“I saw that the woman was drunk with ... the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus” (v6). In John’s time, many believers were martyred under the authority of the mighty Roman Empire. John’s vision used images of a prostitute (Babylon, symbol of worldly power) and a beast to depict the great evil unleashed when humans use their strength and achievements for sinful purposes. Inevitably, these powers turn against people who refuse to worship them (v4,12).  But, in the end, worldly “winners” end up in self-destruction (v12). 

“The Lamb will triumph over them” (v14). The idols of excess, pleasure, and power promise much but lead to suffering. The rule of the Lamb calls us to “deny ourselves” and serve Him, the giver of Life.