Chapter 17
Chapter Outline
One of the angels who had the vials, (1–6)
explains the meaning of the former vision of
the antichristian beast that was to reign 1260
years, and then to be destroyed.
And interprets the mystery of the woman, (7–18)
and the beast that had seven heads and ten
horns.Verses 1–6
Rome clearly appears to be meant in this chapter. Pagan Rome subdued and ruled with military
power, not by art and flatteries. She left the nations in general to their ancient usages and worship.
But it is well known that by crafty and politic management, with all kinds of deceit of
unrighteousness, papal Rome has obtained and kept her rule over kings and nations. Here were
allurements of worldly honour and riches, pomp and pride, suited to sensual and worldly minds.
Prosperity, pomp, and splendour, feed the pride and lusts of the human heart, but are no security
against the Divine vengeance. The golden cup represents the allurements, and delusions, by which
this mystical Babylon has obtained and kept her influence, and seduced others to join her
abominations. She is named, from her infamous practices, a mother of harlots; training them up to
idolatry and all sorts of wickedness. She filled herself with the blood of the saints and martyrs of
Jesus. She intoxicated herself with it; and it was so pleasant to her, that she never was satisfied.
We cannot but wonder at the oceans of Christian blood shed by men called Christians; yet when
we consider these prophecies, these awful deeds testify to the truth of the gospel. And let all beware
of a splendid, gainful, or fashionable religion. Let us avoid the mysteries of iniquity, and study
diligently the great mystery of godliness, that we may learn humility and gratitude from the example
of Christ. The more we seek to resemble him, the less we shall be liable to be deceived by antichrist.
Verses 7–14
The beast on which the woman sat was, and is not, and yet is. It was a seat of idolatry and
persecution, and is not; not in the ancient form, which was pagan: yet it is; it is truly the seat of
idolatry and tyranny, though of another sort and form. It would deceive into stupid and blind
submission all the inhabitants of the earth within its influence, except the remnant of the elect. This
beast was seven heads, seven mountains, the seven hills on which Rome stands; and seven kings,
seven sorts of government. Five were gone by when this prophecy was written; one was then in
being; the other was yet to come. This beast, directed by the papacy, makes an eighth governor,
and sets up idolatry again. It had ten horns, which are said to be ten kings who had as yet no
kingdoms; they should not rise up till the Roman empire was broken; but should for a time be very
zealous in her interest. Christ must reign till all enemies be put under his feet. The reason of the