In Revelation chapter 17, ten mysterious kings rule for a short time, then consolidate their power in the hands of a great beast. They then rally their forces, all their might and power, and make war upon Jesus and His people.
Not only that, but in this endeavor they are guided and overseen by a cryptic character whose description is as disturbing as it is exotic, “She had a gold cup in her hand filled with everything vile…” and she is “drunk on the blood of the saints…and the witnesses to Jesus” (vv 4, 6)
Where is the hope in this chapter filled with blood and chaos and confusion? It’s found in one little verse with big implications.
These will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will conquer them because He is Lord of lord and King of kings. Those with Him are called and elect and faithful. (Revelation 17:14)
You see, if you are in Christ (WITH Jesus) that means you’ve been called by God! He has desired to draw you to Himself because He wants to show you His love.
Not only that, but you are elect, chosen specifically before you were even born, because God wants to give you His salvation.
Finally, this passage shows that if you’re in Christ, you are faithful, able to stick with Jesus because He is sticking with you, giving you the power to be faithful to Him.
What does this all mean in a practical way? It means that no matter what your enemy the devil throws at you, you can be confident in the hope of this truth.
Jesus chose you to conquer with Him.
–Pastor Phillip
