From Prosperity to Ashes | Revelation 18 | Why Only Christ Can Hold
Jerusalem looked secure—rich with history, spiritual legacy, and splendor. But in Revelation 18, we hear the crash of false security giving way to divine judgment. Like a millstone sinking to the depths, the city’s fall is final. This sermon invites us to examine where we’ve placed our hope, to come out from what cannot save, and to cling to the only one who can hold: Jesus Christ.
Watch the full sermon below:
Wrestling with the Warnings of Revelation 18
Why does Revelation call Jerusalem “Babylon” in chapter 18?
In Revelation, Jerusalem is symbolically referred to as Babylon because it had become spiritually unfaithful and persecuted God’s people—just as Babylon did in the Old Testament. The city that was supposed to be holy had abandoned her covenant with God and now faced judgment for her rejection of the Messiah and the shedding of prophetic blood.
What does it mean to “come out of her” in verse 4?
“Come out of her, my people” is God’s call to his faithful followers to separate themselves from the city’s sins and judgment. It’s a spiritual call to reject the false security of empty religion, corrupt alliances, and worldly comfort—and instead cling to Christ. It’s about holiness, allegiance, and trust in the Lamb.
Why is heaven told to rejoice over judgment?
This rejoicing isn’t over suffering, but over justice. God’s people—especially prophets, apostles, and saints—had been persecuted, rejected, and martyred. Revelation 18:20 celebrates the vindication of God’s people and the righteousness of his judgment against unrepentant rebellion and false religion.
What does this passage mean for us today?
Revelation 18 challenges us to examine where we’ve placed our trust. Are we clinging to routines, systems, or appearances instead of Christ? Are we tempted to find security in comfort and cultural acceptance? The call to “come out” is still relevant: leave behind false hopes and find true refuge in the Lamb who holds firm when all else falls.
Looking for more ways to grow in your faith?
Revelation 18 reminds us that only Christ can hold when everything else fails. Don’t stop here—keep building your foundation on what lasts:
📖 Read this week’s 5-day devotional series based on Revelation 18
🎧 Listen to other sermons from our Revelation series
📚 Explore our Covenant Pathways discipleship classes
🕊️ Plan your visit and rediscover the beauty of biblical worship and Christ-centered preaching
Christ is our unshakable hope. Join us as we seek him together.
