I was reading God’s “message” to Babylon in Jeremiah 50 when I paused at verse 11:
“Because you rejoice and are glad, you who pillage my inheritance, because you frolic like a heifer threshing grain and neigh like stallions,”
Jeremiah 50:11 (NIV)
I was reminded of the Christian persecution in Nigeria and elsewhere, even here in the United States, where people openly mock God while subtly and not so subtly persecuting those with Christian values. I can only imagine what’s next.
What really strikes me isn’t those who mock God or even murder and persecute His children; it’s how such people celebrate what they think is victory. Of course, how Christians respond is also notable because so many sadly behave as if things aren’t going to change, which is why we should really pay attention to what happened to Babylon and what the Lord said about her:
“I set a trap for you, Babylon, and you were caught before you knew it; you were found and captured because you opposed the LORD.”
Jeremiah 50:24 (NIV)
We should never think that the evils of this world have free rein to do as they please without tragic repercussions. And no, I don’t mean the murder and persecution of Christians. Such behavior is tragic, but it’s by no means the last word. If you consider the glory that awaits, it’s worth celebrating those who persevere in their faith, even to the point of death.
As I read through the end of Jeremiah, I thought of all those—from the time of Jesus until today—who have suffered for their faith. Not just in persecutions or death, but in day-to-day life where we choose to follow our faith instead of “giving in” to the world. I was especially moved by Jeremiah 51:48.
“Then heaven and earth and all that is in them will shout for joy over Babylon, for out of the north destroyers will attack her,” declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 51:48 (NIV)
This verse foreshadows the fall of spiritual Babylon in Revelation:
“Rejoice over her, you heavens! Rejoice, you people of God! Rejoice, apostles and prophets! For God has judged her with the judgment she imposed on you.”
Revelation 18:20 (NIV)
In fact, when we read Revelation, it would be wise to reread Jeremiah 50-51 and elsewhere where Babylon’s dastardly deeds are recorded, if for no other reason than to be encouraged that one day God will deliver us from this evil.
Yet, rather than celebrate the fall of Babylon before the appointed time, I think we should be moved to pray for the salvation of those who call Babylon their home. After all, each of us once—in one way or another—was part of the world and reveled in wickedness until we turned to follow Jesus.
