Commentary on Revelation 18:6

Revelation 18:6 states: "Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double." This verse is a profound pronouncement of judgment upon Babylon, symbolic of those systems or entities opposed to God. Here, we explore insights from several public domain commentaries to elucidate its meaning and implications for readers.

Overall Context

The chapter in which this verse appears describes the fall of Babylon, representing the epitome of corruption, idolatry, and opposition to God's kingdom. The vivid imagery used portrays the deserved punishment for the sins she has committed. The call for reward is not merely primitive justice; it is a reflection of divine righteousness and the culmination of God's judgment upon the ungodly.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry elaborates on the concept of divine retribution. He emphasizes that God's judgments are both just and proportional. Babylon's sins involve not just a private rebellion but a widespread influence leading others away from faith. Hence, her punishment must reflect the weight of her actions.

• Divine Justice: Henry highlights that the phrase "Reward her even as she rewarded you" points to the biblical principle of reciprocity in judgment. The retribution God delivers fits the crime, as seen throughout scripture.
• Double Judgment: The notion of being "double unto her double" suggests that the severity of her punishment is in accordance with the corruption she has spread, a fitting judgment in contrast to her indulgence.
• The Cup of Wrath: The "cup which she hath filled" metaphorically represents the sins she has committed. Thus, her punishment is equated to the degree of sin she has perpetuated, emphasizing that God's justice is comprehensive and exacting.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

In Albert Barnes' exposition, he emphasizes the fierce nature of divine justice in the eschatological context. He notes that the angels proclaim this decree, showcasing how God's authority prevails over all earthly powers.

• Authority of Divine Judgment: Barnes points out that the call for retribution comes from heaven, underscoring that God's sovereignty is over the entire narrative of Scripture, and this judgment is preordained.
• Symbolism of Babylon: He underscores that Babylon serves as an archetype for all systems when they align against divine order, becoming metaphors for idolatry and moral decay.
• Spiritual Implications: Barnes discusses the dual nature of the rewards and punishments in an eschatological framework. Each act has consequences, reflective of the same principle seen in Christ's teachings regarding reaping what one sows.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke’s views widen the discussion to encompass the historical context of the early church. He connects the pronouncement against Babylon to the opposition believers faced from the state and cultural systems of the time.

• Historical Context: Clarke notes the deep-seated practice of persecution and corruption that early Christians faced from Babylonian systems, symbolizing Rome. The judgment proclaimed serves as a source of hope for believers under oppressive regimes.
• Judgment and Hope: He emphasizes that though judgment is severe, it brings hope to the faithful. The promise of divine retribution assures the believers that God remembers and will redeem them from injustice.
• Consequences of Sin: Clarke indicates the theological significance of divine retribution as it reinforces the idea that unrepentant sin leads to ultimate judgment—a theme recurrent throughout scripture.

Theological Reflections

Revelation 18:6 serves as both a stark warning and a call to endure for believers. The balance of justice and mercy evident in this verse reflects God's nature—He is both just and the justifier who calls all to repentance.

• Endurance in Faith: True believers are reminded to stay faithful, knowing that though judgment may linger, it will surely come. The text invigorates the faithful with the assurance of vindication.
• Call to Holiness: This verse serves as an exhortation to examine one's own walk with God, ensuring that one's life aligns with divine principles of justice, mercy, and truth.
• Hope in Divine Justice: Faithful readers are encouraged that God's justice will ultimately prevail; this serves to rally believers in their mission to spread the Gospel amidst adversity.

Conclusion

Revelation 18:6 encapsulates a crucial moment in the prophetic narrative, elucidating God's ultimate plan for justice against corruption and idolatry. The combined insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide a rich tapestry for understanding the significance of divine judgment and the hope it brings to those who are faithful. This scripture compels pastors, theologians, students, and scholars to reflect on the broader implications of justice and divine authority, urging them to engage deeply with the text and apply its truths to their lives and ministries.