Revelation 17:1 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits by many waters.
Once again Hebrews 4:12 comes to mind as I read Revelation and commentary. The commentator puts forth interpretation as fact, and with scripture that is living and active, hard fact with no room for other interpretations or discussions just feels wrong.
Revelation 17:4 The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries.
There is definitely “sin of certainty,” pride going on here, but the trouble is, whose pride? The commentator’s for purporting so unequivocally that his interpretation is accurate? Mine for being so certain that the commentator’s confidence is wrong? Jesus, Help us.
Revelation 17:6 I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of God’s holy people, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus. When I saw her, I was greatly astonished.
Lord, I have never attempted Revelation before because it felt so frightening and different. Now, as I read it, I am curious, questioning, wondering what and why and how. Thank You for giving me a heart of wonder for this difficult text. Help me to continue to draw closer to You in my reading. Amen.
Revelation 17:7 Then the angel said to me: “Why are you astonished? I will explain to you the mystery of the woman and of the beast she rides, which has the seven heads and ten horns.
Have a blessed day.