When the Bible says "Babylon is fallen" (
Revelation 14:8,
Revelation 18:2), it's referring to the fall of the corrupt and oppressive systems of the world, represented by Babylon.
In relation to
Revelation 13, the fall of Babylon can be seen as a consequence of the rise and fall of the beasts:
- The Sea Beast (Rome) and the Land Beast (Religion) represent the corrupt systems of power and worship.
- The fall of Babylon portrays the ultimate defeat of these corrupt systems.
-
Revelation 13 and
Revelation 14 present a contrast between the false worship of the beasts and the true worship of God.
In this context:
- The fall of Babylon represents the liberation from oppressive systems.
-
Revelation 13 warns against the temptation to worship the beasts (the corrupt systems).
-
Revelation 14 announces the ultimate victory of God and the Lamb over these systems.
By connecting the fall of Babylon to
Revelation 13, we see a narrative of:
- Corruption and oppression (
Revelation 13)
- Judgment and defeat (
Revelation 14)
- Ultimate victory and redemption (
Revelation 15-22)