Revelation 17

Therefore, we can see that this beast represents two different things. First, it represents all evil empires and authorities in the world; and second, it represents the “eighth king,” or antichrist. These two things are really the same, because every evil emperor or authority is, in a sense, an antichrist. The main antichrist is a powerful evil spirit, who is Satan’s chief helper. But there are also many lesser antichrists who serve Satan⁴⁰ (see 1 John 2:18).

12-13 The ten horns of the beast represent ten kings. It is possible that these ten kings are the same as the kings from the East mentioned in Revelation 16:12. Or they might be the kings who give their power and authority to the beast—that is, who make themselves servants of the beast (verse 13). The reign of these kings will be very short—only one hour!

14 These kings who have given their authority to the beast will make war against Christ the Lamb. But Christ and His followers will overcome them (Revelation 2:2627).

15-16 The prostitute, Rome, sits on many waters (verse 1); that is, she rules over many peoples and nations. But the beast with its ten horns (kings) will begin to despise the prostitute, and in the end it will destroy her. This is an amazing thing, because at first the beast and the prostitute had been partners (see verse 3). From this we can see that evil people and evil powers turn against each other in the end and destroy each other. This has happened many times in the history of the world.

17 God is the one who will cause the ten kings to give their power and authority to the beast (verse 13). God will also cause the beast and its ten kings to turn against the prostitute and destroy her. All power and authority ultimately belongs to God. God uses even evil spirits and evil powers to accomplish His purposes.

18 See verse 1 and comment.