Babylon Part 2: Confronting Economic Injustice in Revelation and the Modern Church (Revelation Series)

Nov 14, 2023

In this podcast, the hosts discuss various topics related to the book of Revelation. They explore how Rome becomes the new Babylon and examine the downfall of ancient Babylon, Tyre, and Edom. The podcast also touches on deep questions about safety, confidence, and belonging. Additionally, the speakers talk about misinterpretations of Revelation, reasons for leaving the church, coping mechanisms, leadership scandals, and spiritual bypassing. They also dive into the symbolism of Babylon and its representation of rebellion against God, particularly focusing on Rome. The episode concludes with an exploration of engaging with Babylon and the need for discernment in different cultures.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

Desire for Recognition and Engagement

03:09 • 8min

Misinterpretation of Revelation and Reasons for Leaving the Church

10:54 • 28min

Navigating Chaos and Finding Healthy Coping Mechanisms

39:06 • 2min

Airport Observations

41:07 • 5min

Concerns about Leadership Scandals and Spiritual Bypassing

45:50 • 2min

The Symbolism and Downfall of Babylon

47:39 • 31min

Engaging with Babylon

01:18:36 • 7min

Mike Erre and Tim Stafford continue their exploration of Revelation in "Babylon Part 2," unmasking Rome's economic injustice and exploitation depicted in Revelation 17 and 18. They delve into how the ancient critiques of Babylon resonate with the modern church's complicity in unjust systems, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own participation and consider steps toward change.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Babylon in Revelation – How Rome is depicted as Babylon in Revelation 17-18, symbolizing economic injustice and oppression.

• Economic Injustice Then and Now – Exploring parallels between Rome's exploitation and modern America's economic practices.

• The Church's Complicity – Discussing how the modern church may be participating in the dynamics of Babylon through materialism and consumerism.

• Interpreting Revelation Correctly – The importance of understanding Revelation's imagery in its historical context to apply its lessons today.

• Personal Reflection and Action – Encouraging critical assessment of personal and communal participation in unjust systems and considering steps toward change.

Resources Mentioned:

• Revelation 17-18 – The fall of Babylon and its implications.

• Nerd Culture Ministry Summit – Conference on engaging with nerd culture.

• "Romans Disarmed" by Sylvia Keesmaat and Brian Walsh – Discussed in relation to economic practices and the church.

Join us as we confront modern-day Babylon and explore what it means for the church today. Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected and be part of the conversation.

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

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