Revelation 17:2

The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality."

Study Bible

The kings of the earth were immoral with her
This phrase refers to the political leaders and rulers who have engaged in spiritual and moral corruption. In biblical symbolism, "immorality" often represents idolatry and unfaithfulness to God. The "kings of the earth" suggests a global influence, indicating that this immorality is widespread and not limited to a single nation or region. Historically, this can be seen as a critique of political systems that align themselves with corrupt religious practices or ideologies, reminiscent of Old Testament prophecies against nations like Babylon and Tyre (Isaiah 23, Jeremiah 50-51). The imagery of immorality also connects to the Old Testament prophets who often described Israel's unfaithfulness to God in terms of adultery (Hosea 1-3, Ezekiel 16).

and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality.
This part of the verse highlights the pervasive influence of the corrupt system on the general populace. "Those who dwell on the earth" is a phrase used in Revelation to describe people who are opposed to God and His ways (Revelation 3:10, 6:10). The metaphor of being "intoxicated" suggests a loss of moral and spiritual discernment, indicating that the people are not just passively complicit but actively participating in the corruption. The "wine of her immorality" symbolizes the seductive and deceptive nature of the false religious and political systems, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament warnings against being led astray by foreign gods and practices (Proverbs 4:17, Jeremiah 51:7). This imagery also serves as a warning to believers to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the prevailing cultural and spiritual deceptions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Kings of the Earth
These are the rulers and leaders of various nations who have engaged in immoral acts with the symbolic figure described in Revelation 17. They represent political powers that have aligned themselves with corrupt systems.

2. Those Who Dwell on the Earth
This phrase often refers to the general population of the world, particularly those who are not followers of Christ. In this context, it highlights those who are influenced by and participate in the immorality of the symbolic figure.

3. The Woman (Symbolic Figure)
Although not directly mentioned in verse 2, the context of Revelation 17 identifies a symbolic woman, often interpreted as representing a corrupt religious or political system that leads others into immorality.

4. Immorality
This term, from the Greek word "porneia," refers to sexual immorality but is often used metaphorically in Scripture to describe spiritual unfaithfulness or idolatry.

5. Wine of Her Immorality
This symbolizes the seductive and intoxicating nature of the corrupt system's influence, leading people away from God.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Discernment
Believers must be vigilant and discerning about the influences they allow into their lives, recognizing the seductive nature of worldly systems.

Faithfulness to God
Just as the kings and inhabitants were led astray, Christians are called to remain faithful to God, avoiding spiritual adultery.

Understanding Symbolism
Recognizing the symbolic language in Revelation helps believers understand the broader spiritual truths about the battle between good and evil.

Impact of Leadership
The actions of leaders can have a profound impact on their followers, emphasizing the importance of godly leadership.

Call to Holiness
Christians are called to live holy lives, set apart from the immorality that characterizes the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we identify and resist the "wine of immorality" in our own lives today?

2. In what ways do the actions of leaders influence the spiritual direction of a nation or community?

3. How does understanding the symbolic language of Revelation help us apply its truths to our lives?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we remain faithful to God amidst a corrupt world?

5. How do other scriptures, such as 1 John 2:15-17, reinforce the message of Revelation 17:2 regarding worldliness and immorality?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 51
This chapter describes Babylon's fall and the nations' intoxication with her wine, paralleling the imagery in Revelation 17.

Ezekiel 16 and 23
These chapters use the metaphor of unfaithfulness and immorality to describe Israel's idolatry, similar to the symbolic language in Revelation.

1 John 2:15-17
This passage warns against loving the world and its desires, which connects to the idea of being intoxicated by worldly systems.