory (Rev 18:20).

With the destruction of Babylon, sinful human society exists no more. All activities cease, whether connected with recreation, work, or the everyday affairs of life. Merchants and businessmen are especially condemned, since they are the ones who, through their greed, corrupted the city (Rev 18:21-23).

But the main reason for the city’s destruction is that it attacked God’s people (Rev 18:24).

The scene then shifts to heaven, where there is much rejoicing and praise. God’s justice has been demonstrated in the fitting punishment of those who rebelled against his rule and persecuted his people (Rev 19:1-3).

Although the Christians have triumphed, the one who has given them victory is God. He alone is the object of worship, whether offered by heavenly beings or his redeemed people (Rev 18:4-5).