The Three Hallelujahs Over Babylon’s Fall (Revelation 19:1-6)
In Revelation 19, heaven erupts in jubilant praise as Babylon, the symbol of worldly corruption and rebellion, falls under God’s righteous judgment. The three hallelujahs represent the joy and triumph of God’s justice, salvation, and sovereignty.
1. Key Passage: Revelation 19:1-6
Revelation 19:1:
“After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: ‘Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God.’”
2. The Three Hallelujahs
A. First Hallelujah: God’s Salvation and Justice (Revelation 19:1-2)
“Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are his judgments. He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants.”
- Reason for Praise:
- God’s judgment on Babylon is declared righteous and true.
- Babylon’s corruption and persecution of God’s people have been brought to an end.
- Themes:
- Salvation: God’s deliverance is complete.
- Justice: God vindicates His servants and brings justice against wickedness.
B. Second Hallelujah: Babylon’s Destruction (Revelation 19:3)
“And again they shouted: ‘Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever.’”
- Reason for Praise:
- Babylon’s fall is permanent, symbolized by the eternal rising of smoke.
- This signifies the finality of God’s judgment against evil.
- Themes:
- Eternal Judgment: Babylon’s destruction is irreversible, demonstrating God’s ultimate power over rebellion.
- Victory Over Evil: The forces that opposed God are utterly defeated.
C. Third Hallelujah: God’s Sovereignty (Revelation 19:4-6)
“The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne. And they cried: ‘Amen, Hallelujah!’ Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: ‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.’”
- Reason for Praise:
- God’s sovereignty and eternal reign are celebrated.
- The multitude in heaven acknowledges His absolute authority.
- Themes:
- Divine Sovereignty: God’s reign is proclaimed and celebrated.
- Heavenly Worship: The elders and living creatures join the multitude in adoration.
3. Themes in the Three Hallelujahs
A. The Triumph of Righteousness
- God’s judgments are not arbitrary but righteous and true, affirming His character and justice.
B. The Final Defeat of Evil
- Babylon’s fall symbolizes the ultimate defeat of all systems and powers that oppose God.
C. The Sovereignty of God
- The repeated “Hallelujahs” underscore God’s uncontested rule and eternal reign.
D. The Vindication of God’s People
- The cries of the saints for justice (Revelation 6:10) are answered as Babylon’s judgment brings vindication.
4. Reflection Questions
- How does the fall of Babylon challenge your view of justice and God’s timing?
- What can you learn from the heavenly response to God’s judgment about how to worship in your life?
- How does the assurance of God’s sovereignty provide hope in a world full of corruption and rebellion?
5. Application
- Praise God for His Justice:
- Celebrate God’s righteous character and His promise to ultimately defeat evil.
- Live for God’s Kingdom:
- Reject the “Babylons” of today—systems of idolatry, materialism, and immorality—and live as a citizen of God’s eternal kingdom.
- Anticipate the Final Victory:
- Let the vision of Babylon’s fall and God’s reign inspire hope and perseverance in your faith.
6. Conclusion
The Three Hallelujahs Over Babylon’s Fall highlight the joy and triumph of heaven as God’s righteous judgment brings an end to corruption and rebellion. They celebrate His salvation, justice, and sovereignty, offering hope to believers and a call to worship the Almighty. This passage invites us to join the heavenly chorus, praising God for His ultimate victory and eternal reign.